Direct Partners

Every career journey is unique and Every path has value!

Meet Penny, our Partnership Manager at Direct Partners Training Provider.

After leaving school, Penny attended university while working part-time in a hotel. Since then, she's built a successful career, completed two MA's, and now works in partnerships, helping create opportunities for learners and employers.

Her biggest takeaway?

"All paths have lead to this role. Transferable skills encourage creativity and success."

This Week, we're celebrating the many different routes that lead to rewarding careers. There isn't one 'right' way, just the path that's right for you.

Where has your career journey taken you?

To continue our celebration of the campaign, we thought we would introduce Merit, a Playworker at Daddy Daycare Edinburgh

After leaving secondary school in 2013, Merit continued his education, completing his bachelor's degree in 2019 before beginning his career in childcare.

His advice to young people?

"If you can stay in education, do it. It gives you a strong foundation, builds confidence, and opens doors. But everyone's journey is different - stay curious, work hard, and never stop learning."

This Week, we're celebrating the many different routes into meaningful careers. Whether you choose university, an apprenticeship, college, or another pathway, the most important thing is finding the route that's right for you.

Every journey is unique, and they all matter.

We're taking part in 2026, and to kick things off we are going to celebrate one of our very own, highlighting that there are different journeys into the workplace!

Meet Shanelle, one of our Childcare Assessors at Direct Partners Training Provider.

After leaving school, Shanelle began her career through a childcare apprenticeship. Today, she's supporting the next generation of learners while studying at Edinburgh University, proving that success doesn't always follow the same route.

Her advice?

"Always remember that leaving school and not going straight to university isn't the end of the world. Work hard and you'll get to where you want to be."

This Week, we're celebrating the different journeys that lead to rewarding careers. Whether you choose an apprenticeship, college, university, or head straight into work, every path has value.

Creating a positive learning environment for every apprentice 🎓

New data from Skills Development Scotland shows that 17% of Modern Apprenticeship starts in 2025/26 self-identified as disabled - the highest figure on record, with Specific Learning Difficulty and Mental Health Difficulty the most commonly reported categories.

At Direct Partners, we see this not as a statistic, but as a reminder of why flexible, person-centred training matters. From individual learning plans to assistive technology and regular check-ins, our approach is built around the apprentice in front of us -not a one-size-fits-all model.

Read more about how we're building inclusive apprenticeship programmes across Scotland 👇
https://www.businessscotlandmagazine.com/a-helping-hand-creating-a-positive-learning-environment-for-all-apprentices

We love hearing from learners who discover new skills and confidence through their training journey.

Today, we’re delighted to share some fantastic feedback from one of our Data Analytics graduates, Divya Oolakadan Jenson, who recently completed their course with us, from

Starting a completely new area of study can feel daunting, but they found the programme both engaging and informative from start to finish. They also highlighted the exceptional support they received from their tutor, Cat, whose approachable, encouraging, and supportive guidance helped them build confidence and develop a strong understanding of the course material.

At Direct Partners Training Provider, we believe that great learning experiences are built on expert support, clear guidance, and a commitment to helping every learner reach their potential. Feedback like this reflects the dedication of our team and the positive impact personalised support can have on learner success.

Congratulations on completing the course, and thank you for sharing your experience with us!

🚀 Launch into spring with new digital skills 🚀

This season is the perfect time to invest in your future with fully funded tech training from Direct Partners.

As a Scottish training provider delivering Qualifications Scotland accredited programmes, funded by Skills Development Scotland, we help employees gain recognised qualifications flexibly around their working week, all delivered remotely.

🎓 Choose from:
• Data Analytics (SCQF Level 8)
• Software Development (SCQF Level 8)
• Digital Marketing (SCQF Level 7)

Whether you’re looking to upskill, or take the next step in your career, our programmes are designed to help you move forward with confidence.

Your spring launch starts here! 🚀
👉 Enquire today: https://directpartners.co.uk/our-courses/modern-apprenticeships/

The team is expanding with fresh ambitious energy!

We’re excited to welcome some wonderful new talent to Direct Partners, strengthening our Childcare and Data teams.

👋 Say hello to:
Shanelle Welch – Childcare Assessor
Kaden Stannard – Trainee Data Assessor
Ziska McManus – Trainee Data Assessor

Great to have you all on board at Direct Partners Training Provider 🚀

🌸 Spring forward this season with a fresh pathway 🌸

If you’re ready to grow your career, our fully funded tech training can help you move forward with confidence.

We are Direct Partners, a Scottish training provider delivering Qualifications Scotland accredited programmes, fully funded by Skills Development Scotland. Learn and SVQ with us, remotely and flexibly around your working week.

🎓 Choose from:
• Data Analytics (SCQF Level 8)
• Software Development (SCQF Level 8)
• Digital Marketing (SCQF Level 7)

Gain in-demand skills and take a clear step in the right direction this spring.

👉 Enquire today
https://directpartners.co.uk/our-services/modern-apprenticeships

We are hiring! 🚀

Are you a proven Tech Professional with a passion for digital transformation and vocational learning? Direct Partners is looking for an experienced Data Analytics Trainer to join our team in our growing Edinburgh office!

With demand for our Data Analytics SVQ at an all-time high, we require an SQL and Python expert who can hit the ground running and help our learners succeed.

✅ Full-Time
✅ Hybrid Role
✅ Python and SQL Experience Required

If you're organised, efficient, and ready to be at the forefront of Scotland's digital skills agenda, apply today!

Send CV and Cover Letter: [email protected]

We’re always proud to celebrate the achievements of our learners as they progress through their learning journeys!

Today, we’re delighted to share some wonderful feedback from one of our childcare candidates, Alka Nusaiba from Spring Oscars who recently completed their qualification with us.

They described their experience as both positive and rewarding, highlighting the supportive and professional nature of the team throughout. From clear communication to a well-organised programme, they felt guided every step of the way and knew help was always available when needed.

Feedback like this reflects the commitment our team puts into creating a learning environment where candidates feel confident, supported, and empowered to succeed in their careers.

It’s a privilege to play a part in helping individuals grow their skills and take the next steps in the childcare sector, making a real difference for the children and families they support.