Julie Robinson has a lot to celebrate as she reaches the end of her first year as Chief Executive at Alliance Learning, one of the leading Apprenticeship and independent training providers in the North West.

When Julie was appointed as Chief Executive in November 2013, her aims were simple - to ensure Alliance Learning continues to provide the high quality Apprenticeships and training programmes and to help guide the organisation towards outstanding status at their next Ofsted Inspection.

In reality the business has transformed significantly in the past 12 months, experiencing strong growth and securing a bright future for everyone involved with Alliance Learning.

Julie commented: “It seems like such a short time ago that I accepted the post of Chief Executive and it’s hard to believe that so much has already been achieved.

“Turnover has grown by 8% over the last 12 months and we have a significant increase in the number of apprentices and companies signed up to our schemes”.

“Our teaching and learning grades are continually improving and we are already well on target to achieve an Outstanding Ofsted Status when we are assessed in 2017.”

Julie is keen to point out that the success of Alliance Learning isn’t down to one person, rather the result of a loyal and hard-working team of people.

Julie continues: “Our people are our biggest asset and so when we restructured the business in January 2014 we made sure promotions were awarded internally. We have invested heavily in training for all employees so that they are well equipped for future growth and able to offer quality teaching for students, attending both Adult and Apprenticeship training programmes.

“Our Marketing Manager, Chloe Ramsden, won the ‘Young Person of the Year’ Award at the Bolton and Bury Business Awards last month and is again testament to the value we place on helping our employees grow and develop in their roles.

“Our Chairman, David Gavan, and the Board of Directors have also provided essential support, trusting my judgement and helping me to make the necessary changes to the business.

“It may be a cliché, but Alliance Learning wouldn’t be the success it is without the support and hard work of our employees, Chairman and trustees.”