SIAS is proud to announce that Digital Manufacturing Makerspace (DMM) Nigeria Limited has been officially approved as a SIAS Approved Centre, marking a major international milestone for the organisation and a significant moment for skills development across Africa’s engineering and manufacturing sectors.
This approval sees DMM Nigeria become the first approved SIAS centre in Nigeria, representing a landmark step in SIAS’s global growth and its mission to power future‑focused STEM skills where they are needed most. The approval enables DMM Nigeria to deliver regulated SIAS qualifications that are aligned with real‑world industry needs in engineering and manufacturing.
As a forward‑thinking organisation at the heart of Nigeria’s growing innovation ecosystem, DMM Nigeria is uniquely positioned to support the development of a highly skilled, future‑ready workforce. Its focus on digital manufacturing and applied technology aligns closely with SIAS’s commitment to expanding access to high‑quality, regulated qualifications beyond the UK. This supports learners, employers and industries worldwide as they navigate rapid technological and industrial change.
Steve Smith, Managing Director of SIAS, said: “Approving Digital Manufacturing Makerspace Nigeria Limited as a SIAS Approved Centre is a hugely important moment for us. This is our first centre in Nigeria and a significant milestone in SIAS’s international journey. DMM Nigeria shares our forward‑thinking ethos and our belief that future skills must be practical, industry‑aligned and globally relevant. Through this partnership, we are proud to support the development of engineering and manufacturing capability in Nigeria and to extend the reach and impact of SIAS qualifications on an international stage.”
Samuel Abas, Director General at DMM Nigeria, said: “Across Nigeria’s rapidly evolving industrial landscape, the demand for globally recognised technical skills is substantial. Today, through our status as a SIAS Approved Centre, that vision is becoming a reality. This milestone advances our commitment to digital manufacturing, engineering excellence, and STEM workforce development. It aligns directly with Nigeria’s Science, Technology and Innovation policy priorities regarding human capital development, advanced manufacturing, and global competitiveness. Through this partnership, we are creating new opportunities for Nigerian learners, manufacturers, and engineers to access globally relevant qualifications and strengthen industrial excellence.”
Together, SIAS and DMM Nigeria will work collaboratively to open new pathways for learners and to help shape the future of engineering and manufacturing education in Nigeria and beyond.
For more information about becoming a SIAS Approved Centre or to learn more about SIAS awarding services, please contact partnerships@siasuk.com.
Expanding International Capability: SIAS Announces approval of ten new Training Centres Across Pakistan April 28, 2026
SIAS UK is accelerating its global skills mission with another major milestone – ten new SIAS approved centres across Pakistan are now operational or moving towards operational readiness. All ten Training Centres will be now delivering courses and programmes accredited by SIAS, providing quality assurance and certification to empower a more internationalised offer directly linked to workforce mobility across borders.
This exciting project was made possible through close collaboration between SIAS UK and GIZ Pakistan, supported by Team Europe’s TVET Sector Support Programme, and marks a bold leap forward in building international training capacity in Pakistan to strengthen global talent pipelines.
At SIAS, we understand how quickly industries evolve, and we work hard to match that pace with purpose. What we’re building in Pakistan goes beyond expansion, it reflects real momentum on the ground. It’s a shift in opportunity, a boost in capability, and a shared effort to help people develop the skills that modern STEM industries demand.
Asif Rasheed Malik, Technical Advisor Accreditation and Quality Assurance from GIZ Pakistan said: “Pakistan’s workforce is one of its greatest assets, with over 727,000 Pakistanis seeking employment abroad in 2024 alone and remittances reaching $34.6 billion, the economic stakes of skills recognition have never been higher. Yet globally, the absence of internationally accredited qualifications remains the single biggest barrier to workforce mobility, with employers in Saudi Arabia, Europe and beyond unable to accept Pakistani workers simply because local training lacks international recognition. SIAS Approved Centres are changing that equation through the accredited programmes!
“By anchoring Pakistan’s TVET institutions to world-class standards, we are not just raising the quality of skills available at home, we are unlocking a credible, verifiable pipeline that connects Pakistan’s young talent to global opportunity, turning brain drain into a strategic advantage.”
The First to Lead the Way
Our journey in Pakistan began with the Government Technical Teachers Training College (GTTTC), Hayatabad, also centre of excellence in Peshawar, the first institution to be approved as a SIAS Approved Centre. Since then, the network has continued to expand and now includes:
Government College of Technology (GCT) Kohat, GCT Nowshera and Government Polytechnic Institute Uthal are also becoming a SIAS Approved Centre imminently.
These centres are delivering future‑ready STEM qualifications aligned with real industry demand – empowering learners, strengthening local industries and unlocking global opportunity.
A Movement for Progress
Pakistan’s TVET landscape is evolving fast and SIAS is proud to be at the heart of this transformation. With the support of key stakeholders like GIZ Pakistan,, we’re building a world‑class skills ecosystem that drives innovation and opens doors for learners across borders.
Together with our partners and centres, we’re supporting a new generation of learners to take confident steps into the future. Together we are #AlwaysMovingForward.
To explore becoming a SIAS Approved Centre, please reach out to us at partnerships@siasuk.com.
SIAS reaches major international milestone with first SIAS Approved Centre in Bahrain – Madar Training Centre April 22, 2026SIAS has achieved a significant step in its global expansion with the approval of Madar Training Centre – the first SIAS Approved Centre in Bahrain. This milestone marks an important moment in strengthening SIAS’s international presence and supporting the development of future‑focused skills across the Middle East.
Through this approval, Madar Training Centre is now authorised to deliver world‑class SIAS qualifications, giving learners and employers across Bahrain access to industry‑led, globally aligned programmes that support innovation, technical excellence and workforce development.
Steve Smith, Managing Director of SIAS, said: “I am incredibly excited to welcome Madar Training Centre as our first Approved Centre in Bahrain. This is a huge moment for SIAS and a significant milestone in our international journey. Bahrain is rapidly establishing itself as a forward‑thinking destination for innovation, and partnering with Madar gives us the opportunity to deliver world‑class SIAS qualifications in a region full of energy and potential. We’re looking forward to the opportunities this will create for learners and the impact it will have on Bahrain’s future workforce.”
This milestone reflects SIAS’s commitment to expanding access to high‑quality, future‑focused qualifications globally, supporting international partners in developing the skills needed to innovate, grow and lead in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
For more information about SIAS qualifications, international partnerships or centre approval, please contact partnerships@siasuk.com.
New UK Qualifications Alliance Brings UK Awarding Expertise to the Global Stage April 21, 2026SIAS is proud to be a founding member of the UK Qualifications Alliance (UKQA), a new consortium of leading UK Awarding Bodies created to strengthen international access to trusted UK qualifications.
UKQA brings together SIAS, Innovate Awarding, VTCT Skills, SFJ Awards and EAL with a shared ambition to take the very best of UK qualifications and quality assurance to the global stage. The Alliance responds to growing global demand for credible, high‑quality skills solutions by offering a clearer, more joined‑up route for international partners to engage with the UK system.
UKQA has been purpose-built to:
Collectively spanning 30+ sectors, UKQA provides access to regulated qualifications and quality endorsement services through a single collaborative approach, reducing complexity while maximising impact.
Steve Smith, Managing Director of SIAS, said: “UKQA is about collaboration with purpose. It opens up access to the strength and credibility of UK qualifications for international partners, while delivering scalable outcomes for learners, employers, and industry.
More than that, it represents a shift for the awarding sector away from a traditional qualifications offer and towards a model that supports labour markets and enables global workforce mobility at scale. We are excited about the opportunities ahead ”
SIAS strengthens UK presence with first Scottish institution approved as a SIAS Approved Centre – a major milestone achieved with North East Scotland College April 13, 2026| North East Scotland College has officially been approved as a SIAS Approved Centre, becoming the first college in Scotland to achieve this significant milestone. This approval marks a major step forward for SIAS in expanding high‑quality, future‑focused accredited provision across the UK’s devolved nations.
North East Scotland College is now approved to deliver the SIAS Level 2 Award in the Introduction to Hydrogen Safety – an industry‑aligned, regulated qualification designed to equip learners with essential knowledge in one of the UK’s fastest‑growing energy and innovation sectors. Steve Smith, Managing Director of SIAS, said: “I am delighted to welcome North East Scotland College as our first SIAS Approved Centre in Scotland. This is a landmark moment for SIAS and a major step in our mission to support skills development across the UK. Their strong track record in technical and STEM education, combined with their close links to the region’s Energy Transition Zone, makes them the ideal partner to deliver the SIAS Level 2 Award in the Introduction to Hydrogen Safety. Their leadership in this space will help open new pathways for learners and strengthen Scotland’s position in the transition to a hydrogen‑powered future.” Iain Cocker, Business Development Manager at NESCol, said: “We take great pride in NESCol’s role as a driving force in Scotland’s journey to net zero, embracing low carbon technology and committed to ensuring a workforce equipped with the skills to harness great opportunities regionally, nationally and internationally. Becoming a SIAS Approved Centre underlines our ambition and is another positive step as we broaden our training offer. Hydrogen is a vital piece of the energy transition jigsaw and an area in which we anticipate growing demand, particularly through our delivery at the new Energy Transition Skills Hub. We look forward to continuing to work with SIAS to meet the needs of employers and individuals.” This milestone advances Scotland’s hydrogen ambitions through future‑focused training that opens vital pathways into clean energy, engineering and advanced technologies, delivering meaningful impact for learners, providers and industry across Scotland and beyond. For more information about SIAS awarding services or centre approvals, please contact partnerships@siasuk.com. |
| MTC Training has been officially approved as a SIAS Approved Centre, marking an important step in expanding high‑quality accredited training provision for employers across the UK.
As an Approved Centre, MTC Training will now deliver world‑class, quality‑assured accredited training provision aligned to SIAS’s rigorous standards. This partnership enables providers to access consistent, future‑focused training solutions designed to strengthen capability, support workforce development, and help organisations adapt to the demands of modern industry.
Steve Smith, Managing Director of SIAS, said: “MTC Training is widely recognised for its technical expertise and deep connections with industry, making them an outstanding organisation to support employers through high‑quality accredited training. Their commitment to excellence and innovation aligns perfectly with SIAS’s mission to move the sector forward. Collaborating with MTC Training strengthens our shared ambition to build a more agile, capable workforce ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow.”
Dave Lee, Quality Enhancement, Compliance and Systems Manager from MTC Training said: “Becoming a SIAS Approved Centre is a significant milestone for MTC Training and a testament to the strength of our partnership with SIAS. Their rigorous, forward‑thinking approach to quality assurance perfectly complements our technical expertise and industry focus. Together, we’re expanding access to accredited training that genuinely equips employers and learners with the skills demanded by modern industry.”
This milestone reflects a partnership built on shared ambition—combining SIAS’s forward‑thinking approach with MTC Training’s technical expertise to deliver accredited training that creates lasting impact for industry.
For more information about these qualifications or other SIAS services, please contact partnerships@siasuk.com.
|
SIAS has launched a first‑to‑market flexible assessment model designed to give apprenticeship providers genuine choice, clarity and confidence as the sector navigates reform.
The new dual‑model approach, SIAS Flex and SIAS Core, harnesses the flexibilities introduced through apprenticeship reform to offer providers two distinct, future‑ready routes for delivering high‑quality assessment. Both models retain the trusted SIAS expertise, integrity and support that partners have come to rely on.
SIAS Flex is a provider‑led assessment model that enables providers to deliver on‑programme assessment within a robust SIAS framework. It offers reduced fees, greater agility and the reassurance of SIAS’s established quality assurance, standardisation and oversight.
SIAS Core is a SIAS‑led assessment model that allows providers to focus on exceptional training while SIAS delivers the full assessment service. By removing duplication, barriers and unnecessary bureaucracy, SIAS Core provides a streamlined, value‑for‑money approach that strengthens employer confidence through consistent, expert‑led assessment.
Steve Smith, Managing Director of SIAS, said: “Reform has created new flexibilities, and we’re using them to open up fresh and exciting opportunities for providers. SIAS Flex and SIAS Core gives the sector real choice for the first time – choice without complexity, and innovation without compromising quality. We’re proud to be leading the way with a model that is both future‑ready and grounded in the trust and integrity SIAS is known for.”
The launch marks a significant moment for the sector, positioning SIAS as the first organisation to offer a dual‑assessment model that responds directly to provider needs while maintaining the highest standards of quality and consistency.
Providers can now explore both models in detail and register their interest in upcoming visits and support sessions.
To find out more, please contact parternships@siasuk.com.
UCS College Group becomes SIAS Approved Centre, strengthening the future of battery manufacturing and advanced STEM skills in Somerset December 15, 2025UCS College Group has officially been approved as a SIAS Approved Centre, marking a major milestone in the collaborative mission to accelerate skills development across Somerset’s rapidly emerging battery manufacturing and advanced engineering sectors. This approval follows the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SIAS and UCS College Group – a partnership established to shape, design and deliver innovative, industry-focused qualifications that meet the evolving demands of the region’s economy.
Together, SIAS and UCS College Group will co-develop and deliver modern, modular regulated qualifications specifically designed to meet the urgent skills needs of the UK’s fast-growing battery manufacturing and energy storage sectors.
Andy Berry CBE, CEO of UCS College Group, said: “This partnership with SIAS demonstrates our commitment to shaping a future-focused curriculum that meets the evolving needs of Somerset’s industries. Together, we’re building qualifications that will support the next generation of skilled workers and position Somerset at the forefront of advanced manufacturing.”
Steve Smith, Managing Director of SIAS, added: “Formalising our partnership with UCS College Group through the MoU, and now approving them as a SIAS Approved Centre, is a powerful step forward. SIAS exists to deliver bold, meaningful change and this collaboration is a prime example of that mission in action.
“We are developing industry-driven, nationally scalable qualifications that directly address workforce needs, supporting employers, learners, communities and long-term economic growth. UCS College Group’s ambition and values strongly align with our own, and we are excited to move forward together as we shape the future of STEM and sustainable technologies.”
By equipping learners with the competencies needed for next-generation battery production, automation, and advanced engineering environments, this partnership will help establish Somerset as a national centre of excellence for battery sector innovation.
For more information about SIAS qualifications and awarding services, please contact partnerships@siasuk.com.
#AlwaysMovingForward #Battery #Manufacturing #STEM #Skills
Walsall College Becomes SIAS Approved Centre to Deliver Full Suite of Innovation Qualifications November 14, 2025| Walsall College is now officially an approved SIAS Approved Centre, a key milestone in strengthening technical education and innovation across the region. The college will offer the full range of SIAS’s new, regulated, innovation qualifications, giving learners and employers access to industry-led, future-focused training.
These modern, modular qualifications include a strong emphasis on practical skills in high-demand areas such as AI and digital technologies, supporting both progress and sustainable growth to lead change and embed innovation across business and a 21st century workforce. Steve Smith, Managing Director of SIAS, said: “Walsall College is a valued partner that we have been proud to support for many years through provision of SIAS end-point and apprenticeship assessment solutions, so I’m now especially excited to welcome the College on board as a SIAS Approved Centre as well! As an anchor institution brilliantly servicing their communities, their commitment to innovation and technical excellence makes them an ideal partner to deliver our full suite of SIAS innovation qualifications. “By combining these forward-thinking qualifications with Walsall College’s strong employer partnerships and expertise in technical education, we’re opening up new opportunities for learners and helping to strengthen the talent pipeline for industry.” James Norris, Assistant Principal for Adults and Work-based Learning at Walsall College said: “SIAS recognise the college’s strengths in teaching and training across engineering, digital/AI, and our wider STEM curriculum. This partnership reflects our growth ambitions and commitment to delivering courses and training programmes that meet the evolving needs of the local labour market. “As an approved centre, we will remain at the forefront of innovation, delivering flexible, tailored learning solutions that empower learners and employers, while driving skills development to support the region’s economic prosperity.” This partnership demonstrates SIAS’s dedication to working with education and industry to design qualifications that drive progress – building a stronger, more agile workforce equipped to innovate, adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world. For more information about these qualifications and other awarding services, please contact partnerships@siasuk.com
|
We’re proud to announce that the new SIAS Level 2 Diploma in Bulk Storage Operations is now live and available for delivery with Reynolds Training Services confirmed as the first approved provider.
Developed by SIAS in close collaboration with the Tank Storage Association (TSA) and Reynolds Training Services (RTS), this regulated qualification is designed to power the next generation of talent in the bulk storage sector – equipping learners with the knowledge and skills to operate safely and efficiently in one of the UK’s most vital industries.
Steve Smith, Managing Director of SIAS said: “This qualification sets a new standard for skills in bulk storage operations. It combines essential technical knowledge with a strong focus on safety, sustainability, communication and teamwork, ensuring learners are fully prepared for the realities of a modern, fast-moving industry.
“This collaboration between SIAS, TSA and RTS exemplifies how partnership can drive real progress – combining deep sector expertise, innovative thinking and a shared vision for excellence in skills development. Together, we’re not just responding to industry needs – we’re helping to shape the future of bulk storage operations”.
Peter Davidson, Chief Executive of the Tank Storage Association, said: “The new Level 2 Diploma in Bulk Storage Operations supports the development of a skilled, confident, and adaptable workforce. The qualification is designed both for those seeking to begin a career in bulk storage operations and for existing professionals wishing to enhance their knowledge and skills to progress in their roles. It stands as a clear demonstration of our ongoing commitment to investing in people, talent, and the future of the bulk storage and energy infrastructure sector.”
John Reynolds, Managing Director of Reynolds Training, said: “This qualification represents a key milestone for the bulk storage sector. By combining SIAS’s awarding expertise, TSA’s industry leadership – alongside its members’industry knowledge – and our hands-on training experience, we’ve created a qualification that directly supports the delivery of safe, future-ready operations and enables the demonstration of competent performance. We’re proud to be shaping competence together, building the next generation of skilled operators and providing the foundation for a clear career pathway within the sector.”
The launch of the SIAS Level 2 Diploma in Bulk Storage Operations marks an exciting moment for the tank storage industry. It brings together the best of industry expertise and educational innovation to build the skilled, adaptable workforce needed to power the sector’s future.
Together, we are #AlwaysMovingForward.