Apprentice Town

Made in Chesterfield announced as finalist in Derbyshire Business Awards

2nd July 2019

An initiative, which is raising the profile of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) sector careers, has been announced as a finalist in the Business and Education Partnership category at the East Midlands Chamber Derbyshire Business Awards 2019.

The Made in Chesterfield campaign brings together businesses and employers with schools and education providers to deliver hands on experience of the workplace for young people. Since its launch in 2014, the campaign, which is organised by Destination Chesterfield and Derbyshire Education Business Partnership and sponsored by the University of Derby, has resulted in over 3,000 young people from schools spending time in the area’s manufacturing and engineering businesses.

Dom Stevens, Destination Chesterfield Manager said: “The selection as a finalist at the Derbyshire Business Awards allows us to celebrate and reflect on what this partnership between the business and education sector has achieved so far. We look forward to working with our partners to drive forward Made in Chesterfield to support more businesses and inspire more young people about career opportunities in STEM areas across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.”

Chesterfield College has credited the initiative with helping to make a difference to the awareness of careers linked to STEM subjects. The number of students studying STEM subjects at the College increased from 265 in 2017 to 440 in 2018.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director of MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield board member responsible for manufacturing and engineering in the borough, added: “It’s a time of huge growth and opportunity for Chesterfield and we need to make the most of opportunities such as HS2, Chesterfield Waterside and Peak Resort; it’s important that the town has the people with the right skills and experience to deliver these projects – and manufacturing and engineering feature heavily in the mix.”

“Getting more businesses from the sector on board and opening more lines of communication between businesses, education providers and schools couldn’t be more important.”

Clare Talati, Director of Derbyshire Education Business Partnership said: “We have seen this initiative grow each year and we actively encourage all schools to get involved; bringing the world of work to life for learners is at the core of what we aim to deliver and the commitment made by local businesses is fantastic.”

The winner of the East Midlands Chamber Derbyshire Business Awards 2019 will be announced on Friday 6 September at Derby County FC.

In addition to the University of Derby, Made in Chesterfield is also run in partnership with MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd, NatWest and Placing Futures.

To find out more about Made in Chesterfield and how you can get involved, please visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/made/

Posted in Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Manufacturing

Leading manufacturer joins Made in Chesterfield campaign

1st July 2019

Another Chesterfield manufacturer, Blachford Acoustics Group, has pledged its support to the town’s campaign to get more young people interested in careers involving Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM).

A leading manufacturer of acoustic sound solutions, the company is part of the global Blachford group and employs more than 100 staff at its Holmewood facility.

Blachford is one of a number of businesses from the town’s manufacturing and engineering sector who have thrown their weight behind the Made in Chesterfield campaign which is coordinated by Destination Chesterfield and Derbyshire Education Business Partnership.

The campaign, which was established in 2014, is designed to bring together employers in the manufacturing and engineering sector with schools and education providers. It is run in partnership with University of Derby, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd, Natwest, and Placing Futures and has already been credited with helping increase the number of students studying STEM subjects at Chesterfield College from 265 in 2017 to 440 in 2018.

As part of their involvement in the campaign, Blachford will be welcoming school groups to its Holmewood site and hosting behind-the-scenes tours. A number of Blachford staff are also STEM ambassadors and will be visiting North Derbyshire’s schools to deliver careers talks.

Commenting on the company’s decision to support the Made in Chesterfield campaign, Stephen Hutt, Operations Director of Blachford UK said: “The manufacturing sector offers golden opportunities for careers, unfortunately many young people are unaware of the breadth of job roles available. By supporting the Made in Chesterfield campaign we hope to reach out to young people in North Derbyshire and ignite their interest in manufacturing and in a career at Blachford and the sector as a whole.”

Blachford now joins an exciting line-up of companies and organisations, including United Cast Bar, MSE Hiller, Kingfield Electronics, Aztec Oils, Penny Hydraulics, Chesterfield Police and Trans-Tronic who have all opened their doors to teachers and pupils to help them discover more about careers and jobs on offer in the sector.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director of MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield board member responsible for manufacturing and engineering in the Borough, commented: “I am delighted to welcome Blachford onboard with the Made in Chesterfield campaign. It’s a time of huge growth and opportunity for Chesterfield and to make the most of opportunities, like HS2, Chesterfield Waterside and Peak Resort, it’s important that the town has the people with the right skills and experience – and manufacturing and engineering feature heavily in this mix.

“Getting more businesses from the sector on board and opening more lines of communication between businesses, education providers and schools couldn’t be more important.”

Blachford’s commitment to recruiting new talent to the sector doesn’t stop at Made in Chesterfield. The company is offering three degree level apprenticeships to young people leaving school this year.

To find out more about Made in Chesterfield and how you or your school can get involved, please visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/made/.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Manufacturing

Derbyshire Young Artists of the Year celebrated at Chesterfield College

24th June 2019

The winners of Chesterfield College’s Derbyshire Young Artist of the Year competition were announced last week at an event which launched an exhibition of the stunning entries received from young artists across the county. This was the first event in Chesterfield College’s Arts Festival, which runs until 28 June.

The competition was open to school children in Year 4 to Year 13, who were asked to produce an illustration, a painting or collage, photography or a 3D sculpture on the theme of “The environment and me.” Now in its third year, a record number of entries were received this year with judges commenting on the high standard of work when carrying out the tricky task of shortlisting the finalists.

Competition entrants, their families and their teachers gathered to see the work on display in West Studios before certificates were awarded to the finalists.

Isobel Greene, winner of the Visual Arts Year 7-9 category created a striking acrylic painting on canvas of planets in outer space with a single red balloon floating in the sky. She explained what inspired her:

“To follow the theme I wanted to create something about how I feel about the fact we’re ruining the environment. When you let go of a balloon it escapes all that, but we’re still trapped down here. I wish I could be that balloon escaping. I worked on my piece at home but I have chosen to do Art GCSE at school next year. If I could be an artist one day I would. It is really nice to win this competition.”

Evie Burgon, winner of the 3D category explained the thought process behind her entry and how she created the piece. She said:

“I created the earth using a balloon and papier-mâché. I asked my cousins to put hand prints on the earth to represent the younger generation protecting the earth. For the back panel I used my mum’s footprints to represent the older generation’s carbon footprint. I wanted the contrast between the negative impact and the positive and that it isn’t too late to do something about it. I started by collecting newspaper cuttings of headlines about the environment and I’ve used them on the sculpture. It took me about 2 weeks to create it. It feels good to have won.”

Harry Bell, Winner of the Visual Arts Year 4-6 category, chose to create a painting using acrylics inspired by a view of a beach out to sea with a stormy sky from the Tate Gallery in St Ives. He said:

“St Ives is one of my favourite places to go. We went to the Tate when we were there in the Easter holidays and when I saw the view out to sea from there I decided I wanted to paint it for the competition. My mum took a photo and when I got home I started using acrylics on canvas. I wanted to create texture so I mixed sand from the beach in the paint and mixed colours to show the stormy sky and sea. Winning this competition gives me a lot of confidence to paint a lot more.”

Finalists of each category are:

3D category

Winner: Evie Burgon

Finalist: Martha Bramwell

Photography category

Winner: Christian Spence

Finalist: Neve McMahon

Finalist: Ellie Mae Cooper

Finalist: Daniel Azoulay

Visual Art category, Years 4-6

Winner: Harry Bell

Finalist: Charlotte Faulkner

Finalist: Kyle D

Finalist: Stephanie Wells

Visual Art category, Years 7-9

Winner: Isobel Greene

Finalist: Tansy Hoyland

Finalist: Mason Chapman

Visual Art category, Years 10-13

Winner: Courtney Lewis

Finalist: Mia Dickerson

Finalist: Kira Cooper

The exhibition of the Young Artists’ work is open to the public until 28 June and forms part of the college’s Arts Festival which celebrates the work of art, design and fashion students. The annual fashion show is on the 26^th June at 7pm, tickets can be reserved online ( https://www.chesterfield.ac.uk/event/fashion-show-2019/2019-06-26/2/ ).

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Manufacturing

Adorn Jewellers scoops top award at 2019 Chesterfield Retail Awards

20th June 2019

Adorn Jewellers has been named as Chesterfield’s favourite retailer. The independent jeweller, which is owned by husband and wife team Laura Jo and Adam Owen, was crowned Retailer of the Year at the 2019 Chesterfield Retail Awards on Wednesday 19 June.

The multi award-winning jeweller, which is based in The Shambles in Chesterfield town centre, also clinched the title of Home and Gifts Retailer of the Year at the annual awards ceremony held at Casa Hotel.

This is the fifth consecutive year Adorn Jewellers has been recognised at the annual awards, but 2019 is the first year the business has taken the coveted overall title of Retailer of the Year.

Delighted to accept the award, Laura Jo Owen said: “After a winning a number of retail awards over the last five years I am absolutely speechless to win Retailer of the Year. Chesterfield has so many fantastic shops and stores that make for an amazing retail landscape, so to win the top award is unbelievable.”

The Retailer of the Year title sponsored by East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire) was just one of 15 awards presented to 13 businesses, events and individuals at the sixth annual Chesterfield Retail Awards ceremony, which was hosted by Peak FM presenter, Craig Bailey.

Organised by Destination Chesterfield, the awards recognise the very best shops, stores, market stalls and events in the borough. Nominated by shoppers, the winners were all selected by an independent panel of judges as well as Destination Chesterfield assessing the online presence of the businesses.

On the night it was also a double win for Something Special Bridal, based in Old Whittington, which walked away with the Independent Retailer of the Year and Excellence in Customer Service titles.

And it wasn’t just businesses recognised for their contribution to Chesterfield’s retail sector; apprentices and events were too.

Apprentice hairdresser Kelly Jaggers (24) from Bliss Hair, Nails and Beauty in Hasland was named Retail Apprentice of the Year and Chesterfield’s popular Food and Drink Festival, which is organised by Edge Events, was voted Best Town Centre Event.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield and Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “The Chesterfield Retail Awards recognises some of the town’s most wonderful people and businesses and the 2019 awards ceremony was no exception. The way we shop is changing and Chesterfield’s retailers are adapting to this brilliantly. They are creating fun experiences for customers; providing spaces to meet, socialise and shop; utilising technology to communicate with customers and teaming up with local businesses and initiatives to ensure the town’s retail sector continues to thrive. Congratulations to every shortlisted and winning business and individual. They all play a very important role in Chesterfield’s economy.”

In addition to Adorn Jewellers, Something Special Bridal, Kelly Jaggers and the Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival, the winners of the 2019 Chesterfield Retail Awards included:

Retailer of the Year (Sponsored by East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire)

Adorn Jewellers

Hair & Beauty Business of the Year (Sponsored by Elite Private Education)

Belle Vie

Alysha Bradley, Owner of Belle Vie said: “It feels absolutely amazing to be crowned Hair and Beauty Business of the Year. We care so much about the people in the business, our customers and the contribution we are all making to the community. The next step for the business is to open a disability retreat for adults and children.”

Fashion and Footwear Retailer of the Year (sponsored by In the Works PR)

Dotique

Dorothy Robinson, Owner of Dotique said: “We were delighted to win Best New Store last year so to follow that up with the Fashion and Footwear Retailer of the Year award in 2019 is just fabulous. I am ecstatic. I am very proud of Chesterfield and so happy to be here.

Home & Gifts Retailer of the Year

Adorn Jewellers of Chesterfield

Food & Drink Retailer of the Year

Ibbotson’s Fresh Quality Produce

Nick Ibbotson, Owner of Ibbotson’s Fresh Quality Produce, said: “We’re over the moon to win the award particularly as it recognises the quality of our produce. I personally hand select all our produce daily from wholesale farmers and markets and if I wouldn’t eat it, then it’s not good enough for our customers. We’re all about quality.”

Leisure Retailer of the Year (sponsored by Peak FM)

Quinney’s Pet Supplies

Brian Quinney, Owner of Quinney’s Pet Supplies, said: “It feels amazing to be crowned Leisure Retailer of the year. It’s a fantastic reward after two and half years of hard work. We’ve grown massively since we opened, and we hope to continue that growth in the future.”

Market Hall Business of the Year (Sponsored by Arvato)

R P Davidson Cheese Factor

Simon Davidson, Owner of R P Davidson Cheese Factor said: “It’s a great honour for me and my staff to be crowned Market Hall Business of the Year. It’s important that the business continues to evolve. We don’t want more shops, but we definitely want to work with other retailers, and we have sponsored the Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival in Queens Park in 2019.”

Market Trader of the Year (Sponsored by Chesterfield Borough Council)

Roper’s Honey

Helen Roper, Owner of Roper’s Honey said: “It’s really exciting to be crowned Market Trader of the Year. We love the market, the customers and our fellow market traders – it’s like a big family – just like our business and we hope our children will be the future of it.”

Independent Retailer of the Year (Sponsored by Jumble Creative Design)

Something Special Bridal

Tonya Stickley, Owner of Something Special Bridal, said: “I am over the moon to win. It is beyond amazing. It means so much to me and my little boutique to win the awards. It’s a tough environment economically and politically, so it’s great to recognise the independent retailer.”

National/Multiple Retailer of the Year (Sponsored by The University of Derby)

The Body Shop

Hannah Richardson, Manager of The Body Shop in Chesterfield said: “We were all completely shocked to hear we’d won. We are a small team of four, who are all committed to delivering the very best service to our loyal customers. We are all so proud to have won the award.”

Excellence in Customer Service (Sponsored by Casa Hotel)

Something Special Bridal

Best Town Centre Event (Sponsored by Spire Radio)

Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival

Laura Ashby, Managing Director of Edge Events, said: “It feels amazing to be local to Chesterfield and to win this award. It’s a fantastic event that is for all members of the family. We’re delighted to win.”

Apprentice of the Year (Sponsored by Apprentice Town (Led by Chesterfield Borough Council)

Kelly Jaggers (Bliss Hair, Nails and Beauty)

She said: “I am so happy and surprised to win the award. It is so nice to be appreciated. I have just completed my Level 2 apprenticeship and now want to do my Level 3. If you want to learn a new skill or trade, an apprenticeship is the best way to do it.”

Apprentice Employer of the Year (Sponsored by Learning Unlimited (The Chesterfield College Group)

The Therapy Lounge

Carly Smith, Owner of The Therapy Lounge, said: “I’m really pleased that I and the whole team have been recognised for the time and effort we put into our apprentice programme. I am a massive advocate of apprenticeships because I know the benefits that they can bring to a business as well as to the career development of young people.”

Best New Store 2018/2019 (Sponsored by Pavements Shopping Centre)

Astra Designs

Donna Danielle, Owner of Astra Designs said: “It’s a big shock to win but feels absolutely amazing to be named as the Best New Store at the Retail Awards. There is so much support for business in Chesterfield. The community and customers mean so much to us and help us grow the business, which means my daughter is able to join it next year as an apprentice.”

Further supporters of the 2019 Chesterfield Retail Awards include: Derbyshire Times, eBusiness Works, JayRar, Hoods Florist, JP Fire Safety and Temple Safety.

For more information and images of the awards, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/retailawards

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Leisure, Summer, Visiting

Gadget Show Presenter Inspires Local Students to Develop a Career in Technology

19th June 2019

Georgie Barrat, leading technology journalist, Gadget Show presenter and broadcaster, encouraged local school and college students to get the knowledge they need to get into an industry where there are more jobs than people with the right digital skills yesterday. She shared her inside knowledge of the industry as part of the Sparks Series of lectures at Chesterfield College.

With the technology industry growing faster than the UK economy, Georgie gave a fascinating insight into the wide range of exciting developments she has tested from artificial intelligence to augmented reality, and much more besides. She explained what opportunities these new technologies open up for young people about to enter the job market.

Georgie demonstrated how she carved a career in tech journalism and what it is like to work for some of the key tech employers. She also gave the audience some top tips about how to develop a bright future in the industry.

There were interesting questions from the audience about how new technological inventions would affect us as consumers and as a human race, as well as questions about what it is really like to work in technology and media.

Georgie’s final words of inspiration for the audience were:

“Digital literacy is what everyone is after. If you can code; if you are a software developer, the world is your oyster. If you go into any company, they want these skills.”

“Go out there. Dream big and go and shape the world. The world needs people like you to shape it.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Manufacturing

Exhibitors Encouraged to Sign Up for Derbyshire’s Largest Careers Event

17th June 2019

Employers, colleges, training providers and voluntary organisations are being invited to book their place at this year’s Derbyshire Skills Festival.

The event is organised by Derbyshire County Council and supported by Derby City Council. It is aimed at students aged 13 to 19, particularly those in Year 11 who are considering their options after school.

Derbyshire Skills Festival is the largest careers event for young people in Derbyshire and this year it is being held at:

Proact Stadium, Sheffield Road, Chesterfield, S41 8NZ on Wednesday 18 September 2019
Derby Arena, Royal Way, Derby, DE24 8JB on Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 September 2019

All three events will run from 1.30pm to 7.30pm (last admission 6.45pm).

There will also be sessions for young people with special educational needs and disabilities and young people who are not in education, employment or training are welcome to attend.

Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Young People Councillor Alex Dale said:

“Choosing a career is one of the biggest decisions that our young people will make and we’re pleased the Derbyshire Skills Festival can support them in this process.

“Last year more than 10,000 young people attended the festival making it a great event for organisations to showcase what opportunities they have to a huge audience.

“Thank you to the organisations that have already signed up to secure their place and we look forward to welcoming more.”The festival is an opportunity for young people leaving school or college or looking for a job with training to get all the information and guidance they need under one roof.

Visitors to the event will also be able to take part in have-a-go sessions to test their skills and give them an idea of what different careers might be like.

Organisations interested in having a stand at one or both of the venues can email: skillsfestival@derbyshire.gov.uk or tel: 01629 536545 (office hours only).

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Manufacturing

New scheme to boost digital skills of autistic individuals and women

13th June 2019

A pioneering project to equip autistic individuals and women who want to get back into work with digital skills they need to find a job has been launched, funded by the Government’s Department of Culture, Media and Sport’s Digital Innovation Fund.

The D2N2 Skills Academy offers a series of free, four-day training programmes to participants across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, running during June, July, September and October 2019.

A similar digital project – targeted at different audiences – will also shortly be available to individuals across the Sheffield City Region (SCR).

Led by Nottingham City Council, a range of local organisations are joining forces to deliver the programmes, including Autism East Midlands, the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), the University of Derby, Nottingham Trent University and the University of Nottingham.

Its aim is to encourage under-represented groups across the D2N2 area to get the skills they need for a career in the digital sector.

It has been set up exclusively to help autistic individuals and women (aged 18 and over), particularly those returning to work after a period of absence, out of work or looking for another job.

Those taking part can choose from one of five different training themes, each aimed at helping them to become more digitally savvy to boost their career prospects.

Each subject area comprises four free training sessions, spread over a four-week period, designed to teach the skills required to become work-ready for a job in the digital sector. Each course set is delivered by experienced, industry-leading experts. Digital Graduate buddies, provided by the universities, will provide practical support, guidance and mentoring at each of the training sessions.

The subjects available are web development, digital marketing, data visualisation and cyber security, along with digital essentials, which covers basic digital skills including getting the most out of a range of devices, applications and the cloud.

At the end of each course, those attending will receive a certificate of attainment, along with a comprehensive workbook that can be used as a reference guide for the future.

The programme of support will continue for some attendees, with a selection chosen to complete work placements in local businesses where they can use their newly learned skills. And it is hoped that through the programme support and the engagement with the business community that a handful of attendees will secure long term work as a result.

Rachel Quinn, Skills lead at D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership said: “Digital Skills are becoming an essential part of our workforce with over 80% of advertised vacancies having a digital element.

“By working collaboratively with our partners and supporting people with barriers to work, to digitally upskill, we are benefiting both our economy and a more inclusive local economy.”

Mathew Orford, Director of Adult Services at Autism East Midlands, said: “It is fantastic that this project recognises that autistic individuals are underrepresented in the workforce and often possess the ability and potential to thrive in this sector.

“Many autistic individuals struggle in mainstream education settings and may, therefore, not achieve the qualifications required in order to secure employment in the digital sector, despite having the aptitude and desire to do so. Through this project we hope to play a part in helping these individuals build their confidence to fulfil their dreams and make an ongoing impact on society.”

Diane Beresford, Deputy Chief Executive at the Chamber, said: “The Chamber’s stated aim is to enhance East Midlands businesses and communities, so we are delighted to be involved with this cutting-edge project.

“The digital agenda is evolving all the time, so equipping autistic individuals and women who have been out of employment for a long time with the skills they need to forge a new career in this fast-growing sector is key.”

Further details about the D2N2 Digital Skills Academy can be found at www.emc-dnl.co.uk/digitalacademy.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Manufacturing

Students, apprentices and employers awarded for exceptional achievements

11th June 2019

The achievements of exceptional Chesterfield College students, apprentices and local employers were celebrated at an awards ceremony at Casa Hotel recently. The annual celebration event recognises those who go above and beyond to develop their own skills or the skills of the local workforce.

Media make-up student, Georgia Maxwell, from Ripley, was delighted to be chosen as the Student of the Year. Not only is Georgia excelling at college but she also works extremely hard away from her studies. Georgia works part-time as a make-up artist, is a student ambassador for the college and regularly volunteers to help out at college events and at numerous charities and organisations. Keen to build a career in theatrical make-up, she has secured several exciting work experience opportunities.

She said:

“Before the awards I was really nervous, I was physically shaking at the table so you can imagine my shock when my name was called as the winner of the overall Student of the Year. It took me a few seconds to realise it was actually my name up on the big screen; it was such a nice surprise. I still can’t believe it. As well as having the honour of being the Student of the Year, I’ve also won some fantastic prizes including a spa day for two at Ringwood Hall and two tickets to Y Not festival later this summer. It’s been such a great night but now I can’t wait to call my friends to tell them the good news; we’ll definitely be celebrating this weekend!”

The title of Apprentice of the Year was awarded to Beauty Therapist, Barbara Marafini from Sheffield. Barbara is a highly motivated and committed learner who is often praised for her dedication to succeed in her career by her tutors and her employer. She consistently works to a high standard and is always on hand to help and offer support to others.

She said:

“It is really good for the hard work I have put into my apprenticeship to be recognised. It has been a brilliant opportunity to be able to do an apprenticeship. I like being able to study and work at the same time. I work a lot because I want to be the best at what I do. I have my final exams next week and then I will be working full time at the salon.”

Woodhead Construction was crowned as the Employer of the Year. The local company works with the college’s work experience team to provide excellent placements for students at the start of their construction careers. Matt Bust, Business Support Manager and former Chesterfield College student, has been the driving force behind the partnership with the college and always finds the best placement to suit a student’s career goals.

Matt said:

“It is a big part of the company’s social commitment to offer work experience and apprenticeships to bring the next generation into construction. It is brilliant to win this award and be recognised for what we do but the real motivation for doing it is to fill the massive skills shortage in construction. For us it is a key driver to get people into the industry.”

Julie Richards, Principal and Chief Executive of the Chesterfield College Group said:

“I would like to congratulate all of our nominees and winners. It was wonderful to celebrate our students’ achievements at the awards ceremony, especially with family and friends present to share in their success. Many have shown resilience in the face of adversity and all of them have demonstrated a passion and commitment to develop the skills they need to secure a bright future. It is inspiring to see how students, apprentices and our employer partners value education and where it can lead. The awards demonstrated the incredible work undertaken every day by the staff at Chesterfield College, supporting our students to achieve and progress to positive outcomes as part of building their future career.”

Other winners included:

Level 1 Student of the Year: Erin King
Level 2 Student of the Year: Kelly Hall
Level 3 Student of the Year: Rachel Durcan
Higher Education Student of the Year: Callum Fanshawe, Computer Software Development
Adult Student of the Year: Laura Kirk, Beauty/Massage
English & Maths Student of the Year: Piper Barras
Foundation Studies Student of the Year: Mason Wallis
Sixth Form Student of the Year: Callum Smith
Student of the Year – Business, Professional and Services Industries: Georgia Maxwell
Student of the Year – Engineering, Building Technologies and Construction: Kieran Wieloch
Student Project of the Year: Nathan Smith

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Celebrate Chesterfield

Peak FM’s Craig Bailey to host 2019 Chesterfield Retail Awards

10th June 2019

Peak FM’s popular mid-morning show presenter, Craig Bailey, has been announced as the host of this year’s Chesterfield Retail Awards.

Craig will announce the winners of 15 categories at the glittering black-tie ceremony, which is being held at Casa Hotel on Wednesday 19 June.

Hosting the Retail Awards for the first time, Craig commented: “I’ve been at Peak FM for six years now and regularly shop locally. I have seen first-hand the hard work of retailers across North Derbyshire and it is great that the Retail Awards recognise and reward this. I am really looking forward to the evening and sharing in the celebration of everyone’s success at being shortlisted.”

34 Chesterfield retailers are now set to go head-to-head in the sixth annual Chesterfield Retail Awards which are organised by Destination Chesterfield. The awards will also honour the work of apprentices in the sector, with three young people shortlisted for the Retail Apprentice of the Year award.

This year, the awards also have a brand-new category – Best Town Centre Event, which recognises the plethora of festivals, events and markets that take place every year in the town centre helping bring in more shoppers.

The shortlisted businesses, individuals and events in the 2019 Chesterfield Retail Awards are:

Hair & Beauty Business of the Year (Sponsored by Elite Private Education)

Belle Vie
Less than Zero Barbers
TAG Aesthetics

Fashion and Footwear Retailer of the Year (sponsored by In the Works PR)

DHC Countrywear
Dotique
Something Special Bridal

Home & Gifts Retailer of the Year

Adorn Jewellers of Chesterfield
Astra Designs
Etienne Curtains & Blinds

Food & Drink Retailer of the Year

Ibbotson’s Fresh Quality Produce
Rate Good Brownie Boxes
R P Davidson Cheese Factor

Leisure Retailer of the Year (sponsored by Peak FM)

Geeks Headquarters Ltd
Quinney’s Pet Supplies
StraightCurves

Market Hall Business of the Year (Sponsored by Arvato)

Fairplay Gift Emporium
R P Davidson Cheese Factor
Thanks A Bunch

Best New Store 2018/2019 (Sponsored by Pavements Shopping Centre)

Astra Designs
Ingman’s
The Little White Dress

Market Trader of the Year (Sponsored by Chesterfield Borough Council)

Roper’s Honey
Spire Vintage
Top Cards

Independent Retailer of the Year (Sponsored by Jumble Creative Design)

H&F
Something Special Bridal
Tech CPR

National/Multiple Retailer of the Year (Sponsored by The University of Derby)

The Body Shop
RSPCA
Specsavers

Excellence in Customer Service (Sponsored by Casa Hotel)

Adorn Jewellers of Chesterfield
Dotique
Something Special Bridal

Best Town Centre Event (Sponsored by Spire Radio)

Chesterfield Artisan Market
Chesterfield Food and Drink Festival
Redbrik Chesterfield Half Marathon

Apprentice of the Year (Sponsored by Apprentice Town (Led by Chesterfield Borough Council)

Kelly Jaggers (Bliss Hair, Nails and Beauty)
Laura Davies (JMJ Pottery)
Rebecca McNair (The Therapy Lounge)

Apprentice Employer of the Year (Sponsored by Learning Unlimited (The Chesterfield College Group)

Bliss, Hair, Nails and Beauty
Fresh Ideas Florists
The Therapy Lounge

All the shortlisted businesses will also battle it out for the coveted overall title of Retailer of the Year 2019, sponsored by East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire). The finalists for this category will be announced on the night.

Further supporters of the 2019 Chesterfield Retail Awards include: Derbyshire Times, eBusiness Works, Hoods Florist, JP Fire Safety and Temple Safety.

Further Information about Chesterfield Retail Awards.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield

First ever intern for Pronto Paints

28th May 2019

Pronto Industrial Paints Ltd are thrilled to announce this appointment of Mollie Brown as their Summer Intern for 2019. Working in our marketing, administration, laboratory and production departments to gain industry skills and experience. This is a new occasion for our company as we seek to support up and coming business individuals from our local community.

Mollie is currently a second-year undergraduate student studying towards a BA in Advertising and Marketing. This will provide Mollie an insight into what it is like to work for a small manufacturing company whilst acquiring beneficial skills and experience for her future career.
Speaking about her new summer role, Mollie said “I am very grateful and excited to be given the chance to work for a successful company from my hometown. I am very eager to learn and enhance my skills by working alongside talented professionals from the business industry.”

Commenting on the new appointment, Managing Director for Pronto, David Beckford, expressed “I’ve wanted to engage with Universities for a while now, and the Marketing Internship is the first step of a program to help find the next generation of talent. Having beaten over 100 applicants to the position, and impressing at interviews, I’m confident we’ve found the next star and look forward to working with Mollie this summer on various projects.

Posted in Apprentice Town, Business, Manufacturing

Three young people to battle it out for top retail apprentice title

23rd May 2019

One young person will be named as the town’s top retail apprentice next month at the 2019 Chesterfield Retail Awards.

Three retail apprentices have been shortlisted for the prestigious Apprentice of the Year award, sponsored by Apprentice Town (Led by Chesterfield Borough Council).

Kelly Jaggers, a hairdressing apprentice from Bliss Hair, Nails and Beauty in Hasland, Rebecca McNair, an apprentice beauty therapist from The Therapy Lounge in Hasland and Laura Davies, a design apprentice at JMJ Pottery on Chatsworth Road, are all in the running for the top award.

Kelly, Rebecca and Laura were nominated for the award by their employers. They will be recognised alongside 34 businesses from the town’s retail sector which have been shortlisted across 15 categories in the annual Retail Awards which are organised by Destination Chesterfield.

The winners of all the awards will be announced at Casa Hotel on Wednesday 19 June.

Former Hasland Hall School pupil, Kelly Jaggers initially started her own nail business, however she jumped at the chance to develop herself further when she was offered a hairdressing apprenticeship with Bliss Hair, Nails and Beauty.

Delighted to be shortlisted, Kelly (24) from Hasland said: “I was surprised when I heard I’d been shortlisted for the award. It’s great to have my hard work recognised. I enjoy my job and I love working with the team at Bliss; it really is a lovely environment to work in.”

Kelly hopes to progress onto her NVQ Level 3 in Hairdressing after recently completing her Level 2.

Lisa Jackson, the owner of Bliss Hair, Nails and Beauty added: “I am thrilled to see Kelly shortlisted for this award. She is always working hard and she really does have a huge positive impact on the business – I don’t know what we’d do without her!”

Rebecca Mcnair, former Heritage High School pupil, ensures everything runs smoothly at The Therapy Lounge and when she’s not carrying out her own treatments, she’s assisting other therapists. After completing her NVQ Level 2 in Beauty Therapy, Rebecca hopes to move on to NVQ Level 3 in Massage and Reflexology and eventually open her own salon.

Rebecca (19) commented on being shortlisted: “I feel really honoured and excited to be recognised at the start of my career and it has given me a real boost to reach my future goals. It’s fantastic to be working alongside other passionate and experienced therapists, with most of them starting as apprentices too.”

Carly Smith, Salon Owner at The Therapy Lounge added: “Rebecca works harder than most young people I know. She picks things up really easily and has a natural flair for the beauty industry – she’s a great asset to the team.”

Laura Davies (24), who is currently doing an NVQ Level 3 Design Apprenticeship at JMJ Pottery, has a passion for all things creative. The former St Mary’s Catholic High School pupil hopes to one day run her own pottery business.

Laura commented on being a finalist: “It was great to be put forward for this award in the first place and a privilege to be named as a finalist at the Chesterfield Retail Awards. I try to be as helpful and approachable as I can be with customers and I truly enjoy what I do – to have that acknowledged is amazing.”

Janine Mannion-Jones, Owner of JMJ Pottery added: “Laura is a wonderful person who is always willing to work hard and support others. She uses her initiative, which is incredibly important in the work we do, and I am delighted to see her shortlisted for this award.”

Alongside the Apprentice of the Year title, the Chesterfield Retail Awards will also be honouring the town’s Apprentice Employer of the Year, sponsored by Learning Unlimited (The Chesterfield College Group).

Three businesses have been shortlisted for the Apprentice Employer of the Year award – Bliss Hair, Nails and Beauty, Fresh Ideas Florist and The Therapy Lounge.

The apprentice and apprentice employer award categories were introduced to the Retail Awards line-up last year in order to commend the valuable contribution apprentices and apprenticeships make to Chesterfield’s retail scene.

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, commented on the importance of the apprentice awards: “Apprentices, and the businesses that employ them, are integral parts of Chesterfield’s success within a number of sectors, including retail. It is great to see so many young people developing their skills through apprenticeships and making the most of the opportunities that Chesterfield businesses can deliver.”

Other supporters of the 2019 Chesterfield Retail Awards include: Arvato, Casa Hotel, Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), eBusiness Works, Elite Private Education, Hoods Florist, In The Works PR, Jumble Creative Design, JP Fire Safety, Peak FM, Spire Radio, Temple Safety, The Pavements Shopping Centre and University of Derby.

For more information about the awards, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/retailawards

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town