Monkstraining.com Reviews

Based on looking at the website, MonksTraining.com appears to be a legitimate and well-established plant training facility based in Lancashire, UK.

They specialize in construction plant training, offering a wide range of courses accredited by recognized bodies like CPCS and NPORS.

Their services cater to both individuals and companies, aiming to provide quality training for safe and efficient construction operations.

Monks Training Services seems to position itself as a comprehensive solution for construction plant training and site safety.

The website highlights their extensive outdoor space, purpose-built training facilities, and a strong emphasis on customer relationships.

They offer practical, hands-on training for various machinery, alongside essential health and safety courses.

For anyone in the construction industry looking to acquire or upgrade their plant operation certifications, MonksTraining.com presents itself as a serious contender, focusing on compliance, safety, and client satisfaction.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

MonksTraining.com Review & First Look

Upon an initial review of MonksTraining.com, it’s clear the website is designed to be a straightforward resource for construction plant training and safety courses. The first impression is one of professionalism and directness, much like how Tim Ferriss would approach a new skill – no fluff, just the essentials. The site immediately highlights its core services: construction plant training and site safety courses, emphasizing its accreditations with CPCS and NPORS. This immediately signals its credibility within the industry.

The homepage features clear calls to action, inviting users to “SEE DETAILS” for plant training and site safety, or to “CONTACT US” for more information.

This user-centric design aims to quickly guide potential clients to the relevant information.

The overall aesthetic is clean, with an emphasis on practical information rather than flashy graphics.

It’s a functional website built for a specific purpose: to inform and convert inquiries into training bookings.

The site effectively conveys that Monks Training Services is a dedicated provider focused on meeting the rigorous demands of the construction sector.

A Deeper Dive into Website Navigation and Content

The website’s navigation is intuitive, with clear menus for “Home,” “Plant Training,” “Site Safety Plus,” “Gallery,” and “Contact Us.” Each section is easily accessible, allowing users to quickly find the information they need. For instance, the “Plant Training” section details the specific machinery courses offered, such as 360 Excavator, Telehandlers, Forward Tipping Dumpers, and Ride on Rollers, explicitly stating the CPCS and NPORS certifications available. This level of detail is crucial for individuals and companies looking for specific training.

The “Site Safety Plus” section covers essential health and safety courses, including CITB Accredited SSP’s and First Aid. This holistic approach to training—combining practical plant operation with critical safety knowledge—underscores their commitment to producing well-rounded and compliant professionals. The website also features a “Gallery” which visually reinforces their training environment and equipment, offering a tangible sense of their facilities. This visual evidence can be powerful for potential clients assessing the quality of the training environment.

The Purpose-Built Training Facilities

A significant highlight of MonksTraining.com is the emphasis on their purpose-built training facilities. Located at junction 28 off the M6 at Leyland, with easy access from the M61 and M65, the strategic location is clearly marketed as a key advantage. The site mentions a cafe on-site with discounts for clients, demonstrating an attention to client comfort and convenience. This detail, while seemingly minor, can contribute significantly to the overall training experience.

The website articulates their commitment to “going the extra mile,” not just in the quality of training but also in client care and relationship building. They express a desire for “long lasting relationships,” indicating a service-oriented approach beyond just transactional training. This relational aspect suggests a focus on client retention and word-of-mouth referrals, which are often indicators of a reputable business. Their stated aim to “provide top quality training courses for construction to ensure that your workforce delivers safe and efficient results every time but without breaking the bank” reflects a balanced value proposition. Smmpanelstore.co Reviews

MonksTraining.com Pros & Cons

Based on the information presented on MonksTraining.com, here’s a balanced look at its strengths and potential areas for improvement.

Pros of MonksTraining.com

• Accredited Training: The website clearly states their accreditation with CPCS Construction Plant Competence Scheme and NPORS National Plant Operators Scheme. These are industry-recognized certifications, ensuring the training meets official standards and is valuable for employment in the construction sector. This is a crucial factor for anyone seeking formal qualifications.
• Comprehensive Course Offering: Monks Training Services provides a broad spectrum of plant training courses, from 360 Excavator and Telehandlers to Forward Tipping Dumpers and Ride on Rollers. They also offer essential Site Safety Plus courses, including CITB Accredited SSP’s and First Aid, making them a one-stop-shop for many construction training needs. The diversity caters to various roles and requirements within the industry.
• Purpose-Built Facilities & Location: Their 2.5-acre outdoor space and purpose-built training center in Leyland, strategically located near the M6, M61, and M65, offer practical advantages. The on-site cafe and focus on client comfort enhance the learning environment. A dedicated facility means specialized equipment and a controlled training environment, which is highly beneficial for hands-on learning.
• Strong Client Testimonials: The website features several positive testimonials from established companies like John Reilly CE Ltd and EMR Liverpool. These testimonials highlight attributes such as prompt and professional service, flexibility, and a willingness to “go the extra mile,” which lends significant credibility to their claims of quality and customer service. Real-world feedback is always a powerful endorsement.
• Experienced Team: While not explicitly detailed, the mention of “Accredited Trainers & Testers” suggests an experienced team. The site states Monks Training Services was founded in 2012, indicating over a decade of operation in the field, which speaks to their stability and expertise in the sector.

Cons of MonksTraining.com

• Limited Online Transparency on Pricing: While the website extensively details their services, there is no direct information on course pricing. Prospective clients must contact them directly for quotes. While this allows for tailored pricing based on specific needs e.g., individual vs. company, novice vs. experienced, it can be a barrier for those who prefer quick, upfront cost estimates for budgeting or comparison purposes.
• Basic Website Design: The website’s design is functional but somewhat basic. It lacks a modern, dynamic interface that some users might expect from a contemporary training provider. While it gets the job done, a more visually engaging or interactive design could enhance the user experience and convey a sense of innovation.
• Lack of Detailed Trainer Biographies: While they mention “Accredited Trainers & Testers,” the website doesn’t provide detailed biographies or experience levels of their instructors. Highlighting the expertise and background of their trainers could further build trust and showcase the depth of knowledge available to students.
• No FAQ Section on Website: The website lacks a dedicated frequently asked questions FAQ section. This could be a valuable addition to address common queries about course requirements, cancellation policies, re-testing procedures, or specific details about the certifications, reducing the need for direct inquiries for basic information.

MonksTraining.com Alternatives

When considering plant training and health and safety courses, there are several reputable alternatives to MonksTraining.com across the UK. These providers often offer similar accreditations CPCS, NPORS, CITB and a range of courses. It’s always a good strategy to compare offerings, locations, and pricing to find the best fit for your specific needs, much like you’d research different investment platforms to find the optimal one.

Alternative Plant Training Providers

1. AIS Training Advanced Industrial Solutions:

   • Focus: A broad range of industrial training, including construction, offshore, maritime, and renewable energy. They offer CPCS and NPORS plant training.
   • Pros: Large, state-of-the-art facilities, diverse course portfolio, often provide accommodation options.
   • Consideration: Primarily based in the North East, so geographical convenience might vary.

2. CITB National Construction College NCC:

   • Focus: Directly operated by the Construction Industry Training Board CITB, offering a vast array of construction-related courses, including CPCS plant operator training.
   • Pros: Highly authoritative and recognized, extensive facilities across multiple locations e.g., Bircham Newton, Inchinnan, access to cutting-edge equipment.
   • Consideration: Can be more expensive than private providers, and booking might require advance planning due to high demand.

3. D.L.G. Training Ltd:

   • Focus: CPCS and NPORS plant training across various categories, often with a focus on practical, hands-on experience. They also offer NVQ assessments.
   • Pros: Known for personalized training, flexible course dates, and good instructor-to-student ratios.
   • Consideration: Locations might be more dispersed, requiring travel depending on your region.

4. UK Plant Operators:

   • Focus: Provides CPCS training and testing, aiming to make the process straightforward for operators. They often have partnerships with various training centers.
   • Pros: Good for individuals looking for a specific CPCS test or training, potentially wider geographic reach through partnerships.
   • Consideration: May not offer the same comprehensive range of safety courses as dedicated safety training centers.

5. Local Colleges and Training Centres:

   • Focus: Many local colleges and private training centers across the UK offer construction plant training accredited by CPCS or NPORS, often serving their regional community.
   • Pros: Convenience due to local presence, potentially more competitive pricing, and often provide apprenticeship pathways.
   • Consideration: Quality and range of courses can vary significantly between providers, so thorough research is essential. It’s worth checking reviews and their accreditation status meticulously.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing

When evaluating alternatives, keep these points in mind:

• Accreditation: Always confirm that the provider is accredited by CPCS, NPORS, CITB, or other relevant industry bodies for the specific course you need. This ensures your qualification is recognized.
• Course Content and Duration: Compare the depth and breadth of the training. Does it cover everything you need? What’s the practical to theoretical ratio?
• Instructor Experience: While hard to ascertain online, good providers will highlight the qualifications and experience of their trainers.
• Facilities and Equipment: Are the training grounds and machinery modern and well-maintained? This directly impacts the quality of practical training.
• Location and Accessibility: How convenient is the training center to your home or work? Consider travel time and accommodation if necessary.
• Pricing and Funding Options: Get clear quotes and inquire about any available funding or grant schemes e.g., through CITB.
• Reviews and Reputation: Look for independent reviews and testimonials to gauge the provider’s reputation and student satisfaction.

By systematically comparing these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals and budget.

How to Cancel MonksTraining.com Subscription if applicable

Based on the information available on the MonksTraining.com website, it appears that they primarily offer one-off training courses rather than recurring subscriptions. Their business model revolves around providing specific certifications CPCS, NPORS and safety training for individuals and companies, which are typically purchased per course. This is a common structure for vocational training providers, akin to buying a ticket for a seminar rather than a monthly membership to a gym. Liqc.com Reviews

Therefore, the concept of “canceling a MonksTraining.com subscription” likely does not apply in the traditional sense of a recurring payment for access to services. If you have booked a course and need to cancel or reschedule, your actions would fall under their booking and cancellation policy, rather than a subscription cancellation process.

Understanding Booking Cancellations and Rescheduling

While there isn’t a “subscription” to cancel, if you’ve booked and paid for a course with Monks Training Services and need to withdraw or change your dates, you would need to follow their specific terms and conditions regarding cancellations or rescheduling.

Here’s how you would generally approach this, based on common practices for training providers:

1. Review Booking Confirmation: The first step is to check your booking confirmation email or any contractual agreement you received when you signed up for the course. This document typically outlines their cancellation and refund policy, including any deadlines or fees associated with changes.
2. Direct Contact is Key: Since there’s no online portal for managing subscriptions, your primary method for any changes will be to contact Monks Training Services directly.
   • Phone: Call them at the number provided on their website e.g., 01772 623017. This is often the quickest way to discuss your situation and get immediate guidance.
   • Email/Contact Form: Use the contact form or email address found on their “Contact Us” page. Clearly state your booking details name, course, date of booking and your request cancellation, rescheduling.
3. Be Prepared for Policies:
   • Notice Periods: Training providers often have strict notice periods for cancellations e.g., 7 days, 14 days, or 30 days before the course start date. Canceling within a short notice period might incur a fee or result in no refund.
   • Refunds vs. Rescheduling: Depending on their policy and the notice given, you might be offered a full or partial refund, or the option to reschedule your course for a later date without additional charge.
   • Administrative Fees: Some providers may charge a small administrative fee for cancellations or changes, even if done well in advance.
   • No-Shows: If you simply don’t show up for a course without prior notification, you will almost certainly forfeit the full payment.

Why Direct Communication is Essential

Given the hands-on and specific nature of plant training, direct communication ensures that your request is handled personally and efficiently.

It also allows for any nuances in your situation to be discussed.

Always get confirmation of your cancellation or rescheduled booking in writing for your records.

In essence, rather than looking for a “cancel subscription” button, think of it as managing a course booking – a more direct and personalized process.

How to Cancel MonksTraining.com Free Trial if applicable

Based on the publicly available information on MonksTraining.com, there is no indication of a “free trial” being offered for their plant training or safety courses. Their business model, as seen from their website content, is focused on providing accredited, hands-on training courses that require booking and payment. These are typically intensive, practical training sessions designed to lead to certification, which doesn’t lend itself to a free trial model like software or subscription services.

Therefore, if you are looking to “cancel a MonksTraining.com free trial,” it’s highly probable that such a service does not exist for their offerings.

Understanding the Nature of Vocational Training

Vocational training, especially in specialized fields like construction plant operation, inherently involves: Prowriter.co Reviews

• Significant Investment: It requires instructors, specialized machinery, dedicated training grounds, and accreditation fees. Providing “free trials” of operating heavy machinery would be impractical and financially unsustainable for such a business.
• Hands-on Learning: The core of their offering is practical, in-person instruction. A “trial” would essentially be a full course, which is their revenue-generating product.
• Certification Focus: Their courses are designed to lead to industry-recognized certifications CPCS, NPORS, which are earned through comprehensive training and assessment, not trial access.

What to Do if You Were Expecting a Free Trial

If you came across information suggesting a free trial for MonksTraining.com, it might be due to:

1. Misinformation: You may have encountered outdated or incorrect information from a third-party source.
2. Misunderstanding of Terms: The term “trial” might have been used in a different context, perhaps referring to an initial consultation or information session rather than hands-on training.
3. Confusion with Other Services: It’s possible you are confusing MonksTraining.com with another type of service e.g., online learning platforms, software trials that commonly offer free trials.

The Standard Engagement Process

For MonksTraining.com, the standard engagement process involves:

• Inquiry: Contacting them via phone or email to inquire about specific courses, dates, and pricing.
• Booking: Once details are confirmed, booking and paying for the desired course.
• Attendance: Attending the scheduled training sessions.

If you have any specific concerns or believe you were offered something akin to a “free trial,” the most direct and effective approach would be to contact Monks Training Services directly using the phone number or contact form on their website. They can clarify their offerings and guide you through their booking process. Rest assured, you likely won’t find yourself needing to cancel a non-existent free trial with them.

MonksTraining.com Pricing

One aspect of MonksTraining.com that mirrors many specialized vocational training providers is the absence of explicit pricing details directly on their website. Much like high-value B2B services or custom solutions, the cost for their construction plant training and site safety courses is not openly published. This approach is common in industries where pricing can fluctuate based on several variables, and where a personalized consultation is often preferred before quoting a price.

Why No Public Pricing?

There are several legitimate reasons why Monks Training Services might opt not to display their prices online:

1. Course Customization: Training needs can vary significantly. Are you an individual or a company booking multiple participants? Do you need a novice course, or just a refresh? Is it a standard course, or do you require on-site training at your location? Each scenario might command a different price.
2. Accreditation Fees: The cost often includes fees for CPCS, NPORS, or CITB registrations and tests, which can change.
3. Resource Allocation: Pricing can depend on the specific plant machinery used, the duration of the training, and the instructor’s availability.
4. Dynamic Pricing: Costs of materials, equipment maintenance, and operational overheads can fluctuate, making fixed online prices challenging to maintain accurately over time.

How to Get Pricing Information

To get accurate pricing for MonksTraining.com courses, you will need to contact them directly. The website clearly prompts users to do so, providing their phone number and a contact form.

Here’s the recommended approach:

1. Identify Your Needs: Before contacting them, be clear about:
   • The specific courses you are interested in: e.g., 360 Excavator, Telehandler, First Aid, CSCS.
   • Your experience level: Are you a novice, or do you need a refresher/test only?
   • Number of participants: Are you booking for yourself or for a team?
   • Preferred dates/flexibility: Do you have specific deadlines or are you flexible?
2. Use Their Contact Channels:
   • Phone: Call 01772 623017. This is often the quickest way to get a direct quote and clarify any details.
   • Contact Form: Fill out the “CONTACT US” form on their website. Be as detailed as possible about your inquiry to receive an accurate response.
3. Inquire About Inclusions: When you get a quote, ask what is included:
   • Is the cost of the CPCS/NPORS test included?
   • Are the certification cards included?
   • Are there any hidden fees?
   • Does it include access to the on-site cafe as mentioned on their site?

General Industry Pricing Trends

While specific figures aren’t available for MonksTraining.com, industry averages for similar accredited plant training courses can provide a ballpark idea:

• Novice CPCS/NPORS Plant Operator Course: These can range from £800 to £2,500+ per person, depending on the machine, duration typically 3-10 days, and whether it includes the NVQ assessment for a blue card.
• Experienced Worker CPCS/NPORS Test Only: For those who already have experience and just need to pass the test, costs might be in the range of £300-£600.
• Site Safety Plus CITB Courses: These are generally shorter and can range from £150 to £500+, depending on the specific course e.g., SSSTS, SMSTS, First Aid.

These figures are highly generalized and should not be taken as direct quotes for MonksTraining.com. They simply serve as a rough guide to the investment typically required for professional construction plant training in the UK. Always get a direct quote from Monks Training Services for precise and current pricing.

MonksTraining.com vs. Competitors

When evaluating MonksTraining.com against its competitors, the key differentiator often lies in a combination of location, specialized focus, customer service approach, and facility quality. While many training providers offer similar CPCS and NPORS accreditations, their operational nuances can make a significant difference for individuals and companies. Ativanforsalewithoutprescription.blogspot.com Reviews

MonksTraining.com’s Core Strengths

MonksTraining.com presents itself with several clear advantages:

• Strategic Location: Their Leyland base, positioned close to major motorways M6, M61, M65, makes them highly accessible for clients across the North West of England. This geographical convenience is a strong selling point, particularly for regional businesses and individuals.
• Purpose-Built, Expansive Facility: The mention of “2.5 acres of outdoor space” and a “purpose-built training centre” with an on-site cafe suggests a dedicated and well-equipped environment. Many smaller providers might utilize rented spaces or less comprehensive facilities. This dedicated infrastructure allows for realistic, hands-on training for a variety of plant machinery.
• Client-Centric Philosophy: Their emphasis on “personable approach & modern training” and “building long lasting relationships” stands out. Testimonials underline their flexibility and willingness to “go the extra mile,” suggesting a higher level of customer care compared to more rigid, larger institutions. For clients seeking a more tailored and supportive experience, this could be a deciding factor.
• Comprehensive Offerings: Beyond plant training, they provide essential Site Safety Plus courses, offering a convenient one-stop solution for both operational and safety training needs.

How MonksTraining.com Compares to Various Competitor Types

Let’s look at how MonksTraining.com stacks up against different types of competitors:

1. Large National Training Providers e.g., CITB National Construction College, AIS Training:

   • Monks’ Advantage: Often more agile, potentially offering more flexible scheduling and a more personalized experience than large, bureaucratic national centers. Their regional focus allows for specialized knowledge of local industry needs. Prices might also be more competitive due to lower overheads than massive institutions.
   • Competitor Advantage: Larger providers may have a broader array of highly specialized equipment, more instructors, and a national network of facilities. They might also be preferred by very large corporations due to their scale.

2. Smaller, Independent Local Trainers:

   • Monks’ Advantage: Monks Training Services appears to operate on a larger scale than a single-instructor setup, offering dedicated facilities and a wider range of machinery. Their accreditations and established history since 2012 might instill more confidence than very new or extremely small operations. The “2.5 acres” is a significant asset.
   • Competitor Advantage: Some very small trainers might offer extremely personalized 1-on-1 coaching or be able to travel to client sites with more ease for specific bespoke training. However, they might lack the breadth of machinery or formal facilities.

3. Specialized Training Providers e.g., focusing only on forklifts or specific safety courses:

   • Monks’ Advantage: Monks offers a broader suite of plant categories 30+ mentioned and safety courses, making them a more convenient choice for companies needing diverse training for their workforce.
   • Competitor Advantage: A highly specialized provider might have ultra-niche expertise in one specific machine or type of safety training.

Data & Performance Indicators from website

While not direct comparative data, MonksTraining.com highlights its own internal metrics, which speak to its operational capacity and experience:

• 16 Accredited Trainers & Testers: This indicates a substantial team capable of handling multiple courses simultaneously.
• Founded 2012: Over a decade of operation suggests stability and experience in the market.
• 30+ Categories of Plant Training & Testing: This diverse offering positions them as a versatile provider.
• 36,000 Teabags per year: A quirky but telling stat, reflecting high client and staff volume and an attention to hospitality.

In summary, MonksTraining.com positions itself as a strong regional player, balancing comprehensive offerings with a personalized, client-focused approach.

Its dedicated facilities and strategic location are key assets, making it a compelling choice for construction plant training in the North West, especially for those who value a supportive and well-equipped learning environment over purely minimal pricing or a national brand name.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does MonksTraining.com offer?

MonksTraining.com offers a range of construction plant training courses accredited by CPCS and NPORS, as well as various Site Safety Plus courses accredited by CITB, including First Aid.

Where is Monks Training Services located?

Monks Training Services is located at Avant Gardens, Wigan Road, Leyland, Lancashire, PR25 5XW, strategically situated near junction 28 off the M6, with easy access from the M61 and M65. Nordicdigitallab.dk Reviews

What accreditations does MonksTraining.com hold?

MonksTraining.com is a CPCS Construction Plant Competence Scheme and NPORS National Plant Operators Scheme Accredited Training Provider for plant training, and offers CITB Accredited Site Safety Plus courses.

What types of plant machinery training are available?

They offer training for over 30 categories of plant machinery, including 360 Excavator, Telehandlers, Forward Tipping Dumpers, Ride on Rollers, ADTs, and Forklifts.

Does MonksTraining.com provide training for novices?

Yes, MonksTraining.com explicitly states they offer “Novice training” for individuals new to operating construction plant machinery.

Can companies book training for their workforce?

Yes, MonksTraining.com provides quality training for both individuals and companies, emphasizing their ability to cater to various workforce needs.

Are there any health and safety courses offered?

Yes, they offer Health & Safety courses under their “Site Safety Plus” umbrella, including CITB Accredited SSP’s and First Aid.

Is there an on-site cafe at the training facility?

Yes, MonksTraining.com mentions a cafe on-site that offers discounts for all MTS clients, enhancing the convenience for trainees.

How long has Monks Training Services been operating?

Monks Training Services was founded in 2012, indicating over a decade of experience in providing construction training.

How many accredited trainers and testers do they have?

The website states they have 16 Accredited Trainers & Testers on their team.

How do I get pricing information for courses?

Pricing information is not published on the website.

You need to contact Monks Training Services directly via phone 01772 623017 or their contact form to get a quote. Tether-bon.com Reviews

Does MonksTraining.com offer online booking?

Based on the website, there is no apparent online booking system.

Bookings seem to be handled by direct contact via phone or contact form.

What is the size of their outdoor training space?

Monks Training Services boasts over 2.5 acres of outdoor space dedicated to plant training.

Do they offer NVQ assessments for plant operators?

Yes, they offer Plant NVQ and Level 2 Plant NVQ assessments, which are essential for obtaining the CPCS Blue Card.

What is the difference between a Red Card and a Blue Card?

The Red Card Trained Operator Card is typically a provisional card for new operators.

The Blue Card Competent Operator Card is achieved after completing an NVQ and demonstrates a higher level of competence and experience. MonksTraining.com helps with both pathways.

Do they assist with CSCS touch screen tests?

Yes, the website mentions “Touch screen tests, CSCS,” indicating they can assist with or provide facilities for these essential tests.

What kind of customer service can I expect from MonksTraining.com?

Testimonials on their website highlight their personable approach, professionalism, flexibility, and a willingness to “go the extra mile” for clients.

Can I get a tailored training solution for my company?

Yes, testimonials suggest they provide bespoke training solutions, as seen in the feedback from EMR Liverpool, who notes their inquiries are dealt with “in a bespoke way.”

What are their operating hours for phone inquiries?

While specific operating hours aren’t detailed, the website lists “Monks Training” and a phone number, suggesting regular business hours for inquiries. Buffvegans.com Reviews

It’s best to call during standard UK business hours.

Does MonksTraining.com provide first aid training?

Yes, First Aid is listed as one of the Site Safety Plus courses they offer.