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New puppy play area to open in Chesterfield

DogLand Chesterfield is proud to announce the reopening of its newly rebuilt puppy play area, a vibrant, safe, and purpose-built space for the youngest members of our dog-loving community.

Severe flooding devastated the original puppy pen. But rather than simply rebuild, DogLand Chesterfield saw an opportunity to innovate. The result is a thoughtful environment for puppies’ developmental needs, playful energy, and social curiosity.

“We’ve poured our hearts into this space,” said Dawn Brown, founder of DogLand Chesterfield. “Our pups deserve the best start in life, and this new area is all about giving them a joyful, enriching experience. We can’t wait to see their happy faces bounding around again!”

Local dog owners and trainers were involved in shaping the puppy play area to ensure both safety and enrichment.  It includes:

  • Age-appropriate agility equipment, soft ground surfaces, and shaded zones for rest and cooling down.
  • Enhanced safety features include higher fencing, improved drainage, and durable materials designed with young dogs in mind.

To celebrate, DogLand Chesterfield is planning a launch event filled with treats, games, and photo opportunities. More information on the puppy play area will be available at  https://doglanduk.co.uk/

Dogland supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Thousands of people have say on future of council services

More than 7,000 people have shared their views in the ‘One Derbyshire, Two Councils’ survey. They commented on options to reduce the number of local councils from ten to two (with one option covering the north and one covering the south).

Derbyshire’s eight borough and district councils, and Derby City Council, launched the six-week consultation to gather as many views as possible from residents, businesses and organisations from across the county.

In a joint statement, the leaders of Amber Valley, Bolsover, Chesterfield, Derby City, Derbyshire Dales, Erewash, High Peak, North East Derbyshire and South Derbyshire councils, said: “Thank you to everyone who has shared their views on our options for the future of local council services in Derbyshire.

“People and places across Derbyshire must come first when we think about the future of the councils that deliver their services, and we felt it important to ask residents, businesses and organisations across the county what they think about the plans.

“It will take us some time to thoroughly review and collate the results over the coming weeks, and people’s views will be used to inform our final proposal and business case for how local government reorganisation should be taken forward in the best interests of Derbyshire’s communities.”

The consultation closed on Sunday, 10th August. Councils will now review the results, alongside a range of other evidence. Both will be used to shape the final proposal, which needs to be submitted to the Government on or before 28 November.

The Government will then consider the proposal alongside any others that are submitted for Derbyshire before making a final decision on which proposal to implement.

Following the current schedule, the Government will hold elections for the new shadow authorities in 2027 and the new councils will begin operating in April 2028.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Chesterfield Champions business round-up: Strategic growth and investment across the region

Chesterfield’s business community continues to demonstrate strength, adaptability, and ambition. In this latest round-up, three Chesterfield Champions share major developments in corporate finance, legal services, and purpose-driven leadership.

Shorts Accountants played a pivotal role in a major international acquisition, advising Derbyshire-based Humphreys Holdings Ltd, trading as We Print Lanyards, on its sale to global packaging and label leader CCL Industries Inc. The deal marks significant inward investment into the East Midlands and highlights the strategic value of local SMEs to global brands.

Andy Ryder, Corporate Finance Partner at Shorts, commented: “It has been a pleasure for the Shorts team to advise the shareholders on this transaction. It represents exciting inward investment into the region, and we look forward to seeing the business flourish with the support of Avery/CCL.”

Banner Jones Solicitors has strengthened its Private Client division with six key appointments across its Sheffield and Chesterfield offices. The expansion includes experienced solicitors, will writers, and paralegals, enhancing the firm’s capacity to deliver expert guidance on Wills, Probate, LPAs, and estate planning. Kathryn Wheeldon,

Head of the Private Client Team, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Tina, Jake, Aimee, Sophie, Lucy and Savannah to the team. Each brings a wealth of experience and a genuine commitment to client care, which is at the heart of everything we do at Banner Jones.” With a growing team of 20 specialists, the firm is well-positioned to meet rising demand and deepen its regional footprint.

The Devonshire Group has welcomed Kathryn Fleming as its new Chief Financial Officer, bringing over 30 years of senior financial leadership experience to the role. Kathryn joins at a time of continued growth and purpose-led transformation for the Group, which spans heritage, hospitality, property, conservation and charitable activity across the UK and Ireland.

“The Devonshire Group is an interconnected ecosystem – every business, estate and initiative is united by a shared set of values and a long-term vision,” said Kathryn. “My job is not just to protect our legacy, but actively build on it in a sustainable, responsible and ambitious manner, with the communities we serve at heart.”

Stephen Vickers, Chief Executive of the Devonshire Group, added: “We are delighted to welcome Kathryn to the team. She combines exceptional financial leadership with a deep appreciation of the Devonshire Group’s vision and values.”

Chesterfield Champions is a network of businesses and organisations working together to promote Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. Champions benefit from increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to be part of a shared vision for the town’s future. To learn more or become a Champion, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/chesterfield-champions

Posted in Business, Home

Why I’m thinking about the future now 

This month, young people across the country have been waiting anxiously for their exam results. It’s a big moment, often with pressure to do well. It got me thinking about what the future might hold for the next generation, including my little one, who has just begun exploring the world around her. 

She already loves ‘helping’ me with work, usually by grabbing my computer mouse and enthusiastically rearranging my circuit diagrams! I’m an electronics engineer and run a social enterprise that designs technology to break down barriers. Our work opens up music, creative arts and wellbeing activities for people with disabilities.  

I wouldn’t be where I am without my college physics teacher. He had previously worked at Rolls Royce and encouraged anyone interested in engineering to try it.  

That spark led me to university, where I chose to specialise in electronic engineering. Mum said it would open more doors, and it did. 

At the time, only nine other women joined my engineering cohort of 300. But I didn’t let that stop me.  

Later, whilst studying in Toulouse, I saw so many women in engineering. It reminded me about the importance of representation. If young people don’t see someone like them in a role, it’s easy to assume it’s not for them. 

Thankfully, Chesterfield offers local industry visits and exciting projects. So, our young people can enjoy exploring careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) and beyond. 

Did you know that over 4,500 people work in manufacturing here? With more to come. 

A new rail innovation and training centre is being built near Barrow Hill Roundhouse. It’s set to welcome learners next year, and rail companies are already showing interest in using its specialist research and development facilities. A brilliant example of the many possibilities right on our doorstep. 

So, how do we help our kids discover these kinds of opportunities?  

Fortunately, we can access brilliant local resources: 

  • Interactive careers sessions – fun events to help young people and parents (hosted by Chesterfield Borough Council)
  • School careers activities – including employer visits and work-prep sessions
  • Workplace tours – a behind-the-scenes look at industries in action (Visit Made in Chesterfield for more information)
  • Visits from employers – like the engineers from AECOM who recently visited Abercrombie Primary School

One day, I’ll tell my daughter what I think every child should hear: You don’t need everything figured out. You just need someone to say, “go for it.”

And in Chesterfield, I know she’ll grow up surrounded by people who will do just that. 

To find out about learning and careers in Chesterfield visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/learning/   

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Blog, Home, Skills

Chesterfield champions celebrated nationally for excellence, innovation and impact

Four Chesterfield-based organisations have recently earned prestigious national recognition, showcasing the town’s strength in healthcare innovation, sustainable hospitality, creative entrepreneurship and education. These achievements reflect the calibre of businesses operating in Chesterfield and reinforce its reputation as a thriving place to live, work, and invest.

Walton Lodge Farm achieves Red Tractor certification

Walton Lodge Farm Estate, the 360-acre working farm owned by Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel founder Steve Perez, has achieved Red Tractor certification, a trusted mark of food quality, traceability, and sustainability.

Home to native-breed livestock and honeybees, the farm supplies seasonal produce directly to Cocina Restaurant at Casa Hotel and The Red Lion at Peak Edge Hotel, offering diners a true farm-to-fork experience.

“Our ethos has always been about farming with care, for our animals, the land, and the people who enjoy our produce,” said Craig Ellis, Farm Manager.

“The Red Tractor certification reassures everyone who dines with us that our food meets the highest standards,” added Alan Rigby, Executive Chef.

This achievement reinforces Chesterfield’s growing reputation for sustainable hospitality and culinary excellence.

DSFS wins national award for collaborative NHS procurement

Derbyshire Support and Facilities Services (DSFS), a subsidiary of Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, has been honoured with the Collaborative Procurement Initiative Award at the UK National GO Awards.

The accolade recognises DSFS’s pivotal role in delivering a major digital transformation across the NHS through the procurement of the Nervecentre Electronic Patient Record (EPR) system. Launched simultaneously at Chesterfield Royal Hospital and the University Hospitals of Derby and Burton in February 2025, the system is already improving patient outcomes and freeing up clinical time.

“This national recognition highlights what can be achieved through innovative thinking and close partnership,” said Stuart Ellis, Commercial and Strategy Director at DSFS. “I’m extremely proud of our procurement teams in delivering this project.”

The EPR system is expected to return 4.9 million hours to patient care over seven years, setting a new benchmark for digital efficiency in healthcare.

CRUSH founder shortlisted for national business women’s award

Natalie Burkinshaw, founder of Chesterfield-based design and creative marketing agency CRUSH, has been named a finalist in the Business Owner of the Year category at the National Business Women’s Awards.

Natalie launched CRUSH in 2003 as a single mother in her twenties, building a successful studio in a male-dominated industry. Today, CRUSH is an award-winning agency with global clients, including the iconic Ministry of Sound.

“I’m proud to be recognised for all the work myself and the team have done over the years here at CRUSH,” said Natalie. “Good luck to everyone shortlisted!”

Her story highlights the entrepreneurial spirit and creative resilience thriving in Chesterfield’s business community.

Kip McGrath named Independent Educator of the Year 2025

Kip McGrath Chesterfield West, led by Lorna Bell, has been named Independent Educator of the Year 2025 by Business Awards UK.

The centre delivers high-quality, tailored English and maths tutoring to students aged five and above, supporting learners of all abilities from those needing intervention to high-achievers.

Under Lorna’s leadership, the centre has grown from 40 to over 315 sessions delivered weekly, representing more than 750 percent growth. Over the past year, it has supported more than 120 students, with measurable improvements in academic performance and confidence.

Lorna has also registered the centre as an Alternative Provision, offering education to young people not currently in school, and has created an inclusive environment that welcomes children with SEN and EAL needs. “We’re not just tutoring, we’re inspiring,” said Lorna. “Every child deserves the chance to thrive, and we’re proud to be part of that journey.” The award recognises the centre’s outstanding impact on local education and its commitment to raising aspirations through personalised learning.

Get involved with Chesterfield Champions

The Chesterfield Champions network brings together businesses, organisations, and individuals who are passionate about promoting Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. Champions benefit from increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to be part of a collective voice shaping the town’s future.

Whether you’re a local business, a growing enterprise, or a community organisation, becoming a Champion is a powerful way to showcase your commitment to Chesterfield and connect with like-minded leaders.

To learn more or join the Chesterfield Champions network, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/chesterfield-champions.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

86 Degrees Coffee named premium UK dealer for de Jong DUKE

86 Degrees Coffee Ltd has been appointed as a Premium UK Dealer for Dutch coffee machine manufacturer de Jong DUKE, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth and national reach.

Based in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, 86 Degrees Coffee Ltd. provides tailored coffee solutions to workplaces and commercial clients across the UK.  The dealership agreement includes the rights to sell, service, and support de Jong DUKE’s full portfolio of advanced coffee machines, trusted by businesses in over 60 countries.

At the heart of this collaboration is ConnectMe, de Jong DUKE’s two-way connectivity platform. Integrated into their machines, ConnectMe allows businesses to monitor usage and schedule maintenance remotely, activate energy-saving modes during idle periods, and share branded content, announcements, or promotions via the machine’s interface.

“Being named a Premium Dealer is a proud moment for us,” said Chris Harwood, speaking for 86 Degrees Coffee Ltd. “With de Jong DUKE’s innovation and our market expertise, we’re redefining what businesses can expect from their coffee solutions.”

Both companies share a vision for delivering high-quality coffee experiences while supporting environmental goals. de Jong DUKE machines feature energy-efficient modes, recyclable components, and advanced waste management systems.

To support the rollout of de Jong DUKE’s range, 86 Degrees Coffee is expanding its technical service network and planning a series of events, training sessions, and bespoke demos, both on-site and at proposed demo hubs nationwide. This expansion marks a new chapter for the Chesterfield business, which continues to grow its footprint while maintaining its commitment to quality and customer service.

86 Degrees Coffee Ltd. is part of the Chesterfield Champions network, a collective of businesses and organisations working together to promote Chesterfield as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest. Champions benefit from increased visibility, networking opportunities, and the chance to be part of a shared vision for the town’s future. To learn more or become a Champion, visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/chesterfield-champions.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home

Little Castle reopens as Woodie’s following magical makeover

A Chesterfield pub has revealed its new look following refurbishment. The Little Castle, located in Markham Vale, is now known as Woodie’s, a new family-friendly concept from Marston’s.

The transformation features a woodland-themed den with games, crafts, discos, karaoke and quizzes. Meanwhile, outside, kids can enjoy a brand-new play area while parents relax nearby with a drink or meal.

The Little Castle reopened its doors last week as Woodie’s. During opening weekend, locals shared their favourite memories of The Little Castle in exchange for a free pint. The team now displays these stories on a memory wall, keen for the community to play a part in the pub’s next chapter.

Sarah Barker, a Community Relationship Fundraiser for Ashgate Hospice, joined General Manager, Sara Hargreaves to pour the first pint. Woodie’s chose Sarah as The Little Castle’s community hero for all the work she does in fundraising for the local area. This includes the charity’s 10km Sparkle Night Walk held each July.

Sara Hargreaves, General Manager at The Little Castle, said: “We’re so excited to be able to welcome all of our locals back to The Little Castle. It was an honour to be joined by [Ashgate Hospice’s] Sarah to pull the first pint; she does so much for our community.”

Ashgate Hospice bear and Sara, manager of Woodie's

The team plans a series of events to encourage local people to visit. Kids can enjoy a two-hour disco every Friday night from 4:00pm. Two-hour craft sessions take place on Saturdays from noon. 

Alongside a menu of pub classics, kids can also visit the Woodie’s Sweet Factory. This self-serve treat bar invites you to swap magic tokens for toppings to create your own sundae.

Furthermore, families can enjoy great value dining throughout the summer. Kids eat for just £1 every day, and free every Wednesday.

Discover more ideas for eating out in Chesterfield

Tree hiding den against wall in a room of children's tables and chairs

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Leisure, Stay, Summer

Landmark rail innovation centre taking shape in Staveley

A cutting-edge rail innovation and training centre rises rapidly in Barrow Hill, marking a major milestone for Staveley’s growth.

The steel frame is now under construction to build the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe).

Once complete, the centre will offer a hub for rail sector growth and innovation.

Sited next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse, it includes classrooms, specialist research and development facilities. As well as a digital laboratory and commercial workshop space.

Steel frame Barrow Hill rail innovation centre

Collaborative growth

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It is fantastic to see this project coming together so quickly. DRIIVe will help grow our local economy by providing local people with the skills they need to access great careers in the rail sector and will help cement our borough’s position in the sector by attracting new businesses to the area.

Construction of the rail innovation centre began in early June. Stepnell is delivering the project on behalf of Chesterfield Borough Council.

Tom Sewell, Regional Director at Stepnell, said: “We’re progressing on schedule with the steel frame now taking shape.

“As we move toward the installation of external cladding, we’re actively engaging with the community to ensure alignment with the ambitions of the Staveley Town Deal and Chesterfield Borough Council. We’re committed to delivering meaningful opportunities for local people throughout the build, through targeted local spend and support for employability.”

Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society works in partnership to develop DRIIVe. It will take on day-to-day management once the centre opens. The centre will reinvest all profits into the Roundhouse site, helping preserve and strengthen community engagement.

Bob Burgess, Director and Trustee at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “We’re thrilled with the works on site. This facility will help local people access new opportunities and ensure that we can continue to help people connect with our heritage at the Roundhouse.”

The centre will support a network of specialist training providers, offering rail-related education from Level 2 through to postgraduate research. Furthermore, it will serve as a base for rail supply chain businesses, providing access to cutting-edge innovation and facilities.

Investing in Staveley’s growth

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It’s exciting to see works on this project and the wider Town Deal progressing. It has taken time to get to this stage. But hopefully people are now seeing the projects coming out of the ground and will be able to benefit.”

The Staveley Town Deal has provided the majority of funding for the project. It secured £25.2 million from the Government’s Towns Fund. In addition, funding has been provided by Chesterfield Borough Council, the East Midlands Combined County Authority, and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

DRIIVe is a first step in the development of the nearby Hartington-Staveley East Midlands Investment Zone site.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “DRIIVe is a powerful example of how we’re turning ambition into action with the East Midlands Investment Zone. By investing in skills and innovation, we’re building the foundations of a smarter and greener economy while making sure that local people are at the heart of our journey. The East Midlands is stepping up as a leader in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable transport – and DRIIVe is proof of that progress in motion.”

To find out more about DRIIVe and the Staveley Town Deal, please visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/Staveley-Town-Deal

Stepnell and Barrow Hill Roundhouse support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Property and Construction

Most affordable market town to live in the East Midlands

Chesterfield has been identified as the most affordable market town to live in the East Midlands according to a survey by Lloyds Bank.

The town has been ranked the second most affordable market town in England for first-time buyers and fifth across all buyers.

In Chesterfield, first-time buyers paid on average £198,054 for their home, while the average for all house purchases was £248,658.   The survey tracks the cost of houses in 116 market towns in England using house price data from the Halifax.

Andrew Asaam, Homes Director, Lloyds said, “It’s no wonder market towns have stood the test of time with home-buyers, whether people are stepping onto the first rung of the housing ladder, or are making a move to their next home.  These charming locations are filled with historic landmarks and architecture, quaint charm and community spirit, offering a calmer pace of life, often within the reaches of bigger towns and cities.”

Recently named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, the historic Derbyshire market town is drawing attention for all the right reasons.

Chesterfield has also been recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queens Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal.  Thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, it consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

Stacey Davies-Bowler, Managing Director of Pinewood Property Estates, sees the town’s regeneration as a model for sustainable, community-led growth.

“I’ve already seen a shift in the types of properties people require.  Buyers and renters want more than just a home; they want neighbourhoods that offer lifestyle, connectivity, and value. With renewed investment, we can expect smarter housing developments that blend design, sustainability, and affordability.”

More new homes are on the way, including a new £78 million scheme by Honey Homes, and regeneration projects like the Staveley Corridor, Chesterfield Waterside, and Spire Neighbourhood.

Ryan Wilkes, Destination Chesterfield Board Member, said: “We’re very pleased to see Chesterfield gaining further recognition as a great place to live.  “If you’re looking to live in an area which blends a strong heritage with strong local amenities within easy reach, Chesterfield is a place that you’ll be proud to call home.”

Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Leisure

Community groups awarded over £450,000

Over £450,000 in grant funding has now been awarded to community groups across Chesterfield, helping them to deliver key projects to build a resilient and healthy borough.

As part of the Community Grants Fund scheme, the latest round of funding has seen a share of £142,910.98 awarded to 26 community groups and voluntary organisations from across the town.

This means that since the Community Grants Fund scheme was launched in 2023 by Chesterfield Borough Council, a total of £454,788.59 has now been awarded to 102 different organisations from across the borough, with funding already being used to make a positive impact on local communities.

The grants are being used to allow local groups to build resilient, healthy, and safe neighbourhoods by tackling food poverty and social isolation and helping people get back into work.

It is also continuing to support initiatives that will reduce the borough’s impact on the climate and wider environment by promoting greener choices.

The latest groups to receive funding are:

  • Chesterfield Foodbank
  • Duckmanton Miners Welfare
  • 1st / 2nd Derbyshire Scout Group
  • Hollingwood Sheds
  • Chesterfield Litter Pickers
  • Samba Foundation
  • Chesterfield Filipino Community Association
  • 3rd/4th Derbyshire FSE Scout Group
  • Verba – Ukrainian Social Group of Derbyshire
  • Our Vision Our Future
  • Ashgate Hospice
  • Community Development Chesterfield
  • Chesterfield and NE Pakistani Christian Group
  • Thistle Park Friends, Brimington
  • Standing Tall
  • SPACE Counselling Chesterfield
  • Ashgate Allotment Society
  • 2nd Brampton Scouts
  • Chesterfield & North Eastern Chinese Elders community
  • Woodthorpe Community Liaison Group
  • Asian Association Chesterfield and North Derbyshire
  • Loundsley Green Community Trust
  • Derbyshire Unemployed Workers Centre
  • Pathways of Chesterfield
  • Chatsworth Wellbeing Centre
  • Chesterfield Football Club Community Trust

Loundsley Green Community Trust will be using the grant funding to make energy efficiency and environmental improvements to its centre, meaning that it can continue to deliver key projects for the local community.

The trust’s secretary, Paul Davies, said: “At Loundsley Green Community Centre we have a constant eye on our environmental impact and, over the years, have invested in a number of improvements to reduce our energy consumption and our carbon footprint.

“So, we were delighted to receive this grant, which will enable us to install solar panels and batteries in the building that will significantly reduce the amount of energy that we will import, reducing our carbon footprint. It will also reduce our energy costs, which will enable us to keep hire costs to our users as low as possible, thus providing a knock-on benefit to many other local community groups and projects.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “We’re lucky to have so many community groups and voluntary organisations here in Chesterfield that can have a huge impact on our local communities.

“I’m pleased that, through external funding schemes such as this, we can support so many of these groups that work tirelessly to deliver projects and initiatives that make a real difference to the lives of local people.

“We’ve already seen some groups deliver some fantastic projects with the funding they have received from this scheme, and we can’t wait to see how the community groups and organisations use the funding to bring their projects to life.”

Applications for funding through the Community Grants Fund scheme are currently closed, but eligible groups will be able to apply for funding again from the end of September 2025. More information, including eligibility criteria, can be found at www.chesterfield.gov.uk/community-grants-fund

Funding for the grants scheme has been successfully secured from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), together with money raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Portion (CIL).

Chesterfield Borough Council has been awarded a further £1.1m through the UKSPF, to deliver a range of projects until March 2026. The funding was allocated to the council by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home

New minibus and office space provide more opportunities to support young people

Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP) has recently taken delivery of a minibus to further expand its programme offer to schools.

The minibus has been kindly sponsored by MSE Hiller, a Chesterfield-based company that supplies, rents and services centrifuges and environmental engineering products to the water and industrial effluent treatment sectors.

MSE Hiller supports many of DEBP’s programmes, including Made in Chesterfield, where they offer workplace tours to give students the chance to learn about and see what it is like working in science, technology, engineering, manufacturing and construction industries and careers.

Laura Duck, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, said, “We offer a range of careers and employability programmes to support young people, but this mainly takes place in school or with a host organisation. Over the last academic year we have been welcoming students to our new learning space in Chesterfield. Whilst we offered transportation, the associated costs meant there were limitations based on school locations and distance to travel. With our own minibus, we can expand access to some of our programmes.”

A newly reconfigured office space has also created a new on-site learning area to deliver a range of programmes to support young people.

The programmes offered on-site include the  Supported Insight Scheme, a work placement for small groups of students with special educational needs and disabilities. It supports students to learn about the world of work, whilst acquiring a range of transferable skills. It involves creating a range of marketing materials to support a business need or an upcoming company event.

They also offer Future Focus, which links with the Bolsover Partnership and Bolsover District Council to support the co-production of a ‘creative hub’ within the district. Students come up with innovative ideas for the hub and present these to employers associated with the planning process at the end of the programme.

Sophie Haley, Future Focus Programme Leader said, “The open-plan learning space is designed to be welcoming, helping students to feel at ease, and build their confidence. With the addition of the minibus, we’re able to invite more schools and support more young people to recognise their potential.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Home, Manufacturing, Property and Construction, Skills