COMPANIES in the town operating within the nuclear sector could be set for a boost following special recognition for a training provider.

Alliance Learning has become one of just a handful of training organisations in the north west to be accredited as a 'quality assured provider' for the National Skills Academy for Nuclear (NSAN).

It will now have the opportunity to provide high quality apprenticeships and commercial training programmes within the nuclear industry to ensure firms have the the skilled, competent and safe workforce needed to deal with the current and future UK nuclear programme.

To earn the accolade Alliance first had to become part of the NSAN network, which involved an application process.

This included providing evidence of the nature of its provision and services, an Ofsted report, business plan and financial viability.

Lee Morris, engineering business improvement manager at Alliance, said: "Alliance Learning is extremely proud to have achieved accreditation through NSAN.

"Our main aim in this partnership is to provide valuable training to the nuclear industry and support in development of current and future engineers within this sector."

Just weeks after earning NSAN accreditation, Alliance was awarded a £60,000 training contract with NIS, a specialist integrated engineering company based in Chorley.

It is also set to release details on what makes up a training programme during the first six months of an apprenticeship.

This will include a wide range of basic skills and involving hand-fitting, mechanical maintenance, hydraulics and pneumatics, electrical wiring and maintenance.

The learners will also be studying towards a traditional City and Guilds technical certificate in mechanical engineering to enhance their understanding.

Apprenticeships are delivered over four years to ensure learners achieve the 'required skills'.

Government grants are currently available for those seeking an apprenticeship.

For further information call 01204 696744 or e-mail info@alliancelearning.com.