apprenticeships

Top tips for taking on an apprentice in Chesterfield

Hiring an apprentice can bring a wealth of benefits to your business from improved productivity to improvements in the quality of products and services.

This blog explores the top tips for taking on an apprentice from Chesterfield based apprentice providers. Apprentice providers offer support to develop your workforce by hiring an apprentice and offering apprenticeship training.

1. Apprentices are employees that are learning

Katy Baker, Head of Quality and Curriculum at Essential Site Skills, explained:

“New apprentices are in training from day one giving them the opportunities to understand their role and your business. The aim is that in the long term they will become an integral and important employee to the business.

Don’t hire an apprentice expecting them to know everything in your industry or field, they need regular support and mentoring within their role, so ensure you understand what an apprenticeship is all about. Learning with a highly skilled apprenticeship provider along with in-company training and mentoring will support that individual into becoming an important asset to your business.”

2. Conduct research to find the right training provider for you

Tom Fearn, Recruitment Manager at Apprentice Team, said:

“Apprenticeships allow businesses to develop and expand whilst also upskilling current employees as well. Prior to recruiting an apprentice, make sure you conduct appropriate research to find the correct training provider and consider information such as Ofsted grades, achievements and feedback from other employers that is available on the gov website.”

current apprentices in Chesterfield

3. Help fill your skills gap by developing new talent through the recruitment of an apprentice

Anne Wright, Managing Director at Workpays, suggested:

“Help fill your skills gap by developing new talent through the recruitment of an apprentice. Work with the training provider to tailor the learning to meet the skills needs of the business whilst developing the apprentice to gain a beneficial qualification.

When hiring an apprentice, you should consider offering a mentor or coach to help this individual develop and thrive. This person should be a positive ambassador and may have done something similar themselves previously.  This will greatly add value to the apprentice’s journey and increase the chances of retaining them as a valuable employee of the future.”

4. Show your commitment to the apprentices learning

Tom Malpass, Business Development Manager – Apprenticeships at Buxton and Leek College, explained:

“Make sure to show your commitment to their learning and how you know it will be mutually beneficial to both the apprentice and the business.”

Become an apprentice in Chesterfield

5. Consider what skills gap you have and the role the apprentice will carry out

James Lund, Head of Business and Development at Chesterfield College Group, provided us with his top tip:

“Take the time to think about the skills gaps you have and the role the apprentice will carry out. This will help to make sure you are recruiting the right person to benefit your business. It is also important to consider how your organisation will mentor the apprentice in the workplace to make sure you can develop the apprentice to their full potential, giving you the biggest return on your investment. Your apprenticeship provider should be able to support you through this process.”

6. Work with a training provider to find the right apprentice candidate for your business

Scott Tait, Business Development Manager at GBS Apprenticeships, said:

“Work closely with your training provider to make sure they are aware of the type of candidate that would flourish and succeed within your business setting. An apprentice needs to thrive in the right environment with the right business for their career and equally a business needs to have the right apprentice in order to grow and support the needs of the business.”

Resources and Information

7. Make sure to showcase any progression opportunities

Roy Barton, Academy Manager at One to One Training, advised:

“For me, it would be all about progression. What career can the apprentice expect to move into and what are the longer term opportunities? If an apprentice is offered a choice of gaining a qualification but limited in opportunities to progress beyond this with one employer, and another has longer term strategy and vision, then it is likely the apprentice will choose the one with more opportunity.”

8. Invest time into your apprentice to reap the rewards in the future

Paul Burton, Head of Apprenticeships at DBC Training, explained:

“Make sure that you have the availability to invest time into your apprentice. Ensure to remain patient during the early stages and check your apprentice understands everything. For a lot of apprentices, this could be their first full-time job and therefore require additional attention. If you invest the time at the start, you will reap the rewards in the future.”

Find out more about hiring an apprentice and the funding which is available here.

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Workpays set to host ‘The Big Assembly’ during National Apprenticeship Week

Workpays’ annual event ‘The Big Assembly’ is set to return again this year, with the broadcast set to inform thousands of young people about the benefits of apprenticeships.

Last year the event was watched live and on-demand by over 60,000 people, with schools, parents, students and employers receiving information and advice about possible next steps in their careers.

This time around, The Big Assembly is teaming up with Pret A Manger, Bakkavor, Disability Rights UK, the Co-operative Bank & Coca-Cola Europacific Partners.

It is produced by Chesterfield-based Workpays in partnership with GetMyFirstJob, ASK & Amazing Apprenticeships.

Alex Glasner, MD at Workpays, said: “The aim of the Big Assembly is simple: inspire the next generation of apprentices. For many school leavers, the broadcast is a starting point to discover what their next steps are after graduation – whether it be employment or further education. The Big Assembly is the jewel in the crown of National Apprenticeship Week!

“With more and more people tuning in each year, we wanted to make the 2022 Big Assembly the BIGGEST one yet, so we’re broadcasting it live from an employer – something that we’ve never done before! ”

The 2022 Big Assembly broadcast is being hosted at Pret A Manger and will be available to watch at bigassembly.org from the 8 February 2022.

It will feature a panel made up of employers, current apprentices, former apprentices, and a representative from the Disabled Apprentice Network.

David Carter, UK People Director of Pret said: “We’re thrilled to be hosting The Big Assembly broadcast this year as we partner with Workpays to hire and inspire the next generation of apprentices.

The Big Assembly is an amazing way to reach thousands and we’re excited to have representation on the panel sharing our apprentices’ success stories and showcasing what ‘a day in the life of an apprentice’ is really like. We can’t wait to help build the future and hope we help those wanting to become an apprentice.”

As well as Q&As and myth busting, there will also be segments showcasing the apprenticeship programmes at Pret, Bakkavor, Disability Rights UK, the Co-operative Bank & Coca-Cola Europacific Partners.

Workpays supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Workpays to deliver employability apprenticeship to get more people into work

Skills provider Workpays is looking to boost the employability market by offering a new Level 4 Employability Practitioner Apprenticeship.

The apprenticeship, lasting 18-24 months, can be delivered online and face-to-face. Depending on turnover, businesses can receive funding from the government to
cover 95% or 100% of associated costs.

The broad purpose of the apprenticeship is to provide staff with the skills to work with individuals who are distanced furthest from the labour market. Supporting
them to address and overcome obstacles in securing suitable and sustainable employment.

Occupations linked to it include Key Workers, Careers Advisors, Job Coaches, Student Support Workers, Training Advisors and many more.

Alex Glasner, Managing Director at Workpays, said: “We see the new Level 4 Employability Practitioner Apprenticeship as an exciting addition to our already award-winning lineup of apprenticeship programmes.

“Now, more than ever, Workpays is committed to helping people get back into work and this apprenticeship will ensure that employers are equipped with the
right skills to make it happen.”

This apprenticeship will benefit small, medium and large organisations, including local authorities, government bodies, recruitment agencies, training providers,
universities, schools and many more.

Any employer or individual wanting more information on the Employability Practitioner Apprenticeship, or apprenticeships in general, is to contact the Workpays Work-based learning team on apprenticeships@workpays.co.uk

Find out more about apprenticeships in Chesterfield by visiting our Apprentice Town page.

Workpays helps people to access the skills & training needed to gain employment. The firm also provides Apprenticeship Support & Knowledge to parents, teachers & students and assists employers to develop their workforce through work-based learning and apprenticeships.

The company operates nationally, including an office here in Chesterfield. Workpays also helps to provide skills support from their other offices in Derby, Coventry, Chesterfield, Kettering, Leicester, Wolverhampton, Hinckley, Corby & Market Harborough.

Workpays supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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DBCP makes apprenticeship appointment in technical support team

Former Tibshelf Secondary School pupil, Christian Peat (17) is the latest addition to DBCP’s technical support team.

Christian joins the leading supplier of building control services in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands, as a Level 3 Business Administration Apprentice.

Having studied Construction and the Built Environment at school, Christian was familiar with building regulations and health and safety which sparked his interest in joining the sector.

Based at DBCP’s Chesterfield office, Christian is now working alongside the technical support team managing inspection requests for the company’s 26-strong team of building control surveyors.

He said: “It’s a really varied role with DBCP which is great. My dad is a quantity surveyor and my mum also used to work in planning, so I have experience through them of those fields. Working in building control is adding to my skillset and helping help me identify what I would like to follow as a career once I finish my apprenticeship.”

Welcoming Christian to the company David Pratt, DBCP’s Building Control Manager said: “I am delighted that Christian has chosen to begin his career journey with DBCP. It is important that companies in the building control sector invest in the training and skills of young people to avoid a future skills shortage.

“Looking ahead to the future, we have started our recruitment process now for two Building Control degree apprentices. It’s vitally important we have trained and qualified building control surveyors for current and future construction and renovation projects across Derbyshire and Staffordshire.”

If you are considering a degree apprenticeship in Building Control ahead of leaving school next year and would like to know more, get in touch with DBCP’s Building Control Manager David Pratt, on 0333 880 2000 or email info@dbcp.co.uk

Find out more about apprenticeships in Chesterfield by visiting our Apprentice Town page.

DBCP supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Start an exciting and fulfilling career in Hospitality and Retail

Hospitality and Retail businesses are a significant part of Chesterfield’s employment sector, partially due to the town centre being considered the 7th largest retail destination in the East Midlands. You can find out more about the sector on the My Future careers platform.

Although the sector has taken a devastating blow during the pandemic and has faced much disruption, this has also opened many avenues to new career opportunities. Chris Mapp, the Managing Director of the Tickled Trout explains: “We really need people to join our beloved industry, it can be an excellent career, we need the next generation to Choose Hospitality.” You can read more from Chris here.

Apprenticeships are one example of these up-and-coming avenues into an exciting and fulfilling career in Hospitality and Retail, offering many benefits and opportunities to learn and earn on the job.

Upskill existing employees

Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa have taken the opportunity to try and get society motivated to enjoy working in the industry. The business realised there are many benefits to the apprenticeship route including supporting current employees to develop skills and knowledge that are directly relevant to their job roles, which can help motivate the workforce and help the business to retain highly skilled personnel.

Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa has enrolled 3 of its current employees onto the Hospitality Team Member Level 2 course, in conjunction with Chesterfield College. Leo Baxter, employee at Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa will be studying to enhance his knowledge and skills in the Conference & Events Operations area.

Leo Baxter said: “I didn’t want to carry on with formal education, but I know I have to because of my age. I recently joined the hotel working in events on weddings and I really enjoy it and earning money to spend on me is great, so I was really pleased when I was told I was able to become an apprentice at the hotel and hopefully become an ambassador for future employees”.

Tim Cadman, General Manager at Ringwood Hall, says: “It saddens me that the industry has suffered so much as it is an industry that will always be needed, but it excites me that we have employees who want to enhance their skills and become the best that they can be in their job roles. We have some fantastic support within the hotels management team who will be great mentors for these employees and with the support of our Human Resources function hopefully we will attract new employees to the business who also wish to make a career for themselves with our support”.

Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa are also on the lookout for an apprentice chef and painter and decorator. Anyone who is interested in these positions should contact the hotel directly to discuss.

Gain on the job experience

Lucy is a Guest Services Assistant at Van Dyk by Wildes, her apprenticeship involves her working in the main department of the hotel dealing with check ins, reservations and enquiries for the bedrooms, restaurant, and events.

She said: “Every day is different, and every day I learn something new. I always wanted to work in hospitality, and was presented with this amazing opportunity with a great company. I enjoy being a smiley, well dressed and presented person and the apprenticeship suited me perfectly. I enjoy working to a high standard as well as being myself when greeting guests – it is a job I take a lot of pride in doing well as well as the presentation of the hotel and its lobby. Its everything I enjoy.”

Lucy undertook an apprenticeship to gain on the job experience to benefit her future career. She said: “I think for a job like this, it’s really good to get the experience. I have learnt the skills I need for the job whilst also getting the experience I need for my CV. If I was to study this job in education, I would be learning the knowledge I would need, but not the skills I need on the job.”

When I first started my apprenticeship, I was not as confident as I am now, I am happy to talk to our guests and can usually deal with any problems, or questions guests have as I now have that experience.”

Lucy has ambitions to pursue a career as a manager. She said: “The main reason I wanted an apprenticeship was because of the career I want; I enjoy it so much that I want to be a Reception Manager or Front Office Manager. I want to use what I have learned to be able to progress to a higher position.”

There is no better way to hear about the benefits of apprenticeships than from current apprentices. Click here to learn more. 

You can learn more about the industry and the opportunities available by accessing the My Future careers platform.

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Chesterfield College’s virtual jobs board gives employers access to student talent pool

Chesterfield College has launched a virtual jobs board to help employers promote work related opportunities to more than 2,000 college students who are looking to launch their careers in a range of sectors from construction to catering, and many more.

The new jobs board is already giving students access to quality work experience and industry placement opportunities, full-time and part-time jobs, as well as apprenticeships. Local employers are using the service to find students who are keen to start work in roles related to their course or chosen career goals.

The college has highlighted how the virtual jobs board service could help students get the vital work experience they need, at the same time as helping employers fill the skills gaps they have in their organisations, now and in the future.

David Malone, deputy principal of Chesterfield College said; “In today’s market of labour shortages it is vital that employers and colleges do all we can to make sure new entrants to the market are well equipped and ready to contribute to our economy. The jobs board is just one way we hope to develop our partnership with more local employers.

“We have a talent pool of passionate students who are looking for the right opportunities to develop their skills in a working environment. Work experience is as vital as studying to ensure students are ready to develop their careers. When we mix the two elements, we ensure students complete their course equipped with the right mix of knowledge and experience to make valuable employees of the future.”

It is free for employers to advertise jobs, volunteering and apprenticeship opportunities on the virtual jobs board. The college’s work experience team, made up of experienced recruitment and training professionals, supports employers through the process and ensures a quality match with potential candidates.

For more information or to advertise an opportunity on the virtual jobs board please email wex@chesterfield.ac.uk or call 0345 850 1055 and select option 1.

Chesterfield College supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Weightron expands its growing team with the hiring of a new apprentice

Chesterfield-based manufacturing and engineering firm, Weightron Bilanciai has announced a further addition to the firm’s apprenticeship programme with the hiring of a new Fabricator Welder.

As there is a generational skills gap appearing, Weightron has taken the decision to expand its scope of apprenticeships into the manufacturing section of its business, providing future skilled workers for its expanding business operation.

The latest recruit to the company, 19-year-old Kai Pollard, said: “Before I joined Weightron I studied Henry Fanshaw School in Dronfield. Outside from my job I have a real passion for Mountain Biking and Hip-Hop music.

“I chose to go down the apprenticeship route as I really enjoy fabricating steel products and seeing the transition of raw materials into a finished product that can be utilized in real life scenarios.

“Weightron Bilanciai are providing me with training, support, and skills I require to undertake the challenge of becoming a qualified fabricator. The reason I choose to join Weightron was the scope to work on, and learn to understand large scale fabrication, broadening my horizons in the field of fabrication.

Kai also had a message for other young people in the area wondering what their next steps are with regards to their future careers: “I would highly recommend doing an apprenticeship to any young person searching for a job.

“I love the hands-on approach that my apprenticeship is giving me, Weightron are providing me an environment where I can learn and obtain formal qualifications whilst earning and gaining vital life experiences.”

You can find out more about Chesterfield’s innovative skills and employability offer, and find out about the wide range of career opportunities available in the town by heading over to our My Future and Apprentice Town pages.

Weightron Bilanciai supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 190 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Local apprentices set to be honoured at brand-new awards

Chesterfield and North Derbyshire are set to name its top apprentice next month. The winner of the Apprentice of the year accolade will be named at the brand-new 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards, organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management.

Sally Grattage (35) from Chesterfield Borough Council, Chris Guard (25) of Guard Business Solutions and Ellie Gibson (21) who is employed by Heathcotes Group, have all been shortlisted for Apprentice of the Year award.

Sponsored by DBC Training, the award recognises apprentices that have made a significant contribution to the success of a local organisation. The winner of the prestigious accolade will be announced at a black tie awards ceremony at the Winding Wheel Theatre on Wednesday 20 October.

The Love Chesterfield Awards combine the long-running Chesterfield High Street and Food and Drink Awards, both of which have honoured apprentices in the town each year in recognition of the valuable contribution apprentices and apprenticeships make to the local economy.

Proud to be shortlisted Sally Grattage, who is undertaking a Level 3 Digital Marketing apprenticeship with Chesterfield Borough Council commented: “After working in the sports and leisure industry for 18 years, never did I think I would be undertaking an apprenticeship at the age of 35. To be shortlisted for this award has been a real surprise as to me; I am one to always go the extra mile to ensure my work is done to the highest of standards but, to me, that is what you do. It makes me so proud of my achievements so far.”

Through her apprenticeship Sally hopes to be able to help sports centres reach their fullest potential using digital marketing.

Sally’s boss Chris Wright, Operations Manager at Queen’s Park Sports Centre added: “The development of our marketing since Sally has been engaged in the apprenticeship has definitely improved. Sally has also been able to audit our marketing activity so we can continue to progress. The projects that she does for her apprenticeship are chosen as they have a direct impact upon the centres. They are real challenges to our service that, once completed, benefit our customers and our bottom line.”

Chris Guard, who has recently completed his Infrastructure Technician apprenticeship was delighted to be shortlisted for the award. He said: “I typically tend to just keep my head down and crack on. Being shortlisted for the Love Chesterfield Awards was a surprise but it showed me that even though I keep focused on my work, it hasn’t gone unnoticed.”

Following the completion of his apprenticeship, Chris, who is IT Systems Manager at Guard Business Solutions, is now undertaking a finance course in order to qualify as a bookkeeper.

Steven Guard, CEO of Guard Business Solutions commented: “Chris is a very driven individual and took on the apprenticeship with real gusto. As he progressed, he has taken on other duties within his role expanding his skills and knowledge further than the bounds of his apprenticeship. He has proved to be an invaluable member of the team and continues to learn, utilising newer technologies.”

After heading to university to do tourism and events management, Ellie Gibson (21) decided that earning and learning in a different environment would be more suited to her.

The former Bolsover School student, who has completed her Level 2 Business Administration apprenticeship is delighted to be shortlisted for the award: “Heathcotes was offering something completely different to what I was doing before, which made a nice change, and there is a high success rate with apprentices here too. I was very surprised to be shortlisted for this award but it’s nice to know that others have noticed my hard work.”

Brendan Kelly, Managing Director at Heathcotes Group added: “We took on an apprentice to ensure that we are accessing enterprising young people who can grow into roles within the business. It’s been brilliant having Ellie at the business, she has matured into a genuine asset.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield added: “Apprentices are incredibly important to the town and creating opportunities for young people is right at the forefront of our plans. Required skills are constantly changing in the modern, fast-pace working world and having that pool of young talent is crucial to allow our businesses to thrive.”

The Apprentice of the Year is one of 16 categories in the new 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards. In addition to apprentices, the new awards also recognise the contribution of entrepreneurs, regeneration projects, sustainability and community activities to the town’s economy over the last two years.

See the full list of 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards finalists here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/finalists/

The 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards are supported and made possible by a number of sponsors and partners, including: Addooco IT, Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Accountants, Chesterfield Borough Council, Chesterfield Digital High Street, The Chesterfield College Group, DBC Training, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management, Evoluted, Greatest Hits Radio South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, Hoods Florist, JP Fire Safety Solutions, MSE Hiller, Peak Pharmacy, Reflections Magazine, Shorts Chartered Accountants, Spirecross Ltd and Van Dyk by Wildes.

Peter Swallow added: “It’s never been more important to show our appreciation of the business community, so we’d love for the awards ceremony to be our biggest and best yet. This can only be made possible with sponsorship.”

Destination Chesterfield has one sponsorship opportunity remaining for the Café/Tea Room of the Year category. If you would like to support the town, please visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/sponsors/sponsorshippackages/ or contact Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator by emailing Tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk or calling 01246 207 207.

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Free online event set to help school leavers access apprenticeships and training opportunities in Derbyshire

A brand new virtual event is being held for young people in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire who find themselves at a careers crossroads since leaving school.

The free ‘Apprentice Town – Find Your Apprenticeship’ event is taking place on Tuesday 10 August – A Level results day and just two days before GCSE results day on Thursday 12August. It is designed to showcase apprenticeship vacancies and support available to both Year 11 and 13 school leavers.

Held online to ensure it is as accessible to as many young people as possible Destination Chesterfield is working with Chesterfield Borough Council to deliver the event as part of the Apprentice Town initiative.

To ensure the event is easily accessible, pre-registration is not necessary; it’s just a case a clicking a MS Teams or Zoom weblink on the day at www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/apprentice-town-find-your-apprenticeship

The event brings together seven apprenticeship and training providers from across North Derbyshire, including Apprentice Team, Buxton and Leek College, Chesterfield College Group, DBC Training, GBS Apprenticeships, Juniper Training and University of Derby.

During the day-long online event, which begins at 10am, each provider will deliver a 45-minute session on the wide variety of opportunities and training available. Available opportunities range from Kickstart placements and college courses as well as apprenticeship vacancies currently available in Chesterfield, across a range of occupations including Beauty Therapy and the police force as well as many more.

Delighted to be involved in the initiative Julie Richards, Principal and Chief Executive of The Chesterfield College Group said: “This event provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the benefits of apprenticeships and the wide range of opportunities available in the local area. We are delighted to be able to share the range of exciting vacancies on offer and highlight the support we can offer to people looking to develop skills whilst earning a wage and developing a career.”

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: Apprenticeships are fantastic for both the employer and employee. We’re lucky in Chesterfield that we have a strong network of apprenticeship providers, with lots of experience in ensuring a placement helps the apprentice gain new skills, while also providing support and guidance to the employer.

“There are always lots of varied apprenticeship opportunities available in Chesterfield. This event will promote what’s on offer and support both employers and individuals to access them. As an Apprentice Town we are committed to raising awareness and increasing participation in apprenticeships and we would encourage anyone who is looking for the first step into work – or a change of career direction – to get involved in the event and see what local opportunities are available.”

For a full itinerary of the free ‘Apprentice Town – Find Your Apprenticeship’ event and to access all training providers talks and Q&A sessions visit free www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/apprentice-town-find-your-apprenticeship/

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GBS Apprenticeships expands into new Chesterfield town centre offices

Chesterfield-based training provider GBS Apprenticeships has expanded its operations, by moving into a new premises at Chesterfield’s Markham House.

GBS provides a wide range of training programmes, with courses ranging from one-day tailored solutions to employer-led apprenticeship programmes that support businesses in sustainable growth.

The company was previously situated in Chesterfield’s Market Hall, however the move to Markham House comes after a period of significant growth over the last few years.

Chesterfield MP and Shadow Minister for Apprenticeships & Skills, Toby Perkins was in attendance at the event.

Declaring the new GBS office officially open, he said: “It’s really important that there is a huge investment in the next generation so it is fantastic to have worked with GBS Apprenticeships over the last year or so. I’ve actually got an apprentice from GBS working in my office too.

“I think it really is important that we make sure all businesses know we can invest in the next generation coming through, and that there is funding there to support businesses who want to take an apprentice on.”

Steven Guard, CEO at GBS Apprentices commented: “We now have three really good-sized training rooms and can accommodate a lot more people in the centre. It is really ideal having the job centre nearby and other services around us to make a difference locally providing a quality education to young adults and older apprentices too.

“What we want to do with this centre is make it a resource for Chesterfield. Not only is it a great centre for us to deliver our training, we want it to be a facility for other partnerships and initiatives in Chesterfield to use as a venue to further the initiatives that are going on here.

“We’re aiming to be a digital centre and really start to be able to equip people with those vital digital skills that can get them on those career paths. We want to be that go-to place where people can come. We’ll never stop speaking to people and giving advice to people. We need to have that community of providers to make the best of what we have here in Chesterfield.”

GBS Apprentices support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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Head into healthcare – a Career with Choice

Apprenticeships can be a great way to develop a career, especially in healthcare as they provide the chance to re-skill and the opportunity to earn whilst you learn. They also lead to nationally recognised qualifications and a foot in the door to your chosen career.

Develop a career 

In Chesterfield, Apprentice Providers have strong links with Chesterfield Royal Hospital, which makes developing a career in healthcare even easier.

The University of Derby work with Chesterfield Royal Hospital to offer apprenticeship training in Nursing.

Lauren Slinn, an Associate Practitioner (AP), used her apprenticeship as a steppingstone to become a registered nurse. “Studying and qualifying as an AP during the pandemic has been hard. It was difficult being redeployed to ITU whilst also writing and submitting assignments, but with the help of tutors at Derby University I have managed to complete it. Now I will be furthering my studies and have begun training to become a registered nurse, something that would not have been possible without the foundation degree apprenticeships.”

Charlotte Grayson, an Operating Department Practitioner apprentice at Chesterfield Royal Hospital, chose an apprenticeship as way of learning and earning on the job. “My apprenticeship is really the only way I could further myself at this point in my life, and my learning. Still being employed full time whilst working towards my degree is amazing. It’s been an amazing journey so far learning to scrub in and work alongside the anaesthetists and other mentors.”

Leanne Stevens, Operating Theatre Education Lead at Chesterfield Royal Hospital explains: “The ODP Degree Apprenticeship has provided us with a fantastic opportunity to be able to support and develop our current staff.

Our Bands 2 to 4 staff now have a career development pathway which enables them to both complete a degree funded through the apprenticeship levy and also to gain Band 5 Registered Professional status as an ODP which opens up many more career opportunities for the future.”

Re-skill

Apprenticeships can provide you the opportunity to re-train and secure employment in a completely different sector.

Sally Ann Thornburn, a Level 3 Adult Care Worker apprentice at One to One Support Services, is a great example of this. She previously worked at an insurance company for 30 years in a management role but wanted a new challenge and was keen to develop a career in care.

She said: “Caring for others is such a rewarding vocation; meeting new people and helping them live the lifestyle they want to lead is incredibly satisfying and since I have taken the apprenticeship the opportunities to improve people’s lives has only increased. It’s such a good course, it’s helped me recognise my specialist areas, it’s helped with the more administrative tasks I undertake each day and perhaps most importantly it’s helped me spot potential challenges my clients face quickly and enabled me to resolve them effectively.

I would recommend the Level 3 apprenticeship to anyone who is looking to progress their career in the care sector- it really does enhance your knowledge bank about the services that you are expected to provide your clients on a day to day basis.”

Diverse range of jobs 

In healthcare there are a diverse range of jobs to choose from with lots of apprenticeship pathways to support training in the numerous fields of work.

Annabelle Martin, is a business administration apprentice and junior PA at DHU Health Care completing a Level 4 apprenticeship with Learning Unlimited. She said: “I have been surprised by the variety of tasks that I do as part of my apprenticeship. I actually have a lot more responsibility than I was expecting and I work on some interesting projects.

After I finished my A Levels I was planning to go to university but I decided that it wasn’t the route for me. I didn’t know about university-level apprenticeships at the time but I am really happy that I have the opportunity to study this way and I am looking forward to developing my career with DHU.”

Careers that Care Week

Derbyshire Voluntary Action, The University of Derby and Joined Up Careers have joined forces to deliver Careers that Care Week, an event which aims to showcase careers in health and social care.

Careers that Care takes place from 21st – 25th June; access to videos, online events, and information about starting your future career in care will be available.  Featured careers include radiography, podiatry and disability support, so if you have ever wondered what these roles involve  (or if you have never heard of them and you are curious!) you can watch an interview and see a range of professionals doing their jobs. You can also sign up to Q&A sessions to ask your own questions about the featured careers.

The online hub will also have advice about how to get started in your chosen career – including information about going to university, apprenticeships, volunteering, and current schemes which are available to help you progress. More information and booking for the event can be found on the Careers that Care website.

Overall, if you are looking for a change in career then an apprenticeship in healthcare might be for you and there is more choice than you might first have thought.

More about this sector can be found on the My Future careers platform and further information on apprenticeships can be found on the Apprentice Town website.

Posted in Apprentice Town, Blog, Made in ChesterfieldTagged in , , ,

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