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Chesterfield businesses urged to take up free green and digital skills support

Companies across Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire are being urged to take up the offer of free training.

North East Derbyshire District Council and Chesterfield Borough Council have joined forces to offer green skills and higher digital skills courses – made possible thanks to £200,000 worth of funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The green skills courses will help construction companies access skills development that will help them comply with the Future Homes Standard (FHS) – which requires new homes built from 2025 to produce significantly less carbon emissions than under current building regulations – and will also contribute to the UK achieving its 2050 net zero target.

The higher level digital skills courses are open to businesses of any kind, interested in equipping their workforce with essential digital skills.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and cabinet member for economic growth, said: “We’re committed to ensuring that everyone can improve their skills and access new career opportunities. These programmes will allow people to upskill in their current roles, access promotions and ensure local businesses have access to the skills they need. The focus on green skills will also help ensure we can become a carbon neutral area and reduce the impact of climate change.”

Cllr Jayne Barry, North East Derbyshire District Council’s Cabinet member for Growth, said: “This is a great opportunity for businesses across our district to upskill their workforce as we move towards a greener and more sustainable future. Also, a future which is increasingly reliant on the use of technology, with all the rewards and threats that can bring.”

Chesterfield College will be delivering green skills courses, including the installation of wall insulation, solar panels, and heat pumps. As well as hybrid vehicle awareness and a qualification in sustainability.

While Derby-based training provider Althaus Digital will deliver a suite of higher level digital skills training, including generative AI in digital marketing, cyber security and green digital training programmes.

Courses start from 22 August 2024 and run until Feb/March 2025. Some are short one day courses, while others take place over several days.

They will be delivered face-to-face and also online – and are all free.

To find out about all the courses available at Chesterfield College and to book on a session, visit www.chesterfield.ac.uk/greenskills/ or call 01246 500500 for more information.

For more information about the Althaus courses, contact Am Seabright, Director of Transformation am@althausdigital.co.uk 07913424467.

If you can’t make any of the courses, don’t worry as there is some flexibility with dates.  Just contact Economic.Development@NE-Derbyshire.gov.uk for more information.

Looking for more support for your business? Find out more about the latest schemes available at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Two women wearing VR headsets and animation on big screen

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

Chesterfield business leaders share advice for young people ahead of results day

Millions of young people across the UK are eagerly awaiting their GCSE and A-Level results in the coming days, marking the culmination of years of hard work and exam preparation.

While this is a moment to celebrate their achievements, it’s also a time of important decisions about the future.

With numerous pathways to consider, the choices can feel overwhelming. Some may choose to continue their education by attending sixth form, college, or university, while others might opt to enter the workforce directly through full-time employment or apprenticeships.

At a recent business roundtable hosted by Destination Chesterfield in collaboration with the Derbyshire Times, leaders from various training providers and companies in Chesterfield shared valuable insights and advice, to help guide our young people in making informed decisions about their next steps.

Discover what our local businesses had to say below…

Jo Down – Assistant Principal for Student Experience and Wellbeing, Chesterfield College

Keep your options open and take advantage of opportunities to try new things. Everything will be a learning journey, and throughout that journey you’ll be developing skills which you can take anywhere.

I’d also recommend you look at the job market in the area as well. Find out more about the careers that are available, then once you find something that interests you, research the different routes and options available.

Lastly, it is OK to change your mind along the way and take a different path. We all do that through life, and it’s good to keep learning new skills!

Rebecca Erskine – Owner, Yellow Bird Marketing and Communications

Don’t rule out the option of self-employment and starting up your own business. You can make a good living out of working for yourself, whilst gaining valuable entrepreneurial skills… which perhaps you might not learn a lot about in school!

Also, the most vital skill you can learn is communication. Ask questions of your parents, your parents’ friends and everybody around you about how they got into their career.

Observe situations around you too, so if you’re in a shop and somebody’s not happy with something, how do the staff speak to customers? How do they reach a solution or come to a compromise? Having good communication and negotiation skills will stand you in good stead, no matter what career you choose.

Catherine Wenborn – Owner, Vines Legal Ltd.

Catherine Wenborn Vines Legal

You could have the opportunity to do an apprenticeship and and be paid for the work you’re doing, and also learn and develop as you’re going along.

Secondly, make good use of your school or college careers service and don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions!

I’d also recommend taking part in work experience and getting used to writing to employers. It shows that you can use your initiative, and its shows future employers that you’re interested in working for them, so it can open all sorts of doors!

Lewis Silcock – Business Development Manager, DBC Training

Lewis DBC Training

Go into things with an open mind and don’t be afraid to try new things. However, don’t expect to achieve things overnight – building a career can take time.

Don’t be afraid to pick up the brush or make those cups of tea – there are jobs in the workplace that you might not necessarily want to do, but everyone’s had to start somewhere and in the long-term it shows that you have a good work ethic.

Paul Stuart – Head of Business Support Services, East Midlands Chamber

Man speaking to woman at business expo

I’d advise young people to get a part-time job. It’s important to get those people skills so they’re informed on how to deal with difficult customers.

Simply applying for a job can give you experience on the types of questions employers ask you. You’ll then be set up to handle interviews calmly and use those listening skills.

Helen Bradshaw – Business Development Director, Learning Curve Group

Headshot of a woman with dark hair looking into camera

Keep your options open and ask lots of questions. Don’t be frightened to change career direction, but most importantly don’t do nothing.

Get out there, explore and do something you enjoy. You can make it happen, sometimes you just need to go that extra bit of distance to stand out and achieve your goals.

Jamie Wajs – Owner, Lime Living Estate Agents

Jamie Wajs Lime Living

Don’t worry about whether the choice you make doesn’t work out, because there are always options to go back into education and learn new skills.

You’ve got to find something you enjoy doing, and you don’t have to stay in the same career your whole life. Just go out there with a positive attitude and take opportunities.

The organisations featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Find out how you can boost your talent pipeline by supporting our young people on their journey to the workplace. Sign up for the latest updates at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/skills-and-employability-newsletter-signup/

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Chesterfield property and construction firms encouraged to apply for 2024 East Midlands Bricks Awards

Property and Construction businesses have just three weeks to submit their applications for a prestigious awards ceremony which celebrates the sector.

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 will shine a light on the industry across our region, while offering an opportunity to network with business leaders.

This year’s glittering ceremony will take place on Thursday 3 October at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground in Nottingham.

Hosted by East Midlands Business Link Magazine, the event is an independent awards and publicity programme recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools.

It’s an opportunity to celebrate successes, boost businesses’ profiles, showcase teams, reward their efforts, and bolster morale.

To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of the awards, visit this page.

Award categories include:

  • Most active agent
  • Commercial development of the year
  • Responsible business of the year
  • Residential development of the year
  • Developer of the year
  • Deal of the year
  • Architects of the year
  • Excellence in design
  • Sustainable development of the year
  • Contractor of the year
  • Overall winner (this award cannot be entered, with the winner, and recipient of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, selected from those nominated)

Nominations end Thursday 5th September.

Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire.

Are you a Chesterfield business looking to gain recognition for your work and promotion of your company by entering awards? Our guide will enable you to find out more about the awards available in our region. Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/promote-your-business/

A digger and construction worker on a Stancliffe Homes development

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Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s staff wellbeing hub shortlisted for prestigious award

Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s Health and Wellbeing Hub has been shortlisted for the Staff Wellbeing Award at the HSJ Awards, recognising an outstanding contribution to healthcare and securing a place at the prestigious awards ceremony later this year.

Over 1,000 entries have been received for this year’s Awards, with 234 projects and individuals reaching the final shortlist. The high volume and exceptional quality of applications showcases the impressive levels of innovation and care continually being developed within the UK’s healthcare networks.

Following the thorough judging process, the Trust was shortlisted, ahead of the official awards ceremony to be held later this year, with the Health and Wellbeing Hub standing out as a real ‘success story’ worthy of a prized place on the panel’s shortlist.

The Trust’s vision is ‘exceptional care provided by exceptional people’, we have 5,000 colleagues and following the pandemic wanted to invest in their health and wellbeing – caring for the carers.

The Health and Wellbeing Hub opened in July 2023 – and is a free on-site facility supporting both physical and mental wellbeing. The facility boasts:

  • Counselling rooms
  • A fully equipped gym
  • Two studios to host groups and exercise classes
  • Areas for group or individual reflection after traumatic incidents
  • Changing room and shower facilities
  • Bike storage facilities
  • Foyer space for colleagues to take time out, eat lunch and network

Abbie Foster, Health and Wellbeing Lead at the Trust, said: “It’s an honour to be shortlisted for the Staff Wellbeing Award at the HSJ Awards. It’s a great way to showcase all the incredible work the teams have been doing across the Trust to make improvements for our colleagues and their wellbeing. A huge thank you to everybody involved.”

Caroline Wade MBE, Executive Director of Human Resources and Organisational Development, added: “The real value comes from how the Hub and support available makes our colleagues feel. We saw a 5% decrease across the burnout question on the 2023 NHS Staff Survey – with the Trust scoring 3.5% better than the national score.

“We hope that this will inspire other organisations to take further steps to support their colleagues’ wellbeing.”

Abbie Foster, Health and Wellbeing Lead at the Trust, added: “It’s an honour to be shortlisted for the Staff Wellbeing Award at the HSJ Awards. It’s a great way to showcase all the incredible work the teams have been doing across the Trust to make improvements for our colleagues and their wellbeing. A huge thank you to everybody involved.”

HSJ editor Alastair McLellan, adds; “It always gives me great pleasure to congratulate our finalists at this stage of the judging process and this year is no exception as we acknowledge Chesterfield Royal Hospital for being shortlisted in the category of Staff Wellbeing.

“However, it’s always important to remember that the HSJ Awards are not just a celebration of success stories but also a platform to shape the future of the NHS.

“We can’t wait to welcome our finalists to the awards ceremony in November and to recognise and applaud such impressive achievements across the sector. Huge thanks also go to our headline partner, Vodafone Business, who share our mission of driving the standard of healthcare excellence and creating better patient experiences.”

The full list of nominees for the 2024 HSJ awards can be found at www.awards.hsj.co.uk. The selected winners will be announced during the awards ceremony at Evolution London on 21st November 2024.

Find out more about the benefits of working in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/working/

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.

Exterior of wellbeing hub building with lawn in front

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A Real Balance Between Work and Play: Why Professionals Are Choosing Chesterfield

Business leaders in Chesterfield have shared their thoughts on why they’ve chosen the town as a destination to build their livelihoods. Speaking at the recent Destination Chesterfield roundtable, held in conjunction with the Derbyshire Times, business owners and employees praised the work-life balance offered in the town, alongside its central location and access to opportunities.

Situated near the Peak District National Park, Chesterfield residents enjoy unparalleled access to outdoor activities. The proximity to such natural beauty, coupled with a wealth of green space within the town, contributes to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

Jamie Wajs, Owner of Lime Living Estate Agents, believes people are moving to Chesterfield from other areas due to the town’s unique offerings. He said, “We see a lot of people from industry moving into town or returning here because there’s a real balance between work and play.”

Catherine Wenborn, Owner of Vines Legal Ltd, emphasized this point, stating, “There is a very strong family focus here. I have been a relative newcomer to the area, but there are families that go back generations and there’s a very strong community. Chesterfield is very well accessed with transport links which also makes it a nice place to live.”

Catherine previously spent time working in London and compared it to the lifestyle she now enjoys in Chesterfield. She told delegates that the difference is stark: “The whole idea of ‘bright city lights’ in the capital really wasn’t the case at all. Here in Chesterfield, you feel like you’re part of the community. People are friendly and welcoming, even if they do tease me about my southern accent!”

Rebecca Erskine, Owner of Yellow Bird Marketing and Communications, added, “I think it’s the amount of space we have to live our lives as well. If you want to be part of something in the hustle and bustle, you can be, but if you want to be somewhere completely remote, you’re only 15 minutes away. It’s such an area of natural beauty that everything around us is really appealing.”

Chesterfield’s strong sense of community was highlighted by several people during the discussion. Helen Bradshaw, Business Development Director at Learning Curve Group commented, “I moved up here when I was 22, having lived in many towns and cities. I came here on a weekend to visit and then ended up moving up here permanently! I’ve always found Chesterfield to be a very green town, which has a friendly feel and community spirit to it.”

Work Live Round Table

“You feel like everyone is really in the same boat, supporting the same goals. I think people take pride in this town, and so a lot of businesses take pride in what they are bringing to the community.”

A significant draw for many is Chesterfield’s remarkable work-life balance. Its proximity to many other urban centres provides access to opportunities while allowing individuals to retreat to a quieter, more manageable lifestyle. Paul Stuart, Head of Business Support Services for East Midlands Chamber, added, “I think the space available for businesses is good. It’s also things we don’t necessarily think of which add to the quality of life, such as the commute. Our head office is based in Chesterfield, and where I live is just 15 minutes away, and that’s the thing that makes it comfortable for me. I’m not stuck on the motorway or relying on trains.”

Lewis Silcock Business Development Manager at DBC Training said, “There’s quite a lot of greenery, fields, and parks, and you don’t have to get in the car and drive somewhere to take the dog for a walk. We love to go out as a family to the park, and it’s nice to be able to just step out of your door after work. Chesterfield has the right balance between green spaces and business space.”

Jo Down, Assistant Principal for Student Experience and Wellbeing at Chesterfield College, shared her perspective: “I believe as someone born and raised in the town, we can often take things for granted. I love to walk and run down the canal, and we have lots of nice cafes and eateries to socialise. There’s a lot of regeneration happening in the town too, especially in the town centre, and I really think that will contribute to the offer further.”

Chesterfield’s central location in the UK makes it an ideal hub for connectivity and accessibility. With cities like Sheffield and Nottingham nearby, and Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds within easy reach by road and rail, there is plenty of opportunity to make connections and grow a business. Catherine Wenborn added, “Coming from Kent, most of the big work was in London because there weren’t any other cities. Here, you’ve got various cities dotted about, which has made such a difference.”

Rebecca Erskine elaborated on the community aspect, “I go to different events, and you often bump into people who you work together with. It’s a great place to make personal connections with people, which in turn helps to strengthen your business.”

Rated the 2nd best place in the UK to raise a family, and the happiest place to live in the East Midlands, Chesterfield is a location where people are able to thrive both personally and professionally. Find out more about living and working in Chesterfield at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

Mum, Dad and child in kitchen smiling

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Fantastic community and charity contributions from people and businesses in Chesterfield

Chesterfield people and businesses are continuing to work together to support charities and community organisations across the town.

Our latest roundup features fabulous fundraising initiatives, support for local community groups, and more.

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “Chesterfield Champions are proud to support our vibrant community, and it is great to see businesses playing their part to help others through a wide range of initiatives.

“Our town is a great place to work and live, and one of the main things that makes Chesterfield unique is the closeness of its community.

“It is great to see Champions continuing this trend by supporting local people and charities, alongside raising the profile of our area.”

Take a look at the latest from our community of Chesterfield Champions below:

Hospice fundraiser raises record-breaking amount towards care

Group of people cheering with fundraising figure on screen in background

Ashgate Hospice’s biggest ever fundraising event, the Sparkle Night Walk, raised more than a record-breaking £340,000 for end of life care in North Derbyshire.

More than 3,400 people sported pink and flashing bunny ears at the 10km walk in Chesterfield on Saturday 22 June.

The total figure raised from the fundraiser, sponsored by NOCN, was a phenomenal £341,854– the most the walkers have ever raised after smashing the record of £317, 671 set last year.

The event will return for its 10th anniversary next year on 28 June 2025 – and supporters can register at a reduced rate of £8 until Sunday 11 August.

Director of Income Generation at Ashgate Hospice, Jack Wood said he was “incredibly grateful” for the support of the event’s participants.

“We are so overwhelmed that our amazing participants have once again raised such an incredible amount towards our care,” said Jack.

“To beat the record amount raised at our Sparkle Night Walk last year, only to do it again in 2024 is a testament to the dedication of our supporters.

“This could fund the care of one of the beds on our Inpatient Unit at the hospice for more than a year, giving patients 24/7 expert care when they need it most.

“We are incredibly grateful for their efforts and their support will go a long way towards funding end of life care and support for patients and their families across North Derbyshire.”

Plans are already underway for Sparkle Night Walk 2025, sponsored by Magpie Beauty, with super early bird tickets being sold now for a reduced rate of £8 until Sunday 11 August.

More than 1,000 people have already signed up to next year’s event, which the hospice hopes will be “even bigger”.

Jack Wood added: “This year’s Sparkle Night Walk might be behind us but we’re already working hard to make next year event better – you can register at our early bird pride for just £8!

“Will you come along to celebrate our 10th anniversary of the Sparkle Night Walk and help us break records for the third year in a row?”

The walk will take place on Saturday 28 June 2025 – sign up now on the hospice’s website.

BRM raises over £200,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support

BRM Macmillan

Leading Derbyshire and South Yorkshire law firm BRM has raised a total of £202,424 since 2015 for Macmillan Cancer Support services at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital thanks to support from clients during its annual free Will months.

Now in its ninth year, the firm’s partnership with Macmillan enables people to make a Will for free during two months of the year. Instead of paying a fee to BRM, it was requested a voluntary donation was made to the charity, with a recommended contribution of just £75 per person.

The donation will go towards supporting people and their families who are affected by cancer across the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire region and will help the charity continue providing their vital care within the community.

Paul Berresford, Executive Director at BRM, said: “We would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has helped support our free Wills month in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support since 2015.

“The funds will go towards the charity and help support them continue their much-needed services across the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire community.

“Macmillan is a charity close to our hearts and we’re proud to have worked alongside them for several years.

“It’s very important to have a Will in place, as it ensures that your affairs are in order and your loved ones are provided for so it’s fantastic to see so many people who have taken advantage of our offer.

“Thank you to those who have supported our charity campaign and thank you to our expert Wills team for advising our clients on their Wills.

Hannah Lumb, Local Fundraising Manager at Macmillan, said: “On behalf of Macmillan Cancer Support, we would like to thank BRM and their clients for their incredible support to the charity.

“£202,424 is an incredible amount raised and will help those affected by cancer across our communities.

“If it were not for our amazing supporters like BRM, we wouldn’t be able to provide the vital services across the region. As a charity, we do not receive government funding and 98 per cent of our income comes from the public.

“Sadly, the number of people living with cancer is growing every day and we want to reach and improve the lives of as many of those people as we can. We couldn’t provide our essential services without the people who support us.”

“Thank you again to BRM and their clients for supporting the free Will services month – we are so grateful for every single penny raised.”

For expert advice and guidance around writing your Will, visit: www.brmlaw.co.uk/solicitors-for-you/wills-probate/wills

Chatsworth introduces affordable tickets for people receiving universal credit

Chatsworth

Chatsworth House Trust, the charity responsible for caring for the house, collections, garden, woodlands and park at Chatsworth, has announced new lower priced tickets for those currently receiving income support including Universal Credit and Pension Credit.

The aim of the new tickets is to increase accessibility for, and engagement with those who may find cost a barrier to visiting, demonstrating the Trust’s continued commitment to making Chatsworth a place for everyone.

The tickets include access to the house, garden, farmyard and adventure playground and are priced at £3 for adults and £1 for children aged 3-16 years, for those who are eligible.

Paul Hayes, Head of Visitor Strategy at Chatsworth House Trust, added: “As a charity that is dedicated to preserving Chatsworth for everyone to enjoy, accessibility is one of our main priorities, and we are always looking at new ways to remove barriers to visiting.

“This year we have a programme of events around the theme of Celebrating Childhood, so it’s fantastic to hear that so many families are already benefiting from the new tickets.

“We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience Chatsworth if they would like to, and we hope these tickets will allow even more people to do just that.”

Universal Credit tickets are available for those who currently receive one or more of the following:

  • Universal Credit
  • Pension Credit
  • Working Tax Credit
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Employment and Support Allowance
  • Income Support
  • Jobseeker’s Allowance

The tickets are only available to purchase online in advance, and proof of eligibility is required at the entrance on the day of your visit.

Universal Credit tickets are available to book on a first come first served basis and may sell out on busy days.

For more information and to book tickets, visit: www.chatsworth.org/visit-chatsworth/book-tickets/universal-credit-tickets/

BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax support Chesterfield Canal Trust

Canal Festival 2

BusinessWise Accountancy and Tax is supporting Chesterfield Canal Trust as a sponsor.

The company will make donations to the trust generated through referrals or Canal Trust supporters.

Customers just need to mention the trust, and the firm will donate 20% of the fee income arising (not including VAT) from the company’s work.

Services include:

1.  Maple Tree Wills and Estate Planning work.
2. BusinessWisetax Accountacy & Tax for Year-end accounts.
3. Sorbus Finance / The Lease Hub who arrange finance for Vehicles and Assets.

This offer will be valid for 6 months from August 1st, 2024. BusinessWise owner, Graham Nash is a keen supporter of the Chesterfield Canal Trust, and is hopeful of engaging more businesses to work with the canal.

Stepnell launches competition for local artists as part of Walton Hospital construction project

Artist Impression of Chesterfield Diagnostic Centre

As part of it’s social value commitments to NHS Derbyshire Healthcare, Stepnell is looking for artistic Chesterfield residents to design a mural for a wall in the therapeutic garden of Bluebell Ward at Walton Hospital.

It needs to provide a calming backdrop for an area where those using the service will be able to relax and undertake some gardening tasks.

The winning design will cover an area 3m x 2m and will be painted onto the wall by volunteers.

Artists are being asked to prepare their entries on A3 landscape white paper and submit a photograph of their work to eastmidlands@stepnell.co.uk by 31 August 2024.

Mayor visits Heron Publications as company celebrates 22nd anniversary

Mayor wearing ceremonial chains photographed with team members at heron

A special guest at the Dronfield offices of Heron Publications recently was the Mayor of Chesterfield, Coun Jenny Flood.

Accompanied by the town’s Mayoress, Heather Hopkinson, Coun Flood was keen to see how staff at the independent magazine publishers produce their five local magazines – Twist, Wings, Dronfield Eye, Active8 and So Bolsover, distributing them to 59,000 homes and businesses.

Founder members of the Chesterfield Champions organisation, family-run Heron Publications celebrates its 22nd anniversary this August.

The organisations featured in this article 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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Project provides career inspiration for Chesterfield young people

A new project has provided career insights and work experience for young people in Chesterfield.

The Careers Made in Chesterfield (CMiC) programme has had a successful first year, hosting eight workshops for 275 young people and providing work experience placements for almost 30 students.

It provides students with insights about local career opportunities and aims to create a pipeline of talent to support local businesses. In its first year, the programme has focussed on the property and construction sector but will expand to include the health and wellbeing sector and manufacturing sector over the next three years.

Industry experts have hosted interactive workshops at Ashgate Croft School, Parkside School, Springwell Community College, Netherthorpe School and the Chesterfield YES Youth Hub. As a result of these workshops, students have reported an increased interest in pursuing careers in the construction industry.

The project has been funded by Chesterfield Borough Council as part of its Skills Action Plan and delivered in schools by Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP).

On Tuesday 2 June Gateway 1 students from Ashgate Croft School were visited by G F Tomlinson where they played ‘guess my job’ with three volunteers – Gemma Thorpe, Senior Bid and Marketing Coordinator; Dave Miller, Site Manager; and Olivia Brindley, Assistant Quantity Surveyor – to learn about the varied roles within the construction sector.

In preparation for a site visit, students were also shown the refurbishment plans for Stephenson Memorial Hall, home to Chesterfield Museum and the Pomegranate Theatre, which is currently being refurbished by G F Tomlinson on behalf of Chesterfield Borough Council.

The students then took on the challenge to come up with their own designs for a cafe, shop, or entire museum using K’Nex construction kits.

Stuart Rooker, Careers Lead at DEBP said: “Collaboration between businesses and schools is crucial to CMiC. It is a fantastic way for employers to engage directly with students and inform them about their business and industry. It also provides the young people involved with the opportunity to learn about the skills they need, which employers value, and the options available to them.”

On Thursday 18 June, the students were given a tour of the construction site. After a health and safety talk from Jack Harvey, Technical Apprentice and putting on the appropriate PPE, Jason Tromans, Site Manager for G F Tomlinson, led a fantastic tour of the building. This included how key parts of the building are being restored and the interesting things that have been found on-site such as old newspapers and messages on the walls. Students were able to see a variety of construction trades at work, including roofers, joiners, ground workers, and scaffolders.

Vicky Bridge, Gateway 1 Teacher from Ashgate Croft School said: “The students thought both the workshop and visit were really interesting. It was a great experience for them to learn all about the company and the trade, and then see it in person and in action. This fits well with our employability lesson where we look at different jobs and types of employment.”

In total 14 employers have supported the CMiC programme including, Stepnell, Fortem, Devonshire Group, Henry Boot, Elliot Mather LLP, Whittam Cox Architects, Turner and Townsend, Castle Owen, Clee Hill, Shelby Group, Frank Shaw Associates and Chesterfield College.

CMiC is a key part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Action Plan which aims to ensure that local people have the right skills to support career progression and benefit from future employment opportunities.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and cabinet member for economic growth, said: “CMiC has made a great impact in its first year, it’s helped provide young people with the information they need to make informed decisions about their future and by working with employers we can ensure that skills provision in the borough meets their future needs. I look forward to seeing how this programme progresses in future years and hearing from young people about how it has helped them.

If you’re a local business, I would encourage you to get involved in the scheme because it will help guide young people to work in industry and even your business.”

As well as construction and property, the programme will expand over the next four years to include health and social care, and engineering and manufacturing and businesses in these sectors are encouraged to get in touch to volunteer for the scheme.

If you are an employer and would like to get involved in CMiC please email enquiries@debp.org.

Looking for support to improve skills and recruitment in your business? Head over to our business support page to find out more.

DEBP and Chesterfield Borough Council support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Students wearing high viz clothing

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Chesterfield Record Fair to launch new event at The Batch House

A new record fair event is set to take place in The Batch House, giving music lovers even more opportunity to browse their favourite artists.

The new event will run in addition to the regular monthly record fair in Chesterfield town centre, allowing people to attend on weeknights too.

The first Record Fair at the Batch House will take place later this month, on Friday 30th August, 12pm-6pm.

Organiser Adrian Wells, owner of AA Record Fairs said: “The event has always been very popular. Since it began 4 years ago, its reputation is one for a great selection of diverse genres of music and different vinyl dealers attending each month, and traveling from all over the country to stand.

Adrian says he loves to host the market in Chesterfield Town Centre, and looks forward to building on its popularity: “It’s outside which offers us flexibility, it also allows us to keep the rents cheap, and the stalls are bigger than normal tables rented out at other events (so traders get a great deal, which is one reason they turn up in force each month – they can also create a great display of their stock).

“To find a larger monthly record fair, and there are only a few in the whole country, you would have to go to a major city.  Chesterfield record fair punches well above its weight in terms of size of event per capita.  The event still has room to grow for both traders and for attendance; we are always trying to improve.”

The additional date taking place at The Batch House will allow traders and music fans to indulge in some of the unique food vendors based there, serving Greek, Indian, Italian and Peruvian food just to name a few.

Sign outside Modern venue advertising a record fair

Adrian explained why AA Record Fairs has added more dates in the town: “We are always being asked for a record fair in the week, to accommodate buyers who work weekends.  Plus, we run around 100 events a year at weekends, we always have something on every Saturday & Sunday.  So to expand, we are attempting to establish a few key weekday events, with Chesterfield being one of the first.

“We are hoping our large local following will come out to support this first weekday record fair in Chesterfield. We always look for venues with a difference, somewhere that can bring new people to our events and a venue that is interested in getting a boost from our crowd of vinyl hunters.

“The Batch House is perfect. It’s a newly built venue in a great location, with plenty of indoor space for our first mid-week, pop-up venture. Customers can browse records while also meeting friends for a drink or light lunch or have a break in a relaxing atmosphere while thinking over what records to buy.

“Places like Chesterfield marketplace (for large events) & The Batch House (for a smaller, pop-up fairs) are perfect for this approach, tying two different things together.”

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “It’s fantastic to see the Chesterfield Record Fair expanding it’s schedule of events, helping to further establish our town as a fantastic and unique destination for music lovers. I’d encourage people to continue supporting these events, which add to the vibrancy of our town and help to provide footfall to our independent shops and food & drink venues.”

Find out more about Chesterfield Record Fair at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-record-fair-chesterfield-market/

People browsing market stalls at Chesterfield Record Fair

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Staveley Waterside Development gets underway

A transformation is about to begin at Staveley town’s canal basin as part of the Staveley Town Deal, a £25 million government-funded regeneration programme for the area.

A new, 2-storey building is to be constructed adjacent to Staveley Canal, creating an attractive mixed use facility that will support 11 business units for office, retail and workshop use alongside opportunities for food and drink. In short, creating a whole new destination in Staveley for both commerce and visitors.

The project is being managed and funded by a partnership between Derbyshire County Council and the Staveley Town Deal, which is overseen by Chesterfield Borough Council. The Town Deal is providing £3.5 million of the £4.5 million cost of the project with the balance being met by the County Council.

The canal basin will be greatly enhanced by the new development and, hopefully, will encourage more visitors to make recreational use of the canal for walking, cycling and boating. Access to the site will be improved with a new road and footpath and there will be indoor and outdoor dining space. Contractors started work on phase 1 of the project at the end of July. This initial phase is scheduled for completion by the end of April 2025.

This Staveley Waterside project forms part of the wider Markham Vale programme of works, a flagship 85-hectare business park based on the site of the old Markham Colliery.

The programme is a joint venture being delivered jointly with HBD focused on attracting and assisting businesses to support net zero ambitions and helping make Derbyshire a greener and lower carbon place to live, work and visit.

staveley waterside

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration, Councillor Tony King, said: “It’s great to see this highly anticipated new development get underway at Staveley.

“Not only will it bring more life and jobs to the area, it will also draw more visitors to this attractive canal-side environment and encourage greater use of the infrastructure that’s already there.

“We have drawn on our many years of experience from work at Markham Vale and brought it to the Staveley Waterside project to help regenerate the area. It will provide both high-quality business accommodation and a visitor destination that people from near and far can enjoy.”

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “I am thrilled to see this prominent project right by the canal, start on site. This landmark development is a key part of the Town Deal programme as it will help create new jobs and encourage people to explore the historic canal, contributing to our overall goal of ensuring that Staveley is a place where everyone can start, stay, and grow.”

Staveley Waterside is one of 3 projects the county council is leading as part of the Staveley Town Deal which includes 10 projects in total.

Wheels to Work is a project we are leading to help people in Staveley access job and training opportunities by providing bicycles and e-scooters for those with limited transport options. And we are also working with partners on a project to reinstate a railway station in Barrow Hill and create better public transport connections between Staveley, Chesterfield and Sheffield for jobs and training opportunities.

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

group of representatives holding banner wearing hard hats

 

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Board launched to strengthen regional business connections

Representatives from across the East Midlands are being sought to help strengthen the connection between East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) and local businesses.

EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board will provide strategy, advice and guidance to the main EMCCA Board, chaired by Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward and EMCCA’s committees. It will help ensure the experience and knowledge of regional businesses is harnessed when making decisions around the economy, skills, transport, housing and the transition to net-zero.

David Williams, Chairman of Geldards, one of the UK’s leading law firms and business representative on the EMCCA Board will chair the new Business Advisory Board.

David Williams, Chair of the Business Advisory Board, said: “I’m committed to raising the economic prosperity of our region and through this board we will build a strong partnership between the public and private sector and ensure that the benefits of devolution can be realised across the region. We need experienced individuals to join the board who are willing to share their insights to help guide the work of the new combined county authority.”

Mayor Claire Ward said: “It is vital that we bring together representatives from across the business community to help shape the future direction of the East Midlands. Our region is home to a huge range of businesses from global manufacturers through to small high street retailers and through this board we can shape policies and support programmes that will drive growth across our region.”

EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board will include 16 members, including representatives from the private and public sector and East Midlands Chamber of Commerce. Private sector representatives will include experts from large businesses, small and medium enterprises and sectors with a significant chance of attracting further investment.

Members of the Board will be expected to have a good understanding of the East Midlands region and the business sectors that operate within it, experience of leadership roles in business and understand the challenges faced by businesses.

The Business Advisory Board will meet four times during each financial year.

More information about the Business Advisory Board including details about the role of the board and the person specification for members can be found in the East Midlands Combined County Authority Board papers from Monday 17 June: (Public Pack)Agenda Document for East Midlands Combined County Authority – Board, 17/06/2024 11:00 (derbyshire.gov.uk)

Two briefing sessions for businesses are set to take place on the following dates:

  • Weds 14th at 1400
  • Thurs 15th at 0930

Anyone wishing to express an interest in joining EMCCA’s Business Advisory Board should contact Acting Executive Director for Strategy and Inclusive Growth, Will Morlidge at will.morlidge@eastmidsdevo.org.uk

claire ward speaking into a microphone at Celebrate Chesterfield

 

 

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Successful Markham Vale Scheme turns 20 years old

From a former colliery site to a contemporary business hub housing 70 businesses supporting more than 2,700 jobs, Markham Vale is celebrating turning 20.

A joint venture in partnership with property developer HBD, part of Henry Boot, the 200-acre scheme – situated off M1 junction 29a – is centred around what was the mostly derelict Markham Colliery site and has been transformed into a prime business location over the last 2 decades.

The successful partnership has resulted in the creation of bespoke spaces for businesses of all sizes. From local start-ups such as a car body repair shop to large occupiers such as Great Bear logistics, and medium-sized marketing agencies such as Noonah, the site has become a hub of diverse economic activity bringing employment opportunities for the local community.

Plans for further expansion and green initiatives include the installation of 30 electric vehicle charging points in collaboration with Gridserve and the improvement of cycle areas to promote sustainable transport.

Markham Vale has also fostered a sense of community and remembrance through the ‘Walking Together’ memorial as a lasting tribute to men who lost their lives in mining disasters at the site in 1937, 1938 and 1973.

Weaving through the site from the former pithead to the village of Duckmanton, the memorial features 106 individual steel statues – one for each of the men who died down the pit and acts as a permanent reminder of the site’s significant mining heritage.

Derbyshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Clean Growth and Regeneration, Councillor Tony King, said: “Markham Vale is a real success story and travelling around the site today you really get the chance to reflect on its phenomenal transformation over 2 decades.

“From a deserted, overgrown landscape, home to an industry of the past, to a state-of-the-art, dynamic hub attracting business and industry for the future, Markham Vale has gone from strength to strength through uncharted waters including global economic crises and not to mention a pandemic.

“Today Markham Vale continues to attract local, national, and international businesses to Derbyshire and plays a key role in helping to deliver on our commitment to building a strong, diverse, and green economy by creating jobs for local people.”

Vivienne Clements, Executive Director at HBD added: “Our partnership with Derbyshire County Council has been fantastic. HBD is incredibly proud of our close collaboration with the local community and our support in helping occupiers grow and expand their businesses. We look forward to many more successful years ahead.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is a perfect location to base your business: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

HBD 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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