A HORWICH-based training organisation which has benefited generations of learners is savouring success ahead of its 50th anniversary in 2016.

Alliance Learning, which has lifted the coveted “SME Award”, is one of the North West’s largest independent training providers, a not-for-profit organisation as well as a registered charity. Next year will mark a significant milestone when Alliance will celebrate its half century.

It was originally formed in 1966 as Bolton Engineering Training Group. Following a merger with CLEEA Training in 2001, Alliance became a training provider with a reputation for quality, commitment and outstanding success rates.

The organisation, which also has a training centre in Leigh, is led by 10 voluntary board members, each of whom plays a lead role in companies in the sectors within which Alliance operates. There are three parts to the business: apprenticeships, commercial courses and e-business/learndirect.

Annually, Alliance trains around 500 apprentices on Level 2, 3 and 4 qualifications as well as more than 6,000 individuals, all gaining vital skills to take back to the workplace. Its apprentices are employed by around 250 businesses across the region with whom the company works closely. Alliance itself employs 69 staff, all of whom play an active role in the business.

Chief executive Julie Robinson said the company was “delighted” to have received the award which comes two years after some changes were made to the business.

As she accepted the award on the stage, Mrs Robinson singled out her staff for particular praise.

She added: “It’s like one big family here and during the last two years we have all pulled together and attracted more learners. This is an award that the whole team has achieved.

“I can honestly say I never expected this. I never expect anything until it’s in the bag. But I am so proud of everyone.”