Clifford College

Clifford College is a specialist electrical engineering training provider that has been delivering apprenticeship training since 2009. Initially commissioned by Barlows (UK) Ltd to train apprentices into quality engineers, the college has grown by nurturing entrants from a wide range of backgrounds to develop technical skills, knowledge, professional behaviours and values, leading to successful completion of apprenticeships and ongoing employment opportunities. Since joining the Register of Apprenticeship Training Providers in late 2017, Clifford College has held City & Guilds accreditation to deliver electrical qualifications and, from 2018, began training apprentices on its own funding contract rather than solely in partnership with other providers. The college emphasises small class sizes, a high pass rate and close cooperation with employers, especially Barlows (UK) Ltd, through regular meetings on progress and planning. The wider Clifford group of colleges operates centres in Hampton, Lancaster, Manchester and London, with a strong focus on safeguarding and apprentice welfare. Clifford College and Barlows (UK) Ltd have received more than 20 major awards for their apprenticeship work, including National Apprenticeship Awards and consecutive Princess Royal Training Awards, recognising the quality and impact of their programmes.