SMART Energy Training has acquired award-winning provider Brookhouse.
The Yorkshire-based business, founded in 2016, is known for its expertise in Gas Managed Learning Programmes (MLPs) and trains around 120 people a year, including ex-military personnel.
The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, was completed on May 18, marking a key moment in Smart Energy Training’s expansion into the North of England.
The company, which is part of Realise Training Group, aims to enhance access to quality gas and energy training for learners and employers across the region.
Brookhouse will now operate as part of the Smart Energy Training division.
The Cleckheaton-based Brookhouse was the first independent centre in the country to deliver recognised MLPs.
With its impressive record of learners obtaining employment following work placements, Brookhouse has been a significant player in the gas engineering profession.
Brookhouse’s courses will continue as scheduled, ensuring continuity for learners.
James McConnell, former Managing Director, has stepped down to pursue other business opportunities.
He expressed confidence in the new ownership, stating that Realise and Smart Energy Training share Brookhouse’s commitment to people, quality, and high standards of training.
Mr McConnell said: “As soon as I met the leadership team, I knew Realise and Smart Energy Training were the right fit because they share our commitment to people, quality and high standards of training.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built at Brookhouse, the reputation we’ve developed and the hundreds of people we’ve helped launch careers in gas and heating.
“We’ve always prided ourselves on delivering training that goes above and beyond what is required.
“I feel I’ve taken the business as far as I can.
“This acquisition gives Brookhouse a fantastic opportunity to grow, while offering security for our team.
“I’m really looking forward to watching the business continue to develop in the years ahead.”
Realise Training Group CEO Gregg Scott welcomed Brookhouse into the group, emphasising the importance of Brookhouse’s record of helping people into employment.
Paul Drew, Interim Director of Smart Energy Training, highlighted the skills gap in the gas and renewable energy sectors, which Brookhouse’s expertise will help address.
Smart Energy Training, which became part of the Realise Training Group last year, has been expanding rapidly.
The group recently acquired Stourbridge-based Elements Training & Assessment and Energy Training Centre in Nottingham.
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Realise Training Group, which offers apprenticeships and adult skills programmes to more than 18,500 people each year, was acquired by exam board AQA in October last year.
The group now operates as an independent subsidiary of the not-for-profit education charity.
