NC Group gains approval for training courses

A North East training provider has been approved to deliver university-level qualifications.

NC Group has secured formal approval from Pearson to offer Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Diplomas (HNDs) in engineering, becoming one of only a few independent training providers (ITPs) in the UK with this status.

Following a rigorous inspection, the accreditation means the firm can now support learners and employer partners with Level 4 qualifications – equivalent to the first year of university – either via apprenticeships or direct commercial study.

Bosses say the courses, which can be completed part-time over two years, will be delivered in small, specialist cohorts covering topics such as fabrication and welding or electrical and mechanical engineering. 

They add that training is available through the Level 4 Manufacturing Technician Apprenticeship or as a standalone course, with flexible funding options depending on employer size and learner age.

Liam Noble, managing director at NC Group, said: “We’re proud to be approved to deliver higher education qualifications. 

“It reflects the quality of our provision and our deep understanding of engineering and manufacturing businesses.

“Learners are no longer limited to traditional college day release, which often conflicts with shift work. 

“Our flexible delivery model is designed to fit seamlessly around workplace schedules and is led by trainers with extensive industry experience in engineering and manufacturing, such as Brian Corker, lead practitioner at NC Group and recent lifetime achievement award winner.”

Liam added: “This also coincides with our recent Ofsted Outstanding rating, where we were graded Outstanding across all five key judgement areas and recognised for making a real impact in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. 

“It’s been an outstanding first half of the year for our team, partners and learners.”

With approval granted by Pearson in March 2025, NC Group began delivery ahead of the usual September intake and is already working with a group of learners from Gestamp Tallent Limited. 

Applications for the September intake are now open, with learners expected from across the region.

Alongside the new qualification, learners also gain access to NC Group’s recently launched training platform, which provides compliance and safety courses in areas including IOSH, asbestos awareness, driver safety, health and safety inductions and safeguarding – supporting businesses to close skills gaps and meet key compliance standards.

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