Why Skills Group?

With over 25 years’ experience, Skills Group is a trusted leader in delivering quality apprenticeships, full-time courses and bespoke career development programs to students in Plymouth and throughout the South West.

As one of the largest independent training providers in the country and one of the longest established in Plymouth, we are proud to consistently challenge national averages achieving success rates of 81% compared to the average of 67.3% placing us in the top two nationally*.

Skills Group are so much more than an apprenticeship provider; we collaborate with the most esteemed local businesses, such as TH March, Phil Deare Carpentry and Yoke the Salon, as well as igniting careers with our unique learning pathways and strive to continuously innovate, ensuring we are always prepared for the apprentices of the future.

Need more reasons to choose Skills Group?


Cutting Edge Facilities

We have invested over £6 million in cutting edge training facilities to accommodate our learners. You will find an industry grade environment that nurtures creativity and innovation, ready to prepare you for the challenges of the workplace.

Employers First Choice

With such an established reputation, Skills Group are a trusted name that Plymouth and the South West’s businesses truly trust and aspire to work with.

Outstanding Support

No matter where you are in your apprenticeship journey, we ensure there is the specialist support you need every step of the way to help you on your journey.

A Unique Study Programme

Our unique study program allows you to test the waters and try the course before you dive in, to ensure it’s the perfect fit for you. You can even swap trades if you’re not happy.

Finding your Perfect Match

We understand the challenges of finding your perfect employer and work hard to get to know you to match you to an employer that will support you in achieving your full potential.

In the heart of Plymouth

Plymouth and the South West region are at the core of everything we do. We pride ourselves in supporting the local community and developing the best local talent to support the growing and thriving business community in the region.


At Skills Group we don’t just provide education – we’re paving the way for endless opportunities!

To start your application process or find out about becoming one of our employers, contact us today, or apply here.

*DFE, NART 2017/18 data, compared to other independent providers with a cohort of 1000+ learners.

Achievement Levels

Strategic Plan

Work for Us

Partners

I just wanted to say the biggest thank you to Vanessa, my trainer. You have made my journey so much easier, I don’t know what I would have done without you. You have been amazing and helped me to achieve my qualification. You’ve guided me through every step of the way, I really appreciate it, Vanessa, you have been my rock.

Katie Shorland, Level 2 Hairdressing

I always struggled in school as I wasn’t very academic, so knew learning on the job would be a better option for me. I would find it difficult to get up for 9am but now I wake up and look forward to my day. I wanted to try a hair apprenticeship as I’ve always been interested in hairdressing, and by the end of the first week, I already loved it!

Jaimee Benson, Level 2 Hairdressing

I have developed a range of new skills through work including the technical, industry skills required for the job, to personal development such as ensuring I am always on time. The biggest change since leaving school is adjusting to the independence you gain from earning a salary. My advice to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship would be find what you like doing, and go for it!

Will Birch, Level 2 Bricklaying

Since starting the apprenticeship, I’ve become far more confident. In a classroom, you only interact with your classmates, but through working you develop your people skills as you interact with customers on a daily basis. At school, you are closely monitored and parented, however I am now more independent and feel grown up

Sam Collard, Level 2 Light Vehicle and Maintenance Repair

The most important thing I’ve learnt since leaving school is that there are other routes to success than just academia. I failed my GCSEs, as I never suited the school environment. Now though, I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship as I’ve discovered I learn more through hands-on practice.

Ben Freeman, Level 2 Carpentry

I would just like to thank you and your team for all the amazing work they do, you have provided me with the most invaluable experience which has helped to pave the way of my future. The work you do for young people is incredible!

Luke Kowalski, Teaching Assistant and former apprentice at Sir Robert Gefferys School