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Gateshead-based Access Training acquires further education brand

Gateshead-based Access Training, has acquired the Newcastle franchise of further education brand Pitman Training, from North East support organisation Entrust for an undisclosed sum.

The move comes less than two years since Access bought out another further education provider, Durham Training..

Acquiring Pitman will secure Access Training a slice of the privately financed training market to bolster its current business which is predominantly government funded.

Moreover, the buyout will increase Access’ offer to companies and individual learners by adding secretarial, book-keeping and IT training to its range of courses.

The Pitman Training Newcastle name will be retained and courses will be offered from the current base on Hood Street in Newcastle city centre and additionally at Gateshead Skills Academy on Team Valley Trading Estate.

The five members of staff will be kept on and Access will support them to grow the business which currently has 80 learners on its books.

Malcolm Armstrong, Access Training’s managing director, said: “The Pitman Training name is well known for business and office based training with a history going all the way back to 1837 and the introduction of Pitman shorthand.

“We want to build on that tradition and are looking forward to supporting learners through Pitman Training’s modern day range of courses ideal for those wanting to train as legal or medical secretaries, executive PAs or bookkeepers.”

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