An Update on Our Skills Training and Alternative routes to up-skilling

At Lomax Training, we are driven by a single mission: empowering individuals with the high-level skills needed to build rewarding careers. However, we have some important news to share regarding our current course funding and an alternative pathway that might be the perfect fit for your future.

The Funding Challenge: Where We Stand

Over the past several months, we have engaged in extensive discussions with the local authority to secure the funding necessary to keep our independent programmes accessible. We have presented clear evidence of the immense value these courses bring not just to our learners, but to the wider community and a UK economy that is crying out for skilled tradespeople.

Despite the high demand and the obvious need for these skills, securing the necessary financial backing remains a significant hurdle. We want to be transparent with you: while we remain fully committed to championing these opportunities, the current funding gap is a challenge we are still fighting to overcome.

Make Your Voice Heard

We believe that decision-makers need to hear the human side of this story. If you have been waiting to access a funded course, your personal experience is a powerful tool for change. If you would like to support the case for increased funding, we encourage you to contact the Department for Education – Skills at northeast-ca.gov.uk or email qualifications.approval@education.gov.uk.

A Proven Alternative: The Apprenticeship Route

While we navigate the funding landscape for individual courses, we are excited to highlight robust, fully-supported alternatives: the Gas Engineering Operative Level 3 Apprenticeship as well as the Gas Engineering Apprenticeship.

How it Works:

The 2-Year Journey

The apprenticeship is designed to balance classroom theory with real-world application.

The Split:

You will spend one day per week at Lomax Training Services Limited and four days per week on-site with your employer.

The Practical Period:

Over approximately two years, you will develop your craft under the guidance of both our expert instructors and your employer.

The Finish Line (EPA):

Once your training is complete, you enter "Gateway" to undergo an End Point Assessment. This includes a knowledge test, a portfolio review, a competency test, and a technical interview to ensure you are industry-ready.

Why Choose an Apprenticeship?

Starting at £8.00/hour for the first year, then rising to the National Minimum Wage for your age.

Funding

Fully funded for apprentices aged 16–21. For those 21+, the employer only contributes a 5% co-investment.

Incentives

A £1,000 employer incentive is available for apprentices aged 16–18, paid in two installments.

Qualifications

You will achieve a Level 3 Standard and, if needed, we will help you achieve your Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English.

Getting Started

To qualify for this route, you’ll need an apprenticeship agreement (employment contract) for at least 30 hours per week. We also conduct a thorough Health & Safety assessment of the workplace to ensure you are learning in a safe, professional environment.

The UK needs skilled gas engineers now more than ever. Whether through our continued fight for course funding or through our established apprenticeship standards, we are here to help you get qualified.