Open College Network West Midlands in merger

Open College Network West Midlands announced its merger with the AIM Qualifications and Assessments Group.

The two organisations merged on September 1, 2022 to operate under the AIM Group name.

The merger means that colleges, centres and training providers have access to a much wider range of regulated qualifications for their learners and employers will have an expanded network of support when looking for an end-point assessment organisation for their apprentices.

The two awarding bodies develop qualifications, and award certificates to learners in schools, colleges, and centres across the UK.

The two organisations share an experience of over 40 years in developing regulated high-quality qualifications for the education and training sector.

They were also recently recognised as a specialist in the delivery of end-point assessments for apprentices on creative, cultural and professional services standards.

As well as developing regulated qualifications, the unified organisation provides a national quality kitemark which endorses an organisation 's own internal training and development programmes and systems. This is ideal for companies who are developing courses and training programmes tailored to meet the needs of their employees or customers.

The merger was led by group CEO Kevern Kerswell, a staunch supporter of lifelong learning.

Kevern (Pictured), who has built his career in education and training over the past 25 years said: “This is a merger of two closely aligned organisations who share the same ethos and hold similar values and philosophies on furthering education ”.

“The merger will prioritise the development of qualifications, apprenticeships and other services that benefit learners and tackle inequality. The merger brings together two highly successful organisations who are very positive about their ability to bring even more knowledge and resources to customers.

“We look forward to continuing our work with all our existing customers and to welcoming new ones ” ”.

The new organisation will continue to operate from sites in Wolverhampton and Derby.

For more information visit www.aimgroup.org.uk or email marketing@aimgroup.org.uk