National College for Logistics

The National College for Logistics (NC4L), part of The Bedford College Group, is the UK’s newest and most forward-thinking centre of excellence for logistics training and workforce development. Located at a state-of-the-art campus at Leighton Buzzard, NC4L has been created to meet the urgent demand for the next generation of skilled professionals in the rapidly evolving logistics sector.

Shaping logistics future
Backed by industry
Green logistics leadership
Apprenticeship pathways

Introducing a New Era for Logistics Education

Shaping the Future of Logistics. Powered by Innovation

With the involvement and support of industry giants like GXO and DHL, we are building the pipeline of a next generation workforce through effective engagement and attraction campaigns to understand the incredible opportunities in an innovative and technology led sector through cutting-edge education, immersive training, and tailored development pathways.

Driving Green, Digital and Data Innovation

At the heart of NC4L is a commitment to the future of logistics—a sector defined by sustainability, smart technologies, and data-driven operations.

Our training and qualifications are shaped around:

Green logistics and low-emissions transport
Digital systems and automation
Data analytics and smart supply chain management

Comprehensive Training for All Career Stages

Whether you’re entering the sector, stepping into management, or advancing your professional journey, NC4L offers flexible, career-relevant training.

Our unique offering includes:

Funded and commercial short courses
Employer-tailored programmes for early careers and first-line management
Full suite of Apprenticeships at all levels
Lifelong learning opportunities for professionals and businesses

Our Staff

Head of the National College for Logistics (part of The Bedford College Group)

David Coombes MBA FCILT FCMI

David has 40 years experience within the transport and logistics industry, initially spending 20 years in the third party logistics sector managing large transport fleets and warehouse operations both across the UK and internationally, as well as being a director of global logistics organisation.

For the last 20 years, David has been supporting the sector by providing recruitment and training services, most recently as CEO of Skills for Logistics.

He sold Skills for Logistics in late 2024, during this time he started working with The Bedford College Group, to help them develop a specialist logistics talent and training offer, culminating in the position as Head of the new National College for Logistics from August 2025.

David is passionate about the skills agenda and the need to attract, engage and support a future-ready supply chain workforce that is agile, tech-savvy and resilient.

Deputy Head of the National College for Logistics (part of The Bedford College Group)

David Cormack

David brings more than 20 years’ experience in C suite roles bringing the UK training sector and international logistics markets across Europe and the US. Recognised as a respected industry leader, he brings a proven track record in workforce innovation and transformational change.

Passionate about unlocking potential through creative thinking, David has built and led high-performance teams, designed future-ready programmes and guided organisations through periods of growth and adaptation. His expertise spans strategy, planning, sales, marketing and programme design, covering both commercial learning and government-funded provision.

Working in collaboration with major organisations at a national level, David has consistently delivered impactful learning and development solutions that respond to the evolving needs of the workforce. His commitment to innovation and sector growth has positioned him as a driving force in shaping the future of logistics skills and training.

Featured Apprenticeships at NC4L

Supply Chain Warehouse Operative – Level 2

Perfect for those starting out. Provides foundational knowledge in receiving, storing, packing and dispatching goods safely and efficiently.

LGV Maintenance Technician – Level 3

A hands-on technical apprenticeship for maintaining and repairing large goods vehicles. Equips learners with mechanical, diagnostic, and safety-compliance skills.

Transport and Warehouse Supervisor – Level 3

Designed for experienced operatives moving into supervisory roles. Develops leadership, planning, and stock control skills essential for fast-paced warehouse and transport environments.

Associate Project Manager – Level 4

Ideal for individuals seeking to develop the skills to manage projects effectively from planning and budgeting to leading teams and delivering successful outcomes.

Operations Manager – Level 5

Ideal for aspiring leaders who aim to drive business success. This apprenticeship prepares individuals to manage operations efficiently whilst developing strategic and leadership skills.

Three people walking through a warehouse

Why Choose NC4L?

Supported by industry leaders DHL and GXO
Purpose-built campus with cutting-edge logistics facilities
Courses shaped by employer needsand sector trends
Located within the Bedford College Group, a trusted name in further education

Partner With Us

Employers can work directly with NC4L to co-design learning pathways, upskill their teams, and futureproof their workforce.

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Finding us

Our Location

National College for Logistics
Chartmoor Road
Leighton Buzzard
LU7 4TN

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National College for Logistics

Shaping logistics future

Backed by industry

Green logistics leadership

Apprenticeship pathways

Shaping the Future of Logistics. Powered by Innovation

Driving Green, Digital and Data Innovation