Chesterfield businesses and apprentices are being encouraged to apply for a prestigious regional awards ceremony.
The Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards are back for 2023, with 14 category awards to recognise the incredible apprenticeship network across the region.
Nominations can be submitted by the apprentice themselves, their employer, college or training provider, or even by proud loved ones. There are also categories for employers and mentors, so businesses can nominate their own teams and trainers.
Organisers are looking for entries in the following 14 categories:
SME Employer of the Year (0-249), in association with East Midlands Apprentice Ambassador Network
Large Employer of the Year
Diversity and Inclusion Programme
Mentor of the Year, in association with Greatest Hits Radio
Intermediate Apprentice of the Year
Advanced Apprentice of the Year
Higher Apprentice of the Year, in association with Nottingham Trent University
Degree Apprentice of the Year, in association with University of Nottingham
Professional Services Apprentice of the Year
Health & Public Service Apprentice of the Year, in assocaition with Auto Windscreens
Construction Apprentice of the Year
Engineering/Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year
Technology and Digital Apprentice of the Year, in association with AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group
Training Provider of the Year
Event Manager, Haroldine Lockwood commented: “In 2022, we had over 200 attendees including apprentices, training providers and businesses running apprenticeship programmes. We hope to make 2023 even bigger!”
An awards entry writing masterclass will be taking place for top tips on how to write an entry to really impress the judges. Held on Wednesday 28th June at 10am, the masterclass will address the following topics:
Category criteria review and analysis
Understanding of what the judges are looking for
Top Tips for putting your entry together.
Visit the event website to register and submit your nomination. Entries close on Thursday 24th August at 6 pm.
Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony held at The Village Hotel Nottingham on Thursday 5th October. Guests will be invited to a welcome drink, along with the opportunity to network with other attendees – before a 3 course meal will be served and the awards ceremony begins.
From supporting community events to providing end-of-life care – you will have no trouble finding a charity or voluntary organisation to match your interests and career aims.
Are you ready to volunteer in Chesterfield? If so, keep reading to discover what volunteering opportunities are available in Chesterfield.
Why should I consider volunteering?
1. Gain experience for your CV
Lewis Sutcliffe being presented the Street Games Holiday Camp Volunteer of the Year 2022 by Chesterfield FC striker Joe Quigley
Lewis Sutcliffe is a Match Day Volunteer at Chesterfield Football Club. He said:
“Volunteering with the club has had a real positive impact on my career. I have developed key values and skills which I now use in day-to-day life. Since my volunteering role, I have been inspired to make a positive impact on the local community.
My advice for anyone considering a volunteering role would be to go for it! Like myself, you will learn key skills to help you in your future, as well as making a real impact in your local community.”
Joby Parsons, volunteer at Junction Arts, explained:
“It’s a great feeling to know that giving a small chunk of time to support the charity, actually benefits people’s lives and improves our local communities. It also provides opportunities for me to have a go at something creative, which I really enjoy.
Whether you have lots of time to give or a small amount, it’s all beneficial for the charity to be able to deliver the brilliant projects they do. You’ll learn new things and meet lots of different people. Who knows, there may be a new opportunity waiting for you out there! The team at Junction Arts are very friendly and supportive and will make sure that you’re fully prepared before you start your volunteering journey.”
Sarah Thomas, Fundraising Volunteer at Ashgate Hospice
Sarah Thomas is a Fundraising Volunteer at Ashgate Hospice. She said:
“I enjoy giving back to the community, Ashgate Hospice helped me when I needed them and volunteering gives me a sense of responsibility to make sure the hospice is still here for others or myself in the future.
“There is so much variety in helping in fundraising, so there will be something that suits you. You get to experience what goes into amazing events like the Sparkle Night Walk and you feel valued and know that you will have contributed.”
Whether you want to develop new skills, gain new experiences or give back to the community, Chesterfield has plenty of volunteering roles to keep you busy. Here are a few ways you can volunteer locally.
Chesterfield Borough Council – do you enjoy walking? “Walk With Us” are looking for Walk Leaders and other to help with local walking groups. Find out more… Or maybe you could help with a community litter pick? Find out more…
Chesterfield Canal Trust – if you’re passionate about seeing the Chesterfield Canal fully restored, you can volunteer your time to help with projects. Find out more…
Ashgate Hospice – from events to marketing, and caring for others, Ashgate Hospice has a range of volunteering roles which could support your career. Find out more…
Junction Arts – from helping to run art workshops to stewarding at an event, there is something for all ages. Find out more…
Looking to go from volunteer to career?
If you are looking for a specific volunteering role to advance your career, Chesterfield Volunteer Centre might be able to help. Individuals can pop into the centre for support and guidance, or they can search for more volunteering opportunities here.
Volunteering not only supports your career development but also helps you to grow as a person. Taking a break from your day-to-day routine will allow you to adapt to new experiences and develop life-long skills.
Considering a career in healthcare but unsure where to start? Healthcare is a huge sector that supports hundreds of career paths, meaning there is a job role to suit every background and skill set.
Keep reading to find out why a career in healthcare can be rewarding and to learn about the different career routes to start out in the industry.
Which careers in healthcare can I choose from?
Everyone in the healthcare sector must work towards a common goal – to provide the best care for their patient. You might diagnose physical illnesses and refer for treatment. You could advise on medication, or you could deliver talking therapies. And not forgetting, you might work in a non-clinical role which makes a significant contribution to patient care.
Whichever career in healthcare you choose, you’ll certainly find opportunities in Chesterfield where you can make a difference.
What career routes are available in healthcare?
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships can offer an ideal route to your career in healthcare. It means you can earn while you learn and gain a qualification. You can complete an apprenticeship from Level 2, right up to degree level.
Emmie-Mai Hunt, Level 2 Pharmacy Assistant, said: “I became an apprentice as I enjoy practical learning. After 2 years at college, studying a course completely different, I was unsure what career I wanted to pursue. However, I saw this and thought what a great way to earn money whilst learning about something I enjoy – medicine.
If you’re considering an apprenticeship in healthcare, I say go for it! There is never a dull moment. Whether this be with customers or colleagues. The number of opportunities it opens up is never ending.”
Clare Smith is a Level 6 Apprentice Diagnostic Radiographer. She said: “By undertaking an apprenticeship, I have been able to further develop my communication skills and critical thinking. I have learnt to facilitate interprofessional collaboration and share clinical judgement to ensure the best possible outcomes.”
Kari Whitaker is a Level 5 Staff Development and Apprenticeship Practitioner. She explained: “My apprenticeship has given me a solid foundation of knowledge and clinical skills, which enables me to pass this on to learners. It has also given me the experience to guide and advise experienced staff that will be supporting the new starters in their work areas.”
Not only can you work towards an apprenticeship in clinical roles, but you can also gain a qualification in a clerical role. Nathan Marriot tells us more about his level 3 apprenticeship in the video below.
Trainee Placement
Ever considered a trainee placement? A placement prepares you for employment or an apprenticeship by allowing you to take part in an education and work experience.
“I became a trainee because I wanted a complete career change. I wanted to make sure that I trained properly in this field and took the steps necessary.
The best thing about my placement is the team and support I receive. I feel like it’s a great environment to learn and grow, as well as have the freedom to develop my counselling style.
My placement offers opportunities to attend workshops to develop mental health and counselling skills, no matter how much experience you have AND provide workshops for clients which is great to be a part of. By working in the mental health sector of healthcare it’s highlighted to me how the demand for more mental health help is needed for the public. I like that I have the opportunity to contribute to this.”
Inspired by the range of careers in healthcare?
With affordable housing and great transport links, starting your career in Chesterfield is a no brainer. If you enjoyed reading what local people think about careers in the healthcare sector, please do look at the career routes on offer with Chesterfield businesses. We’d love to share your story soon.
Wondering what a career in creative and digital involves? As a society, we are becoming more and more reliant on technology. Especially businesses, which need creative and digital talent to help push products and services to market.
Chesterfield needs more skilled people in these sectors to achieve its ambitions. That’s because the town is working to complete £2b of regeneration.
As more businesses invest here, Chesterfield is becoming a great place of innovation again. It follows on from our long history of ‘firsts’. From the first commercially produced disposable nappy. To the first Derbyshire town to embrace electric street lighting.
Chesterfield was also the first town in the UK to declare itself an Apprentice Town. Keep reading to find out from current and past apprentices why they chose an exciting career in creative and digital.
Meet local creative and digital apprentices
Creative and digital overlaps with many sectors. It allows you to choose your role within an area that interests you most. Whether you want to engineer technology, create social media content or design architectural visualisation, you can do it all here in Chesterfield!
Dylan Mann is a Level 3 Information Communications Technician at Central Technology. The IT company offers clients tailored IT Support, Cloud, Cyber Security and Telecom Solutions.
Ellie Eaton is a Level 3 Content Creator at Derbyshire Constabulary, training with Chesterfield College. The team at Derbyshire Constabulary works across many departments to protect the people of Derbyshire.
Alicia Bottomley is a Creative Visualiser at Oasis Studio. Alicia originally started her career as an apprentice. Oasis Studio is an award-winning digital media studio based in Chesterfield. The team offers a broad suite of Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, CGI and animation services.
Jake Taylor is a Level 3 Digital Support Technician at Addooco IT. Addooco is an innovative and specialist provider of Managed IT, Cloud, Communications and Cyber Security solutions.
Why did you choose a career in the creative and digital industry?
Dylan, Level 3 apprentice at Central Technology
Dylan: “I’d always found fiddling with electronics and technology appealing. From a fairly young age I’d been inside computers and laptops trying to fix them and it appealed to me. In secondary school I had an IT teacher who made a conscious effort to try and make IT more fun for everyone and the way he did this persuaded me, even more, to take a GCSE in IT. From then on, everything just fell into place, and I’ve never looked back.”
Ellie: “I already completed an apprenticeship in business administration and developed an interest in the engagement and multi-media team. I love seeing your initial concept, through to stakeholders’ reactions to the final content piece. It is a rewarding industry to work in.”
Jake: “I became an apprentice to move into an ever-growing industry, and to earn and learn on the job. It gave me hands-on experience with a technology company and hopefully kickstart a career in something I’m passionate about.”
Alicia: “I enjoy exploring new creative adventures, and as creativity & tech were quickly evolving side by side, I wanted to be a part of it.”
What do you enjoy about your role?
Alicia, Creative Visualiser at Oasis Studio
Alicia: “I love working at Oasis Studio because I feel like I can stand out as an individual, whilst still counting on my amazing team to back me up when I need it. It’s amazing to work for a company that recognises and encourages my creativity. I feel like a valued part of the team here.”
Ellie: “I enjoy working closely with colleagues from creative backgrounds. They encourage me to expand on my ideas and allow opportunities for me to develop my production skills.
I am currently working on a project to improve our use of Instagram, which involves me carrying out research into competitors, pitching ideas to colleagues and trialling different content formats. Using our Instagram more effectively will help us to communicate with a younger age demographic. That has been an ongoing organisational problem for many years.”
Dylan: “ There are lots to like about my role. Every day is different and I learn something new. IT is like learning to drive. Once you pass your test you only then begin to learn to drive. You can look at models and theoretical scenarios. But only once they’re occurring in front of your eyes – then you learn how to deal with them.”
Jake: “With the digital sector expanding and developing at the rate it is, it means there’s always something new to learn and get stuck into. I have worked on the Northern Gateway Centre, and it was rewarding seeing the network built from the ground up.”
Why choose Chesterfield for your creative and digital career?
Coral Guard and David Freeman at Spire Radio
1) Strong creative and digital companies choose Chesterfield as a base for both their business and families. That’s because the town is uniquely positioned; close to the Peak District and brilliantly connected with easy access to major cities by road and direct rail. So, you will find an array of career opportunities in the industry here. Find out more about the creative and digital businesses in Chesterfield…
2) An apprenticeship is a fantastic career route that allows you to develop skills and experience to progress your career. Chesterfield has a range of apprenticeship providers. They can guide you to find an apprenticeship with a local employer and support your apprenticeship training.
3) Chesterfield’s businesses are keen to support future talent in the creative and digital industries. Spire Radio has created partnerships with local businesses to offer opportunities for individuals to develop skills and gain experience. David Freeman, Presenter at Spire Radio, said:
“We love inviting local students into our studios as part of our work experience program. Working with Chesterfield College and GBS Apprenticeships, we’ve developed an educational program to help students understand the radio and media industry. Including activities on and off-air, encompassing all aspects of our station from broadcasting to website content, social media to production.”
“I had a great time on Spire Radio, David gave me an opportunity to give adult learners a voice in the apprenticeship space and get the word out about how easy and accessible apprenticeships can be for everyone. I’m looking forward to the future shows we are planning together and continue to promote our Apprentice Town!”
Have you been inspired to learn more?
The creative and digital sector is extremely diverse, covering all kinds of careers in which people make things using their imagination.
Two skills and training providers in Chesterfield have been recognised in a national ceremony, which celebrates the best in apprenticeship delivery across the UK.
The AAC Apprenticeship Awards took place on 14th March 2023, in a special ceremony in Birmingham. A record 375 entries were received from training providers, colleges, universities and employers.
Workpays won the award for Legal, Finance, and Accounting Apprenticeship Provider of the Year, while GBS Apprenticeships were worthy finalists in the Digital Apprenticeship Provider of the Year category.
2023 marks the third year in a row that Workpays have won an accolade at the annual award ceremony, and is the second time that Workpays have won Legal, Finance, and Accounting Apprenticeship Provider of the Year.
Alex Glasner, Managing Director of Workpays (pictured above), said: “We are thrilled to win such a prestigious award for a third year in a row. This really is testament to the dedication of our apprenticeship team, who work day-in day-out to provide the best training possible to individuals across the country.
“Apprenticeships are an amazing way to support employees to gain the skills they need to excel as well as a great path to grow new talent. Our portfolio of apprenticeships and accredited qualifications enable this to happen.”
Alex continued: “All our programmes are tailored to the businesses and individuals we work with, each with its own unique learner journey, this is what has set us apart. We know first-hand how this can change people’s lives and help businesses grow. This award is further recognition of
the hard work of our entire team and I’m incredibly proud.”
Speaking about the company’s nomination as finalists in the Digital Apprenticeships category, GBS Apprenticeships said it was a ‘great honour’ to be recognised – adding that it indicates that the work the company has been doing is being acknowledged by experts and peers in the industry.
A statement from the company’s CEO, Penny Guard said: “I would like to thank the GBS team for their continued hard work and dedication to the company, and our students that continues to push boundaries through stretch and challenge creating talented individuals that strive for even greater successes in the future”.
Chesterfield is the first town in the UK to declare itself an Apprentice Town, demonstrating its commitment to developing future skills for young people and providing a strong pipeline of talent for local businesses. Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/what-is-apprentice-town/
Workpays and GBS Apprenticeships support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
A Chesterfield skills provider is launching a series of skills workshops, aimed at encouraging more people in the town to take up an apprenticeship.
The ‘Get Apprenticeship Ready’ course, being launched by DBC Training will prepare people for the world of work, by helping residents with a range of topics to boost their confidence when applying for roles.
This includes providing details on how to write a stand-out CV, cover letter and application. The training also includes advice on how to perform well in interviews and in the workplace.
The two-day course, taking place on 23rd and 24th March, can be delivered at one of the company’s training centres, and can also be provided remotely.
Commenting on the initiative, Lewis Silcock, Learner Engagement Officer at DBC Training said: “It is SO important to get more young people into apprenticeships, but a lot of young people don’t have all the information to make the right choice for them.
“The skills and experience a young person will gain from doing an apprenticeship will really prepare them for their future career, plus the increase in a young, skilled workforce will benefit local employers massively as they’ll gain a hard working, knowledgeable young person, full of fresh, new ideas, who has been exposed to the workplace early on in their life.
“They will know what it means to have responsibility and will be keen to showcase their skills to their employer. The more skilled young people we have, the more the local area will thrive and motivate the next generation of would be apprentices.”
“There are over 600 apprenticeship standards at all different levels, so there really is an apprenticeship for everyone.”
Chesterfield is the first town in the UK to declare itself an Apprentice Town – demonstrating its commitment to growing the future and careers of young people alongside business and the economy by retaining and developing young talent in the town in order to attract more employers to invest here.
Apprentice Town aims to increase the number, levels and quality of apprenticeships available by raising awareness of apprenticeship opportunities in Chesterfield including traineeships, higher Level Apprenticeships and align these with opportunities emerging in the local economy.
In addition, DBC Training is also carrying out a course aimed at helping people in Chesterfield from a wide variety of backgrounds to boost their mathematics and money saving skills. Multiply will be running later this month, from 13th-16th March.
Lewis added: “The course’s focus is to assist people in saving money from bills to their regular food shop. It will also support people in becoming more energy efficient also helping to save on cost of energy bills with energy efficient cooking methods.
“Multiply also offer insights in hidden labour and jobs markets, tools and services to help you find employment.In addition to this it offers help to improve everyday maths skills which you can apply to various aspects of day to day life. IN the current climate I really believe we can help benefit local people in and around chesterfield.
DBC Training supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Are you searching for job opportunities? Whether it be a part time or full time role, a career in hospitality, leisure and tourism can help you develop skills for life.
A career in the sector is exciting due to the diverse range of job roles. You could find yourself working in events, food services, accommodation, entertainment, tourist services and more. Whatever area you choose, there are plenty of roles to choose from, along with career progression opportunities.
There’s no better way to learn about the skills developed working in the sector, than straight from the individuals that work in hospitality, leisure and tourism.
What’s it like working in hospitality?
With Chesterfield being an ideal base to visit the Peak District, the town is home to many hospitality venues.
Meet Matthew Clark, Conference Events Co-ordinator at Chesterfield’s Casa Hotel. He demonstrates how quickly you can progress in the industry. Matthew first had a taste of working in hospitality whilst completing his work experience at school in a large chain hotel – the same place he worked his first full time role.
Matthew said: “I left school and returned to the hotel, this time as a full time receptionist. I quickly learnt the ropes and progressed to a supervisory position. Being front facing and having that guest interaction daily was a part of the job that I loved. However, I was ready to ‘fly the nest’ and move onto an exciting challenge to push my career forward. This is when I found Casa and a new opportunity.
“I joined the Casa team in 2021 as a reservations co-ordinator. This helped me gain further knowledge of the hotel system as well as reservations and revenue. Whilst in this role I also began to assist our Events Co-ordinators in booking small meeting rooms and functions. This again sparked another interest of mine!
“Fast forward to now, I am a Conference and Events Co-ordinator here at Casa, planning events for up to 200 people from conferences and corporate dinners, to milestone family functions. My interest in hospitality was planted by the idea of guest happiness, and I now organise our clients’ great occasions with their satisfaction at the heart of what I do. What better way to be a part of our guests’ journey than planning their special event!”
Is there progression opportunities in hospitality?
Charlotte Brook is HR Officer at DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park, she demonstrates how you can progress your career with transferable skills. She explained: “Working in the hospitality industry over the years has given me so much job satisfaction. Every day is different, whether it be running a wedding or celebrating a guests special birthday. I have learnt many transferable skills that have helped in every position I have held in my hospitality career. One of the highlights of my learning was a trip to Malaga, Spain to learn how to be a Hilton Trainer, something I will never forget!
“As a result of the transferable skills learnt during my management roles, I progressed into a HR officer position. The progression opportunities in hospitality are endless and I would recommend anyone thinking about joining the industry to give it a go. You never know where it will take you and the opportunities that may arise.”
What’s it like working in leisure?
Leisure is all about what people like to do and experience in their free time. Chesterfield’s event and festival programme helps to attract people to spend their leisure time here in Chesterfield, and one of the annual favourites is the Tapton Lock Festival, which is organised by Junction Arts.
Martha Bramwell started working at Junction Arts as a part-time intern, before progressing to Projects Assistant through an apprenticeship. She said: “I always knew I wanted to work in the community arts and leisure sector. I love working on projects such as the Tapton Lock Festival, as it brings together the amazing people that make up our Chesterfield community.”
Martha’s apprenticeship has allowed her to gain hands-on experience and an advanced education without going to university. She explained: “My time at Junction Arts will provide me the skills and experience to build a lifelong career.
“Every day I feel motivated. I’m excited to come to work and learn something new every day, knowing the work I do helps to create change in my local community. I couldn’t wish for a better team – I feel supported and guided in all aspects of my work. Once I have completed my apprenticeship, I will be continuing my work at Junction Arts as a project assistant.”
Gain experience and skills for life
Working in hospitality, leisure and tourism can help develop your career not only in these sectors but also other industries. We spoke to two local apprentices who demonstrate just that.
Jake Taylor worked as a chef for 5 years before becoming a Level 3 Digital Support Technician at Addooco IT. He said: “Working as a chef provided me with key communication and timing skills. My ability to carry out jobs quickly and efficiently has aided me in my new job.
“Every day is a learning day at Addooco and the natural curiosity that comes with the territory of being a chef is something that I hope will push me into a big future within the company and industry.”
Ria Smith worked as a waitress prior to completing her Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship at Peak Pharmacy. She explained: During my time as a waitress I developed key transferable skills which have helped me within my new career in many ways; I have completed my apprenticeship in 12 months, rather than 18 and I am given more responsibility.
Having completed my apprenticeship, I have progressed within Peak Pharmacy and been enrolled on another course which I can then build on in the future.”
Fancy working in hospitality, leisure and tourism?
You can develop skills for life in hospitality, leisure and tourism and they can help to progress your career, either within the sector or a different industry. The leisure and tourism offering in Chesterfield means there are many career opportunities available.
This was evidenced recently at the town’s Employability and Skills Conference, which saw more than a hundred delegates discuss the current skills landscape in the town.
At the conference, Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director at the Devonshire Group updated attendees on the exciting Construction Skills Hub, which is set to be developed in Mastin Moor.
The hub will provide a live learning environment for apprentices in the town, in order to help them gain vital skills and experience, helping people in Chesterfield build strong careers in the property and construction sector.
In the East Midlands, an extra 17,500 construction workers will be needed from 2023-2027, an annual requirement of 3,500 new workers every year.
We spoke to Andrew at the conference to get his thoughts on the current skills landscape across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, and how local organisations are working to meet the demand.
We’ve heard in recent times a lot about skills shortages in the property and construction sector. To what extent is this affecting the industry?
“One of the problems the property and construction sector faces at the moment, is that its workforce is getting older. We need to begin bringing in the next generation.
“The next generation can help us contribute towards solving the housing crisis, delivering the employment and industrial growth that we want to see in the country, and helping to deliver the physical, social and green infrastructure needed to help us meet that key target of net-zero by 2050.”
What can Chesterfield and North Derbyshire firms do to bring more skilled and talented people into their companies?
“We’ve been here at the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Skills and Employability Conference today (Wednesday, 8th February), hearing from both the education sector and industry about the skills that are needed.
“My key message for people in industry and the property and construction sector, is to get involved!
“It is incumbent on us to actually make a difference, get involved and encourage people into what we do. We should be proud of it.”
For a young person, how rewarding can a career in the property and construction sector be?
“I absolutely love the business that I’m in and I love the property and construction sector. The people I meet, the problems I solve, and the fact that I’m part of teams that build the places that we live, work and play in.
“To come away from a project and know that you were actually a part of it, and that project is going to be there for years to come is a great feeling.”
Tell us about the partnership working taking place locally to encourage the growth of skills in the property and construction sectors.
“You’ll have heard a lot about the work that we’re doing as part of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group.
In the forum, we launched a pilot scheme for women in construction. That is a mentoring scheme where women who are already in the property and construction business, have been mentoring pupils in years 10 and 11 across local schools in Chesterfield.
The second way we’ve been making a difference is the work we have been doing with Parkside School. Members from the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group have been into the school, carrying out a speed networking session with the pupils to show them the range of careers and projects that we get involved in. We answered some of their questions and tried to light that spark so that they take more of an interest in what we do.
I’d also like to refer to the Construction Skills Hub that we’ve been working to deliver with Chesterfield College, Chesterfield Borough Council and the University of Derby. This will be delivered on-site at Mastin Moor across the course of 2023.
New apprentices will be able to learn the skills that the industry needs at the moment, alongside what the industry is going to need in the future to hit those net-zero targets.”
With a range of regeneration projects taking place in Chesterfield currently, do you feel it’s an exciting time to get into the profession?
“The sector is always exciting, but it is particularly exciting in Chesterfield at the moment because there is so much going on.
There is an awful lot going on in Chesterfield at the moment, so it really is a great time. What I would say though, is that it is always a great time to be getting involved in the industry.
If you’re not building it, you’re usually planning for it or trying to solve the problems that make it happen, so the key thing is to get involved!”
Chesterfield is the first town in the UK to declare itself an Apprentice Town – demonstrating its commitment to growing the future and careers of young people alongside business and the economy by retaining and developing young talent in the town in order to attract more employers to invest here.
Becoming an apprentice offers many benefits to help progress your career in a chosen sector.
What better way to learn about apprenticeships than straight from local apprentices? We spoke to the following individuals to find out why they became an apprentice and how it’s benefitting their career. They also share some top tips around becoming an apprentice.
“In school I was introduced to apprenticeships. I just knew it was something I wanted to do. I wasn’t interested in going to college, sixth form or university. I think most people who take on an apprenticeship would agree, they would rather get out there and start learning in more ways than just being taught in a classroom.”
Lewis’s advice…
Keep working hard, the end result will be worth it!
“I decided university wasn’t for me so explored apprenticeships within the marketing field online. I thought an apprenticeship would be a smooth way to change career, gain a qualification and experience whilst being paid.”
Elicia’s advice…
Make sure the apprenticeship is within a field you have a genuine passion for and enjoy.
“I am enjoying developing my knowledge in accountancy and as a result getting more responsibility. My apprenticeship has allowed me to be able to run payrolls for clients and also get certified on three of the main bookkeeping systems used by the company. I am already adding value to the business.”
Henry’s advice…
It’s a great way of continuing to learn in a field without having to go to university and, unlike a normal college course, you are earning a wage while you learn.
“I have severe dyslexia and struggled at school so had to look at other ways I could stand out on my CV. My parents and school encouraged me to look at different ways I could achieve my career ambitions and an apprenticeship, which combined on-the-job learning with assessment, enabled that.”
“I was a chef for five years after leaving school. I fell into it from washing pots in the kitchen. Lockdown came and I realised I wanted a change of career, something which I could be more interested in and passionate about. An apprenticeship gave me the ability to change career but also get a qualification along the way to support me in a long-term career in the IT sector.”
Jake’s advice…
Do it! There’s an apprenticeship in every field you can imagine and to be able to earn alongside learning is a great benefit.
“Progression is really important to me, and my employer recognises this so has offered me more opportunities to learn. I was assigned the new uniform distribution to over 1500 staff. I love it. It’s all down to me, the ordering, distribution, etc. Moving up within Peak Pharmacy is what it’s all about for me.”
Ria’s advice…
Go for it! Having the chance to get first-hand experience on the job while getting a qualification is an amazing opportunity and can really help set off your career in the right direction.
“My apprenticeship has gone beyond my expectations. I never thought I’d have the relationships I do have in the workplace. They not only make each day more enjoyable, but you can learn from the people around you.”
Nathan’s advice…
If you choose an apprenticeship, don’t just go in and do your job, listen to your colleagues, because they have already been in that career for a long time so they have made mistakes and gone through failure but that means they have learned and developed. This will help you more than any book, video or piece of college work.
8. Age is no barrier to an apprenticeship
Meet Wendy Blunt, Level 3 Community Health and Wellbeing Worker at Chesterfield Borough Council. Despite having an already established career, Wendy used an apprenticeship to gain qualifications within her current role in a cost-effective way, proving that age is no barrier to an apprenticeship. She said:
“I’d been looking for relevant courses for quite a few years to accompany my role but never found anything suitable or, if I did, they were very expensive. My manager and HR found this apprenticeship. It was the cheapest way to get a new qualification or do a relevant course.”
Wendy’s advice…
Make sure it’s what you want to do and that the subject matter is relevant to your role. Also make sure that you’ll have time to be able to complete the assignments.
9. Gain experience in the field
Emma Catley, Degree Apprentice Quantity Surveyor at Woodall Homes, said:
“I chose to do an apprenticeship to learn more about the role of a Quantity Surveyor and hoped it would help me to succeed in my degree. Being in the workplace is allowing me to acquire new skills whilst getting my qualification.”
Emma’s advice…
Get an apprenticeship with the right company; one that allows you to get hands-on experience within your workplace, enables you to gain knowledge from your colleagues and mentor and provides helpful exposure to learn how to get things done in the real world.
“I became an apprentice because I wanted to upskill and learn more about the financial services industry, especially the compliance side of the business. With the support of my directors and tutors, I enjoy the learning element of my apprenticeship which complements my job as a financial services advisor.”
Emily’s advice…
For anyone considering starting an apprenticeship, I’d advise them to make sure that they are passionate about what they will study; it will make learning so much more exciting.
“I began my apprenticeship because I wanted to gain new knowledge and experience in the financial services industry. Completing my apprenticeship alongside my job as a mortgage administrator allows me to actively put into practice new skills whilst in the workplace.”
Abigail’s advice…
If you enjoy learning in depth about something you’re interested in, I’d recommend that you start an apprenticeship.
11. Earn and learn on the job
Ravi is an Apprentice Barber at Less Than Zero Barbers. Learn about his experience as an apprentice by watching the video below.
A Chesterfield Accountancy and business advice firm has grown its team by taking on several apprentices, having worked with Chesterfield College to provide employment opportunities for local people.
Mitchells have also long been an Apprenticeship Ambassador, helping to promote Chesterfield as an Apprentice Town and raising awareness of apprenticeships and their benefits to strengthen the workforce of the local economy.
Mitchells recognises that university isn’t the only option available to those leaving school, which is why the firm offers apprenticeships for young people who wish to undertake the AAT qualification – the internationally recognised qualification based on real-world accounting knowledge.
Examples of recent success stories for Mitchells apprentices include the following:
Mitchells’ apprentice, Dominic Day has successfully finished his ICAEW exams and associated work this year to become a qualified member of the Institute.
Two ICAEW apprentices, Sophia Ferretto and Brandon Wazirali, have passed advanced level exams and are in the final stages of also becoming fully qualified Institute members.
Julie Clayton has progressed to the final exam in her ACCA apprenticeship and received glowing praise from their training provider for their dedication to both the training and the apprenticeship requirements.
Apprentices, Sophia Ferretto and Olivia Powell were both put forward by Mitchells for recognition in the Apprentice of the Year category at this year’s Love Chesterfield Awards. The applications showed how well thought of these individuals, along with their fellow apprentices, are by the firm and also the care taken to ensure they continue to develop and flourish.
From the moment their training begins, apprentices are assigned a mentor who monitors and supports their professional and personal development. As well as becoming a full-time employee at Mitchells, with a salary and other associated benefits, they pay for their AAT apprentices to attend Chesterfield College on a day release basis to study.
Further industry specific qualifications are completed by apprentices including ATT, ACCA, ICAEW and CIOT on a similar basis using internationally recognised training providers.
Having used other training providers in the past, they now only use Chesterfield College for their AAT qualifications because the college is employer led and prepares students for their careers and helps develop ambitious students prepare for work and life.
Mitchells currently employs 5 AAT apprentices who all study at Chesterfield College. Associate Partner, Laura Pain said: “We strongly believe in attracting candidates leaving college and sixth form to help them get started at the ground level.” She went onto highlight two apprentices in the Business Services Team, which she heads up.
“Olivia Powell joined us at just 17 years old and has thrived over the past three years to the point where she is confident and comfortable dealing with the rest of the team, her clients and HMRC. Jessica Wright first joined Mitchells as a university placement student and returned to learn more. Jess achieved a Distinction at Level 2 AAT with an overall qualification percentage score of 96%.”
Olivia Powell and fellow AAT apprentices, Jasmine Pollard and Chloe Jones commented on why they chose the apprenticeship route: “Apprenticeships are a great way of gaining your qualifications whilst working along-side meaning you can put theory into practise and practise into theory. It is also means no commitment of university and allows you to get a head start into the world of work as you can begin your career as young as 16.”
They also commented: “Chesterfield College is a training provider that allows you to work with other apprentices who are working towards the same qualifications as yourself. This not only supports us but allows us to have an insight into all the aspects of accounting, whether this is in industry or practise as you are working with people from a diverse range of job roles. Chesterfield College is extremely local to Mitchells and you are given a day release each week in order to attend the lessons. The lessons are in person allowing you to engage more and ask for any help or resources if needed. Printers and laptops are also available to use on campus which can be used after teaching hours. College tutors are also accessible via email and on teams whenever you need them showing they are very willing to contribute towards your success during AAT.”
Henry Taylor-Toone, Vice Principal Finance and Corporate Services at Chesterfield College said the following: “We’re very proud that Mitchells, a very well known and established Chesterfield business, has chosen Chesterfield College as their training provider. Chesterfield College is employer focused and our partnership with Mitchells demonstrates exactly what we can provide to local businesses – top quality education, delivered locally, helping apprentices, students and adults succeed in their chosen field. Apprentices from Mitchells are also a delight to teach which is always a bonus!”
David Waining, the firms Qualified Person Responsible for Training (QPRT) said “We have been very proud to work with all our apprentices. The joint provision between the training providers and ourselves provides the trainees with valuable experience of the practical work to apply the technical knowledge they have picked up in the classroom. We have had numerous success stories at all levels of the apprenticeship scheme and have looked to expand the number of apprenticeships we are offering across the firm because of these successes. We see this as a vital resource to grow our workforce.”
Mitchells Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers and Chesterfield College support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
With the festive season just around the corner, Chesterfield businesses are turning their attention to recruiting new talent ahead of the busy period.
We have put together a guide to help you explore the career opportunities available right here in Chesterfield and know where to search for those festive job vacancies.
Retail and Hospitality
As retail businesses are stocking the shelves ahead of the Christmas shopping boom and hospitality venues putting the finishing touches to the festive menu ready for the Christmas party season, these businesses are looking to hire an extra pair of hands for the busy period.
These roles are the perfect way to gain valuable work experience and enhance your skills. Lucy Bacon, Assistant Marketing Manager of the Casa Hotel Group, demonstrates how working in hospitality helped her gain transferable skills which can be applied to other career opportunities.
Lucy explained: “I started at Casa Hotel working part-time, alongside my school studies, in the Cocina Restaurant. This gave me a great base of transferable skills to grow on! My journey in Cocina then quickly moved from part-time to full-time, and from Food and Beverage Attendant to Restaurant Supervisor.
After some time developing my food and beverage knowledge further, I began to take interest in the Marketing of our products and services both for the Restaurant and the Hotel as a whole. The Management team here at Casa gave me the opportunity and support to gain my qualification in Marketing as well as move over fully into the Marketing of both Casa and Peak Edge. I am now the proud Assistant Marketing Manager of the Casa Hotel Group and am grateful for the opportunities I have been given whilst working in the Hospitality Industry.”
Browse the job vacancies available at Casa Hotel here and Peake Edge here.
Marks and Spencer’s in Chesterfield are currently advertising some fantastic career options across many roles.
Matt Corker, Store Manager at Chesterfield said: “You could be part of something special. Our brand new M&S store in Chesterfield is coming soon and you could be coming with us.
Whoever you are, whatever your background, build a career to be proud of here – we’re with you all the way.
We’re looking to recruit up to 100 remarkable colleagues to be part of one amazing team. Plus with flexible career options, opportunities to progress and great benefits, including 20% colleague discount, why not take a look and apply today!”
Search the job opportunities available at Marks and Spencer’s Chesterfield here.
You can use the Job Centre Plus service to search for job vacancies in the local area. Give @JCPInStaffDerby a follow on social media as they regularly post the latest vacancies, alternatively, you browse through the listings on their website here.
Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire have a dedicated webpage for job vacancies in the hospitality industry across Derbyshire and the Peak District. Search the current vacancies here.
Chesterfield Market Recruitment Event
Are you searching for work in Chesterfield? Visit the Chesterfield Market Recruitment Event on Wednesday 12th October 10 am – 12 pm, where you can meet employers and find out more about local job vacancies and training schemes that lead to employment.
The drop-in event is open to everyone, with no need to make an appointment.
There will be lots of opportunities available on the day from a range of sectors including, retail, hospitality, social care, engineering, logistics, transport, and many more.
Derbyshire Careers Service will also be attending the event to promote training courses but also advise job seekers on how they can get support with their CV and interview techniques.
Find an Apprenticeship in Chesterfield
Currently, there are over 100 apprenticeship vacancies available across a variety of sectors and apprenticeships can be a great stepping stone for your career, allowing you to earn and learn on the job.
Tom Fearn, Recruitment Manager at Apprentice Team said: “Gaining employment during the festive period can lead to some exciting opportunities and gives you a chance to kickstart your career within your desired sector.
Apprenticeships are also available within a wide range of sectors. This can be a vital time of year to gain experience that you can use for future employment and interviews. In most cases, workplaces during the festive period are busier than usual which also allows candidates to gain a wide range of skills working in a fast-paced environment.”
Use our search tool to browse the hundreds of apprenticeship vacancies available in and around Chesterfield. You can simply scroll through the vacancies or filter by sector and apprenticeship level to find the right apprenticeship for you. Access the search tool here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/
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