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The Department for Education announced in March that it will no longer fund the course, along with 15 others – a decision that Access Training’s MD, David Armstrong, describes as “disappointing”.
A small number of funded places are now available for the next, and final, course intake which starts this summer.
The programme covers a wide range of transferrable skills such as leading people, managing employees, building relationships and communication and builds knowledge of operational management, project management, finance, management of self and decision making.
A recent group of 10 Team Leader apprentices who studied at Access Training all passed with distinction on the leadership development programme. The learners came from office-based roles, manufacturing, and production environments – each with differing levels of experience.
The apprenticeship, led by Business & Management trainer, Darren Ashton, focuses on building practical leadership capability and workplace confidence, tailored to individual learners.
Darren said: “A lot of work goes on behind the scenes to tailor the team leadership training to each individual. I’m very proud of the group and their achievements. Some were new to education, some were returning and it’s been an absolute pleasure to see them all succeed.”
Several learners have progressed their careers since completing the programme – highlighting the course’s impact beyond the classroom. Among them is Luca Tomassetti, a catering manager at Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust, who praised the immediate value of the training.
He said: “The programme has helped me improve my leadership skills, build confidence and make a positive impact on my team. I enjoyed learning practical techniques and management approaches that I could apply straight away.”
The apprenticeship has opened doors to new opportunities. Josh Miller, shift leader at Renolit, was recommended for an operations manager role following completion, while Lucy Ross-Knight of Miller Groundbreaking secured a promotion to marketing manager.
Lucy said: “Darren was an excellent trainer and I felt supported throughout. The sessions were highly relevant to real workplace situations and the skills I’ve developed have helped me grow as a leader and boosted my confidence.”
Former apprentice and now business development consultant at Access Training, Matt Spencer, adds: “I’ve experienced first-hand how the programme helps develop core management skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace.
“From additional sessions to End Point Assessment preparation, the support learners receive goes above and beyond.”
Final funded places available
With funding for Team Leader and Operations Manager apprenticeships set to be withdrawn, Access Training is offering a limited number of final funded places, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Employers looking to upskill staff or invest in future leadership talent are encouraged to act now to avoid missing out.
To find out more or reserve a place, contact Matt Spencer on 07821 663697 or email mspencer@accesstraining.org.
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, learning & skills teaching, and fire, emergency & security systems.
We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.
Being one of only five shortlisted providers highlights the effectiveness of the high-quality support and culture of continuous improvement that underpins Access Training’s AAT programmes.
Access Training’s Managing Director, and Chartered Accountant, David Armstrong, said: “We are delighted to see Access Training shortlisted for Apprenticeship Provider of the Year, and we’ll be there to show appreciation for the work that AAT providers do across the country.
“But more importantly, whether we win or not, we will be there to celebrate our hard work delivering Accounting Apprenticeships to the individuals and employers for the northeast. It’s not always easy, but our team does an amazing job and I’m so proud of them.”
The AAT Training Provider Awards returns for its 10th year to celebrate outstanding achievements in the finance and accountancy industry, and is open to training providers currently delivering accounting apprenticeships, using AAT qualifications, in the UK.
By combining strong communication, learner support, robust employer engagement and continuous professional development, Access Training aims to create an environment where both apprentices and Trainers thrive and excellence becomes the standard.
Director of Training, Sharon Wallace said: “We are incredibly proud to be shortlisted for the AAT Provider of the Year Award 2026. This recognition reflects the dedication, and unwavering commitment our team brings to supporting every learner’s journey.
“Being acknowledged among the sector’s leading providers is an honour, and it reinforces the impact of our work to deliver high‑quality, accessible, accountancy education. We’re excited for the next steps and remain motivated to continue raising the bar for excellence across the AAT community.”
Senior Accounts Trainer, Sarah Hoggard, said: “I am so proud of our team at Access Training for being shortlisted for Apprenticeship Provider of the Year. As Senior Trainer for Accounts I have seen the hard work, dedication and support our trainers give and it shows with the results we see. Even if we don’t win it is so nice to see all of our efforts being recognised and appreciated!”
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, learning & skills teaching, and fire, emergency & security systems.
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, learning & skills teaching, and fire, emergency & security systems.
We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.
Access Training is proud to have eight members of their team who are Veterans or military family members and wants to extend their support to employers they work with and the wider Armed Forces Community.
Managing Director, David Armstrong, said: “We recognise the contribution that Service personnel and their families make to our organisation, our community and to the country. By signing the covenant, we have pledged our commitment to support veterans and acknowledge that serving personnel and military families should be treated with respect.”
Quality Manager, Tracey Malkin, whose father served as a Sergeant in the RAF, led on the application process. She commented: “It is important that we encourage more applications from members of the Armed Forces community and demonstrate active non-discrimination regarding interview opportunities.
“We also want to support veterans, in particular, by encouraging and offering training in skills not gained in the Armed Forces, to help and support them with employment opportunities and to thrive in civilian life.”
The Armed Forces Covenant is a pledge of support to the armed forces community. It is a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated with fairness and respect.
Businesses and charities can sign the Covenant to demonstrate their concrete support for the armed forces community. For Access Training and their staff members, this is even more pertinent.
Ethan Roberts, Curriculum Lead and ex-Royal Navy, said: “Being recognised as part of the Armed Forces Covenant sends a really positive message to the ex-forces community, and demonstrates that we recognise and understand the skills, experience and qualities that ex-forces personnel possess and how these can positively impact business and society.
“It also demonstrates that we understand and can relate to some of the challenges faced on the transition back to civilian life. At this time of year especially, around Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day, service personnel both past and present are foremost in many people’s minds, and our membership of the Armed Forces Covenant gives a level of reassurance to veterans that they are valued and understood.”
Stuart Fiddler, Trainer and ex-Army, added: “The education and opportunities we can offer ex-service personnel are incredibly important. In my own experience, I’ve gained a better understanding of how things are conducted in the civilian sector and how I’ve been able to transfer not just my knowledge and experience, but also enhance and develop the qualifications I already had.
“I’m undertaking numerous qualifications to build my portfolio, and I’m able to pass on knowledge and experiences from the forces in my delivery. It’s rewarding to see my experience helping others, with learners stating the knowledge and experience I have provided is invaluable.”
For more information about the Armed Forces Covenant and how you can get involved, please visit: https://www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk/
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, learning & skills teaching, and fire, emergency & security systems.
We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.
At Access Training, we know that looking after mental health isn’t just a one-off effort—it’s about creating a supportive and balanced environment every day.
Work-related stress can affect focus, morale, relationships and even physical health. According to the Stress Management Society, creating a culture of kindness and understanding in the workplace can help reduce stress and boost overall happiness and productivity. That’s why we take a proactive approach to supporting our team’s wellbeing.
We’re proud of the positive, inclusive culture we’ve built at Access Training. Here are just a few ways we help reduce stress and support each other:
The Stress Management Society has put together some fantastic resources and challenges to help workplaces embrace the #LeadWithLove ethos. From journaling prompts to team wellbeing activities, these tools are great for inspiring a healthier, more connected culture.
You can explore their latest guides and downloadable resources here:
We believe that mental wellbeing should be a year-round priority. This Stress Awareness Month, let’s take a moment to check in with ourselves and our colleagues, and continue building a workplace where everyone feels heard, valued, and supported.
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, learning & skills teaching, and fire, emergency & security systems.
We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.
ECS card criteria has changed, and to be recognised on site as a FESS Systems Technician, you now need to hold a relevant level 3 qualification, otherwise you may need to apply for a labourer or operatives card – this why more and more experienced engineers are enrolling on the EWA course.
The Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) route is mapped directly into the Fire Emergency and Security Systems Apprenticeship Standard, and therefore entitles experienced engineers to apply for a full JIB/ECS Gold Card, based on their experience in the industry.
FESS Curriculum Leader at Access Training, Ethan Roberts, said: “The Experienced Worker Assessment is a comprehensive evaluation designed for experienced candidates who have not completed a Level 3 Apprenticeship or for those who do not hold a relevant Level 3 qualification.
“EWA instead allows them to demonstrate their occupational competence and showcase their skills and experience, enabling them to gain recognised industry accreditation in the process.”
EWA is aimed at candidates that have a minimum of 5 years working in the Fire and Security sector, and will enable them to apply for full technician status, covering all aspects of an engineer’s role, including installation, testing and commissioning, and service and repair.
The recent changes to prerequisites for ECS cards suggest that the industry is changing, so it is increasingly important that companies aren’t left behind with skills gaps and a lack of accredited engineers – subsequently, the EWA route is gaining momentum.
Ethan Roberts continues: “Here at Access Training, we want to help companies and their engineers stay as up to date with procedures and regulations as possible, with EWA serving as an obvious route for practiced engineers looking to validate their experience.
“With these recent changes, and the requirement for additional validation, time is of the essence for experienced engineers to get their EWA completed, as the course can take up to 12 months from induction to final assessment.
“Meanwhile, for employers, having your engineers complete EWA not only allows them to meet the requirements to apply for the ECS Gold Card, but also ensures that they are safe, compliant, competent, and ready for career advancement in the fire, emergency, and security systems industry.”
According to the expert training providers, there are many other benefits to completing EWA, such as ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, demonstrating opportunities for career progression and contributing to high standards of quality in the sector.
Engineers can choose to do a single pathway in either fire or security or you can opt for both. The assessment is assured by BPEC and is supported by industry and recognised by the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme.
Gateshead-based Access Training are one of only three approved BPEC approved training centres in the country offering the BPEC FESS Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA).
EWA Learners initially attend an induction, including refresher training on safe isolation procedures, and will then have up to 12 months to produce a portfolio of evidence, complete 60 multi-choice questions and undertake a practical assessment and professional discussion based on the portfolio.
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, school support, digital, marketing and fire, emergency & security systems.
We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.
Following the recent acquisition by the University of Sunderland, Access Training is undergoing a period of significant growth and will assume responsibility for the current MTC portfolio from 1st April 2025.
Working together, Access will continue to provide MTC’s complete range of training programmes at their current site in St Peter’s Gate, Sunderland, in addition to other offerings in Accounting, Business and Management, and Fire & Security at their site in Team Valley, Gateshead.
Access Training’s Managing Director, David Armstrong, said: “With over 40 years of training experience, particularly within apprenticeships, we have a proud history of delivering high quality training over a broad portfolio of subjects.
“We are confident that we will be able to build on the strong relationships established with MTC over the years and we look forward to working with the MTC team to build on the respective successes of each organisation.”
MTC Training is one of a number of successful commercial enterprises formed by the University of Sunderland, and are experts in delivering IT, Leadership, Management & Business Administration training and apprenticeships.
Their expert trainers will continue to deliver in areas such as IT Technical, Desktop Applications, Advanced Leadership & Management Training and Advanced Apprenticeships in Team Leader / Supervisor and Business Administration, with additional support and expertise from Access Training.
David Armstrong continues: “Through our ongoing partnership with the University of Sunderland, we now have the opportunity for two fantastic organisations to work to grow together, increase learner pathways and increase our impact on the north-east region.”
The University of Sunderland’s acquisition of Access Training, and this new partnership, will allow for a broader range of programmes, supporting greater access to apprenticeships and other commercial training routes, and providing alternative pathways to higher education.
Amanda Corbitt, Head of Commercial Training Services at the University of Sunderland, said: “The University is excited at the merger of MTC and Access Training which will enhance and broaden our existing CPD and Apprenticeship portfolio.
“This new partnership will strengthen the offer from both organisations whilst also providing Access Training’s customers the opportunity to explore exceptional progression routeways to higher-level degree apprenticeships.
“These include programmes such as MBA Level 7 Senior Leader, MSc Level 7 HR, and BSc (Hons) Digital, equip learners with the skills and qualifications to excel in their careers while empowering employers with the skilled talent needed to drive growth.”
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, school support, digital, marketing and fire, emergency & security systems.
We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.
The directorships will be undertaken alongside their roles at The University of Sunderland where Tim is director of innovation & skills and Andrea is chief operating officer.
They will work with Access Training’s managing director, David Armstrong, and director of training, Sharon Wallace, on strategic planning for the business and as conduits between the firm and the University.
Tim has been with The University of Sunderland for almost 12 years and brings a wealth of senior and board experience in economic development, business engagement and change management, to the role. His previous positions include head of business and enterprise skills at regional development agency, One North East, and as an independent business consultant who worked on the development of an Enterprise and Innovation Strategy for the city of Sunderland.
Andrea has extensive senior leadership experience gained in both private and public sector organisations and significant experience of leading large-scale organisational change, particularly within the higher education sector. This includes developing and leading cultural, structural and operating model transformations.
Access Training managing director, David Armstrong, comments: “Having Tim and Andrea on our senior management team will have a profound positive impact on the company going forward.
“They bring strengths in commercial and funded contracts and the wider education landscape as well as HR, legal, governance and operations expertise. All of which will help us to navigate our way through the change and expansion anticipated, following our buy-out by the University.”
Tim Pain said: “We see this as a really exciting partnership that will enable us to provide a much wider offer to employers in the region and beyond.”
Andrea Walters, adds: “We’re very much looking forward to working with Access Training to build on their outstanding achievements to date.”
The University of Sunderland has been a major player in a number of recent skills programmes across the North East of England, all of which have been focussed on developing the regional workforce. The acquisition of Access Training allows it to deliver a broader range of programmes, support greater access to apprenticeships and other training routes, and provide alternative pathways to higher education.
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, school support, digital, marketing and fire, emergency & security systems.
We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.
The University has been a major player in a number of recent skills programmes across the region, all of which have been focussed on developing the regional workforce. The acquisition of Access Training allows it to deliver a broader range of programmes, support greater access to apprenticeships and other training routes, and provide alternative pathways to higher education.
Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Sunderland said, “As preparing for the future is so crucial to the region’s success, the partnership between the University and Access Training will help businesses to grow and individuals progress in their careers.
“At the same time, we intend to become both a competitive and leading player in the skills and training market, building on our already strong presence across the private, public and voluntary sectors.”
Access Training will continue to trade under its existing name and remain based at its site on Team Valley, Gateshead. It will be led by current Managing Director, David Armstrong who said: “This acquisition solidifies Access Training’s position as a leading vocational training provider and will create organic growth opportunities.
“Access has earned a solid track record for delivering best-in-class skills training over the past four decades and becoming part of the University will allow us to further enhance our services for clients. Access and the University have worked increasingly closely since 2020 and we are delighted to formally strengthen that relationship.
“To have a respected global brand like the University of Sunderland recognise the importance of our operation to the north east’s training and skills sector is a proud moment.”
Picture: Left to right: Andrea Walters (Chief Operations Officer and Director of Access Training) Sir David Bell (Chief Executive and Vice Chancellor) David Armstrong (Managing Director of Access Training) and Sharon Wallace (Director of Training of Access Training)
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, school support, digital, marketing and fire, emergency & security systems.
We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.
When considering whether to offer apprenticeships within organisations companies may wish to consider the following:
Facts….
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, learning & skills teaching, and fire, emergency & security systems.
We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.
Training is delivered by our experienced and well-qualified staff and leads to the achievement of nationally recognised qualifications.
Gateshead-based Access Training provides upskilling courses and apprenticeships in HR, project management, team leading and management, accountancy, business administration, learning & skills teaching, and fire, emergency & security systems.
We have been delivering training programmes for businesses and individuals across the North East for over 40 years. We have a genuine interest in the success of the companies we work with and the people we train, and we aim to provide a personal, bespoke service.