THE University of Bolton is expanding its reach.

Independent training provider Alliance Learning has merged with the University of Bolton Group. It comes nearly two years after Bolton College became part of the University of Bolton

Based in Horwich, Alliance is one of the largest independent apprenticeship training providers in the North West with over 50 years’ experience in the training industry.

Consistently rated as “good” by Ofsted, it has been working collaboratively with the University of Bolton since 2016.

Dr Kondal Reddy Kandadi, chair of Alliance Learning and deputy Vice-Chancellor of the university, said: “The two organisations will pool their experience, learning infrastructure, industry links and expertise to ensure that all learners benefit and enhance their skills to fulfil their potential and improve productivity in the industry.

Alliance Learning’s apprentices and the university’s engineering students are already reaping the benefits of this strategic partnership.

“For example, the Level 5 Management Apprenticeships are now delivered at the university’s state-of-the-art Institute of Management (IoM) building in Bolton town centre. The students from the University are developing hands-on-experience with engineering tools and machinery at Alliance.”

The move means learners from Alliance Learning will be able to progress seamlessly from Level 1 to Level 8 degrees. Alliance Learning, Bolton College and the University of Bolton have also formed “ConnectED”, a one-stop shop in the IoM building, where employers can call in to get expert advice about apprenticeships, education and training.

Kelly Perkin, chief executive of Alliance Learning, said: “We are delighted to have officially joined the University of Bolton Group.

“It is an exciting time. Building on our existing strategic partnership, we will invest in what matters most to our learners, employers, customers, staff and regional industry.

“Alliance Learning has been delivering high-quality training for over 53 years by highly-qualified and experienced tutors who provide top quality, industry-accredited courses. When you combine this with the fantastic organisations that are part of the University of Bolton Group, imagine what we can achieve collectively.

“We cannot wait to get started on further transforming the lives of our future generation, locally and nationally, through learning and skills development.”