The Small, Medium Sized network was established in January 2008 and consists of 20 SMEs, all of which are located in North East Wales. The network builds on previous networks and is an essential part of employer engagement at Deeside College. A fundamental aspect of the SME network is training, related to potential funding and development.

The key reasons why the SME Network was established was to help businesses:

• Increase productivity and related profitability.
• To up-skill their employees.
• To  raise the morale of employees through training and development.
• To ensure an increasing number of employees gain a recognised nationally accredited qualification.
• Access support and guidance.
• Gain advantage from proactive planning.
• To access funding.
• To share information in the interests of training and development.
• To provide an opportunity for involvement, by members, in the employer engagement agenda at the college, to the benefit of all parties.

As part of the Deeside College Employer Engagement agenda, the SME network and other relevant employer networks, are key to focusing training and helping businesses update the skills of their employees thereby contributing to the success of each business. There is also the opportunity for SME members to become involved in various innovative initiatives in partnership with the college.

Several members of the SME Network are also involved in the Employer Engagement Strategy Group at Deeside College.

If you are interested in finding out more information about the SME initiative, and the benefits to your business, please contact Robert Walford on 01244 834523.