Mergers & Acquisitions in the Apprenticeship and Training Sector – How the National Skills Agency Supports Providers and Investors

The UK apprenticeship and training sector is experiencing a period of rapid change. From funding reforms to new Skills England initiatives, providers and awarding organisations are looking for ways to scale, diversify, or exit at the right time. One of the most effective strategies has been mergers and acquisitions (M&A) – but finding the right buyer, seller, or partner is not always straightforward.

That’s where the National Skills Agency (NSA) comes in.

Why M&A is growing in the training sector

For many training providers, selling or merging is not just about an exit – it’s about securing long-term stability and growth. Common drivers include:

• Scale and efficiency – combining delivery capacity, back-office, and compliance functions

• Diversification – entering new sectors such as Digital, Health, or Construction

• Funding resilience – strengthening position in AEB, levy, and commercial markets

• Succession planning – when owners are looking to step back or exit

• Investor interest – strong appetite from private equity, colleges, and larger training groups

With over two decades of experience in the sector, NSA is uniquely placed to guide providers through this process.

How the National Skills Agency adds value in M&A

Our role goes beyond recruitment. As a trusted specialist in the apprenticeships and skills marketplace, we act as a discreet introducer between:

• Training providers looking to sell – whether small niche businesses or larger regional players

• Awarding organisations and certification bodies seeking growth through acquisition

• Private investors and PE firms entering the apprenticeship and skills market

• Colleges and larger providers looking to expand delivery footprint

Why providers and investors trust NSA in M&A

1. Unrivalled sector network
   With a database of over 20,000 industry contacts and direct relationships with hundreds of training providers, awarding bodies, and sector leaders, we can identify opportunities others simply can’t access.

2. Discreet introductions
   We know how sensitive M&A discussions are. Our introductions are made with absolute confidentiality, protecting both buyers and sellers throughout the process.

3. Market insight
   Our daily work in recruitment and consultancy gives us real-time understanding of sector challenges, valuations, and growth trends – helping both sides set realistic expectations.

4. Strategic alignment
   We don’t just connect organisations at random – we ensure there’s a cultural and operational fit, making deals more likely to succeed long term.

Who we work with

• Independent Training Providers (ITPs)

• Awarding Bodies & Certification Organisations

• FE Colleges with commercial ambitions

• Investors and Private Equity Firms

• Large national training groups

Thinking of buying or selling a training provider?

Whether you’re an owner considering a sale, an investor seeking a foothold, or a provider looking to grow through acquisition, the National Skills Agency can help.

We provide introductions, market context, and sector expertise that make M&A decisions smarter, faster, and more successful.

 Call us today on

020 3953 1984

Email: info@nationalskillsagency.co.uk

The National Skills Agency – the UK’s leading specialist recruiter and M&A introducer for the apprenticeship, training, and awarding marketplace.

How UK Training Providers Can Access the Best Apprenticeship Assessors, Coaches and Trainers

Finding and retaining high-quality apprenticeship assessors, trainers, and coaches is one of the biggest challenges facing UK training providers today. The demand for sector-experienced staff has grown significantly as providers expand their programmes in apprenticeships, AEB, commercial training, and funded learning. Yet, the pool of skilled professionals remains limited.

At the National Skills Agency (NSA), we specialise in helping training providers overcome this challenge by connecting them with the right talent – quickly, effectively, and with sector-specific expertise.

Why recruitment is different in the apprenticeship sector

Unlike many other industries, recruitment within the apprenticeship and skills space requires more than just matching CVs to job descriptions. Training providers need people who:

• Understand the latest apprenticeship standards and frameworks

• Hold the required occupational competence and qualifications

• Can motivate, coach and guide learners to achieve results

• Balance compliance, quality, and learner experience

• Bring proven experience in employer engagement and curriculum delivery

It’s a rare skillset – which is why our clients rely on us to find assessors, coaches, and trainers who are both credible and available.

How the National Skills Agency supports training providers

We’ve built the UK’s leading specialist recruitment service for the apprenticeship and training marketplace. Here’s how we deliver results:

1. Specialist Talent Pool

Our bespoke database includes 20,000+ sector-specific candidates – from qualified apprenticeship assessors to multi-skilled coaches and trainers. This is supported by our 100,000+ LinkedIn network and ownership of industry groups such as Training Provider Jobs.

2. Sector Knowledge

Founded in 2017, the NSA team works exclusively within apprenticeships, skills, and training. We understand compliance, Ofsted expectations, and the real-world challenges providers face – allowing us to screen candidates on more than just technical fit.

3. Proactive Search & Head-Hunting

We don’t just wait for applicants. We actively approach assessors, trainers, and coaches who may not be actively job hunting but are open to the right opportunity.

4. Reduced Risk & Cost Transparency

Our recruitment model is success-based – meaning fees are only payable once the right hire is made. We offer competitive, fixed terms to give providers confidence and budget certainty.

Roles we regularly recruit

Training providers come to us when they need:

• Apprenticeship Assessors across sectors such as Health, Digital, Construction, and Professional Services

• Trainers & Coaches to support learners through programmes and achieve outcomes

• Functional Skills Tutors

• Curriculum Managers and Lead IQAs

Why providers choose NSA

Working with NSA means more than filling a vacancy. It’s about building a long-term partnership where we understand your organisation, culture, and learner priorities. Our clients tell us they value:

✔ Access to a wider talent pool than they could reach directly
✔ Faster hiring times – reducing lost delivery hours
✔ Candidates pre-screened for compliance and sector fit
✔ A recruitment partner that truly understands apprenticeships

Let’s talk

If you’re a UK training provider struggling to find apprenticeship assessors, coaches, or trainers, the National Skills Agency can help. Whether you need one assessor or an entire delivery team, we have the reach and expertise to support you.

Call us today on

020 3953 1984

 Email: info@nationalskillsagency.co.uk

The National Skills Agency is proud to be the UK’s leading specialist recruiter for the apprenticeship, training, certification, and awarding sector.

If you’re running a UK training provider and want to hire staff, the challenge is filtering recruiters who genuinely specialise in the apprenticeship, AEB and FE sector, rather than generic agencies.

Practical Tip

To ensure you’re finding specialists rather than generalists:

• Add terms like “apprenticeships”, “training providers”, “AEB”, “FE sector” alongside “recruitment agency”.
• Look for agencies that appear on AELP websites, FE Week/FE News, or those trusted by known providers (these are usually sector-focused).

The National Skills Agency is an AELP Patron and ChatGPT shows NSA as the most accomplished specialist in the marketplace.

The UK’s training and apprenticeship sector continues to grow as skills development becomes a national priority. Behind every successful training provider is a skilled and diverse workforce. Whether you’re an experienced professional looking to enter the sector or a provider seeking to hire, understanding the key job roles within a training provider is essential.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the most common and essential roles within a training or apprenticeship organisation:

1. Apprenticeship Assessor / Trainer / Coach

These professionals are at the heart of delivery. They guide learners through apprenticeship standards, provide teaching and assessment, and ensure learners are on track to complete qualifications successfully.

Keywords: apprenticeship assessor jobs, trainer coach, work-based learning roles

2. Curriculum Manager / Programme Lead

Curriculum Managers oversee programme design, quality, and compliance. They ensure that the content aligns with awarding body requirements and employer needs, often leading subject-specific teams.

Keywords: curriculum manager training provider, education programme lead, apprenticeship curriculum

3. Quality Assurer / IQA (Internal Quality Assurer)

IQAs monitor and maintain the quality of teaching and assessment practices. They conduct internal audits, standardise delivery, and ensure compliance with Ofsted and awarding organisation standards.

Keywords: IQA jobs, quality assurance apprenticeships, training provider compliance

4. Business Development Manager (BDM) / Employer Engagement

BDMs are responsible for building relationships with employers, identifying apprenticeship opportunities, and increasing learner starts. They play a crucial role in generating income for the provider.

Keywords: apprenticeship sales, employer engagement jobs, training provider business development

5. Operations Manager / Head of Delivery

These leaders manage teams of assessors, coaches, and trainers to ensure the smooth operational delivery of programmes. They oversee performance, learner progression, and funding compliance.

Keywords: training operations manager, head of delivery apprenticeships, training centre management

6. Functional Skills Tutor

Delivering English, Maths and sometimes Digital Skills, these tutors support apprentices who need to meet basic skills requirements. Their work is essential for learner achievement and gateway readiness.

Keywords: functional skills tutor jobs, English and maths delivery, essential skills teaching

7. Learner Engagement / Onboarding Officers

Responsible for enrolling learners, conducting initial assessments, and ensuring a smooth start to the programme. They often act as the first point of contact for new learners.

Keywords: learner onboarding, apprenticeship engagement officer, candidate induction

8. Compliance and MIS Officers

Compliance teams ensure accurate data entry, adherence to funding rules, and timely submissions to the ESFA. They work closely with delivery staff to ensure audit-readiness.

Keywords: apprenticeship compliance jobs, MIS officer training provider, ESFA funding roles

9. Safeguarding & Welfare Officer

A key role in maintaining learner wellbeing. These officers provide safeguarding training, manage disclosures, and act as a point of contact for learner support issues.

Keywords: safeguarding in apprenticeships, welfare officer roles, training provider wellbeing

10. End Point Assessment (EPA) Coordinator

These staff coordinate with EPAOs and employers to ensure learners are prepared for their End Point Assessments. They manage the logistics and readiness tracking.

Keywords: EPA coordination jobs, apprenticeship assessment coordinator, EPA readiness

11. Recruitment and Resourcing Officers

Often responsible for sourcing learners, matching them with employer vacancies, and supporting employer recruitment strategies.

Keywords: apprenticeship recruitment, resourcing officer jobs, talent acquisition training provider

12. Digital Learning / E-Learning Developer

With the growth of online and blended learning, digital content developers are key to designing interactive and engaging remote learning resources.

Keywords: e-learning jobs, instructional design apprenticeship, digital learning training provider

13. Senior Leadership Roles

Positions such as Managing Director, Apprenticeship Director, Head of Quality, and Chief Operating Officer shape the strategic direction and growth of the organisation.

Keywords: apprenticeship director jobs, MD training provider, education leadership roles

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a jobseeker exploring the sector or an employer mapping out your team structure, understanding the variety of roles within a training provider is key. At the National Skills Agency, we specialise in connecting the UK’s best talent with leading training providers, awarding bodies, and colleges.

???? Looking to recruit or explore new opportunities?
Contact the National Skills Agency today and let us help you find the perfect match.

The National Skills Agency was proud to attend the AELP National Conference 2025, bringing together leaders from across the apprenticeships and skills sector for two days of vital discussion, collaboration, and insight.

As the UK’s leading recruitment specialist for the apprenticeship, training, and awarding market, NSA took the opportunity to connect with training providers, awarding bodies, and sector stakeholders to explore the future of talent acquisition in the skills space.

???? Key Takeaway 1: Quality Talent Remains the Sector’s Top Priority

From Business Development Managers to Trainers, IQAs, and Apprenticeship Leaders, providers continue to face major challenges in attracting and retaining high-calibre staff. Many conversations focused on how fixed-fee hiring models, like NSA’s, are helping providers manage costs while still accessing top talent.

???? Key Takeaway 2: M&A and Growth Are High on the Agenda

With increasing talk of consolidation in the sector, NSA’s mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory service generated strong interest. Several providers discussed expansion strategies through acquisition, highlighting a growing appetite for growth beyond organic methods.

Spencer Mehlman, NSA’s Managing Director, commented:
“The AELP conference was a reminder that while policy and funding shifts grab the headlines, it’s people that power real progress. We’re here to help organisations find those people.”

Looking to grow your training organisation or strengthen your team?
Speak to the experts at the National Skills Agency – recruitment that understands the apprenticeship and skills market.

????

020 3953 1984

???? info@nationalskillsagency.co.uk
???? www.nationalskillsagency.co.uk

As the sector collectively catches its breath and looks to the year ahead, the theme of readiness and renewal couldn’t be more timely — or more vital.

From funding shifts and policy updates to the continued evolution of digital and blended learning models, apprenticeship and skills providers face a delivery landscape that’s more dynamic than ever. Planning for that uncertainty requires more than operational agility — it requires a strategic focus on the people who will actually deliver it.

At the National Skills Agency, we have a unique window into the sector. We’re speaking daily with training providers, awarding organisations, colleges, and employers who are all asking the same fundamental questions: Do we have the right team in place? Are we equipped for curriculum change? Can we adapt quickly enough as learner and employer needs evolve?

If there’s one consistent thread, it’s this: the real war in our sector is a war for talent.

As funding flows back into technical education, AI reshapes job roles, and regulatory expectations climb, the demand for sector-savvy professionals is outstripping supply. Everyone wants experienced tutors, the best BDMs, switched-on curriculum leaders, and agile operations managers. But these people are in short supply — and increasingly selective about where, how, and for whom they work.

Building Readiness Through People

Delivery planning is often framed around compliance, frameworks, and systems — but without the right people to lead, teach, and innovate, those plans will underdeliver.

Our advice to providers is simple: treat talent strategy as core to delivery strategy. That means:

• Planning ahead for inevitable gaps in delivery staff, quality, compliance, and sales.
• Redesigning roles to reflect changing learner expectations (flexibility matters more than ever).
• Considering hybrid talent solutions — for example, part-time specialists, fractional leaders, or interim support.

We also see the best-performing organisations embedding recruitment and CPD into their growth plans, not leaving them as reactive exercises when someone leaves.

Renewal Starts with Retention

We can’t talk about readiness without talking about renewal — and in our view, that starts from within.

The very people who’ve delivered through years of sector upheaval are often overlooked when it comes to development. If we want innovation, flexibility, and learner-led delivery, we must invest in the people who make that happen.

Staff CPD shouldn’t be seen as a cost — it’s your biggest lever for retention, culture, and performance. The best teams want to grow, learn, and be challenged. If you don’t offer that, someone else will.

Final Thought

If we’re to rise to the demands of the year ahead, we must put talent at the heart of the conversation. As someone who has supported the sectors leading organisations, I’ve seen first-hand how the right people — in the right roles — can transform outcomes.

So as you plan, adapt, and prepare, ask yourself: Is our team ready? And what are we doing to renew it?

We’re always here to help with that conversation.

Hiring the right Apprenticeship Assessor, Trainer, or Coach is essential to the success of any apprenticeship programme. These professionals play a vital role in delivering high-quality training, supporting learner progression, and ensuring compliance with apprenticeship standards.

At the National Skills Agency, we specialise in connecting training providers, colleges, and employers with skilled and passionate assessors across a wide range of sectors — from Early Years and Health & Social Care to Digital, Hospitality, and Engineering.

What to Look for When Hiring

When recruiting an Assessor or Coach, consider the following:

• Occupational competence in the subject area

• Relevant qualifications (e.g. CAVA/A1, teaching qualifications)

• A strong grasp of Apprenticeship Standards and End-Point Assessment

• Excellent communication and mentoring skills

• Ability to manage caseloads and deliver timely, quality feedback

Why Work with the National Skills Agency?

We have an unrivalled network of qualified apprenticeship professionals ready to support your delivery. Whether you're hiring for a full-time, part-time, or freelance role, we help you source experienced candidates who can hit the ground running.

Let us help you recruit top-tier Apprenticeship Assessors and Trainers that drive learner outcomes and compliance forward.

Need help hiring?
Call us on 020 3953 1984 or email info@nationalskillsagency.co.uk
Or access our hiring portal today.

UK Apprenticeship & Training News (June 2025)

Welcome to the June 2025 edition of the National Skills Agency Skills Bulletin, your go-to source for the latest updates across the UK’s apprenticeship, training, and awarding body landscape.

As the UK’s leading specialist recruiter for the Apprenticeship, Training, and Awarding sector, the National Skills Agency (NSA) partners with Training Providers, Employers, Colleges, and Awarding Organisations to help them attract top-tier talent.

???? Key Apprenticeship & Skills Headlines

???? £3 Billion Boost for Apprenticeships

In a major move, the UK Government has pledged a £3 billion investment to create 120,000 new apprenticeship opportunities in sectors including construction, healthcare, and engineering. This is partly funded through a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge, designed to encourage domestic skills growth.

????‍???? Foundation Apprenticeships Launched

A new stream of Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeships has been introduced, offering employers up to £2,000 per apprentice. These early-entry programmes provide learners with essential workplace experience and are expected to help bridge the national skills gap.

???? Level 7 Apprenticeship Funding Changes

From January 2026, government funding for Level 7 (Master’s level) apprenticeships will be restricted to:

• Learners aged 16–21

• Care leavers

• Individuals with an EHCP (under 25)

This policy shift is designed to redirect funds to entry-level training, although it has raised concerns among employers seeking to upskill senior staff.

???? Sector Developments & Compliance Updates

???? Transition to the Growth and Skills Levy

The Apprenticeship Levy is evolving into the Growth and Skills Levy, giving employers more flexibility to fund broader workplace learning and upskilling programmes — a welcomed change that supports long-term economic resilience.

???? Clampdown on Training Malpractice

The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has conducted 35 unannounced visits to training providers in the past three months. As a result:

• 5 providers lost approval status

• 81 action points were issued
  This move underscores the need for compliance, quality assurance, and accountability in training delivery.

???? 2025–2026 Apprenticeship Funding Rules: Key Changes

The Department for Education has released updates to the Apprenticeship Funding Rules, effective August 1, 2025:

• ???? Introduction of minimum off-the-job training hours

• ???? Enhanced Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

• ???? Removal of automatic part-time funding adjustments

• ???? The 20% off-the-job rule is being phased out

These changes aim to improve flexibility and ensure high-quality, learner-centred training delivery.

???? Thought Leadership: The Future of UK Skills Strategy

By Spencer Mehlman, Managing Director, National Skills Agency

“The UK’s skills landscape is evolving fast. While initiatives like Foundation Apprenticeships and the Growth and Skills Levy bring new opportunities, we must be mindful of the unintended consequences of restricting access to higher-level apprenticeships.

Training Providers, Employers, and Awarding Bodies must work collaboratively to ensure learning pathways are inclusive and future-ready.

At NSA, we remain committed to supporting the sector by placing high-calibre professionals across delivery, operations, compliance, and leadership — ensuring your organisation can continue to thrive in this changing environment.”

???? How NSA Can Help You

Whether you’re looking for an Apprenticeship Assessor, Curriculum Lead, Sales Director, or Quality Assurance Manager, we have the UK’s largest talent network in the sector.

???? Bespoke recruitment for Training Providers
???? Deep sector expertise
???? Access to 20,000+ active candidates
???? M&A advisory for education businesses

???? Contact us on 020 3953 1984 or visit www.nationalskillsagency.co.uk

In a fast-moving education and skills landscape, training providers and awarding bodies face increasing pressure to deliver exceptional results while keeping costs under control. Whether you're growing your provision, launching new qualifications, or scaling your business, the right support makes all the difference.

At the National Skills Agency (NSA), we specialise in helping organisations like yours save time, reduce recruitment costs, and access industry-leading talent and consultancy services.

Why Work with NSA?

✅ Specialist Recruitment That Delivers

As the UK’s leading recruiter in the Apprenticeship, Training, and Awarding marketplace, we have a 20,000+ candidate database and an active network of over 100,000 sector-specific LinkedIn connections. This means faster shortlists, stronger candidates, and no wasted time on generic applications.

Whether you need:

• Apprenticeship Managers

• End-Point Assessors

• Quality Leads

• Sales & Employer Engagement professionals

• Trainers & Tutors

…NSA can supply pre-qualified, highly relevant candidates, often within days.

✅ Save Time with Pre-Vetted Talent

We don’t just forward CVs. We get to know your organisation, shortlist only the best fits, and handle the heavy lifting—from initial screening to interview coordination. This allows your internal teams to focus on what matters: delivering outstanding training and learning experiences.

✅ Reduce Costs Through Smart Hiring Models

Our flexible hiring options, including Hiring Credit Packages, allow you to lock in discounted rates and gain predictability on spend. Our clients save thousands of pounds per hire compared to traditional percentage-based models.

✅ High-Level Consultancy to Accelerate Growth

Beyond recruitment, NSA offers strategic consultancy services across areas such as:

• Funding optimisation

• Skills strategy

• Bid writing

• Business development

• Mergers & acquisitions

Our experts have supported some of the UK’s top ITPs and awarding organisations, helping them grow smarter and faster.

Real Results for Real Providers

NSA has successfully partnered with leading names in the sector, supporting everything from nationwide staff rollouts to senior leadership placements and strategic planning. We're proud to have played a role in driving growth, compliance, and efficiency for dozens of respected training organisations.

Ready to Unlock Better Results?

If you’re a training provider or awarding body looking to:

• Improve hiring outcomes

• Cut unnecessary recruitment costs

• Access experienced sector consultants

Let’s have a chat. NSA is here to support your journey—whether you're hiring for one key role or scaling your business nationally.

???? Call us on 020 3953 1984
???? Or email: info@nationalskillsagency.co.uk

The National Skills Agency has Expertise in Key Consultancy Areas:

In today's fluid training marketplace, organisations require strategic guidance to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. NSA is proud to offer high-level consultancy services across several critical domains, ensuring our clients are well-equipped for sustainable growth and success.

1. Skills Consultancy

We provide expert advice and tailored strategies to enhance workforce skills and performance, assisting organisations in navigating the UK's complex skills landscape.

2. Funding Optimisation

Our team supports employers and training providers in optimising available funding streams, leveraging over 30 years of experience with ESFA, Ofsted, and IfATE.

3. Knowledge Transfer

We offer comprehensive support for acquiring skills and knowledge essential for introducing new products and services, with extensive experience in managing knowledge transfers and supporting startups in scaling operations.

4. Business Development

NSA assists independent training providers and colleges in creating business development options, including total addressable market analysis and competitor profiling.

5. Bid Writing Support

Our consultants excel at winning tenders with the Department for Education, regional devolved authorities, and other funding bodies, providing clients with a competitive edge.

6. Mergers and Acquisitions

We support organisations during the due diligence process of M&A activities, offering extensive experience in assisting SMEs with divestments and acquisitions.

At NSA, we are committed to empowering your business through skills development, recruitment and strategic consultancy. Let's collaborate to unlock your organisation's full potential.

Reach out to spencer@nationalskillsagency.co.uk 020 3953 1984