A FLAGSHIP training provider has enhanced its reputation as a leading centre of excellence after receiving an industry accreditation award.

Darlington College has become a Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) ‘Centre of Merit’ in recognition of its exceptional quality of provision of training and support to its students.

Alongside outstanding education delivery the award also recognises individual provider’s retention rates and the high performing achievements of students across all CIPS qualification levels.

Programme leader for CIPS provision Janine Crowther said: “It’s great that Darlington College has been recognised as a CIPS Centre of Merit.

“It really is a huge achievement to gain this accreditation and the challenge is now on for us to continue to maintain our high standards whilst also looking to the future to become a Centre of Excellence.”

Darlington College provides a range of part time CIPS study courses which can lead to a career in procurement.

“There are some extremely well paid careers in purchasing – one of our former students secured a job with Betty’s Tea Rooms working with chocolate suppliers from all over the world.” said Ms Crowther.

“All areas of industry from hotel chains to building developments have a source process, from which they obtain goods and services, and this is critical to the success of any operation - especially in difficult economic times where it can make the difference between success and failure to a business.

“It’s not a traditional career that many people leave school thinking about but hopefully we can now encourage our students to become the next generation of procurement professionals.”