West Nottinghamshire College acquires Pearson in Practice

Education giant Pearson has agreed to transfer the majority of its adult training business to West Nottinghamshire College.

The transfer of most of the vocational training activity formerly carried out through Pearson in Practice will affect around 4,000 people, with a small number of other learners being transferred to other providers.

As a wholly-owned subsidiary of the college, the business will be renamed Vision Workforce Skills.

Asha Khemka, West Nottinghamshire College’s chief executive, said: “I am delighted we have reached a final agreement with Pearson Plc and look forward to welcoming the majority of Pearson in Practice’s staff and learners to the West Nottinghamshire College group as Vision Workforce Skills.

“This cements the college’s position as one of the country’s leading providers of workforce development programmes and significantly enhances our national reach in terms of employer engagement.

“Above all, this is good news for Pearson in Practice learners, who will be supported to successfully complete their apprenticeship or training programme.”

Pearson announced plans to exit the business in early January, following government changes to apprenticeship funding rules. It said a shift from a programme-led to an employer-led model had significantly reduced demand for the types of programmes offered by the group.

Rod Bristow, president of Pearson UK, said: “Pearson is very pleased to reach an agreement for the transfer of most of Pearson in Practice to West Nottinghamshire College, which has established a strong record in training and apprenticeships. We believe this to be the best solution for the affected learners, staff, employers and other partners.

“Pearson’s important work in providing training for young adults will continue through our qualifications and curriculum business, particularly Pearson Work Based Learning, which works in partnership with employers and others to develop workplace skills.”

Natalie Thornhill

(Pictured: West Nottinghamshire College CEO