Apprentice Town

Chesterfield woman boosts career with apprenticeship after working alongside local skills provider

A Chesterfield woman has recently added to her impressive skillset and progressed within her current role, after taking on an apprenticeship at the age of 31.

Kiera Robinson is a Business Administrator/ Researcher at Railview Ltd. based in Barrow Hill, and has improved her career prospects after working alongside DBC Training to learn new skills and gain vital career support.

Kiera said: “I had previously been to College and University to study Nursing, I decided to have a change of career and joined Railview as an Administration Assistant. It was when I was on the European Computing Driving License (ECDL) course at DBC training in Derby in January 2020 to help develop my IT skills, that I learnt about apprenticeships.

“An employee at DBC overheard me talking about my job and mentioned that the Business Administration Level 3 apprenticeship course would be perfect for myself and a great route to take as was it linked directly to my job and would help me progress professionally.”

Keira explained why she wanted to take on an apprenticeship, despite the perception that the career route is only open to school or college leavers: “I decided I wanted to pursue the apprenticeship because I wanted to develop my career prospects, gain a new qualification that was relevant to my job role, progress further within the company I work for and to learn more about Business and Administration by gaining new knowledge, skills, and experience whilst on the job.

“It was the perfect way for me to progress, earn money, support my family and home, and gain a qualification that would help me in the future. I would recommend anyone to do an apprenticeship, no matter what your personally circumstances or age. You will get a qualification; you’ll gain valuable skills and knowledge to help with your future and your career. Starting my apprenticeship was the best thing I could have done for myself personally and for my career prospects, I wish I had done it sooner.”

Peter Roberts, Digital Marketing Manager at DBC Training Ltd, said: “We provide the local community with enhanced opportunities to learn new skills and receive expert support, providing a pathway to a new career across a wide range of sectors. DBC also work in partnership with local employees to match people to opportunities, providing a vital role in both supporting the local economy and local people.

“DBC Training offers an exciting range of qualifications and learning programmes across multiple locations, sectors and industries that will support your career aspirations.

“Our courses are specifically tailored to support your individual learning needs; and can lead to work experience, paid employment or progression within your chosen career path. If you are looking for your first career opportunity or to further progress in your current role, then we can support you. You can find our full apprenticeship offer here – https://www.dbc-training.co.uk/apprenticeships”

Kiera has continued to develop her skills further, and has now enrolled on the Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship with the University of Derby. The University’s Academic Lead for Management Apprenticeships, Spencer Ryan-Prewett commented: “The CMDA has proven to be incredibly popular as a means for individuals to undertake an Apprenticeship and secure a Degree, in addition to providing significant Business Leadership and Management skills from an employer perspective.

“Our Apprentices are consistently demonstrating higher level skills, knowledge and behaviours leading to broad ranging organisational benefits. The University of Derby CMDA Programme is also high performing with 80% of our Apprentices securing high Merit and Distinction results from their independent, external Assessment at the end of the programme.

“The Apprentices are supported by a very structured programme which blends classroom and online teaching in a way that recognises the challenges associated with undertaking a Degree Level programme whilst balancing work and home life. We are delighted to be able to get a programme underway in Chesterfield in September this year and welcome contact from anyone wanting more information about the Apprenticeship

To find out more about apprenticeships in Chesterfield, and how they can support your career, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/

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.

Kiera Robinson apprentice town

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Recognition for Chesterfield Champions as finalists confirmed for Generation Next Awards

Some of the most promising young talent across businesses in the region has been recognised among the finalists of East Midlands Chamber’s Generation Next Awards 2022.

The shortlist includes Craig Evans of Chesterfield Champion business UKATA, who has been shortlisted for the Future Leader Award. The University of Derby’s Fred Gough also made the list of finalists for the Diversity & Inclusion award.

The second instalment of the awards, held in conjunction with headline partner the University of Derby, recognise young professionals and business leaders aged under 35, as well as organisations led by people in this demographic.

A shortlist has now been revealed across the 10 categories, ranging from a Breakthrough Award and Customer Service Award through to marking Excellence in Innovation and Technology and the Generation Next Future Leader.

New prizes for this year recognise outstanding contributions in diversity and inclusion, arts and culture, corporate social responsibility and sustainability.

A virtual judging day will take place on 8 and 9 June, in which finalists will be interviewed by members of the chamber of commerce’s senior management team, Generation Next board and representative of the sponsor.

Winners will be crowned at an awards ceremony with a twist – featuring street food, cocktails and live music – held at Bustler Market, in Derby, on 14 July.

Lucy Robinson, East Midlands Chamber’s director of resources and Generation Next lead, said: “The Generation Next Awards are a celebration of the rising stars of business who make outstanding contributions to their communities.

“We received some brilliant applications from a diverse breadth of individuals, and our shortlist of finalists offers a glimpse into the amazing young talent that exists here in the East Midlands.”

Finalists were announced at an event held at Cosy Club, in Nottingham, last night (25 May) in which two of the three founders of Derby-based doughnut delivery service Project D – who won the Entrepreneur of the Year category at the inaugural Generation Next Awards – talked about their journey to date and hopes for the future.

Winners will be crowned at an awards ceremony with a twist – featuring street food, cocktails and live music – held at Bustler Market, in Derby, on 14 July.

Tickets cost £65 + VAT for Generation Next members and £75 + VAT for non-members. Early-bird tickets are available at bit.ly/GenNextAwards

UKATA, University of Derby and East Midlands Chamber support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Generation Next Awards 2022 shortlist

Future Leader Award (sponsored by University of Derby)

Craig Evans – UKATA

Matilda Swanson – Loates HR

Mir Patel – Unique Window Systems

Theo Kirk – Express Recruitment

Emma Roberts – Derby Community Parent Programme CIC

Dan Heffernan – D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership

David Maran – MP Digital Limited

Rob Spence – Paragon Sales Solutions

Umar Razah – Mauricare Homes

 

Breakthrough Award (sponsored by Nottingham University Business School)

Alpha Geek

Dan Poynton – On Poynt Creative

Kate Johnson – Rate Social

Sophie Redman – Linford Grey Associates

Kevin Kapezi & Leo Worsley – Growthack Ltd

 

Customer Service Award

Danielle Harkness – Plastek UK

James Hardwick – Future Life Wealth Management

Anxhela Agaci – Gents of Notts

Arran Gessey – Bam Boom Cloud

Ben Wilkinson – MHA MacIntyre Hudson

 

Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Loughborough College

Emily Jacob – emh group

Frank Hemmingway – Plastek UK

Polly Oakes – Express Recruitment

Rebecca Houlston – Cross Productions

Ruby Birks – Purpose Media

 

Diversity & Inclusion Award

Fred Gough – University of Derby

Jake Wood – Jake Wood PT

Martin Croft – Barrister Link

Rob Spence – Paragon Sales Solutions

 

Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by Fraser Stretton Property Group)

Adam Bamford – Colleague Box

Alpha Geek

Dan Poynton – On Poynt Creative

Kate Johnson – Rate Social

Katie Gilbert – TTK Confectionery

 

Excellence in Innovation and Technology Award (sponsored by Hardy Signs)

David Maran – MP Digital

Harsh Shah – De Montfort University

Jack Hall – Scenariio

Nicola Ciaessen – RSM UK

Rachel Saunders – Duncan & Toplis

 

Sustainability Award (sponsored by MHA MacIntyre Hudson)

Carys Tetlaw – RSM UK

Daniel Kelk – Plastek UK

Jake Hall – Scenariio

 

Creative Award (sponsored by PPL PRS)

Dan Poynton – On Poynt Creative

Deng Yudan – Follow the Orient

Joey Lever – Another World Media

Katie Brennan – Cross Productions

Sophie Price and Tom Dennis – My Town Vision

 

Volunteer Award (sponsored by RSM UK)

George Hanvere – Paragon Law

Izzy Plummer – TTK Confectionery

Taylor Gee – 360 Autoleasing East Midlands

2021 Generation Next Awards Ceremony

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Public Sector Apprenticeships: A Platform for Progression

A career in public sector offers a variety of job roles from working in local government, teaching, health and social care and uniformed services.

Those working on the frontline of public services perform a vital role in society, often in the most challenging but rewarding situations.

Choosing an apprenticeship can help kickstart a career in this sector, whilst providing a platform to support career and skills development.

Apprenticeships are open to everyone

Chesterfield Borough Council employs more than 30 apprentices a range of different service areas. The organisation has been named in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers, which ranks the very best of England’s apprenticeship employers.

If you’re considering an apprenticeship, watch this short video to hear from current apprentices at Chesterfield Borough Council talking about how the opportunity has benefitted them.

Search the current apprenticeship opportunities available at Chesterfield Borough Council by clicking here.

Apprenticeships provide opportunity to learn on the job

Chesterfield College provide over 50 different apprenticeships, individually designed to support yours and your employer’s needs and career goals.

Georgie McGregor 873x466

Georgie McGregor completed her Level 3 Performing Arts and Level 2 and 3 Beauty Therapy courses at Chesterfield College, before discovering a Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship opportunity at the college.

With the support of her family, she chose an apprenticeship to gain more confidence, knowledge, and experience for the job role she wants.

She commented: “I am very lucky to have the support I do from my family. I have changed my mind many times about what I want to do for a career and my family has supported me every time.

“I have always enjoyed learning. I know that by doing my apprenticeship I am gaining the experience and knowledge I need to work in the area I want to. It makes the learning much easier. I am part of a team that is so welcoming. I consider it a big family and I like that most about my apprenticeship.”

Georgie aims to continue to progress in her apprenticeship and eventually wants to move into full time employment with her current employer.

Find out more about apprenticeships at Chesterfield College by clicking here.

Apprenticeships support career development

Derbyshire County Council is one of the biggest employers in Derbyshire and offers apprenticeships across a range of vocational areas including ICT, catering, civil engineering, adult care, trading standards, business administration, road working, learning and development, outdoor education, surveying, landscape and more.

Stuart Greensmith White

Meet Stuart Greensmith White, a Level 7 Senior Leader apprentice at Derbyshire County Council working in the Derbyshire Adult Education Service team.

Stuart started his apprenticeship journey with a Level 2 apprenticeship in Business Administration; the skills, knowledge and experience gained has enabled him to progress, culminating in a level 7 apprenticeship. Now he is teaching apprentices himself and sits on the Apprentice Panel of the Institute of Apprenticeships and Technical Education, which is helping shape apprenticeships for the next generation.

Since entering the workplace and completing his initial apprenticeship, he has moved between roles and industries and been promoted numerous times. He explained: “I have worked in manufacturing, the NHS, within an academy trust and now with a local authority council.

“Apprenticeships are challenging, but hugely fulfilling courses that build the skills employers and apprentices need to really succeed in the workplace.”

Despite having many years work experience and an established career, Stuart is now using a Level 7 apprenticeship to further develop his career.

He explained: “My current apprenticeship was an advertised CPD opportunity while remaining in my then-current role as School Business Manager. The chance to gain a recognised qualification as an investment in my future was too good to miss.

“I am now three-quarters of the way through my apprenticeship and have recently secured another promotion – I am now teaching apprentices of my own!”

You can search for current apprenticeship vacancies on the Derbyshire County Council website by clicking here.

Overall, a career in public sector provides a diverse range of job roles that cater for every skill set and apprenticeships can help to provide an excellent platform to progress within the sector

You can find out more about this sector on the My Future careers platform

Visit the Apprentice Town website for more information on apprenticeships 

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Make Caring Your Career

A career in healthcare can be rewarding, offering job satisfaction as you care for those in need. There are many paths into the sector and undertaking an apprenticeship can be an ideal route to embark on a rewarding career.

Apprenticeships offer the opportunity to earn while you learn and gain key skills that can reap rewards both inside and outside the healthcare sector.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital and University of Derby

Apprentice providers in Chesterfield 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 healthcare, covering a wide range of occupations

Meet Hayley Pickles, Nursing Degree apprentice at Chesterfield Royal Hospital. Hayley shows how you can use degree level apprenticeships to gain the relevant skills and qualifications to become a nurse.

Hayley Pickles 873x466

Hayley explained: “I used to work as a Graphic Designer, however I soon realised it was not for me and I wanted a job which would give me compassion satisfaction. I decided I wanted to be a Nurse but I had never worked in healthcare before and so I got a job as a Healthcare Assistant in 2015 at Chesterfield Royal to gain experience in that environment. I loved it, however due to having two small children at nursery I could not finance a nursing degree. I completed a 2-year apprenticeship to become an Assistant Practitioner (AP) which enabled me to still work on Robinson Ward and gain a foundation degree whilst being supported by Chesterfield Royal.

After being qualified as an AP for just over a year the nursing apprenticeship appeared so I decided this was my opportunity to become a nurse by doing a 2 year top up degree. My children are older now and it meant I would still be supported financially and emotionally by Chesterfield Royal.”

Kirsty Miles, Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) is also an apprentice at Chesterfield Royal Hospital.

Kirsty Miles 873x466

Kirsty said: “I absolutely LOVE my job! There’s never a day goes by when I don’t look forward to coming to work – every day is completely different and that’s one of the reasons why this role and the operating theatre department are so unique. Not a lot of people actually know what an Operating Department Practitioner is, or what they do. I must admit, before I came to work in Theatres, neither did I! However, I soon came to learn just how interesting and important their roles actually are.

Because this course is an apprenticeship, it means I get the best of both worlds! I still get paid my regular wage but am able to work and learn on the job as a trainee ODP, alongside my wonderful colleagues. The help and support I get from them, my mentors and the course leads at university, is second to none.”

Business Administration

Healthcare is such a vast sector, and roles vary from administration, payroll, community care, doctors, surgeons, across nursing home and social care settings as well, to name just a few opportunities.

Ellie Gibson is a Level 3 Business Administration apprentice at Heathcotes Group and is the 2021 Love Chesterfield Awards Apprentice of the Year.

Heathcotes 873x466

Ellie heard about the apprenticeship route when she was at Bolsover School. While she liked the idea of working full-time and progressing within a company, Ellie decided to go to college to complete her Level 3 in Travel and Tourism before going on to university for a year to do Tourism and Events Management.

University wasn’t right for Ellie, and she decided to leave and join Heathcotes as a business administration apprentice. She explained: “I wanted to learn whilst earning. I also liked the idea of continuing to work at the place while I did my qualification and being able to progress with the same company. My family and friends were very supportive of that idea too.”

Now, after completing her Level 2 Business Administration apprenticeship, Ellie is undertaking the Level 3 course and hopes to continue progressing within the company. She added: “I plan to continue developing myself and keep progressing. I enjoy getting to know the business and creating working relationships with people, learning new skills, and adapting my ways of work.”

One to One Support Services

Are you looking to hire an apprentice? One to One Support Services is one of the many apprentice providers in Chesterfield that offer apprenticeships in adult care and childcare.

One to One Support Services Apprentice

Janice, Employer and Managing Director at Chantreyland and Brierley said: “Since using One to One Support Services, I am able to be totally confident my apprentices are receiving the best mentoring training possible to compliments their workplace skills training. One to One Support Services work closely with the company enabling qualified staff to provide the appropriate skills training at the point of the apprenticeship study. The partnership results in fully skilled apprentices entering our workforce with the prospects of adding their character to our childcare setting.”

There are lots of different careers available in healthcare to suit an array of interests and skills sets. If you fancy a career in healthcare, you can find out more about apprenticeships and search current vacancies here.

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Workpays’ Big Assembly Wins at the 2022 Annual Apprenticeship Conference Awards

Big Assembly, a project delivered by Workpays in association with its partners, has won the FE WEEK AELP Annual Apprenticeship Conference 2022 Award for Promoting Apprenticeships ‘Campaign of the Year’ at the award ceremony in Birmingham.

The annual event returned in 2022, with the broadcast informing thousands of young people about the benefits of apprenticeships. The live event enables schools, parents, students and employers to receive  information and advice about possible next steps in their careers.

For the 2022 event, The Big Assembly teamed up with companies such as Pret A Manger, Bakkavor, Disability Rights UK, the Co-operative Bank & Coca-Cola Europacific Partners.

Alex Glasner, Managing Director at Workpays said: “It’s a real honour to be receive the Promoting Apprenticeship Campaign of the Year Award. Our entire team works hard throughout the year to provide young people with information and real stories about incredible apprenticeships.

“I’m proud that the work we are doing has been recognised with a national award. We will always keep young people and their careers at the centre of what we do.”

Twenty-four awards winners were recognised at the awards including Workpays, revealed at the ceremony in Birmingham as part of the two day conference which is held annually.

There are many great opportunities to become an apprentice across Chesterfield, with more than 2,500 people currently taking part in an apprenticeship in the town.

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.

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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3 reasons to undertake an apprenticeship in Financial and Professional Services

Financial and professional services is the largest business sector in Chesterfield. The sector has experienced a huge growth in the past five years, with the number of local businesses increasing to more than 835. Locally, there are around 8,250 jobs in the sector including apprenticeships.

To help you gain a better understanding of what a career in the sector can be like, we spoke to apprentices from across the Chesterfield area.

1. Apprenticeships offer a pathway into the sector

Most careers in this sector require you to have relevant training and qualifications, which makes apprenticeships a fantastic route into the sector.

Andrew McDaid, Partner at Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers, said: “For many years, we have offered apprenticeships, not as a separate route in but as one of several ‘normal’ pathways to become a Chartered Accountant (ACA), Chartered Tax Advisor (CTA), Accounting Technician (AAT) or Taxation Technician (ATT). We want and expect an apprenticeship to become a fully desirable pathway for young people, looking for a career in the financial sector.”

Joe Malone, Level 7 ACA apprentice at Mitchells Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers, discovered an apprenticeship was the best route to become an ACA Chartered Accountant.

He explained: “The ability to learn through work and real-life scenarios is important – that’s one of the main things that appealed to me about an apprenticeship. Although you have the responsibility of performing your role, a lot of importance is also placed on your learning and study time. It’s a great balance.”

2. Apprenticeships offer the opportunity to gain first-hand insight and real life understanding of the job

Jamila Ibrahim Hall, Commercial Finance Admin Assistant at Sutton McGrath Hartley (SMH), shared her experience of being an apprentice in the sector:

“Business and finance is a very fast-moving area of the sector where you can learn a lot from experts who know the ins and outs of the sector as well as how it works. My apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to gain a first-hand insight and a real life understanding of the job rather than a classroom simulation.

In my day to day whilst in work I answer client emails and calls, attend meetings, and do basic admin tasks. My confidence skills have grown massively after meeting so many different people in and out of the business and making new friends. There are a lot of opportunities for me to progress and excel within SMH and I can see myself working my way up in the future.”

Millie and Jamila apprentices

Millie Stevenson, Principle Finance Admin Assistant at Sutton McGrath Hartley, shared the benefits of choosing the apprenticeship route:

“There are lots of different levels of apprenticeship and ones that suit school leavers at 16, people finishing college, university graduates and right through to people who have been in a job for many years.  A huge bonus to choosing an apprenticeship is that you’re likely to get offered a full-time placement after finishing your apprenticeship.

My apprenticeship is a great way to really understand the industry I work in and a massive help to find a career that I enjoy, I get to meet different people and make new friends. I have access to great support whilst training as I’m working alongside experienced people in my workplace and from specialist trainers from my apprenticeship training provider who are there to help me gain the skills and knowledge I need to succeed.”

3. Skills in financial and professional services can be applied to careers in lots of different sectors

The beauty of working in financial and professional services is you can apply your skills to so many different sectors, meaning you can choose to engage in an area of work you find most exciting.

Lewis Atkins Mortgage 1st

Lewis Atkins, Mortgage Administrator at Mortgage 1st, who is working towards his Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship, demonstrates this:

“Once I have gained my level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship, I still want to be working for Mortgage 1st but in a different department. The Protection side of mortgages has recently caught my eye. After some experience in this I would then like to get my CEMAP Qualification, to then become an adviser.

There are many benefits whilst having an apprenticeship, they help you gain the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your chosen industry. Getting into employment earlier means there’s lots of potential for you to progress in your career quickly. You can also begin to earn a good salary much earlier on in your life.”

Apprentice Lewis at Mortgage 1st

Lisa Stones, Operations Director at Mortgage 1st said:

“Lewis has been part of our team now for over a year and we couldn’t be prouder of his achievements. He’s busy working though his apprenticeship course whilst his knowledge and confidence is growing by the day in his role as a Mortgage Administrator.

Having an apprentice as part of our team at all times is vital for both, us as a business and the apprentice themselves. We are providing opportunities to young people to learn, develop and progress into lifelong careers in our sector. They bring youth, energy, and a different generational outlook to the team so it’s an absolute win win for everyone!”

Search the apprenticeship vacancies available in Chesterfield and learn more from current apprentices here.

Posted in Apprentice Town, Blog, Made in Chesterfield

Chesterfield FC Academy Female Football and Education Programme Launched

A new Female Football and Education Programme has been launched by the Chesterfield FC Junior & Youth Academy, in partnership with Outwood Academy Newbold and Loughborough College.

Post-16 students will have the chance to extend their knowledge through various courses: BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, A-levels, and Higher National Diploma in Sport.

Youngsters will have access to excellent facilities, enabling them to train, play and progress as players and people, as they look to improve their understanding on and off the pitch.

With a chance to learn from the very best, coached by UEFA and FA-qualified staff, training will enhance skills, fitness, strength and conditioning.

There will be progression routes into women’s football and international links with clubs for player development loans, together with university pathways and US soccer scholarships with leading sports universities.

Chief executive John Croot said: “This programme shows our commitment to the development of women’s football in Chesterfield, providing excellent opportunities for those involved.

“Players will represent Chesterfield FC in the well-established National Football Youth League, competing against the likes of Everton, Burnley, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and AFC Sunderland.”

There will be an engagement day for Y11s on Thursday, April 14 at Staveley MWFC and the Technique  Stadium. To book a place, please email academy@spireitestrust.org.uk.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Featured, Home

Generation Next Awards 2022 launched to celebrate young professionals and entrepreneurs

From apprentices taking their first steps on the career ladder to the future leaders of the region, the very best of young business talent across the East Midlands will be celebrated at the Generation Next Awards.

The second-ever awards are the showpiece programme of the Generation Next network for young professionals and entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35, which is run by East Midlands Chamber in conjunction with headline partner the University of Derby.

It features 10 categories, ranging from a Breakthrough Award and Customer Service Award through to marking Excellence in Innovation and Technology and the Generation Next Future Leader.

New prizes for this year recognise outstanding contributions in diversity and inclusion, arts and culture, corporate social responsibility and sustainability.

Winners will be crowned at an awards ceremony with a twist – featuring street food, cocktails and live music – held at Bustler Market, in Derby, on 14 July.

Lucy Robinson, East Midlands Chamber’s director of resources and Generation Next lead, said: “The Generation Next Awards are a celebration of the amazing young talent within the East Midlands, and our diverse programme recognises the rising stars of business who make outstanding contributions to their communities.

“We want to encourage young professionals, apprentices and entrepreneurs from across the region to tell their story and celebrate their successes. There is an award to suit everyone at each stage of their career.”

Project D and ExpHand Prosthetics among Generation Next Awards alumni

Generation Next was launched in 2020 as a new group for 18 to 35-year-olds to meet likeminded people via networking events held at locations such as Leicester cocktail bar Manhattan34, Nottingham arcade game bar Penny Lane and Peak District walks, as well as attend educational workshops on themes such as marketing, personal finance and inclusion.

A mentoring scheme was launched this year to connect Generation Next members – who join on an individual basis – with senior businesspeople within the wider East Midlands Chamber network.

The inaugural Generation Next Awards took place virtually last year and recognised rising stars such as Kate Walker, who makes affordable and adjustable 3D-printed prosthetic arms as founder of Loughborough-based start-up ExpHand Prosthetics, and Derby’s rapidly-growing doughnut delivery company Project D.
Entries are now open for this year’s awards until Tuesday 3 May, and can be submitted either by individuals within the 18 to 35 age bracket or on their behalf by a colleague or line manager.

Applications can be downloaded at generationnextemc.co.uk/awards and must be emailed to the Generation Next team at gennext@emc-dnl.co.uk.
Early-bird tickets are available for the awards ceremony on 14 July at https://bit.ly/GenNextAwards.

Generation Next Awards 2022 categories

• Headline – Generation Next Future Leader Award, sponsored by the University of Derby
• Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Loughborough College
• Breakthrough Award, sponsored by Nottingham University Business School
• Entrepreneur of the Year, sponsored by Fraser Stretton
• Excellence in Innovation and Technology Award, sponsored by Hardy Signs
• The Volunteer Award, sponsored by RSM
• Sustainability Award, sponsored by MHA MacIntyre Hudson
• Customer Service Award
• Diversity and Inclusion Award
• The Creative Award

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Recruitment Event returns to Chesterfield Market

People searching for work in Northern Derbyshire are being invited to a recruitment event, where they can meet employers and find out more about local job vacancies and training schemes that lead to employment.

The recruitment event is on Wednesday 30 March between 10am and 12pm in Chesterfield market place. Following on from two previous successful events held last year, Chesterfield Borough Council and DWP Jobcentre Plus are partnering with Bolsover District Council and North East Derbyshire District Council, to ensure it provides the right opportunities for local job seekers.

Previous events, held in September and November last year, have led to around 100 job offers with almost 80 people starting a new job thanks to the recruitment events.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “The events last year showed that job seekers want to engage directly with businesses to find out more about the opportunities available to them. We are pleased to be able to host events such as this, that can help individuals find out more about the jobs available locally. It’s important that we continue to help promote the many opportunities in the area to local people and working with our partners will help ensure we can bring more people and more employers together.

“If you’re looking for work, then this event is here for you. You will be able to find out more about current opportunities and may even find your next job on the day.”

Paul Munday, Employer Adviser at DWP Jobcentre Plus Derbyshire, said: “After the success of the last two recruitment events held in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council, we are very excited to be running a third on Wednesday 30 March with further support from North East Derbyshire District Council and Bolsover District Council. This event will be a great opportunity to support the DWP’s Way to Work Programme and give north Derbyshire Residents the opportunity to speak to local employers and find sustainable employment.”

Councillor Jeremy Kenyon, North East Derbyshire District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth said, “We have hosted some fantastic online job fairs previously with our partners, helping to secure employment for our local communities.

“This next jobs fair is a great way for local businesses to take part and share their vacancies with us so we can help residents with employment opportunities and progress their career to the next level”.

Cabinet member for economic growth at Bolsover District Council Councillor Liz Smyth said: “It is so important to provide opportunities for people to engage directly with employers and learn more about what opportunities are out there. Holding this jobs fair in person means job seekers can meet recruiters and make those vitally important connections which could lead to employment.”

The drop-in event is open to everyone, with no need to make an appointment, but job seekers registered with Jobcentre Plus can reserve their place by speaking with their work coach.

There will be lots of opportunities available on the day from a range of sectors including, hospitality, social care, engineering, logistics, transport and many more.

As well as job opportunities there will also be several apprenticeship providers who are currently recruiting for new apprentices. An apprenticeship offers a great opportunity to earn while you learn and can help people at any stage in life.

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.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Print Digital Media takes on new apprentice with help of local skills provider GBS Apprenticeships

Print Digital Media has added to it’s growing team by taking on a new apprentice after working with local skills and careers company, GBS Apprenticeships.

Jasmine Mowbray has been working at Print Digital Media for just over a month, and has already been involved in a number of marketing projects at the firm.

Jasmine explained how her first month working with the business has already given her a range of new skills and experience: “I have had a fantastic time in my first month at Print Digital Media. Working for a small company meant I got to meet everyone involved in the business really quickly and all my co-workers are supportive and always happy to help to help, if I’m ever in need of guidance.

“Everything happens in one building, so I have been able to see the full cycle of the service we provide, from design to proof and print. This has enabled me to become more knowledgeable about the business, which has helped a lot in my projects.

“Since starting my role, I have worked on a range of different marketing projects. I’m always doing something different everyday meaning that it never gets repetitive, and it also means I’m able to test and improve my abilities, resulting in a wider set of skills.

“I wish I had chosen this path sooner! It’s a really dynamic way of learning as you are gaining valuable industry experience whilst also obtaining a degree. If you are someone who’s looking to widen their knowledge but struggles with learning in a classroom and long hours of studying, an apprenticeship would be a better option for you!”

Richard Musgrove, Managing Director of Print Digital Media commented on how much of a benefit Jasmine has already had on the company: “It’s been a really difficult two years for many businesses, especially the hospitality sector but projects that have been on hold are now coming through. The investments we made last summer in new printing presses increased our capacity, dramatically speeding up our turnaround times, which has improved our service offering and enabled us to take on additional works.

“Young people are often criticised, a lot of which is unjust in my experience as the majority just need a platform to learn, develop and grow. At PDM we are very proud to be supporting the younger generation that are starting out, whether it’s work experience or apprenticeship programmes and if we can provide development opportunities, to help them personally or professionally that sets them on the right path, then brilliant. We might just be mentoring the next Ben Francis.”

Richard also praise GBS for enabling his company to find the right person for his business: “The whole GBS team were very supportive and the process was incredibly easy. GBS took a detailed brief of our requirements and really tried to understand our culture and how we work to find the best fit, ensuring the candidates would also fit in.

“What really struck me was how considerate and caring GBS were towards the candidates, as it’s a daunting experience coming out of sixth form or college into an interview process, but they were great.

Coral Guard, Marketing Manager at GBS Apprenticeships said: “Everything we do is for the benefit of both learner and employer. We want our employers to bring bright young minds into the business and give them the opportunity to thrive. Apprentices are able to gain brand new skills, while a business can help build on skill gaps and strengthen their business further. Seeing businesses grow and develop further through employing an apprentice is why we do what we do.

“We are always at hand to help a business get started with employing an apprentice. Just pick up the phone or drop us an email and we can have a chat about what your business needs. We help by evaluating what type of apprenticeship will benefit the business, handle all the advertisement and the recruitment process. There are many benefits of hiring an apprentice including:

  • Bridging the skills gap, particularly those within technology as this helps to move a business forward.
  • Having a fresh perspective. Apprentices may not have work experience but they can offer a fresh perspective and new ideas that can help a business grow. Young people tend to have strong technology skills and they can use this knowledge to build a competitive advantage.
  • The cost of an apprenticeship pays for itself. Within a few years, or even sooner, apprentices can improve a company’s bottom line by improving effectivity and boosting productivity.
  • It’s a cost effective way to train staff or hire new staff.
  • GBS are there to support you and your apprentice from start to finish. We want both apprentice and employer to work together to help build one another’s skills and business.

“Overall, apprenticeships are a great way to provide life changing opportunities to young people and a cost effective way for local businesses to develop their workforce and bridge those skill gaps.”

Find out more about apprenticeship opportunities in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/

Print Digital Media 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.

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Step into the world of Creative, Digital and Technology

As a society we are becoming increasingly more reliant on creative and digital technology. The sector is rapidly growing and we are seeing career opportunities becoming widely available to those looking to step into the world of creative, digital and technology.

In fact, the number of businesses engaging with this type of employment has increased by 21% over the last five years in Chesterfield.

To explore the career opportunities and benefits of working in the sector, we talked to current apprentices from Chesterfield based businesses.

Marketing

Jasmine Mowbray, is a Level 4 Marketing Executive at Print Digital Media.

Jasmine Mowbray 873x466

Jasmine explains why she chose to pursue a career in marketing: “I chose to delve into the marketing sector as this was the subject that I believed aligned best with my own skillset and personal interests. I’ve always been a creative yet business minded person, and marketing for me was the perfect mixture of the two!”

She chose to take the apprenticeship route with local training provider, GBS Apprenticeships, to get into the sector: “After leaving college, I had no idea where to start but I knew that I wanted to get straight into the workplace, whilst widening my knowledge and continue with my education. This is exactly what my apprenticeship has done for me, and I am able to earn, whilst I learn plus gain valuable work experience in the process.”

Jasmine added: “My plans for the future are to progress further into the marketing sector, however by then I will have gained a whole lot of transferable skills, so who knows where life will take me.”

Search for a marketing role like Jasmine’s by using our apprenticeship search tool here

Brandon Howard, Level 4 Marketing Executive at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre (MAPP)

First learning about apprenticeships at Chesterfield College in 2014, it wasn’t until recently when Brandon decided an apprenticeship in marketing was right for him.

Previously working in a bank, before becoming self-employed creating videos and other social media content, he wanted to expand on the knowledge he’d gained during his Level 3 Marketing course and apply it in a more practical environment.

He explained: “Learning about things in a classroom doesn’t compare to applying the knowledge you gain and putting it to use in a real environment. The apprenticeship is a nice mixture between learning and working and I feel like I’m helping the company, as well as my own career progression, move forward.”

Looking to the future, Brandon would like to progress in the business and, further down the line, start his own business.

Read more on Brandon’s story and his advice to becoming an apprentice here.

Information Technology and Computing

Charlie Ballington, Level 3 Infrastructure Technician at Addooco IT

Charlie Addooco

Charlie described the benefits of apprenticeships and how he used his apprenticeship as a platform to get into the sector: “I’ve always been interested in IT and Computing, so having studied both subjects at GCSE and A-Level it seemed like an absolute no-brainer to jump into an apprenticeship in the industry. One of the best bits is that my workload is so varied, so no two days are ever the same.”

He added: “I think choosing an apprenticeship is an easy and convenient path to get stuck into the sector straight away, especially in a practical industry such as IT or Engineering. I’m working along-side industry professionals every day and I have gained so much working experience that students in other forms of education simply don’t have.”

“A huge bonus to choosing an apprenticeship is that you’re likely to get offered a full-time placement after finishing your apprenticeship. I see myself continuing to work at Addooco through the higher-level apprenticeships.”

Like Jasmine, Charlie is also learning with local training provider, GBS Apprenticeships. You can find out more about Chesterfield’s training providers here.

Overall a career in creative, digital and technology can be exciting as the skills developed can be applied across almost all sectors, allowing the opportunity for you to engage with an area of work you find most interesting.

Explore the My Future careers platform to learn about the wide variety of career roles available in the sector.

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