⭐ Meet James Cooke
Awarding Body Administrator and EPA Coordinator at Elevated Knowledge
James may not be on the workshop floor teaching engineering skills, but his role is absolutely essential to every learner’s journey. As a key member of the Quality team, James ensures that apprentices are registered correctly with their Awarding Body, progress smoothly through their e-portfolios, and receive their certificates on time — helping them take the next step in their engineering careers with confidence.
With 2 years of experience in business administration and educational quality processes, James brings strong skills in data analysis, attention to detail, and quality assurance. He holds a 2:1 Degree in Contemporary History & Politics, a Level 3 Business Administration qualification, and has more recently completed his PREVENT Awareness training.
One of James’s most interesting projects involved helping the Quality team design a robust certification and postal procedure, using spreadsheets and cross-checking methods to eliminate errors and improve efficiency. His careful work behind the scenes plays a major part in helping apprentices progress successfully.
James describes his working style as organised, logical, and priority driven. He structures his day by separating tasks into major and minor priorities, allowing him to work efficiently and maintain high standards — something that’s vital in quality assurance.
His favourite part of the job?
“Knowing that the certificates I register and claim help learners move forward in their engineering careers — I’m helping make a real difference.”
What he hopes learners take away from their experience with Elevated Knowledge is simple: that everything involving their e-portfolio and certification feels smooth, supportive, and stress-free, contributing to a positive apprenticeship journey from start to finish.
At Elevated Knowledge, James is motivated by the opportunities for growth and progression within the organisation. He values the friendly, supportive environment and describes the staff and tutors as “some of the best people he’s ever worked with”. James gets involved with most of the enrichment events at Elevated knowledge and as he is learning to drive, he thought it would be a good idea to join the apprentices on the Safe Drive Stay Alive event back in 2025. James is a very sociable person and is always first in line for a staff social gathering.
Why does James think engineering matters?
“With technology advancing so rapidly, helping today’s learners — and the next generation — harness that technology is vital.”
His advice for young people is thoughtful and reassuring:
“Focus on what brings you happiness and stability, both in your career and personal life. Everything else will slot into place at the right time.”
Outside of work, James is a passionate Manchester City fan, a keen gamer, and someone who enjoys staying active — often heading to the gym after work. He’s also a keen traveller who loves exploring new places, both in the UK and abroad, and enjoys hiking with friends whenever the weather cooperates.
A fun fact? His friends call him “The Captain” — “presumably because of my name, he modestly says… though the future leadership vibes probably help!
He’s particularly proud of completing his degree and graduating — a milestone that reflects his dedication and work ethic.
And a few quick-fire favourites:
• Tea or Coffee? Both!
• Favourite tool? The Jackhammer (a bold choice!).
• First job? McDonald’s.
• Favourite engineering invention? The Internet.
• Go-to breaktime snack? A McVities Gold Biscuit.
