A SPECIALIST Worcester-based training company has helped 1,000 people complete work-related training courses and apprenticeships in only its first year in business.

GLP Training in The Tything opened its doors in May, 2014 and in its first 12 months has grown rapidly to employ 30 staff, including 18 from the local area. The company is the vision of founder and managing director Gemma Louise Parsons, aged 26, who set it up after working in the transport and facilities industry for four years where she identified the lack of training available in large organisations.

GLP specialises in training staff in the facilities management, sales, property and transport sectors and has secured contracts with organisations like Luton Airport, London transport depots, property companies and three FTSE 100 organisations. During the past year it has guided 1,000 people through their government-funded training programmes, while a further 2,000 will be enrolled from August.

Miss Parsons explained: "My ambition has been to provide beneficial modern day vocational training, whether that’s for employed or unemployed people. I am delighted that we have been able to create opportunities and career paths for everyone, enabling employers to strengthen and up-skill their workforces.

“In our first year we have also broken down the misconceptions of apprenticeships and work-based training, educating people and employers on the benefits of industry specific training available.

“Adult training has also been very successful for GLP and we have worked with learners from all different backgrounds to help them progress their careers.

“Over the last year we have shown that correctly implemented government training programmes can have life changing results. Not just for those on the training courses, but also financial and operational advantages to businesses who work with us. Many of them have gone on to secure new business due to their fully trained workforce and commitment to training.”

GLP's courses cover everything from shop floor employees in cleaning and support services, right up to senior management and team leaders. The company also also offers professional management courses, apprenticeships, diplomas and degrees.