Training provider transforms the future for thousands of young apprentices
A Dundee learning provider has paved the way for thousands of young people across Scotland to enter the world of work – and boosted profits for a local restaurant group.
MGT Training’s partnership with Altea4 Restaurants has trained more than 800 apprentices throughout Tayside and Angus, resulting in an 18% profit increase and enhanced productivity and innovation.
With a completion rate of 96% and a retention rate of 85%, Altea4’s apprentices have progressed to supervisory or specialist roles, while others are pursuing university business degrees or postgraduate teaching qualifications.
Director of MGT Training, Michelle Batt shared that one of the company’s employers, located in an area of deprivation, revealed that his employees would not have access to education if it weren’t for her team’s efforts.
Michelle said: “Modern Apprenticeships offer choices, pathways and opportunities for everyone.”
For two decades, MGT has delivered training for employers and apprentices in retail, hospitality, management and customer service.
Since 2005, the company has worked with 6,500 apprentices, with 287 Modern Apprentices currently employed across Scotland.
Michelle said: “We work closely with Altea4 Restaurants to support the business and its apprentices, including those with additional needs. Our collaborative efforts have not only enhanced the skills of the apprentices but also contributed to Altea4's overall success.
“We’re passionate about the transformational power of education and training for young people and adult returners, especially those from challenging backgrounds.
“Modern Apprenticeship jobs are a unique opportunity to combine hands-on learning with professional development. Apprenticeships bring immense value to businesses through fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that can drive growth and efficiency.”
Scottish Apprenticeships are made for business, developed with employers to ensure they are demand-led and responsive to workforce skills needs.
Over 12,000 employers support Scottish Apprenticeships, which are work-based learning opportunities or jobs with industry-recognised qualifications.
For Altea4, MGT offers flexible online and in-person training models for apprentices, allowing them to learn at their own pace. Those with enhanced learning needs receive additional support.
Ongoing reviews ensure training materials and methods are adjusted to meet apprentices’ evolving needs and goals. Learning aligns with industry standards and practices, with training swiftly integrated when new equipment is introduced.
When apprentices expressed interest in sales and marketing, MGT complemented Altea4 training with BBC Bitesize to meet unit completion standards.
If an apprentice needs more confidence in customer interactions, MGT partners them with a senior employee while cross-departmental rotations offer insights into every part of the business.
Altea4 Franchise Supervisor, Kevin Dornan said: “By combining personalised learning plans, continuous feedback, industry-relevant content and collaborative support, MGT ensures that each apprentice receives a well-rounded effective learning experience tailored to their unique needs and career aspirations.”
MGT is a finalist in the Leading in Learning Provision category at the 2025 Scottish Apprenticeship Awards.
Michelle, who leads a ten-strong team, commented: “My amazing team is the cornerstone of our success. Our apprentices have infused fresh energy into our organisation and our employers’ trust and collaboration have been instrumental, enabling us to create lasting impact.”
The winner of the Leading in Learning Provision category will be revealed at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards, which takes place on 27 February in the run-up to Scottish Apprenticeship Week (3 to 7 March).
Find out more about the award finalists and the event by visiting apprenticeships.scot/awards.