Blue Chip bags Microsoft learning Gold

VAR claims to be one of the software giant's top-five UK learning partners

VAR Blue Chip claims to be the first channel firm in Hampshire and Dorset to attain a Microsoft Gold Competency in learning provision.

The software giant recently moved to a competency-based partner programme that allows VARs to attain Gold and Silver status in a selection of technical areas. Prior to this, Microsoft partners were simply classified as either Certified or Gold.

Under the new programme, Blue Chip has been awarded the Gold Competency for learning, citing its continued investment in the vendor's training courses as a key factor in its success.

The VAR, which has offices in Leeds, Hampshire, Dorset and Bedfordshire, also claims the accolade makes them one of Microsoft's top-five learning providers in the UK.

Oliver Bruffell, training manager at Blue Chip, said: "We pride ourselves on delivering training programmes across a wide variety of subjects and will always invest in achieving the highest qualifications to maintain our position amongst the best in the country at delivering training solutions."

The firm claims that 200 delegates attend its training courses each month, with its Microsoft Curriculum and Certification offerings proving most popular.

As well as Microsoft training, the firm also runs courses on a number of other vendor technologies, including Cisco, VMware and Apple.

"Despite the cutbacks of recent years, businesses and organisations are acknowledging the importance of investing in the technical skillset of their workforce," Bruffell added.