First4Skills has been awarded the nationally recognised matrix Standard quality mark.
The quality mark is accredited to organisations that provide effective advice and support to individuals to make learning and work more accessible and relevant to their chosen career path.
In order to achieve this accolade First4Skills had to meet a range of criteria that demonstrated that they have effective leadership and management, good resources, effective service delivery and demonstrate continuous quality improvement throughout the business.
The matrix assessment took place over a 5 day period where First4Skills demonstrated that they provide effective information advice and guidance to external partners to allow people to make informed decisions from the information and options provided. This was achieved by a number of learners, employer, clients and stakeholders being interviewed by the matrix assessor.
Many colleagues within First4Skills were also interviewed by the matrix assessor focusing on how they provide impartial advice and guidance both internally and externally. From the information collated through these interviews and by reviewing many of the resources and documentation the matrix assessor was able to confirm that First4Skills met the criteria of the matrix standard therefore in a position to award the accreditation.
Alison Parkes, Chief Operating Officer, First4Skills, said: “As a business we are absolutely delighted to have received Matrix Accreditation, demonstrating that we provide our clients and learners with the best quality information, advice and guidance. Continuous improvement is at the heart of our business and we are committed to ensuring ongoing real service improvements throughout First4Skills that benefit our clients and learners.”
David Allan, Managing Director at emqc Ltd, added: “This Matrix Accreditation is another example of how the Matrix Standard is proving effective for all types of organisations, helping them to provide a more professional service offering and to strive to be the best in their sector.”
First4Skills has more than 30 years worth of experience working with businesses across the UK to ensure they have access to a workforce with the right skills to improve their performance now and into the future. Through advanced apprenticeships, vocational qualifications and everything in between, we help 14,000 learners each year gain qualifications and make the most of their true potential.