Simply Learning has partnered with Northern Gas Networks (NGN) to deliver Network Construction Operations (NCO) training for newly recruited Gas Operatives across the North East.
The South Tyneside-based training provider will support new recruits from six NGN sites across the region, providing a dedicated training pathway that leads to our Network Construction Operations qualification.
A Dedicated Training Pathway
As part of the partnership, Simply Learning has developed a dedicated Gas Network Training Zone at its Jarrow site, with a training programme designed specifically for NGN’s new Gas Operatives. Trainees will spend weeks two and three of their induction at the centre, completing Network Construction Operations training as part of their pathway into their roles.
The programme will support recruits from six NGN sites across the region. Northern Gas Networks provides the underground gas infrastructure to more than 2.9 million homes and businesses across the North of England.
Claire Irving, Managing Director of Simply Learning said:
“We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Northern Gas Network to become their training provider in the North. We have developed a really strong training programme which includes elements of our existing training courses, with specific bespoke elements delivered exclusively for NGN.”
Bringing Training Closer to NGN Trainees
The new partnership also means trainees can complete this stage of their development closer to their workplaces, rather than travelling further afield for training.
Chris Adair, Apprenticeship and Training Development Manager, said:
“Before this agreement, we were sending our trainees to Yorkshire, at a significant time cost to our people. Having this partnership with Simply Learning means that we are improving the delivery levels for our trainees not just in quality but in quality of life. The team has delivered a programme that is unique to our organisation and will ensure that our people have exceptional training from the beginning.”
The first cohort began training in September 2026, with Simply Learning estimating that up to 16 new trainees per month could follow.
Supporting Skills Development in the Gas Industry
As the awarding organisation for the NCO qualification, we are supporting the programme through the accreditation of the qualification delivered as part of the training pathway.
Our Business Development Manager, Ruby Rutherford, attended the launch to see the new training facilities and programme first-hand.
Ruby said:
“It was a pleasure to join Simply Learning and Northern Gas Networks for the launch and to see first-hand the investment being made in developing future talent within the gas industry. Partnerships like this play an important role in strengthening the skills pipeline and creating opportunities for individuals entering the sector. We are proud that Energy & Environment Awards is able to support the programme through accreditation of the NCO qualification and look forward to seeing learners progress through the pathway.”
The partnership is expected to support more people beginning careers in the gas industry. Through the NCO qualification, we will continue to support recognised skills development, helping learners build the knowledge and practical competence they need as they progress into their roles.
Interested in delivering our qualifications or finding out how we can support your training programmes? Get in touch with our team to discuss how we can work with you.
