Think Secret reports that Apple has shut down its Worldwide Training and Certification department and laid off all trainers.

The move means that Apple will no longer offer sponsored training and will only hand out certifications leaving other companies to deliver training which will be conducted through the network of third-party Apple Authorised Training Centres.

Apple’s Training site notes that the company will eliminate its Apple Training units program on August 26, 2007, and that credits can be redeemed at participated AATCs until that time, with any balance being refunded afterwards.