A new partnership between The Bedford College Group and global business standards organisation, BSI will give students and local organisations access to internationally recognised professional training across sectors including education, construction, and professional services.
The collaboration aims to expand high-quality training opportunities for learners and employers in Bedfordshire and beyond, reaching as far as Europe and the Middle East.
It is expected to support skill development in areas facing national shortages and to align educational pathways with workforce needs better.
Through the partnership, Bedford College students and affiliated commercial organisations will benefit from BSI’s portfolio of training programmes, offering practical, standards-based learning designed to improve employability and prepare individuals for industry demands.
The initiative arrives at a time of heightened national focus on skills development. The UK Government’s Industrial Strategy highlights critical gaps in sectors such as construction, digital, and professional services.
According to the construction industry training board, more than 216,000 additional workers are needed by 2025 to meet project demand, yet over 140,000 vacancies remain unfilled.
Matt Page, senior vice president of assurance services EMEA at BSI, said: “Access to training can have an enormous impact on people’s career progression and ability to achieve professional excellence.
“At a time when the UK is facing skills gaps in key sectors, expanding this access through this exciting alliance with Bedford College is a win-win for learners and employers alike.”
Nick Hayward, group director of MIS, data and performance at the Bedford College Group, added: “This partnership marks an exciting opportunity in the Bedford college group’s mission to empower learners with world-class skills.
“By offering access to internationally recognised professional development in key growth sectors, we’re opening new pathways to excellence, innovation, and opportunity for our students and wider community.”
The partnership is expected to enhance collaboration between education providers and employers, ensuring learners gain industry-relevant experience that meets evolving economic and technical demands.
