Since launching, our Trade Expert Academy has helped so many on their journey to better understanding the complexities of International Trade. 

The flexibility of the courses allows for a bespoke educational experience, where individuals can complete modules as a one off or take multiple modules to achieve credits for an International Trade Qualification Level 4. Participants can either achieve an Award, Certification or a Diploma depending on how many credits they accrue. 

We recently had the opportunity to speak with two participants about their experiences so far. Vicky Langford and Vicky Phillips from Meditech Endoscopy Ltd, are halfway through completing their International Trade Qualification Level 4 Diplomas.

Here’s what they had to say:

1. What made you want to take up the Trade Expert Academy Diploma?

• VL - “I’ve been in supply chain for almost two years, but some areas, like Commodity Codes and HS codes, were still fairly new to me. I wanted to enhance my knowledge, especially with how things are always evolving in this field.”
• VP - “I wanted to gain more knowledge to become more compliant in my current role and better navigate international trade processes.”

2. How are you finding the courses so far?

• VL - “I’m really enjoying it! I’m learning a lot of new things and am excited to dive deeper into future modules.”
• VP - “The course is full of insightful information. It’s helping SMEs like us improve compliance and streamline processes, which is so beneficial for our business.”

3. What do you think of the course content and structure?

• VL - “Every module has been engaging. I appreciate having access to the slides and word documents so I can refer back to the content whenever needed.”
• VP - “I find the content really interesting and full of useful information about international trade. The flexibility of choosing between an essay or multiple-choice assessment is great, and the booklet from Richard, our tutor, is a nice touch!”

4. What’s one thing you’ve learned that’s helping you in your role?

• VL - “The course has helped me identify the correct Commodity Codes for new products, which has been really useful for our work.”
• VP - “The importance of registering with CDS has been key. As we work on EXWs, I’ve reached out to forwarders to ensure we have proof of export and customs declarations for audit purposes.”

5. Which module has been the most interesting?

• VL - “I’ve really enjoyed the International Customs module. It’s directly relevant to our daily work and has been insightful.”
• VP - “The Import/Export Diagnostics and International Customs modules have been incredibly interesting, and I’m excited for the upcoming Supply Chain module.”

6. How do you think completing the course will help your role?

• VL  - “Given how quickly things change in logistics and trade, the knowledge from this course will keep us up to date. For example, learning about CBAM has already helped us prepare the necessary documentation. I’m also looking forward to the sustainability module, which aligns with our company’s focus on sustainability.”
• VP - “It’s giving me a better understanding of the documentation I need to raise, ensuring the correct information is on the purchase orders, and allowing me to collaborate more effectively with forwarders to maintain compliance.”

7. How did you find the enrolment process?

• VL - “It was simple and straightforward.”
• VP - “It was smooth and efficient.”

8. How’s the interaction been with the course administrators?

• VL - “The support has been excellent. They’ve been really helpful and responsive whenever we had questions.”
• VP - “The communication with Essex Chambers has been great. They keep us updated with any changes to the modules and sent out welcome emails before we joined. Angela has been especially helpful!”

9. How’s the course facilitator?

• VL - “Our facilitator is fantastic! He’s not only knowledgeable but also breaks complex topics down to a level that’s easy to understand. He takes time to answer questions and even adapts the modules to reflect our business needs.”
• VP - “Richard is extremely knowledgeable and has a great teaching style. He makes us feel comfortable asking questions and really helps clarify any areas we don’t understand.”

10. Would you recommend the course to others?

• VL - “Definitely! I would highly recommend it to anyone in supply chain or logistics. It’s a great way to gain a deeper understanding of international trade.”
• VP - “Absolutely! I highly recommend this course to anyone working in supply chain or logistics within international trade.”

Thank you to Vicky and Vicky for taking the time to provide such insightful responses and thoughts on their Academy experience so far. 

Both Vicky Phillips and Vicky Langford’s feedback highlights the value of the Trade Expert Academy Diploma in enhancing knowledge, ensuring compliance, and staying ahead in the ever-evolving world of international trade. If you’re working in supply chain, logistics, or international trade, this course could be a valuable next step in your professional development.

Find out how you can enrol into the Trade Expert Academy via our website or Contact our Team for more information.