In the ever-evolving landscape of UK apprenticeships and vocational training, few collaborations have stood the test of time with as much impact as the partnership between CQM Training & Consultancy Ltd and Occupational Awards Limited (OAL). As 2026 will mark 10 years of collaboration, the two organisations reflect on a decade of innovation, quality, and shared commitment to developing industry-ready talent.
A Partnership Rooted in Excellence
Since joining forces in 2016, CQM and OAL have worked hand-in-hand to deliver high-quality apprenticeship programmes, particularly in Continuous Improvement sector. Their shared vision has been clear: to align training and assessment with real-world industry needs, ensuring apprentices not only gain qualifications but also contribute meaningfully to their workplaces.
OAL, a multi-sector Awarding and Assessment Organisation, has brought its deep expertise in qualification design and assessment to the table. Meanwhile, CQM has leveraged its 30+ years of experience in Lean Six Sigma, continuous improvement, and leadership development to deliver training that transforms both individuals and businesses.
Milestones and Impact
One of the most notable achievements of the partnership came when Premier Foods’ apprentices became the first in the UK to complete the Level 3 Advanced Food & Drink Process Operator Apprenticeship Standard, assessed by OAL and delivered by CQM. This landmark moment not only validated the quality of the programme but also set a precedent for future apprenticeships in the sector.
“Premier Foods’ apprentices were our very first cohort to go through the End Point Assessment process — and their success speaks volumes,” said Andy Cheshire, Managing Director at CQM Training & Consultancy Ltd. “It was a powerful demonstration of what’s possible when dedicated mentorship, high-quality training, and a rigorous assessment framework come together. The collaboration with OAL ensured that every element of the programme was aligned to real industry standards, setting a benchmark for future apprenticeships.”
Award-Winning Collaboration
The strength of the partnership has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, CQM was named SME Training Provider of the Year at the prestigious OAL Awards, recognising its outstanding contribution to apprenticeship delivery. This accolade underscores the mutual respect and synergy between the two organisations.
Lee Reddington, Partnership Director at OAL spoke about his relationship with CQM:
“During my time as a Skills Consultant at the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink, I had the privilege of working with CQM for over six years before joining OAL. From the outset, I knew Andy and the team to be a training provider of exceptional quality, deeply committed to delivering meaningful and transformative learning experiences. Working with CQM is always dynamic — they challenge you, but in the best possible way. Their unwavering focus on learner success drives everyone around them to raise the bar, ultimately enhancing the quality of service and outcomes for apprentices across the board.”
CQM had further success at the recent OAL Awards 2025. With CQM trained Arla Apprentice, Darren McMullen, picking up Process and Improvement Apprentice of the Year and Development Coach and Curriculum Lead David Hill being a finalist in two categories and winner of the Trainer/Assessor of the Year at the OAL Awards 2025, David reflected on his experience working with OAL and his hopes for the future:
“Being named a double finalist at the OAL Awards 2025 is an incredible honour — not just personally, but as a reflection of the journey we’ve been on with our learners,” said David Hill, Development Coach and Curriculum Lead at CQM. “Working with OAL has always been a collaborative and forward-thinking experience. Their commitment to quality and innovation mirrors our own, and together we’ve helped apprentices unlock their full potential. With Darren McMullan also representing CQM as an Apprentice finalist, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and excited about the future we’re shaping — one learner at a time.”
Driving Innovation and Sustainability
Beyond accolades, the partnership has delivered tangible business benefits. CQM’s training programmes have helped clients achieve over £100 million in annualised savings through applied learning projects. OAL’s flexible and industry-focused assessment models have ensured that apprenticeships remain relevant and impactful.
Together, they’ve introduced initiatives like the End Point Assessment Experience Day, helping employers and apprentices better understand the EPA process and reduce anxiety around assessment.
CQMs input and feedback have been critical in OAL’s development of supporting resources for apprenticeships in CI, such as the Level 5 Improvement Specialist standard. The genuine collaborative approach adopted by both CQM and OAL has seen the partnership develop from just a couple of food and drink apprenticeships to one that encompasses 10 different apprenticeships across a range of specialist areas including Food and Drink Technology, Improvement, Process, Quality and Leadership and Management.
Looking Ahead
As they celebrate a decade of collaboration, both CQM and OAL remain committed to evolving their offerings. With new apprenticeship standards, digital learning innovations, and a continued focus on operational excellence, the next 10 years promise even greater achievements.
“We’re incredibly proud of the legacy we’ve built together,” said Jan Richardson-Wilde, CEO of OAL. “This partnership is a shining example of how training providers and awarding organisations can collaborate to raise the bar for industry standards. As we enter a new era of apprenticeship reform, I’m confident that with forward-thinking partners like CQM, OAL is not only prepared for the challenges ahead — we’re excited to lead the way.”