A Twickenham training centre has enjoyed a national first by becoming one of the most outstanding apprenticeship providers in the country.

Hawk Training, in London Road, was rated outstanding in all but one aspect of its Ofsted inspection report.

It provides work-based learning and vocational qualifications, receiving Ofsted’s highest possible rating for quality of teaching, learning and assessment as well as effectiveness of leadership and management.

However in the outcomes for learners category it was awarded good, the second highest level.

The achievement marks an improvement on its ranking as good in a 2008 inspection.

Commercial Director Crawford Knott said: “We are delighted to have become the first independent private provider to get a grade one for overall effectiveness under the new Ofsted Common Inspection Framework.

“Sincere thanks to all the team at Hawk for their hard work and also to our partner employers and learners for their continued participation and support.

“We are committed to providing the highest standard of vocational education, training and development.

“We intend to build on this result to continually improve the quality of our provision on behalf of employers and their apprentices, who are an integral part of our success.”

Hawk Training has delivered innovative training and development solutions to thousands of organisations and individuals for more than 20 years.

The inspection report highlighted Hawk’s dedication to building employer partnerships and focusing on leadership and management.

The report concluded: “Learners grow in confidence and demonstrate excellent employability skills during their time on the programme; they are passionate and excited about their burgeoning occupational competence.”

Hawk Training is also one of only 5 per cent of UK businesses with an Investors in People gold award.

It was commended at last month’s Richmond Business Awards in the best training and development category, which was won by Richmond Adult Community College, also based in Twickenham.