“Achieve without limits” is one of the core values of Aspiration Training – values its employees have helped shape. And it’s a principle that applies as much to their careers as it does to the learners they’re supporting.

Every year the Nottingham-based further education training provider helps more than 4,500 people across England and Wales to improve their lives. It’s focused on delivering high-quality apprenticeship programmes in areas such as health and social care and business services. It also supports employers in upskilling their existing workers.

Aspiration Training offers all 170+ team members the same opportunities in coaching and mentoring. They also benefit from career conversations and personalised training plans. The company offers employees four hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) each month, and Mental Health First Aid Training is open to all. It’s also supported all its teaching team to reach a level 4 teaching qualification.

And the company recognises that a work-life balance is also key to building a “happy, successful and sustainable business.” It offers a generous leave allowance – up to 40 days a year for long service, the opportunity to work from home three days a week and flexible hours to support school pick-ups and other caring responsibilities.

All team members have had a salary increase of at least £1000 to address cost-of-living concerns. And there’s a new ‘refer a friend scheme offering £250 for a successful hire, acknowledging that employees are the best recruiters, knowing more about the business and its culture than anyone else.