Refugees from countries including Ukraine and Syria are being supported into work across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Staffordshire by a partnership between two chambers of commerce.
East Midlands Chamber and Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce are working together to develop refugees’ skills, employability and social integration, with the aim of enhancing confidence among individuals who have fled war, violence or persecution to take on jobs here – and in turn help businesses to fill vacancies.
East Midlands Chamber’s employment services team has supported more than 150 individuals with personalised training courses, CV and job application writing, interview preparation, housing and financial assistance, and introductions to employers.
Paul Needham, head of employment services at East Midlands Chamber, which represents Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire, said: “Given the extremely tight labour market we are experiencing right now – our research shows that while six in 10 East Midlands businesses attempted to recruit in the first three months of 2023, almost three-quarters (73%) of those struggled to fill roles – we have been engaging businesses about the benefits of adopting inclusive recruitment policies to open up vacancies to a wider pool of people, including refugees.
“We now want to replicate this work in Derbyshire in partnership with Staffordshire Chamber, which has had great success within its own area, to provide further job opportunities that will enable refugees to integrate into our society and contribute to the communities they now call home.”
Positive Pathways project manager Julie Priestnall said: “Refugees are often skilled and capable individuals who hold qualifications and practical experience across various areas of work, as well as a willingness to learn, which means they can provide a significant contribution to businesses with a little bit of support.
“The impact of Positive Pathways has been enormous – not just on the individuals who have needed our support to give them the confidence to take on jobs but also to the local economy, which has benefitted from their skills to plug gaps in the labour market. Global events mean this type of support is needed now more than ever.”
Individuals and businesses can find out more by contacting East Midlands Chamber’s employment services team at employment.services@emc-dnl.co.uk
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.
A new initiative has been launched, aimed at getting more young people with learning disabilities across our region into work.
‘Connected Futures in D2N2’ is an in-depth research project seeking to identify the system and issues around employment for young people with Learning Disabilities (LD) and/or Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC). It considers preparation for work, as well as securing employment and career progression.
The project, the first of its kind locally, is a partnership between D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (D2N2LEP), Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP) and Nottinghamshire County Council. It is one of only seven projects nationally to be awarded the Connected Futures Fund from The Youth Futures Foundation.
The project initially focuses on Chesterfield, Derby City, Ashfield, Mansfield, and Nottingham City (D2N2 eligible areas) before learning is applied wider.
It involves examining the processes and pathways available for young people with Learning Disabilities and/or Autism, to enter employment and identify recommendations for strengthening outcomes.
Clare Talati, DEBP Chief Executive Officer said: “We are keen to work with as many organisations and representatives as possible to help compile a comprehensive study of what is currently available. We can then work together to create a shared understanding of the problem, shared ambition for change, and shared commitment to action.”
Currently, just 1.8% of the working-age population with Learning Disabilities and/or Autism secure employment across our local area, meaning there is a huge talent pool for employers being lost.
One young person said: “No one really understands how hard it is and how frustrated I can get; I just want a job and to be like everyone else.”
Clare Talati added: “Amplifying the voice of young people to inform and influence other key stakeholders is fundamental to ensuring that there are accessible, consistent, and inclusive pathways towards employment.”
Inclusive employment has so many benefits, not just for the young person and the employer, but for the wider society too. It enriches the workplace, brings in new perspectives, provides access to a new diverse talent stream, creates an employer base more representative of communities and so much more!
If you are interested in getting involved, here are just some of the ways you can help:
Promote ‘Connected Futures in D2N2’ across your network and encourage engagement with the project.
Support in engaging and capturing the voices of representative young people aged 14-25 and/or parents/carers.
Engage with a survey about your current organisational offer.
Commit to being part of a Strategy Group, to look at the learning further and support our Development Boards to shape their recommendations.
DEBP supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
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.
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.
A powerful collaboration between Chesterfield’s public, private and education sectors – working alongside Chesterfield Borough Council – is set to roll out two initiatives which will address skills shortages within the construction sector.
The initiatives – Careers Made in Chesterfield and the Construction Skills Hub – were showcased at the annual Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference, held on 8 February at The Winding Wheel Theatre.
Currently being piloted with Parkside Community School, the Careers Made in Chesterfield initiative aims to deliver careers support and guidance in schools and also forge links with businesses within the local construction and property sector. Already, the initiative is reporting increased interest in construction careers from the pupils who have been involved with the pilot.
Mr Riggott, Headteacher, Parkside Community School, said: “The Careers Made in Chesterfield pilot represented a step change in creating sustained connections between our Year 10 students and some great local companies. Our students loved it!
“This model is fantastic for a number of reasons. Perhaps most importantly, students build their knowledge of and relationships with employers across the programme, which in turn enhances their confidence and the likely outcomes of work experience following an extremely informed choice.
“I am a huge believer in the power of schools working closely with local companies in this way. As a school leader, I have seen first-hand the transformational potential of such partnerships, including through the hugely successful Avenue School Challenge in 2019 which led to apprenticeships for a number of our students following the programme. As a parent, this year I have also seen one of my sons begin a degree apprenticeship with the company with whom he completed work experience back in Year 10.”
Careers in Chesterfield has been supported by the Chesterfield Property and Construction Forum, which is led by Andy Dabbs, a Chartered Architect and Board Director at Whittam Cox Architects. Members of the Forum have delivered in-school talks, hands-on activities, and workshops to raise awareness of the sector and jobs and roles available within it to the entire Year 10 group at Parkside Community School.
Mr Dabbs said: “Collaboration between businesses and schools is crucial in addressing the skills shortage in the property and construction industry. The Property and Construction Forum’s involvement in the Careers Made in Chesterfield pilot is a prime example of the importance of creating pathways for young people to enter the sector. Without these efforts, the industry’s growth will be hindered, both regionally and nationally.”
Subject to funding, Chesterfield Borough Council will work with partners to roll out the Careers Made in Chesterfield initiative to more schools and sectors across the borough from September 2023.
Mr Riggott added: “Chesterfield schools, the College, other education providers and businesses have a real opportunity to work with Chesterfield Borough Council and sector forums on programmes like the Careers Made in Chesterfield project and to shape wider skills planning for an exciting future for our young people. We are very much looking forward to being part of that work.”
Both locally and regionally, the construction sector is suffering a skills shortage. 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.
Cllr Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chesterfield said: “We’re proud to support and strengthen partnerships between businesses, education, and the public sector, by bringing together these sectors we can help ensure that young people receive the training and support they need to develop great careers in Chesterfield. This is all about ensuring that our borough continues to thrive and that the quality of life for local people is improving.
“We’ll continue to proactively support initiatives like this conference and Careers Made in Chesterfield because they really do help ensure young people can have the best start to their careers and can then stay and progress in Chesterfield. Developing skills though is not just about helping young people and our new Construction Skills Hub will help people who want to retrain and access careers in construction.”
Toby Perkins MP for Chesterfield and Staveley, and Shadow Minister for Skills and Further Education, said: “It was great to hear how much commitment there was to apprenticeships and the value of careers guidance to open young people’s careers. I would encourage more businesses to investigate opportunities to take on apprentices and for learners to consider whether an apprenticeship might be for them.
I was also glad to explain how our proposed reforms would improve careers guidance and increase apprenticeship opportunities.”
Further addressing the increasing construction skills shortage within Chesterfield, the Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor will welcome learners from autumn this year.
Funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the skills hub will provide a practical platform for construction training, careers activity and work experience on a live construction site.
Initially the Skills Hub will provide training in site and bench joinery, brickwork, ground works and electrical installation but in time the offer will expand to include training in retrofit and green technologies. It will be open to school leavers and other residents seeking to train or retrain.
The Hub will provide training, careers insights, and work experience for more than 5,000 learners over 10 years.
Chesterfield College with support from the University of Derby have been appointed to deliver the training. It will be delivered in collaboration the Devonshire Group, which is bringing forward a new housing development in Mastin Moor.
Speaking at the conference Principal and CEO of the Chesterfield College Group Julie Richards said: “We firmly believe in providing the skills and experience necessary for a successful career to support the local economy we serve. We must work in collaboration with local employers and other stakeholders. As such, we’re delighted to be part of a variety of significant local projects such as partnering with Devonshire Group for the Construction Skills Hub servicing Staveley and surrounding areas.
“The unique initiative provides a huge variety of work-based training opportunities on one of the largest housing developments in local history delivering qualifications from Entry Level to Higher Education progression in partnership with the University of Derby.
“To provide a pipeline of highly skilled workers for years to come the hub has a firm focus on skills for the future and will deliver both traditional trade skills alongside cutting edge methods of construction including low carbon technologies.”
The annual free-to-attend conference, which aims to strengthen links between education providers and businesses, was organised by Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield, with support from Derbyshire North Careers Hub. It was attended by businesses, schools and education providers in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Businesses and schools that wish to register their interest in the Careers Made in Chesterfield initiative, are urged to contact Emily Williams, Skills Delivery Officer at Chesterfield Borough Council on 01246 959717.
Pupils from Whittington Green School welcomed delegates to the conference
Chesterfield College has announced it has received a ‘good’ rating by education inspector OFSTED, following an inspection in late 2022.
The college was found to be ‘Good’ across all eight key areas of the key areas of inspection, and also received the highest possible rating for its contribution to meeting skills needs. Inspectors praised the college’s ‘highly responsive’ approach to the ‘changing needs of the local community’.
Julie Richards, Principal and CEO at Chesterfield College, said: “We are delighted to achieve such a positive Ofsted inspection which is testament to the remarkable staff and students at Chesterfield College.”
“We are particularly pleased to achieve the highest judgement for our contribution to the skills agenda, one of only a handful of providers to be recognised for this across the UK.”
“This demonstrates the college’s ability to support our local businesses and communities to grow and prosper and confirms the positive relationships we have fostered to address the skills needs for the future.”
In the report, OFSTED praised learners at the college, stating:
“Students’ work shows strong critical analysis skills and the ability to understand and analyse complex information.”
“Students demonstrate high levels of empathy and maturity in their practical work.”
“Many volunteer in valuable community activities. For example, students participate in a clothes swap that promotes sustainability and design clothes with school children that promote inclusivity.”
“Students explore each other’s opinions respectfully and can link British values to their subject.”
On standards of teaching at the college, OFSTED commented:
“Teachers set clear expectations for students’ behaviour. Classrooms are calm and productive environments.”
“Teachers plan the curriculum effectively to gradually develop students’ and apprentices’ underpinning knowledge and skills”
“They use a variety of appropriate activities, provide clear explanations and design good-quality resources. Teachers make good links between theory and practical activities.”
“Teachers prepare apprentices well for their final assessments.”
“Teachers provide students with good-quality written or spoken feedback. Students understand their strengths and how to improve their work.”
“They benefit from a range of opportunities to keep their subject-specific knowledge and skills up to date, such as on-site visits and shadowing activities in industry. They use this experience to enhance the curriculum for students and apprentices. For example, carpentry and joinery teachers receive training on sustainable kitchen fitting and share this with students.”
OFSTED also recognised the college’s contribution to meeting skills needs:
“The college makes a strong contribution to meeting skills needs.”
“Leaders understand very well how they contribute to meeting the skills needs of the local and regional area. They establish several highly beneficial partnerships with relevant stakeholders to support economic recovery and regeneration.”
“Leaders and managers involve employers and universities very effectively in curriculum design and implementation.”
“Leaders are very proactive in seeking advice on new sector developments and the latest industry standards. They make good use of funding to update premises and purchase industry-standard equipment and resources to meet future skills needs. This equips students very well with the skills they need for their future careers.”
“Leaders are highly responsive to the changing needs of the local community, which is rightly valued by their partners. For example, managers quickly adapted the ESOL curriculum as a direct response to the growth of Ukrainian refugees in the area.”
On the support offered to learners, OFSTED said:
“Students and apprentices highly value the support and encouragement they receive from staff. Learning, engagement, achievement and progress (LEAP) mentors have a very positive impact on students. They help them to develop useful strategies to manage their physical and mental health.”
“Students and apprentices feel safe at college or at work. They have access to a wellbeing hub, where they can receive specialist advice and support. Staff are vigilant, and students and apprentices are confident that any concerns that they raise will be dealt with effectively by staff.”
“Students, including those with high needs, have access to a wide range of clubs and societies”
“Students with additional needs are identified quickly, and appropriate support is put in place to meet their needs. Teachers support students with special educational needs and/or disabilities who move from pathway courses into vocational courses well. They ensure learning support staff are consistent and that any ongoing support strategies are understood by teachers.”
“Managers ensure that students and apprentices have access to a wide range of help and support. They work well with local agencies and charities to provide this. Where referrals are made, staff record these in detail and take timely and appropriate actions to support students. The safeguarding team is diligent, reflecting on and developing approaches to supporting students and apprentices.”
In terms of progression and employment for srudents at the Chesterfield College, OFSTED noted:
“Young people set career goals and plan how to achieve them. Apprentices often secure permanent roles following their studies. Adults develop valuable life skills or gain qualifications to help them progress to higher education. Students with high needs have clear progression routes to develop their independence or gain employment.”
“Leaders and managers plan the curriculum with a strong focus on progression and employment. For example, there are clear progression routes from entry level pathway courses to vocational courses. Students are well prepared to make the transition because of the subject taster sessions they complete.”
“Young people benefit from good opportunities to undertake a range of work-related activities. This includes work experience, guest lecturers, work-related projects and visits and trips. Students with high needs, who study vocational courses, benefit from these high-quality opportunities.”
“Careers staff work very closely with curriculum teams to help students, adults, apprentices and students with high needs understand the potential routes available to them.”
Chesterfield College supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Chesterfield’s MP and the Shadow Minister for Skills and Further Education recently paid a visit to NIBE’s newly refurbished Training Academy in the area.
Toby Perkins MP met with NIBE’s Managing Director Phil Hurley, where they held discussions on the role of heat pumps in decarbonising the economy and the need to upskill the installer base to meet net zero targets.
Mr Toby Perkins was also given a tour around the firm’s latest heat pump products and smart solutions. The refurbished training centre will provide for increasing the available heat pump installer base in the UK.
Mr Perkins’ visit provided an opportunity to highlight the importance of upskilling the new generation of installers and engineers on the route to net zero – and the drive needed to meet the government’s target of 600,000 heat pump installs per year by 2028.
The Shadow Minister for Skills & Further Education commented: “I was delighted to visit NIBE’s new training academy and very pleased that they have chosen to further invest in Chesterfield. Green investment is vital to the future of our economy and our ability to meet our Net Zero commitments and fight climate change.
“The development of new technologies, such as advanced heat pumps, also requires the development of new skills in the workforce. The NIBE training academy will help provide the next generation of skilled engineers in this sector and provide vital new job opportunities locally. I look forward to watching their progress and hope to come back and meet some of the people who have been trained here in Chesterfield.”
The NIBE Training Academy in Chesterfield is currently taking bookings for best-in-class comprehensive installation, commissioning, and servicing and maintenance courses, alongside the NIBE Pro installer partnership scheme, providing MCS & NAPIT recognised and Ofqual regulated training and technical support.
The visit follows the academy’s grand re-opening in December, where NIBE was joined by The Worshipful Mayor of Chesterfield Tony Rogers and his wife Mayoress Sharon Rogers for the unveiling. Attendees got the chance to gain greater insight into the low carbon training opportunities available as NIBE called for a growing installer base.
NIBE Managing Director Phil Hurley said: “It was a pleasure to once again meet our local Chesterfield MP, Toby Perkins, on Friday and to show him around our flagship Training Academy. We held productive talks on the vital need to expand the heat pump installer base in order to meet Government installation targets and how our products will contribute to producing more sustainable heating across the country.”
NIBE supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.
Schools and employers, who are keen to support the future career and job opportunities for local young people, are being urged to attend the free annual conference to learn more about the exciting initiative.
The Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference, which aims to strengthen links between education providers and businesses, is returning for a seventh year and will take place at the Winding Wheel Theatre on Wednesday 8 February, from 8am -11am.
Confirmed speakers at the go-to event include Andy Byrne, Property Development Director for the Devonshire Group, which is behind the Staveley Works scheme. He will be updating on the innovative Construction Skills Hub, which is set to provide specialist training for thousands of learners as part of the Staveley Town Deal.
Alongside Andy Byrne, Julie Richards, Principal of The Chesterfield College Group will be speaking at the event. The College, with support from the University of Derby, has been appointed as the training provider for the new Hub. Over 10 years, the public/private sector collaboration aims to provide training, careers insights, and work experience for over 5,000 learners.
The conference is an opportunity for businesses, schools and education providers in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire to come together and shape the future of education and skills delivery in the area.
During the morning, businesses are invited to feed into local and regional skills plans and help shape the strategic direction through discussion of business needs, challenges and successes.
Organised by Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield, with support from Derbyshire North Careers Hub, the conference is part of the Derbyshire Festival of Business programme and open to all businesses, schools and education providers in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire to attend.
Councillor Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “This year’s Skills and Employability Conference looks set to be another packed showcase of the exciting opportunities and aspirations which exist across our borough. It’s a great way to strengthen the links between business and education, which ensures that our young people can develop the skills local employers need – creating a thriving and ambitious local workforce for the future.
“On the day, we will be delighted to be joined by students from Whittington Green School and look forward to hearing from senior leaders at Brookfield Community School about steps we can take together to develop robust career strategies that will further benefit the borough’s young people, along with an employer panel that will be chaired by Tarmac’s apprentice.
“The spotlight will also be on some of our innovative skills projects which are moving ahead in the borough, including investment in the Construction Skills Hub through the Staveley Town Deal which is set to create some fantastic opportunities for thousands of learners over the coming years, especially young people living in the Staveley area.”
Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, commented: “With over 15,000 students set to gain their GCSEs and A Levels over the next five years in North Derbyshire, a strong and successful partnership between education providers and local businesses is critical. We need to ensure young people have the right skills, are work-ready and can make the most of the employment opportunities available in a wide range of sectors and industries on their doorstep. This conference is the first step in making this happen.”
Chesterfield’s White Rose Beauty Colleges is reminding people across the town of the range of career opportunities in the sector, by hosting a relaunch event this month.
The business opened in the town back in November 2019, just months before the lockdown. Head of Recruitment, Helen Bradshaw takes up the story on how the business had to quickly adapt to changes brought on by the pandemic:
“We successfully navigated our business through this difficult period by adapting our courses to facilitate online learning but like most businesses we were unable to execute all our plans due to the restrictions in place.
“With lockdown firmly behind us we feel now is a great time to host an open event to showcase who we are, what courses we offer and reach out to those in the community who may still not of heard of us.”
Helen and her colleagues are hopeful that the relaunch event will help to engage the local community and provide people with an insignt into the key learning opportunities they are able to offer.
She commented: “We have an evening of positivity and fun planned, with music and light refreshments, mini treatments such as hand and arm massage or shoulder massage to enjoy, make-up demonstrations and a tour of our college with staff on hand to answer any questions about the importance of our role in the learning and development of others and contribution to our town. In addition, and our way of saying thank you all attendees will receive a voucher which can be redeemed against a treatment at another time.”
White Rose Beauty Colleges is confident that the business will continue to grow in Chesterfield and is dedicated to its commitment and contribution towards the Chesterfield community.
Helen added: “Recently we became part of The Learning Curve Group and feel excited about the opportunities this will offer in the future. We will continue to provide an excellent training environment in the heart of Chesterfield where White Rose Beauty Colleges is an accredited centre of excellence offering VTCT and ITEC registered qualifications. These awarding bodies are recognised worldwide and make us a great choice for those wishing to use their qualification in the professional environment.
“Our college plays an active role in supporting Derbyshire schools by attending their careers events, also we host open days and taster sessions in our college throughout the year. Our excellent two-year Study Programme for school leavers helps prepare the learner for work in the industry by providing a realistic salon environment where members of the public can book treatments.
“We are passionate to introduce the concept of how diverse a career in beauty can be, with excellent links to organisations who we regularly invite as guest speakers to our college. We have forged good links with local salons and are happy to advertise job opportunities around our college. We provide the opportunity for NEETS learners who often come to us with challenges and obstacles which we help and support them to overcome. We literally encourage every learner to believe in themselves and achieve their goals.”
“Our adult learners can choose from a varied and interesting course programme, we find our learners are either looking for a career change or have a job they enjoy but want to learn something creative. We have strong links with the Job Centre and have attended career events, our Level 2 Diploma courses are fully funded including kit and uniform to anyone who is unemployed to ensure those in need are not denied the chance to join us.
“Most recently we have offered and facilitated courses for a local group of Ukrainian refugees who wished to upskill whilst they are in the UK or simply enjoy the sociability of meeting new friends. We will continue to reach out and support local charities and businesses alike, my belief is we can and do make a difference.”
White Rose Beuty Colleges 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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