Gareth has had a varied career working in sales, recruitment, finance and banking, but has spent the last 10 years working within the Further Education sector and specifically in the apprenticeship arena, most recently launching an Employer Provider model for Babcock International at Devonport in Plymouth, where there is a long established and very large apprenticeship programme spanning multiple disciplines. 

His background and experience in both the public and private sectors give a commercial focus, but with a deep understanding of the world of education, particularly within the South West. 

A particular strength is knowledge and understanding of the apprenticeship reforms and the role of employers within education, both in terms of engagement, ongoing relations, partnership working, audit and compliance and how they link with FE Colleges and Independent Training Providers. To this end, he has successfully chaired a new apprenticeship trailblazer group and is involved in a supporting role in other similar groups. 

Gareth lives in Cornwall with his family and is passionate about education, the great outdoors and sporting activities.