Birmingham based Skillsfirst Awards is celebrating being ranked within the top ten of national awarding organisations, less than 12 months since its launch. 

The ranking is based on the latest figures released by Ofqual, stating the number of Qualification Credit Framework (QCF) certificates provided by each awarding organisation in the UK during the last quarter (Oct-Dec 2010). Of the 40 awarding organisations listed, Skillsfirst Awards has proudly taken eighth position with an impressive 11,450 certificates delivered in this period. 

In addition to the national ranking, Skillsfirst Awards is also delighted to have delivered the second highest number of certificates for an individual qualification. To achieve this, the new awarding organisation has delivered 8,750 Level 2 Diploma in Retail Skills (QCF) certificates within just 3 months.

With an overall aim to assist employers from the retail and service sectors in embedding vocational skills and qualifications into their business, the awarding organisation has got off to a flying start.

"The results speak for themselves and are a testament to the hard work and effort shown by the Skillsfirst team," commented Myra Wall, managing director, Skillsfirst. "We set out to transform the way both learners and employers approach work-based learning and qualifications, so as a new business it is encouraging to see that our method is working."

Skillsfirst Awards is dedicated to the development and delivery of work based learning qualifications. Moving forwards the organisation is looking to build on its success by further developing relationships in the business finance, contact centre, customer services, retail and sales sectors as well as diversifying into other areas such as environmental awareness, hospitality & catering and management.