Luminate Education Group: Supporting West Yorkshire’s businesses through apprenticeships

Luminate Education Group is the proud sponsor of the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) of the Year category at this year’s West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards, taking place on 1 May 2025.

“This sponsorship reflects our commitment to working with SMEs and supporting the growth of apprenticeships across the region,” said Kelly-Marie McAllister, Group Director of Apprenticeships at Luminate Education Group.

“As one of the largest apprenticeship providers in Yorkshire, our members routinely collaborate with employers to develop apprenticeship programmes that align with local industry demands. These partnerships span a range of sectors, including digital, healthcare, engineering, and construction, providing apprentices with valuable hands-on experience while supporting the growth of local businesses.”

How apprenticeships help SMEs

SMEs play a key role in the region’s economy, but often face challenges in recruiting and retaining skilled staff. Apprenticeships offer a practical solution, helping businesses develop and mould talent, while benefiting from government support and funding as they do. Small businesses often relay the positive results they witness back to us, with their apprentices developing valuable skills that contribute to overall business growth.

Subhan Mahmood is a fantastic example of the impact apprenticeships can have. Subhan, an apprentice from Keighley College (one of Luminate’s members), who recently secured a full-time role with Acorn Stairlifts following his apprenticeship, joined the company’s customer services team in August 2023.

He quickly made an impression through his enthusiasm and dedication, with his hard work leading to a permanent position. Subhan now aspires to progress their career within the company and become a service engineer at Acorn.

Bethany Berry, Subhan’s Team Leader at Acorn Stairlifts, highlighted his commitment: “The apprentices we take on from Keighley College are always hard-working and add value to our business, but Subhan stood out. He was eager to learn and took advantage of all available training opportunities. His customer service skills have significantly improved, and he has one of our highest inbound call numbers.”

Cutting the red tape

Recent government reforms have simplified the process for SMEs to take on apprentices. Flexible apprenticeship models, reduced bureaucracy, and increased funding incentives have made it easier for businesses to access training support. Additionally, changes to maths and English requirements allow for alternative assessments and greater employer involvement, ensuring a wider range of learners can successfully complete their apprenticeships.

By sponsoring the SME of the Year category, Luminate Education Group recognises that local businesses, like Acorn Stairlifts, drive innovation and growth across the region. A continued focus of ours is to work with SMEs to develop increasingly effective training solutions that meet their needs and better support the workforce of the future.

If you’re an SME looking to explore apprenticeships, then Luminate is here to help.

Get in touch to find out how its tailored apprenticeship programmes can support your business growth.