Job seekers benefit from new employer-led fitness training

Job seekers and school leavers who are undecided on what career path to follow can now take advantage of newly-accredited training which will qualify them to work in the fitness industry thanks to The Manchester College. The college has recently been awarded academy provider status for health and fitness in the North West region. This new move will benefit both individuals and employers seeking high quality provision that is flexible and suited to the varied needs of local employers.

Officially approved by the National Skills Academy for Sport and Active Leisure – an impartial organisation set up to improve skills training in the sector – the programmes include

• Foundation Degrees in both Sport and Fitness Management and Health and Physical Activity
• NVQs in Instructing Exercise and Fitness and Instructing Physical Activity
• apprenticeship programmes and vocational qualifications such as the CYQ Level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification

The qualifications will make a huge impact on individuals and employers. They will help improve staff retention, develop a highly skilled and motivated workforce plus improve the leisure services provided to the general public. As most of the training programmes include an element of work based learning, individuals will also be able to earn money while training on-the-job.

Barry Atkins, Curriculum Lead Manager at The Manchester College, said: 'As an approved academy provider, we are able to give people the necessary skills and qualifications to enter the health and fitness sector as well as access potential new business and train their staff. It is also an excellent opportunity for us to support the continued professionalisation of the industry as it continues to grow and play a key role in the government’s agendas around health and wellbeing.'

Katie Chaloner, the North West’s Business Development Manager at the National Skills Academy for Sport and Active Leisure, said: 'The North West is facing skills shortages in the fitness sector. Partnering with highly regarded, local training providers such as The Manchester College will allow us to help guide individuals through a career path in sport and active leisure. It will also allow us to identify the skills gaps faced by employers and address these by directing them to accredited training which is tailored to the needs of their business and staff.'

As an approved provider, The Manchester College is now part of an established network of the highest quality training providers across the country and will be recognised by employers and individuals wanting to work or progress in sport and leisure. The college will also be part of a committed, focused venture with the vision to improve the way training is delivered in the sector.

For more information on health and fitness courses at the college, please use our course finder.

More information on the National Skills Academy for Sport and Active Leisure, is provided on their website.