Meet the Team
Meet the Focus Training Group Directors.
Our team is a dynamic blend of seasoned educators, industry experts, and passionate professionals dedicated to fostering excellence in training and development. Each member of our team brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to empowering businesses and individuals through comprehensive and customized training programs. From our experienced apprenticeship specialists to our innovative curriculum designers, every team member is focused on delivering the highest quality of service and support to help you achieve your goals. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, working closely with our clients to understand their unique needs and tailor solutions that drive real, impactful results. Whether you are looking to upskill your workforce, enhance your professional qualifications, or explore new learning opportunities, our team is here to guide and support you every step of the way. Get to know us better and discover how our expertise and dedication can make a difference in your training journey!
Jamie Rail
Managing Director
Jamie has worked in the education and training sector for nearly three decades, after starting his career in retail. He began as an assessor/trainer and earned the Qualified Teacher Learning & Skills (QTLS) status in 2010. Jamie has worked at every level of the business and was made redundant by the training company he worked for. In response, he set up Focus Training with seven other partners in 1999. In 2011, he played a key role in the merger with DCET, forming The Focus Training Group. Since then, Jamie has served as Managing Director and has driven the group’s growth to become one of the largest providers in the Southwest.
Bernard Collins
Curriculum and Quality Director
Bernard began his career as an apprentice electrician at a local electrical contracting company after completing his schooling. He was fortunate to work on a variety of projects, ranging from domestic rewiring to military installations in the UK and abroad, during his 25-year tenure as an approved electrician, QS, and manager. Bernard specialised in periodic inspection and testing during the later years of his career in the industry. Bernard moved to the education sector in 2004, joining DCET Training, now part of The Focus Training Group, where he taught apprentices and CPD courses. Bernard was promoted to curriculum manager in 2012 and now specialises in training programmes for highway electrical and higher professional diplomas. In 2017, Bernard was invited to become an executive director for The Focus Training Group.
Mark Down
Group Operational Development Director
After completing his education, Mark worked in the retail industry for 16 years. He started as a cadet manager at a regional cooperative society and eventually became a senior manager at one of Tesco’s flagship stores. Later, he transitioned into the field of education and began as an assessor for retail and warehousing. Over the years, he held various management positions in four different organizations, including a college of further education and two national training companies. In 2010, Mark joined Focus Training as a senior training consultant, where he focused on introducing electronic portfolios to the team. After eight years, he was offered the position of executive director for the group, which he has held since 2017.
Cheryl Hobbs
Group Finance & Administration Director
Cheryl started her career in the training and education industry in 2006 as an apprentice at the Focus Training Group after finishing her full-time education. Over the years, she has gained extensive experience and several qualifications in administration, accountancy, and management. She has worked in various departments and has been promoted multiple times, eventually rising to her current position as a director. Cheryl is passionate about the growth and development of the education industry and has devoted her entire career to it.