AN ambitious training academy led by an Redditch business outsourcing firm has been honoured by a Midlands college.

Over the last few years around 425 people have found full-time jobs thanks to Prospect Hill-based Sigma Group.

In recognition of the company’s success, Sigma’s chief operating officer Mike Harfield has been made a fellow of Midlands college BMet.

Mr Harfield said: “The team has taken hundreds of people and given them rare, hands on opportunities in a professional workplace.

“I’m really proud to say that the programme has helped to change lives and brought 425 people into new jobs in both Redditch and Birmingham. The fellowship is a huge honour not just for me, but for the whole team involved. It’s a really big moment for us all.”

The company provides training via an academy set up by Sigma - in partnership with Birmingham City Council, the Department for Work and Pensions and Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMet).