Michaeljohn Training School has been part of the Greater Manchester Learning Provider Network since its earliest days; this longstanding association reflects a persisting core value of MJTS: providers achieve more when they work together.
With four decades of experience, Michaeljohn has grown alongside the sector, adapting to change while retaining focus on quality, opportunity and progression. MJTS begun in Stockport, where Michaeljohn Hairdressing Apprenticeships were established and our first connection with GMLPN was formed. At that time, the network was still in its formative stages, with only a small number of providers involved. What attracted us then remains just as relevant now: the value of a collective voice. With the sector changing quickly, providers needed to share ideas, challenge assumptions and develop collaboratively; GMLPN provided this, and has remained one of GM’s most valuable assets, creating connection, perspective and support.
Over the years, Michaeljohn has established itself, training thousands of apprentices, with many progressing into successful careers, and a significant number founding their own businesses which continue to refer apprentices to us, demonstrating the strengths of quality provision, and cultivating lasting relationships. Around 20 years ago, Michaeljohn moved to Manchester city centre, driven by our ambition to better support the evolving needs of learners, employers and the wider skills network. The move reflected our guiding approach: to remain active within the skills agenda, keeping learners at the centre of everything.
GMLPN has played a significant part in our journey. Offering more than networking, GMLPN provides practical professional development, and a platform for collaboration and problem-solving. Courses on management, safeguarding and Ofsted preparation have been valuable, but the deeper benefit was the community GMLPN cultivated. Providers, who might otherwise have worked in isolation, have been able to compare experiences, building relationships and confidence through shared insight.
That sense of shared purpose has been especially important as the apprenticeship landscape has grown more complex. Providers have had to adapt to continual change: new delivery models, policies and government priorities. Each shift brings opportunity, but also administration, adjustment and uncertainty. GMLPN helps make sense of these evolutions; through fostering trust, it allows providers to speak honestly, debate issues and challenge decision makers. The network translates policy into advice accessible to providers.
GMLPN has been crucial in elevating provider voices in the policy discussions. In 2017, Michaeljohn was involved in lobbying the government on apprenticeship reforms, sharing our findings with the network allowed the wider provider perspective to inform the debate. This collaboration matters because it ensures day-to-day delivery is recentred, the realities of front-line training are prioritised in policy considerations.
Working with GMLPN, Michaeljohn helped develop the Careers Ambassador Network, bringing providers, schools, employers and young people together to strengthen pathways into work and learning. The network reminds us that this work is not limited to individual providers, it is building a stronger skills system and improving opportunities across Greater Manchester.
One memorable moment was the 2017 Business Leaders’ Meeting in Greater Manchester, which featured Sean Anstey, then a candidate for Mayor of Manchester. It served as another reminder that the network’s work sits at the intersection of skills, employment and economic growth. Provider voices matter locally, regionally and nationally; their significance should not be underestimated.
Today, the challenge is not simply to deliver training, but to continue improving the system. Providers must be valued and funded appropriately. Administrative burden needs to be addressed. Above all, the sector must remain focused on the true purpose of our work: helping young people move into employment, progression learning and avoid becoming NEET.
Networks like GMLPN are essential. They bring providers together, strengthen leadership and keep the conversation focused on solutions. For Michaeljohn, being part of that journey has been invaluable.
In the early days, Richard Nash played a vital role in the network’s development. Mark Currie, was, and remains instrumental as Chair. Charlotte Jones, who began as an apprentice, now leads on policy. Anne Gornell MBE, Andy Fawcett and Matt Leigh have also made significant impacts strengthening the GMLPN and supporting providers across Greater Manchester.
