About us

At City & Guilds, we are the global skills partner of choice for people and organisations ready to thrive in a world of continual change.

Future-proofing skills.  Driving growth.  Empowering people.

For almost 150 years, we’ve been at the forefront of global workforce skills development, partnering with people and organisations to foster life-changing learning and growth.

Our comprehensive solutions – from industry-leading qualifications, assessments and awards to strategic workforce planning, hands-on technical training and leadership development – equip learners and organisations to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

Rooted in history, looking to the future

Since our founding almost 150 years ago, our promise has always remained the same: helping people, organisations and economies to thrive. Our commitment to quality, industry expertise, and focus on real-world impact has never wavered.

Now, as part of PeopleCert, we have the opportunity to amplify our impact by harnessing technologies that will define the next generation of skills.

By combining City & Guilds' vocational expertise with PeopleCert's reach across 200 countries, we can deliver on our promise globally, adapting to workforce needs with the speed that today's world demands. 

Three pillars driving our future

Leading the future of work

Faster development of qualifications that respond to emerging skills needs. Innovation driving how skills are developed, assessed, and recognised.

Exceeding customer expectations 

Next-generation platforms and digital experiences that make learning more engaging and assessment more seamless for everyone involved.

Harnessing next-gen technologies

Investment in cutting-edge tools and systems that will define how skills development happens in the years ahead.

The values that guide everything we do

Inspire

We inspire people to raise and achieve their aspirations.

Improve

We help to improve the performance of people and organisations.

Achieve

We celebrate and make visible achievements where it matters most.

Trust

We hold ourselves accountable and act with integrity in everything we do.

Making a difference at scale

0m+

Learners globally progressing each year

40+

Countries where we operate

50%

Centre coverage across the UK

10%

Of City & Guilds trained apprentices are working in a job related to their qualification, within three months of completion

30%

Of City & Guilds learners progress into employment within six months, compared to 56% of learners who study with other providers

Our history

The City and Guilds of London Institute was founded in 1878. Until October 2025, City & Guilds awarding, assessment and training activities operated as part of the Institute’s charitable objectives to alleviate barriers to skills and employment.

Today, City & Guilds, continues this work as a commercial business, operating as an awarding organisation and training provider, increasing skills access for individuals, learners and organisations around the world. This mission is an important part of our legacy and our future as a global skills partner of choice.

The City & Guilds Foundation continues the charitable work of the City and Guilds of London Institute as a Royal Chartered body. It remains an important vehicle for high impact social investment, employer recognition awards, fellowship and advocacy programmes. All of which champion skills and their place in society as a lever for social change.

Both organisations will have a shared commitment to enhance opportunity through increased access to skills. They will be independent and distinct with a shared history and belief in the power of skills to change lives.

Our portfolio of leading brands

Specialist brands addressing the complex needs of the modern workforce.

City & Guilds

A trusted leader sought by learners, educators, and employers around the world. Defining and certifying technical and vocational education through assessments, awards, certifications and digital credentials.

ILM

ILM is a leading provider of future-ready, practical leadership and management qualifications, designed for a world shaped by AI, automation and hybrid work. Uplifting leaders at all levels, through every stage of their career.

The Oxford Group

Experts in leadership development, coaching and organisational change. The Oxford Group supports people to develop the skills, behaviours and mindsets of leaders and managers, for business excellence.

City & Guilds Training

Transforming training delivery and technical competency for industry capability, growth and sustainable career pathways. Including Gen2, Intertrain, and specialist electrical training centres.

Believe you can: Join us on a lifelong journey

Whether you’re seeking to enhance your skills, upskill your teams, or enrich your curriculum – we’re here to support your journey

For Education Providers For Learners For Employers Contact Us

About us

At City & Guilds, we are the global skills partner of choice for people and organisations ready to thrive in a world of continual change.

Future-proofing skills.  Driving growth.  Empowering people.

Rooted in history, looking to the future