Network Rail, McDonald's and Flybe have been given the ability to award nationally-accredited qualifications to employees.
The companies were given Awarding Body Status by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, enabling them to assess, track and recognise workplace learning. This means it will be much easier for employers and employees to identify which level staff are at with regards to training.
The scheme will form part of the new Qualifications and Credit Framework and will be divided into levels with level two equivalent to GCSE qualifications, level three equivalent to an A-Level and level four, which is equal to a university degree.
Flybe will modify its training programme during 2008, and plans to deliver qualifications ranging from level two to level four.
McDonalds will gear its course towards its 7,000 managers and will focus on operational requirements, finance, marketing and HR.
Network Rail plans to involve all 33,000 members of staff in the training scheme at levels two and three.
John Cridland, deputy director general of the Confederation of British Industry, said: "Today marks a significant milestone on the road to reforming qualifications so that they better reflect the skills and competencies employers and employees need. Flybe, McDonalds and Network Rail deserve recognition for trail blazing this initiative and making it easier for companies wanting to follow in their footsteps."