Apprentice Town

Training provider appointed for Construction Skills Hub at Mastin Moor

Chesterfield College and the University of Derby have been appointed as the training provider for the new Construction Skills Hub in Mastin Moor, which is set to provide specialist training for thousands of learners as part of the Staveley Town Deal.

The innovative Construction Skills Hub will provide a practical platform for construction training, careers activity and work experience on a live construction site in Mastin Moor.

Over ten years, the hub aims to provide training, careers insights, and work experience for over 5,000 learners.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It’s fantastic to be able to announce that the college and university will be working together to support this project. As well as providing support for trade skills, this partnership provides the opportunity to progress to a university level and develop the skills needed for roles like quantity surveyor or estimator, ensuring that everyone in Staveley can start, stay, and grow in the town.

“I look forward to working with them and our partners the Devonshire Group to progress the development of the Hub and start welcoming learners in Autumn 2023.”

A site has already been identified for the Construction Skills Hub in collaboration with the Devonshire Group, which will be bringing forward a new housing development in Mastin Moor. This will allow trainees to develop their skills on a live housing site, and in time there will also be opportunities to gain experience on other Staveley Town Deal construction projects.

Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director for Devonshire Group, said: “When I first saw the concept of a Construction Skills Hub and was asked if we could help deliver one for Chesterfield, my resounding response was yes, and I know just where.

“Devonshire Group are deeply committed to offering opportunities for learning and skills development, and to making a real difference to the lives and employment prospects of those in our communities, so we are delighted to be able to assist the Council in providing a home for the Skills Hub. Supporting the next generation of people who will help create our built environment is something to be truly proud of.”

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.

Gavin Varley, Director of Advanced Engineering, Building Technologies and Construction at The Chesterfield College Group, explains: “We make a commitment to our students to not only provide them with the skills and qualifications they need, they are just the start, but with the work experience and industry knowledge that gives them the clarity of how and where to progress their career for years to come. We’re delighted to be a partner of this project as it comprehensively addresses this wider student experience, we commit to providing for all.”

Professor Chris Bussell, Pro Vice-Chancellor Dean of the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Derby, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed the training provider, alongside Chesterfield College, for the new Construction Skills Hub, which will provide real-world learning opportunities to thousands of people looking to embark on a career in the construction industry or develop their skills so they can progress onto new roles.

“The Hub will enhance the existing construction training offer by providing the opportunity for local learners to develop their skills in a live on-site centre. Our ambition is for this to be ground-breaking, delivering a model that builds on the innovative approach of other such centres, and we are looking forward to developing our relationship with Chesterfield College as well as working with prominent private sector companies on this exciting project.

“As a Civic University, we are committed to supporting the city and county’s long-term economic growth and prosperity, improving the life chances of people, developing a pipeline of talent that choose to live and work in the area, and addressing the skills gap through our involvement in initiatives such as the Construction Skills Hub.”

Working on a live construction site will not only allow learners to develop the skills they need, but it will also provide practical experience and help provide a link to construction companies where they could find permanent roles.

Staveley is set to benefit from £25.2 million of investment through the Town Deal with the aim to create a town where everyone can start, stay and grow. This investment will support eleven different projects across the town and provide a once in a lifetime opportunity to help shape the future by improving transport links, creating new housing, providing skills for local people, enhancing community facilities, and regenerating the town centre.

Find out more about Staveley Town Deal: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/

property and construction

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Family fun returns to the town centre with the Christmas Elf Trail

The Christmas Elf Trail is back in Chesterfield and is ready for you to explore.

This is a fun, free activity for the whole family to enjoy, all you have to do is find the elves who are hiding in shop / venue windows in Chesterfield town centre, to be in with the chance of winning an annual family pass to Matlock Farm Park.

The trail is open from Thursday 24 November 2022 to Wednesday 4 January 2023 and can be completed at anytime that is suitable for you.

When you find one of the elves, you can scan the ‘Elf QR Code’ which gives you access to the special and secret elf webpages, which we have hidden on the Destination Chesterfield Christmas website.

Santa has hidden a letter on each of the webpages which spells out a magical word. Collect all the letters, unscramble them and spell out the special Christmas word and you will be entered into a competition to be in with a chance of winning the prize. You will need to fill in the online form to enter.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This is a great activity that allows you to explore the town centre. Not only is it free but it is interesting too as you have to find all of the letters to spell out a festive word to enter the prize draw. I really enjoyed finding the elves last year, so I’d encourage you to give it a try too.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield, said: “The Elf trail is always hugely popular.  Why not combine this free festive activity with your Christmas shopping or a bite to eat with friends and family.”

You can find the clues to where the elves are hiding on the Destination Chesterfield website. Each of the elves have different names and will be pictured in the windows of different locations in Chesterfield.

You can also collect a paper entry form from the Visitor Information Centre in Chesterfield and return the completed form there to enter the competition if you would prefer to complete the trail in this way.

Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield have teamed up again to host a variety of events across the town centre including the elf trail, Christmas Lights Switch On and Santa’s Grotto.

Find out more about all of the Christmas events taking place and more ideas of things to do in Chesterfield visit www.chesterfield.co.uk/christmas.

Elf Trail Standard No Dates

Posted in Apprentice Town, Christmas, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Apprenticeship Careers Made In Chesterfield

Almost every object that we use has been manufactured, engineered, or constructed in some way. Chesterfield is home to several companies, both large and small, which manufacture products right here in our town.

When you think about manufacturing, engineering, or construction you instantly think of engineers, machines, and process lines. However, there is so much more that goes on behind the scenes to ensure the business and products are successful.

Learn from current Chesterfield apprentices about the diverse range of jobs available within the sectors.

Engineering

Engineering is an important process of a manufacturing business; it involves science and maths to convert raw materials into a finished product, whilst emphasising cost-efficiency and maximum productivity.

Jakub Kuchta is a Level 4 Engineering and Manufacturing apprentice at Penny Hydraulics Ltd, a local business specialising in manufacturing lifting equipment.

Jakub Kuchta

He explained: “I decided to pursue an apprenticeship in engineering as I was fascinated with how parts are made and how they transition from a piece of material to a finished product. I also like thinking on my feet and problem solving which I face daily due to the nature of the job.

I have benefited from the apprenticeship programme as it has taught me the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to perform the job to a high standard and how to carry those over into a professional environment. I would recommend the apprenticeship programme due to its balance of practical and theoretical work, which helps students transition from school into a professional working environment.”

Business Administration

Business administration involves managing an organisation’s resources, time, and people. It is an important aspect of a manufacturing business, to ensure everything runs effectively, efficiently, and profitably.

Meet Kiera Robinson, Business Administrator at Railview Ltd. Based at Barrow Hill Roundhouse Railway Centre, Railview Ltd specialise in visualising subterranean and subsurface assets for the railways, construction, and utility industries.

Kiera Robinson apprentice town

Kiera was already working in the engineering sector as an Administrative Assistant when she discovered the apprenticeship route would help her to upskill and progress her career.

She said: “I didn’t know that apprenticeships were suitable for myself, aged 31, already been to college and university, and I have a family of my own. I decided to have a change of career, and I discovered that apprenticeships were not only for school leavers under the age of 18, but it was suitable for me too. It was the perfect way for me to progress, earn money, support my family, and gain a qualification that would help me in the future.”

Having now completed her Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship, Kiera has been promoted to Business Administrator and has started the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) course through the University of Derby.

Learn more about Kiera’s journey as an apprentice here…

Marketing  

Marketing plays a key role in any business, especially those in manufacturing and engineering, which deliver a product to customers. Having an online presence, whether it be via a website or social media, is crucial for winning, satisfying, and retaining customers.

Karis Green is the Marketing Coordinator at Penny Hydraulics. She is currently working towards her Level 4 Marketing Executive apprenticeship through skills provider, DBC Training.

Karis Green 873x466

Karis said: “I decided to do this apprenticeship due to wanting to progress further within my Marketing journey. Having a Level 3 qualification already, the next natural step was to progress to Level 4. Due to this being an ever-growing industry, it was important for me to be able to gain increased knowledge and skillsets to be able to perform to my best within the role.

Personally speaking, choosing an apprenticeship to get into this sector made perfect sense. There’s the automatic benefit of avoiding costly university fees, as well as learning whilst earning on the job. I believe practical experience is necessary whilst learning, which is what an apprenticeship offers.”

Property and Construction

Property and construction is one of the fastest growing sectors in Chesterfield with 2,750 individuals currently employed locally. This number is only expected to increase with the many active housing and development sites in Chesterfield.

William Davis Homes are responsible for building the Skylarks development at Dunston. Construction apprentices, bricklayer Kieran Moulds and joiners Joshua Ford and Dominic Heardman, were recognised earlier this year by MP, Toby Perkins for their work. 

The trio completed their apprenticeships with the house builder at the development in Dunston. All three live in Chesterfield, attended Chesterfield College, and have continued to work at Skylarks in their chosen trades.

Read more on this story here…

Have you been inspired by the apprentices mentioned above? You can search for the latest apprenticeship vacancies in and around Chesterfield here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/

Made in Chesterfield is a celebration of the manufacturing, engineering, science, technology, property, and construction industries and careers in the town. The campaign looks to inspire the next generation to the industry, with businesses, schools, and training providers coming together to showcase the sector.

Posted in Apprentice Town, Blog, Made in Chesterfield

Made in Chesterfield returns to connect manufacturing and engineering businesses with next generation of employees

The annual Made in Chesterfield festival, which aims to get more local young people interested in careers in businesses operating in the town’s engineering, manufacturing, property and construction businesses has returned for the eighth consecutive year.

Co-ordinated by Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership and sponsored by the Chesterfield College Group, the 2022 Made in Chesterfield festival was officially launched at Chesterfield College.

Speaking at the event, Reece Berry (20), Software Engineer Apprentice at Weightron Bilanciai and a former pupil of St Mary’s Catholic High School, said: “Young people need to be aware of apprenticeship opportunities in the engineering and manufacturing sector. They offer brilliant careers for young people.

“I chose to go down the apprenticeship route as I was passionate about IT and software development. I had the option to go to university, but I wanted to work in a real, live environment to gain a mixture of skills that would benefit me in multiple ways.

“Weightron Bilanciai is providing me with the training, support and skills I require to undertake the challenge of becoming a highly skilled software engineer and developer, this has given me the chance to explore and learn areas of IT I never knew about.”

During the four-week festival, which runs until Friday 2 December, young people from Chesterfield’s secondary schools will be introduced to the varied science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) careers available in local businesses through a number of workplace visits and events.

Performance vehicle specialist Scooby Clinic, engineering business MSE Hiller and manufacturer United Cast Bar are amongst a number of businesses who are inviting young people to their workplaces during the campaign.

The annual festival is playing a key role in helping address the technical skills shortage amongst businesses locally. According to the UK Commission for Employment & Skills, 43 per cent of STEM vacancies nationally are hard to fill, mainly because of a shortage of applicants with the required skills and experience.

Since launching in 2014, Made in Chesterfield has introduced more than 3,500 young people to the jobs and careers available within local businesses operating in the STEM sector.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director at MSE Hiller and Destination Chesterfield board member responsible for manufacturing and engineering in the borough, commented on being part of the annual initiative: “It’s fantastic for us to be able to showcase our industry and business to young people and encourage them to consider a career path that may not have been on their mind beforehand. We have been involved with Made in Chesterfield since the campaign began and it has helped us attract young people into the business in both apprenticeship roles and work experience placements.

“Each year, Made in Chesterfield makes a real difference to local businesses, education providers and young people. I am delighted to see it return once again.”

Julie Richards, Principal and CEO of Chesterfield College Group explains, “It’s vitally important we continue our support for the Made in Chesterfield initiative. We are proud to play our part in the growth of engineering, science, technology and manufacturing locally. The increasing development of STEM in Chesterfield is something we have mirrored in our curriculum with investment in the latest technologies, such as 3D printing and augmented reality, all with a focus on sustainability.

“Partnering with initiatives such as Made in Chesterfield and working with local employers and schools, our core focus is to provide a clear, aspirational pathway for the next generation of local workforce be that through full time study, apprenticeships, T-Levels or higher education. Our mission of inspiring futures and changing lives is brought into clear focus through working with Made in Chesterfield and we are delighted to once again host this year’s launch event.”

Made in Chesterfield is delivered in association with the Chesterfield College Group and with support from Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire North Careers Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd, and NatWest.

To find out more about Made in Chesterfield and how you can get involved, please visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/made/.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , ,

Chesterfield Royal Hospital wins major regional award for work with apprentices

The hard work and dedication of apprentices from the East Midlands, their employers and mentors have been celebrated at a special ceremony; with Chesterfield Royal Hospital winning one of the top awards at the event.

150 people attended the Regional Finals of the National Apprenticeship Awards in Leicester. They are one of nine regional awards across the country, with the winners from each shortlisted for the National Apprenticeship Awards finals which will take place in London on 30th November.

The awards give both individuals and businesses the chance to showcase the many benefits of apprenticeships: These include the opportunity to gain skills for life, earn while you learn and boost your employability.

Angela Borman, Chair of the East Midlands Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, co-hosted the ceremony. She said: “It was amazing to celebrate the talented apprentices, as well as their employers and mentors here in the East Midlands.

“Having worked in the delivery of apprenticeships for the whole of my career, I passionately believe they are a great opportunity. These awards showcase how they can help people thrive.

“We’ve got some amazing employers who work hard to ensure that the delivery of apprenticeships here in the East Midlands is first class. I am proud to be working with them to continue this success.”

The awards are also an opportunity to promote the work of the East Midlands Apprenticeship Ambassador Network – a group of local employers and apprentices who champion the awareness of apprenticeships.

The free-to-join network allows employers to learn from each other and have input into Government thinking and policy on the skills agenda.

The winners are:

Small Employer of the Year – Dental 22

Large Employer of the Year – Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Macro Employer of the Year – Travis Perkins PLC

Recruitment Excellence – Nottingham City Homes

Rising Star of the Year – Niall Hutton – Capwell Grange Care Home

Intermediate Apprentice of the Year – Julia Jones – John Lewis Partnership

Advanced Apprentice of the Year – Ali Amin – Shawpak (Riverside Medical Group)

Higher or Degree Apprentice of the Year – Evie Marsden – Kier Construction

Apprentice Champion – Kimmy Kimani Hobbs – Milton Keynes College

Find out more about the range of apprenticeships in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/

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

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Mitchells Accountants partners with Chesterfield College to provide apprenticeship opportunities

A Chesterfield Accountancy and business advice firm has grown its team by taking on several apprentices, having worked with Chesterfield College to provide employment opportunities for local people.

Mitchells Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers are one of Chesterfield’s longest standing firms and has been at the heart of its business community for 150 years, as well as a long serving member of Chesterfield Champions.

Mitchells have also long been an Apprenticeship Ambassador, helping to promote Chesterfield as an Apprentice Town and raising awareness of apprenticeships and their benefits to strengthen the workforce of the local economy.

Mitchells recognises that university isn’t the only option available to those leaving school, which is why the firm offers apprenticeships for young people who wish to undertake the AAT qualification – the internationally recognised qualification based on real-world accounting knowledge.

Examples of recent success stories for Mitchells apprentices include the following:

  • Mitchells’ apprentice, Dominic Day has successfully finished his ICAEW exams and associated work this year to become a qualified member of the Institute.
  • Two ICAEW apprentices, Sophia Ferretto and Brandon Wazirali, have passed advanced level exams and are in the final stages of also becoming fully qualified Institute members.
  • Julie Clayton has progressed to the final exam in her ACCA apprenticeship and received glowing praise from their training provider for their dedication to both the training and the apprenticeship requirements.
  • Apprentices, Sophia Ferretto and Olivia Powell were both put forward by Mitchells for recognition in the Apprentice of the Year category at this year’s Love Chesterfield Awards. The applications showed how well thought of these individuals, along with their fellow apprentices, are by the firm and also the care taken to ensure they continue to develop and flourish.

From the moment their training begins, apprentices are assigned a mentor who monitors and supports their professional and personal development.  As well as becoming a full-time employee at Mitchells, with a salary and other associated benefits, they pay for their AAT apprentices to attend Chesterfield College on a day release basis to study.

Further industry specific qualifications are completed by apprentices including ATT, ACCA, ICAEW and CIOT on a similar basis using internationally recognised training providers.

Having used other training providers in the past, they now only use Chesterfield College for their AAT qualifications because the college is employer led and prepares students for their careers and helps develop ambitious students prepare for work and life.

Mitchells currently employs 5 AAT apprentices who all study at Chesterfield College. Associate Partner, Laura Pain said: “We strongly believe in attracting candidates leaving college and sixth form to help them get started at the ground level.” She went onto highlight two apprentices in the Business Services Team, which she heads up.

“Olivia Powell joined us at just 17 years old and has thrived over the past three years to the point where she is confident and comfortable dealing with the rest of the team, her clients and HMRC. Jessica Wright first joined Mitchells as a university placement student and returned to learn more. Jess achieved a Distinction at Level 2 AAT with an overall qualification percentage score of 96%.”

Olivia Powell and fellow AAT apprentices, Jasmine Pollard and Chloe Jones commented on why they chose the apprenticeship route: “Apprenticeships are a great way of gaining your qualifications whilst working along-side meaning you can put theory into practise and practise into theory. It is also means no commitment of university and allows you to get a head start into the world of work as you can begin your career as young as 16.”

They also commented: “Chesterfield College is a training provider that allows you to work with other apprentices who are working towards the same qualifications as yourself. This not only supports us but allows us to have an insight into all the aspects of accounting, whether this is in industry or practise as you are working with people from a diverse range of job roles. Chesterfield College is extremely local to Mitchells and you are given a day release each week in order to attend the lessons. The lessons are in person allowing you to engage more and ask for any help or resources if needed. Printers and laptops are also available to use on campus which can be used after teaching hours. College tutors are also accessible via email and on teams whenever you need them showing they are very willing to contribute towards your success during AAT.”

Henry Taylor-Toone, Vice Principal Finance and Corporate Services at Chesterfield College said the following: “We’re very proud that Mitchells, a very well known and established Chesterfield business, has chosen Chesterfield College as their training provider. Chesterfield College is employer focused and our partnership with Mitchells demonstrates exactly what we can provide to local businesses – top quality education, delivered locally, helping apprentices, students and adults succeed in their chosen field. Apprentices from Mitchells are also a delight to teach which is always a bonus!”

David Waining, the firms Qualified Person Responsible for Training (QPRT) said “We have been very proud to work with all our apprentices. The joint provision between the training providers and ourselves provides the trainees with valuable experience of the practical work to apply the technical knowledge they have picked up in the classroom. We have had numerous success stories at all levels of the apprenticeship scheme and have looked to expand the number of apprenticeships we are offering across the firm because of these successes. We see this as a vital resource to grow our workforce.”

Mitchells Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers and Chesterfield College support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

‘Tis the season for job vacancies! Chesterfield businesses recruiting ahead of the festive period

With the festive season just around the corner, Chesterfield businesses are turning their attention to recruiting new talent ahead of the busy period.

We have put together a guide to help you explore the career opportunities available right here in Chesterfield and know where to search for those festive job vacancies.

Retail and Hospitality

As retail businesses are stocking the shelves ahead of the Christmas shopping boom and hospitality venues putting the finishing touches to the festive menu ready for the Christmas party season, these businesses are looking to hire an extra pair of hands for the busy period.

These roles are the perfect way to gain valuable work experience and enhance your skills. Lucy Bacon, Assistant Marketing Manager of the Casa Hotel Group, demonstrates how working in hospitality helped her gain transferable skills which can be applied to other career opportunities.

Cocina Restaurant (002)

Lucy explained: “I started at Casa Hotel working part-time, alongside my school studies, in the Cocina Restaurant. This gave me a great base of transferable skills to grow on! My journey in Cocina then quickly moved from part-time to full-time, and from Food and Beverage Attendant to Restaurant Supervisor.

After some time developing my food and beverage knowledge further, I began to take interest in the Marketing of our products and services both for the Restaurant and the Hotel as a whole. The Management team here at Casa gave me the opportunity and support to gain my qualification in Marketing as well as move over fully into the Marketing of both Casa and Peak Edge. I am now the proud Assistant Marketing Manager of the Casa Hotel Group and am grateful for the opportunities I have been given whilst working in the Hospitality Industry.”

Browse the job vacancies available at Casa Hotel here and Peake Edge here.

Marks and Spencer’s in Chesterfield are currently advertising some fantastic career options across many roles.

Glow with us M&S

Matt Corker, Store Manager at Chesterfield said: “You could be part of something special. Our brand new M&S store in Chesterfield is coming soon and you could be coming with us.

Whoever you are, whatever your background, build a career to be proud of here – we’re with you all the way.

We’re looking to recruit up to 100 remarkable colleagues to be part of one amazing team. Plus with flexible career options, opportunities to progress and great benefits, including 20% colleague discount, why not take a look and apply today!”

Search the job opportunities available at Marks and Spencer’s Chesterfield here.

You can use the Job Centre Plus service to search for job vacancies in the local area. Give @JCPInStaffDerby a follow on social media as they regularly post the latest vacancies, alternatively, you browse through the listings on their website here.

Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire have a dedicated webpage for job vacancies in the hospitality industry across Derbyshire and the Peak District. Search the current vacancies here.

Chesterfield Market Recruitment Event

Market Recruitment event

Are you searching for work in Chesterfield? Visit the Chesterfield Market Recruitment Event on Wednesday 12th October 10 am – 12 pm, where you can meet employers and find out more about local job vacancies and training schemes that lead to employment.

The drop-in event is open to everyone, with no need to make an appointment.

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

Derbyshire Careers Service will also be attending the event to promote training courses but also advise job seekers on how they can get support with their CV and interview techniques.

Find an Apprenticeship in Chesterfield

Find Your Apprenticeship button

Currently, there are over 100 apprenticeship vacancies available across a variety of sectors and apprenticeships can be a great stepping stone for your career, allowing you to earn and learn on the job.

Tom Fearn, Recruitment Manager at Apprentice Team said: “Gaining employment during the festive period can lead to some exciting opportunities and gives you a chance to kickstart your career within your desired sector.

Apprenticeships are also available within a wide range of sectors. This can be a vital time of year to gain experience that you can use for future employment and interviews. In most cases, workplaces during the festive period are busier than usual which also allows candidates to gain a wide range of skills working in a fast-paced environment.”

Use our search tool to browse the hundreds of apprenticeship vacancies available in and around Chesterfield. You can simply scroll through the vacancies or filter by sector and apprenticeship level to find the right apprenticeship for you. Access the search tool here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, BlogTagged in , , , , , , , , , ,

Roy Peters Estates welcomes its first ever apprentice

Roy Peters Estates are delighted to welcome their first apprentice in close to 50 Years of successful trading.

George Glazebrook joined the Specialist Property Management Company in September 2022 having had two successful spells of work experience with Roy Peters from School in Bolsover and from West Nottinghamshire College.

Director Richard Sherwood said: “We are delighted to be able to offer George an opportunity to join our team at Roy Peters, he is a smart and intelligent young man who greatly impressed me with his positive attitude and proactive approach in contacting us.” He added; “I must also admit to being a big fan of the Sweeney and am looking forward channelling my inner DI Regan, taking a long drag on a sweet cigarette and saying, “Do us a coffee George!””

Fellow Director Emma Gallagher commented: “in any industry you have to keep moving forward and planning for the future, our industry is changing and we need to be changing with it. We see George as a great asset to Roy Peters and look forward to supporting him through formal qualifications to full Membership of ARLA. (The Association of Residential Letting Agents). He will also assist me with our Commercial business and our ongoing development projects.”

George himself said: “I am so pleased Roy Peters chose me to be there apprentice and I am happy to be starting my career in property as well as learning the skills that the role requires. I believe that this opportunity will open many doors for me and further my career. I am also very grateful and pleased that the Directors and staff are putting in their effort time and resources into my learning.”

Roy Peters were established in 1976 and Principal Roy Cutt is still very much involved with the organisation and is busy planning the redevelopment of the Knifesmithgate offices, due to commence this Autumn.

The company continues to offer a personal, locally focused and tailored service to existing and future clients having years of Residential and Commercial expertise. For more information and for no obligation initial advice please contact Richard or Emma. 01246 272740, wwwroypeters.com.

Chesterfield businesses considering taking on an apprentice can find more information at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/

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

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

Three young people in the running for top apprentice title at the Love Chesterfield Awards

One young person is set to be named as the town’s top apprentice next month.

Henry Kay, Ria Smith and Will Brooks are all in the running for the prestigious Apprentice of the Year Award in the annual 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards, organised by Destination Chesterfield in association with Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management.

The award, which is sponsored by DBC Training, recognises apprentices that have made a significant contribution to the success of a local organisation.

Henry (21), a trainee accountant at BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax, follows in the footsteps of the company’s founder, who also started his career as an apprentice. “I’m happy to be considered for the Apprentice of the Year award, it feels great to be a finalist. I chose to do an apprenticeship because it was a good way to get into accounting without having to take the traditional university route; it was the better option for me.”

Graham Nash, Director of BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax added: “Apprenticeships provide good quality young people and the opportunity to mould best practice in business for both the apprentice and the company. I am the result of an apprenticeship and have seen many diamonds found and nurtured to reach great potential.”

Ria (22), who is a Support Office Assistant at Peak Pharmacy, began her career with the company when she assisted with its COVID-19 vaccination clinics. She said: “I feel very grateful to have been shortlisted for this award. I was so excited when I found out I had been nominated!

“During the pandemic, I was given the opportunity to work for Peak Pharmacy in its COVID-19 vaccination clinics both within Casa Hotel and the Clay Cross Pharmacy. I was ready to further my education and jumped at the opportunity when I saw Peak Pharmacy was advertising for an apprentice in its support office. I love the fast pace of the office and no two days are the same. My apprenticeship has allowed me to start from scratch and build a career for the future.”

Andrea Street, Head of Support Office at Peak Pharmacy said: “Having apprentices has given us the opportunity to develop and grow a talented and motivated workforce. The aim is to see them move into permanent roles within our company and continue their training. Ria’s energy and enthusiasm has without doubt had a positive impact on our Support team and across the company. She is a valued member of our team, and we couldn’t be happier that she chose to complete her apprenticeship with us!”

Will (19) who is a Digital Marketing Apprentice at Superior Wellness has taken on several additional marketing responsibilities in the business this year and has been praised by his employer for ‘stepping up’.

Will commented: “I’m very happy to be included in the shortlist for the Apprentice of the Year award. I chose the route of an apprenticeship as I feel it suited my work style much better than going to university and could give me experience in the workplace at a young age. It’s had a big impact on me in terms of my ambition and motivation.”

Sarah Elphick, Head of Marketing at Superior Wellness added: Apprenticeships are a great opportunity for people to start their careers and we are huge advocates of them. Will adapted to his role well and was keen to learn from day one.

“In April, our two marketing executives left the business, leaving Will and myself to take on several additional responsibilities. Will adapted to this change in a calm and professional way and was excited about the prospect of additional responsibilities. Will has really stepped up and is doing the same level of work as the marketing executives despite being at the start of his career.”

Peter Swallow, Chair of Destination Chesterfield congratulated Ria, Will and Henry commenting: “Apprentices play such a pivotal role in fulfilling the town’s ambitions for growth. Having a pool of young talent is crucial both for our existing businesses and potential investors in the area so it’s important we give recognition to the apprentices and their employers who are helping them progress in their careers within the town.”

The Apprentice of the Year award is one of 15 categories in the 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards. The winners of all the categories will be announced at a glittering black-tie ceremony at The Winding Wheel Theatre on Wednesday 12 October.

See the full list of 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards finalists here: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/finalists/

As well as Entire FM – Complete Facilities Management and DBC Training, the 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards are also supported and made possible by Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Accountants, BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax, Chesterfield Borough Council, Derbyshire Times, East Midlands Chamber (Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire), Elder Way, Great2, Hoods Florist, JP Fire Safety Solutions, Minuteman Press Chesterfield, MSE Hiller, Peak Pharmacy, Shorts Chartered Accountants, Spirecross Ltd and Sutton McGrath Hartley.

Peter Swallow added: “After the uncertainty of the last two years, the Destination Chesterfield team is working to ensure the 2022 Love Chesterfield Awards is the best yet, which is only possible through the generosity of our sponsors.”

There are a limited number of sponsorship packages available. If you’re interested in sponsoring the awards, information is available at www.chesterfield.co.uk/lovechesterfieldawards/sponsors/sponsorshippackages/ or by contacting Tara Underhill, Senior Destination Chesterfield Coordinator by emailing Tara.underhill@chesterfield.co.uk or calling 01246 207 207.

2021 Apprentice of the Year Award winner, Ellie Gibson – Heathcotes Group

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Find the route to success with an Apprenticeship in Wholesale, Distribution and Export

Wholesale, Distribution and Export offers a wide variety of job opportunities from the warehouse floor to delivery, marketing, management and much more.

There are many benefits to choosing an apprenticeship as a career route and this blog explores the views from current apprentices working in the sector.

Wholesale, Distribution and Export in Chesterfield

Chesterfield is an ideal location for Wholesale, Distribution and Export businesses due to the network links and easy access to the M1 motorway.

We have seen an increased business growth in this sector through the Markham Vale development, one of the UKs premier logistics locations. Businesses located at the 200-acre business park include Daher Aerospace Limited, Great Bear, Ferdinand Bilstein, Grangers Ltd, MSE Hiller and Industrial Ancillaries, just to name a few!

1000’s of jobs are supported at Markham Vale; for anyone interested in starting a career at Markham Vale you can see the latest vacancies over on the Jobs at Markham Vale Facebook page.

The Apprentice Perspective

The success of Markham Vale has supported the growth of businesses in this sector. Located at Markham Vale, MSE Hiller supplies and rents centrifuges and environmental engineering products to the water, food and other industries.

Ewan Walker, Level 3 Mechanical Engineering Apprentice at MSE Hiller is responsible for engineering the products which the company distribute across the UK.

Ewan Walker MSE Hiller 873x466

Ewan said: “I chose an apprenticeship in this sector as I have an interest in mechanical engineering and want to be a part of the future of mechanical engineering. I enjoy that every day is slightly different and there’s constantly new challenges to overcome.

One benefit of choosing an engineering apprenticeship is that you’re learning a skill and gaining a qualification, whilst earning an income.”

Chesterfield based Superior Wellness is Europe’s largest hot tub distributor, importing from several countries to offer a wide choice of hot tubs, swim spas and other related products to the trade and retail customers.

Meet Elicia Allott and Will Brooks, Digital Marketing Apprentices at Superior Wellness.

Will and Elicia 873x466

Marketing and having a digital presence plays an important role in this sector, to ensure your company is well-known by stakeholders across the world.

Elicia said: “I’m involved in the maintenance of my company’s digital presence, including website content editing, email marketing, social media management and content creation.

The digital marketing industry is such a fast-paced and constantly evolving industry, therefore going down the apprenticeship route has given me an opportunity to immerse myself straight into the industry and get hands on experience. Choosing an apprenticeship in digital marketing means that I am able to build on my digital marketing knowledge to gain relevant and qualifications alongside developing my skills such as creativity through real work experience.”

Will added: “Personally, for me, as university was never in my plan, completing an apprenticeship was always the path I wanted to pursue. It is easy when you’re young to overlook how beneficial an apprenticeship can be, but hopefully sharing my experience will help others see the huge benefit.

Overall, I feel the benefit of choosing an apprenticeship is you get the chance to learn on the job from a young age, whilst bringing in a stable income and also developing your skills within a proper working environment.”

Global Brands is one of the UK’s leading drinks brand development businesses which owns, markets and distributes a range of brands across the spirit, beer, ready to drink beverages and energy drink categories. Global Brands exports to over 30 countries around the world including Germany, Spain and Africa.

Level 3 Business Admin Apprentices, Gaby Hopkinson and Charlotte Pebworth, shared their experiences as an apprentice at Global Brands.

Gabby and Charlotte 873x466

Charlotte said: “We are both doing a business admin apprenticeship in a warehouse setting for Global Brands. Both Gaby and I have an interest in business studies and we both studied it at sixth form and college. We enjoy the relaxed environment we work in and working alongside our experienced and supportive colleagues. It is a hugely successful business, and we are glad to be a part of the team.”

Gaby added: “An apprenticeship provides experience of the working environment, whilst learning the job at the same time. We get paid to learn and it’s all about gaining the experience to progress through the business in the future.”

Find an Apprenticeship in Wholesale, Distribution and Export

As you can see from the apprentices that we spoke to, the Wholesale, Distribution and Export sector offers various job roles to suit every skill set and an apprenticeship offers the perfect opportunity to kickstart your career.

Use our search tool to browse the hundreds of apprenticeship vacancies currently available in and around Chesterfield: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/

 

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

Apprenticeships in Chesterfield now even easier to find online

Young people looking for an apprenticeship in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire have been given a helping hand.

A new online search tool has been launched by Apprentice Town making it quicker and easier than ever before to search for apprenticeship vacancies.

The new search function, which is hosted on the Destination Chesterfield website, enables people to browse the wide range of Level 2 – 7 apprenticeship roles within a 15-mile radius of Chesterfield.

People can search for apprenticeship vacancies based on both subject area and Level, with hundreds of opportunities currently available in the local area.

With thousands of young people set to pick up their GCSE and A Level exam results next month; the Apprentice Town website has been praised by business and education leaders in the town.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director of MSE Hiller, Destination Chesterfield board member and an apprentice employer, commented: “The practical benefits of the Apprentice Town initiative are invaluable both to young people and businesses based in Chesterfield. I have been an employer in Chesterfield for 25 years and I have always made a point of offering apprenticeships; they are an intrinsic part of both Chesterfield’s and MSE Hiller’s growth ambitions.”

Chesterfield College Group Principal and CEO, Julie Richards explains: “We’re proud to have supported so many generations of workforce to Chesterfield employers through apprenticeship programmes. Post-pandemic, it’s pleasing to see that the appetite for recruiting young talent into a business via earning whilst learning is still as great as ever. There are so many fantastic opportunities out there from Level 2 right through to degree equivalent apprenticeships and I strongly encourage those considering their options when leaving school, or even mature learners, to consider an apprenticeship route to achieve the career they want.”

In 2017, Chesterfield became 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.

Chesterfield Borough Council leads the Apprentice Town initiative, which 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 area.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “We’re proud to be the first Apprentice Town in the UK, an apprenticeship is much more than just a job. They allow people to develop their skills and set them along a career path which leads to higher paying jobs – improving their quality of life and helping our borough’s economy to grow.

“We’re committed to making it easier for our residents to find the right apprenticeship opportunity for them, so that everyone has the chance to build a great career in our borough.”

To access the search tool, please visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice-in-chesterfield/find-an-apprenticeship-in-chesterfield/

Or, for more information on the Apprentice Town initiative, please visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/what-is-apprentice-town/

 

Apprentice Town - Find Your Apprenticeship - Social Media Landscape2

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , ,