Hertfordshire's largest independent training provider, Ridgemond Training based in Stevenage, was founded in 1983 to deliver the government youth training programme.

Ridgemond has grown over the years and now offers a comprehensive range of training support to all sectors of the community to promote social inclusion. Ridgemond has 155 young people from schools, aged 14-16, following City & Guilds qualifications as part of the national curriculum, 36 students, aged 16-18, following an Entry to Employment programme and 141 young people, aged 16-24, on Apprenticeship programmes. In February 2006 Ridgemond opened a further centre in Luton carrying out similar activities as the Stevenage centre and has 16 Apprentices, 12 following an Entry to Employment programme and 32 school learners.

Ridgemond's move to Caxton Way came about as a result of Stevenage Borough Council securing £5m from the office of the Deputy Prime Minister to develop a number of initiatives including key worker housing which have been built on the site of Ridgemond's previous premises in Ridgemond Park.

All training is to national standards focussing on addressing skill sector shortages and preparing young people for the world of work. The centre's funding comes from the Learning and Skills Council, the European Social Fund and the Local Education Authority.

Ridgemond's newest initiative will be delivering (in partnership with local colleges) Train to Gain, an employer focussed, Government funded programme to accredit the workforce at level 2 and address Skills for Life needs, which contributes to National Training Targets and economic prosperity.