Made in Chesterfield

Major milestone in plans for rail innovation centre in Barrow Hill

Plans to create a modern rail innovation and training centre in Barrow Hill, Staveley – which will create jobs and skills opportunities for local people, and bolster Chesterfield’s ambitions to be a leading destination for the rail sector – have reached a major milestone.

Proposals to create the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse are pressing ahead after Chesterfield Borough Council appointed a contractor to lead the scheme.

It follows consideration of a report at meetings of Cabinet and Full Council last week which agreed the final elements of the funding package required to support the delivery of the project, and to appoint Stepnell Ltd as the contractor to lead the work.

The plans have been drawn up as part of the multi-million-pound Staveley Town Deal and will see the creation of a new facility providing specialist rail industry training, research and development facilities, and commercial space for rail-related businesses.

Work on site is expected to start in early 2025.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “This is a really exciting, landmark project that will create new opportunities for local people to access high-quality skills and jobs, while bolstering Chesterfield’s position as a leading destination for future innovation and investment in the rail sector.

“The DRIIVe project will also play a key role in the emerging East Midlands Investment Zone (EMIZ) with its focus on advanced manufacturing and green technology industries, by attracting the rail sector and associated supply chain to the nearby Chesterfield EMIZ sites.

“It’s great to see the project continue to gather pace, and we look forward to working with the contractor, and our partners, to progress construction of DRIIVe early next year. The facility will be completed by the end of 2025.”

Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said: “The DRIIVe project adds to our public sector expertise of infrastructure and education projects, and will enhance our partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council as part of the Staveley Town Deal. Through committing to delivering early community engagement in the project, the specialist facility will be built to the highest standards of railway training and have an important impact on developing talent in STEM in the region.”

The project will see the creation of 22 job opportunities for local people and a hub from which to increase awareness of rail-related career opportunities, developing STEM skills required to access the industry through a community outreach programme that will support 1000 individuals each year.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said: “This is a scheme delivered locally but of national significance, which will open the door to new, high-quality skills and career opportunities for people in Staveley – something which is right at the heart of what we are aspiring to achieve as part the Town Deal programme.

“It’s the latest positive news for Staveley, with our Town Deal projects really gathering pace, and almost all now being delivered on site. This is a fantastic achievement involving lots of different partners, and people will soon start to see the impact of these projects in their communities. Staveley will truly be a place to start, stay and grow.”

The DRIIVe project is being delivered by Chesterfield Borough Council in collaboration with the University of Derby, Chesterfield College and Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society.

Mervyn Allcock, Manager of the Barrow Hill Roundhouse and Staveley Town Deal Board member, said: “This is a project of national significance for the Rail sector, and we are so proud to be creating this fantastic facility here at Barrow Hill. The siting of these state-of-the-art innovation and research facilities right next to this amazing venue of international significance will greatly benefit the area and improve the quality of life of local people.”

DRIIVe will include classroom and workshop training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial offices.

The centre will support a network of specialist training providers – offering rail-related education from level two through to postgraduate training and research.

Becoming a prominent location for rail technology, DRIIVe will also serve as a base for rail-related supply chain businesses which will have access to the very latest research and innovation.

Funding for the project is mostly being provided through the Staveley Town Deal – the Staveley area was one of 101 towns across England invited to submit an investment plan to the Government’s Towns Fund and received £25.2 million.

For more information about Staveley Town Deal, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/staveley/staveley-town-deal-projects/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Made in Chesterfield, Skills, Uncategorised

Multiple award wins for Chesterfield’s Superior Wellness

Chesterfield-based manufacturer, Superior Wellness is celebrating after winning multiple awards at this year’s UK Pool & Spa Awards.

The UK Pool & Spa Awards has earned itself a reputation as one of the water leisure industry’s most valuable marketing tools. Founded in 2010, the UK Pool & Spa Awards is a competition that is open to all companies involved in the delivery of water leisure.

Competition categories cover wet leisure manufacturers, pool and spa wholesalers, retailers, leisure operators across residential and commercial swimming pools, hot tub and swim spas, wellness and other accessories.

The world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer Superior Wellness were successful in winning several awards at the prestigious event held on 5th December 2024 in Birmingham.

Superior Wellness won the following awards:

  • Spa Team of the Year – Superior Wellness (Winner)
  • Special Achievement Award – Team of the Year (Winner)
  • Marketing Initiative of the Year (Spa) – Chill Tubs Collaborations (Winner)

And Gold and Silver Awards in the following categories:

  • Hot Tub Trade Supplier of the Year (Gold Award)
  • Spa Product of the Year – Chill Tubs Essential Range (Gold Award)
  • Spa Product of the Year – Seville Hot Tub, Platinum Spas (Silver Award)
  • Spa Product of the Year – Onyx Hot Tub, Platinum Spas (Silver Award)

Rob Carlin, Managing Director said: “It is a great honour for us all to end the year with the award success, the team have been working hard all year and it’s great to see that all their hard work has been recognised. I am extremely proud of the whole team.”

“It has been a hugely successful year with the acquisition of Portcril and the opening of our new US headquarters in South Carolina. We are looking forward to 2025 – we are launching AquaSolus and the new Luxury Collection from Platinum Spas.”

Winners across over 30 categories were announced during the presentation at the National Conference Centre in Birmingham on Thursday 5th December. Showcasing the very best examples of pool and spa design from across the country, entrants were awarded silver or gold standard in the competition covering both home and public pool and spa facilities in a contest that attracted thousands of on-line votes and votes from judges, before being scrutinised by an independent jury.

More information on the awards, including a full list of winners, can be found at www.ukpoolandspaawards.co.uk

Superior Wellness 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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Chesterfield manufacturer scoops prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise

Chesterfield-based Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) has achieved a highly-prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise.

The company received the accolade for the development and global roll out of revolutionary technology for the continuous measurement of temperature of steel in the continuous casting process.

Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) is one of 252 organisations nationally to be recognised with the award. The King’s Award for Enterprise is the highest official UK award for British businesses, recognising and celebrating outstanding achievements in enterprise. The scheme was established as The Queen’s Award to Industry by a royal warrant of 30 November 1965, and awards are given for outstanding achievement.

Winners can fly the King’s Awards flag at their main office and use the emblem on marketing materials. Often seen as a Royal Seal of approval, this award is highly valued by suppliers, customers, and employees, demonstrating commitment to innovation and excellence.

Employing 72 people, Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) was founded in 1989 and provides measurement solutions for the steel industry.

The Heraeus Group is a broadly diversified and globally leading family-owned technology company, headquartered in Hanau, Germany. The company’s roots go back to a family pharmacy started in 1660. Today, Heraeus bundles diverse activities in the Business Platforms Metals and Recycling, Healthcare, Semiconductor and Electronics as well as Industrials. Customers benefit from innovative technologies and solutions based on broad materials expertise and technological leadership.

Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) is based in Chesterfield, Derbyshire and has been trading since 1989 and is the market leader for the development and supply of sensors for continuous temperature measurement of molten steel in the continuous steel casting process.

Heraeus Electro-Nite provides a full range of sensors for measuring temperature, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen enabling the steel maker to optimise the steel making process. Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) exports CasTemp globally which has become the gold standard for temperature measurement in the continuous steel casting process.

The company picked up the King’s Award for International Trade for Outstanding Short-Term Growth in overseas sales over three years. Mark Lee, Managing Director of Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) said: “Working in the UK Steel industry hasn’t been easy, and we’ve seen considerable challenges over the last 10 years.

“However, I feel extremely honoured for Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) to receive a King’s Award and it is fabulous recognition for the whole team who have worked tirelessly to grow our global business. They have worked hard to help our customers become safer, more efficient, and closer to their goal of producing green steel. CasTemp is established globally as the gold standard for continuous temperature measurement in the steel casting process.”

The celebration began on 4th July with Mark Lee, Managing Director, being invited to a Royal reception at Windsor Castle alongside other award winners. There, he had the honour of meeting members of the Royal Family,
including His Majesty King Charles III.

On 19th November 2024, the team gathered at  Chesterfield offices to celebrate this achievement with a special ceremony attended by distinguished guests, including the Lord-Lieutenant of Derbyshire, Mrs. Elizabeth Fothergill, CBE, His Majesty’s representative for the region.

Large group of people in company uniform pose for a photo. Image taken from above in large warehouse space

The company was also honoured to welcome Deputy Lord-Lieutenants Mr. Tony Walker, CBE, former Managing Director of Toyota UK, and William Beckett, OBE, a multiple Queen’s Award winner and founder of William Beckett Plastics.

Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) joins fellow Chesterfield manufacturer, United Cast Bar in winning a King’s Award in 2024.

Heraeus Electro-Nite (UK) 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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Chesterfield company announces £8.9 million US expansion

Superior Wellness, the Chesterfield-based global leader in hot tubs and wellness products, is proud to announce the establishment of its first U.S. operation in Orangeburg County, South Carolina.

This £8.9 million investment marks a significant milestone in the company’s global expansion strategy.

Currently working with over 100 U.S. partners, Superior Wellness has quickly become the fastest-growing hot tub and wellness manufacturer in the world. With its innovative product lineup—including premium hot tubs, swim spas, and chill tubs—Superior Wellness is trusted by thousands of customers globally to enhance health and well-being.

Located at 106 Logistics Drive in Cameron, the newly acquired 75,000-square-foot facility will serve as the company’s U.S. headquarters. It will streamline warehousing and logistics, provide faster service to U.S. partners, and act as a hub for spare parts and accessories. Known as Superior HQ, this state-of-the-art facility will enable Superior Wellness to improve stock availability, reduce lead times, and better support its growing U.S. market. Operations are set to begin in December 2024.

Superior Wellness Managing Director Rob Carlin said: “This investment represents a significant milestone for Superior Wellness as we establish a strong foothold in the U.S. With the opening of Superior HQ in Cameron, South Carolina, we’re investing in the future of wellness while creating 35 new jobs for the local community. Our £8.9 million state-of-the-art facility will revolutionise our stock and logistics operations, ensuring faster service and greater support for our U.S. partners and customers. We’re thrilled to begin this exciting chapter and deepen our connection with the American market.”

Sales Director Gareth Ward added: “Our expansion into South Carolina demonstrates our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and innovative products to our U.S. partners. Working with over 100 partners across the U.S., this facility allows us to better serve them with shorter lead times and improved availability of our award-winning products. We look forward to building stronger relationships and growing together with the Orangeburg community.”

Superior Wellness 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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Partnership working in Chesterfield leads to more young people taking up careers in STEM

More young people are taking up manufacturing and engineering courses in Chesterfield, according to new figures.

Chesterfield College has reported a phenomenal 80% increase in engineering study enrolments for 16–18-year-old students in the last 3 years.

The figure was released during the annual Made in Chesterfield Festival, in which local businesses invite school pupils to their factories and premises to showcase the range of rewarding careers in STEM sectors.

Destination Chesterfield and Direct Education Business Partnership coordinate the Made in Chesterfield campaign. It is delivered in association with the Chesterfield College Group and supported by Chesterfield Borough Council, EMCCA Careers Hub, MSE Hiller, United Cast Bar Ltd and Natwest.

More than 3,500 school pupils in Chesterfield have now engaged with the town’s manufacturing and engineering businesses since Made in Chesterfield was first launched 10 years ago. This year, students were invited to visit several businesses, including:

  • MSE Hiller
  • Superior Wellness
  • Weightron Bilanciai
  • United Cast Bar
  • The Devonshire Group
  • Penny Hydraulics
  • Aztec Oils
  • Heraeus Electro-Nite
  • Chesterfield Construction Skills Hub

Celebrating its success, Nick Catt, Board Member of Destination Chesterfield and Managing Director of Weightron Bilanciai, commented: “To see more young people enrolling in engineering courses across our town is a testament to the fantastic collaboration between the College and local businesses in recent years.

“We know how vital it is to highlight careers in Manufacturing, not just to help our businesses grow in the future, but to allow our people to thrive in skilled and rewarding jobs. I look forward to seeing further partnerships across our town to keep narrowing the existing skills gaps in our sector.

Julie Richards OBE, Principal and CEO of The Chesterfield College Group added: “We are delighted to see such a significant increase in young people choosing to pursue engineering and manufacturing courses at Chesterfield College.

“This 80% rise in enrolments reflects both the growing interest in STEM careers and the strength of the partnerships we’ve built with local businesses through initiatives like Made in Chesterfield. By working together, we’re ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive in these dynamic industries, helping to secure a prosperous future for Chesterfield and beyond.”

Schools in the area have also expressed their gratitude to businesses for opening their doors to young people. Debbie Crossley, Careers Adviser at The Bolsover School commented: “The Made in Chesterfield tour to MSE Hiller was so informative and insightful, and I really appreciate the team taking the time to speak with our students and explain things in detail.

“The links to the curriculum were fabulous and covered several subjects including English, maths, physics and chemistry.  It was great to see the students relating some of their classroom learning to the skills and knowledge they will need in the workplace.”

Clare Talati, CEO of Direct Education Business Partnership said: “We are thrilled to continue supporting the Made in Chesterfield initiative, which plays a crucial role in connecting young people with local employers.

“By providing meaningful, hands-on experiences, we’re raising awareness of the fantastic career opportunities available right here in Chesterfield. These partnerships not only inspire the next generation, but also help businesses engage with potential future employees, ensuring the local workforce is prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

If your business is looking to engage with future talent, find out more about how you can get involved with local schools and other skills initiatives in the town at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/

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Government backing for Chesterfield apprentice barber academy

A new apprentice barber academy has opened in Chesterfield, providing a hands-on learning option for young people in our area.

The government-backed scheme will be based at Less Than Zero, an award-winning barber shop based in the town centre.

The unique 13 month training program is designed to deliver a comprehensive education in the art and business of barbering at NVQ Level 2 and Level 3.

With an emphasis on hands-on experience and industry readiness, the Apprentice Barber Academy at Less Than Zero provides in-depth training to aspiring barbers looking to build sustainable and successful careers. The curriculum is crafted
to cover every aspect of barbering, from mastering classic and contemporary techniques to understanding customer service, personal branding, and business fundamentals.

“We’re dedicated to creating opportunities for the next generation of barbers and setting new standards in barbering education,” said Martin Wallis-Keyworth, Owner. “With this academy, we’re committed to giving our apprentices the skills,
knowledge, and real-world experience they need to become not only expert barbers but also confident professionals.

The program is structured to allow apprentices to progress at their own pace, with individualised mentoring provided by skilled instructors from Less Than Zero’s talented team.

Apprentices will gain invaluable experience through client interactions and on-the-floor practice, preparing them thoroughly for a career in barbering.

Enrolment is now open, and prospective apprentices and employers are encouraged to contact the Academy via the Less Than Zero Barbers website. Spaces are limited to ensure personalised instruction, allowing each apprentice to receive
focused guidance and mentorship throughout their training journey.

For more information, visit www.lessthanzerobarbers.com or contact martin@ltzbarbers.com

Looking for support to upskill your team? Go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Are you considering working in Chesterfield? There are many benefits to working in our innovative town, such as the central location and transportation links. Not forgetting the modern offices and workplaces within the town and surrounding areas. Discover more about working in Chesterfield here.

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Growth continues for Superior Wellness with acquisition of European hot tub manufacturer

Chesterfield-based Superior Wellness, the world’s fastest-growing manufacturer and distributor of hot tubs and wellness products, has acquired the ongoing trading business of Portcril, a well-established and respected Portuguese hot tub company.

This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Superior Wellness’s ambitious growth strategy, further solidifying its position as a global leader in the wellness industry.

With a robust network of over 500 partners worldwide, Superior Wellness is the parent brand of some of the most loved and best-selling hot tub, ice bath, and sauna brands, including Platinum Spas, AquaSolus, HEKLA, and Chill Tubs. The addition of Portcril to the Superior Wellness family is a testament to the company’s commitment to expanding its international footprint and delivering high-quality wellness products to customers across the globe.

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Portcril into the Superior Wellness family,” said Rob Carlin, Managing Director of Superior Wellness. “Portcril has a strong legacy in the hot tub industry, and we look forward to working closely with José and Diogo, from the founding family and current Executive Directors of Portcril, to build on their success. This acquisition not only strengthens our product portfolio but also allows us to continue delivering exceptional products and services to our customers, with the addition of a European production facility and operating base to our global network of manufacturing and operational facilities.”

Gareth Ward, Global Sales Director of Superior Wellness, shared his excitement about the new European facility: “I’m thrilled to announce the acquisition of Portcril, the renowned European hot tub manufacturer! After spending time at their facility and working closely with their team over the past few months, I’m incredibly excited about this significant milestone for Superior Wellness. This acquisition represents a major achievement for all involved and marks a huge step forward for our company.”

Portcril, known for its innovation and dedication to quality hot tub manufacturing, has been a staple in the European hot tub market for decades. As part of this acquisition, all 44 employees of Portcril will retain their full-time employment and have their continuing employment rights honoured. They have been warmly welcomed into the Superior Wellness team. Portcril will continue to fulfil all current orders, ensuring a seamless transition for existing customers, and will endeavour to honour historical customer warranties using Superior Wellness systems and support.

José and Diogo Teixeira, the Executive Directors of Portcril, expressed their enthusiasm for the future: “Joining forces with Superior Wellness is an exceptional next step for us. We are confident that this partnership will allow Portcril to thrive for many more decades, and we are excited to be part of such a dynamic and forward-thinking company.”

As Superior Wellness continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the wellness industry, the acquisition of Portcril represents a bold step forward in its mission to become the global leader in hot tubs, saunas, and cold therapy products. Customers can expect the same high standards of excellence and service that have become synonymous with all Superior Wellness brands.

Chesterfield offers a perfectly located hub in the centre of England for manufacturing and engineering companies. Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/invest-in-chesterfield/

Superior Wellness 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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Innovative Construction Skills Hub marks official opening

An innovative new training facility which will provide skills and training to thousands of young learners has officially opened its doors in Staveley.

On Thursday 7 November Lord Burlington officially opened the Construction Skills Hub – an innovative approach to learning which aims to provide students with the skills they need to access careers in the construction industry whilst also providing them with experience to help secure their first job.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from the Devonshire Group, Chesterfield College, the University of Derby, Chesterfield Borough Council, and Toby Perkins MP, along with students who have been studying at the Hub.

Funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the project is led by Chesterfield Borough Council, with Devonshire Group providing the land where the Hub is located and Chesterfield College and the University of Derby delivering the education programme.

Lord Burlington said: “During every project we undertake, we always look for opportunities to add value and create a lasting legacy for the communities that we serve. We are therefore delighted to have been able to partner on the Construction Skills Hub on site at our Mastin Moor project. The hub provides ongoing opportunities for education and skills development that we hope will have a positive impact on the local economy for many years to come. We take our role in contributing to the long-term prosperity of our region incredibly seriously and are looking forward to seeing more local people supported through this programme in the months ahead and learning about the projects that they will be involved with in the future.”

The Hub has been operational for the last year with students initially studying at Chesterfield College before moving onto the site in Mastin Moor to gain experience of construction through helping to complete the groundworks and construction of the cabins which will be used as classroom facilities.

In year one 12 students studied at the Hub and another 29 have been recruited to study in year two.

The Hub provides training in site and bench joinery, brickwork, groundworks and electrical installation but in time will offer opportunities in retrofit and green technologies.

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

Chesterfield College Principal, Julie Richards OBE, said: “Projects such as this are at the core of how we operate. Working directly with key employers, the Skills Hub will support the students to develop the skilled workers required to meet the ever-increasing demand from within the construction industry. Sitting on the Staveley Town Deal Board I know the real impact this project will bring to the local area for years to come. I’m delighted to see our students so enthused, gaining the skills and knowledge on a working site which they need for a successful future career.”

The Construction Skills Hub is a key part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Skills Action Plan and a key project within the Staveley Town Deal programme.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “I’m delighted that we have been able to officially open the Construction Skills Hub as it will help the skills people need to access great careers in our borough. This will not only help improve the local economy it will also have a positive impact on people’s lives as they will have more secure employment with higher wages.

“From talking to learners already at the Hub it was great to hear how this facility is helping them achieve their ambitions and I look forward to welcoming many more students over the coming years.”

The Construction Skills Hub is one of several projects that is being funded through the Staveley Town Deal. After developing a Town Investment Plan, Staveley was awarded £25.2 million to deliver this plan with a funding deadline of March 2026.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “It is fantastic to see this project in action – providing the opportunity for young people in Staveley to gain the skills they need to access careers is a key part of ensuring our objective that Staveley is a place where everyone can start, stay and grow is achieved. I look forward to hearing how the students get on and seeing them get experience on some of the other key construction projects within the Staveley Town Deal programme.”

To find out more about the Staveley Town Deal and the ten projects being funded visit:  www.chesterfield.gov.uk/business-and-economic-growth/regeneration-and-economic-growth/staveley-town-deal/

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Training initiative launched to help manufacturers engage with young talent

Funded training courses are being offered to Chesterfield’s manufacturing and engineering sector to support recruitment and growth.

A new initiative – known as Manufacturing Futures – will teach mentoring skills to businesspeople from the sector to help firms engage with young talent. This programme will empower companies to offer more work experience opportunities, confidently take on apprentices and interns, and provide career advice to young people.

The concept emerged at a Manufacturing and Engineering Forum organised by Destination Chesterfield which identified recruitment challenges in the sector. In fact, recent data indicates that 66% of businesses attempting to recruit in the past three months have struggled to find suitable candidates.

With manufacturing comprising 8% of Chesterfield’s workforce — nearly double the national average — it’s crucial to inspire and equip the next generation with the skills needed to drive local manufacturing forward.

Training sessions for new business mentors will be held in a dedicated learning space provided by United Cast Bar, with Chesterfield College hosting the sessions.

Manufacturing Futures was launched alongside the tenth edition of Made In Chesterfield, an annual festival supported by The Chesterfield College Group offering tours of local manufacturing, engineering, and construction businesses to school pupils, showcasing the diverse career opportunities available in the sector.

Ivan Fomin, Managing Director of MSE Hiller and Board Member of Destination Chesterfield, stated: “I urge all businesses in the Manufacturing and Engineering sectors to participate in this exciting new project. While progress has been made in encouraging young people to pursue STEM careers, there is still much work to be done. By equipping businesses with the skills to mentor and develop talent from local schools and colleges, we can continue to close the skills gap and ensure our local firms remain vibrant and successful.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and cabinet member for economic development, said: “Chesterfield has a proud tradition of engineering and manufacturing, but we need to ensure this sector can continue to grow and provide new opportunities for our residents. I’m pleased that we have been able to fund this programme as it will help people advance their careers and support our residents to take up roles in this sector in the future.

“Working in partnership with businesses and education providers is key to ensuring this programme is effective and provides the support the sector needs.”

The programme is funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is one of several skills programmes to receive funding which will help ensure local residents can advance their career and that the local economy can grow.

This is just one of a range of projects and initiatives which is being funded through the UKSPF, after Chesterfield Borough Council was successful in securing £2.6 million from the Government. It will fund initiatives, until 2025, which are designed to improve life for local people and support local businesses.

To get your business involved in Manufacturing Futures, go to https://www.chesterfield.ac.uk/manufacturing-futures/ for more information.

Businesses can also stay up-to-date with the latest opportunities to engage with young people by signing up to Destination Chesterfield’s skills and employability newsletter.

 

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BHP invests in future talent with 34 new trainees

Chesterfield-based independent accountancy firm BHP has welcomed 34 new trainees.

This latest intake includes 17 graduates, nine non-graduates and eight placement students. All of the trainees will take part in BHP’s successful training programme, which is run across each of BHP’s five offices, and all its service lines. The programme provides an opportunity for those looking to break into the finance industry to gain hands-on experience while studying for their professional qualifications.

For the past five years, the BHP training programme has helped over 200 professionals build thriving careers. This year’s programme included a two-week induction, where the entire cohort came together with past trainees and team members from all five of BHP’s offices to share experiences and learnings.

Karen Arch, chief people officer at BHP, said: “At BHP, we’re passionate about nurturing and developing the skills of young professionals looking to break through and leave their mark on the finance industry.

“One of the core values at BHP is about having a positive impact, whether that be on our clients, the communities in which we work or the lives of people who work here. Our trainee programme is key to this as not only through each intake do we help create the next generation of advisors, we also ensure that our clients and our own business are able thrive – not just today, but long into the future.

“Being certified as a Great Place to Work® we pride ourselves on being a supportive workplace that always keeps the wellbeing and future success of our people at the forefront of our business.”

Looking for support to upskill your workforce? Get in touch with us today and we’ll refer you to the right people to help your business grow.

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

Large group of accountancy trainees wearing formal attire in a large huddle

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Business community called to inspire future talent in Chesterfield

Businesses are being invited to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Chesterfield by getting involved with local schools.

This is an opportunity not just to give back to the community but to help cultivate future talent to drive Chesterfield’s economy forward.

Local businesspeople are encouraged to engage with students by attending careers fairs, conducting mock interviews, and participating in employer question-and-answer sessions.

Beyond these events, some schools are also seeking work experiences for students in years 10 and 11., providing them with invaluable insights into the world of work.

The schools reaching out include Brookfield Community School, Outwood Academy Hasland Hall, Outwood Academy Newbold, Parkside School, Springwell Community School, St Mary’s Catholic High School, Whittington Green School and Netherthorpe School.

It is hoped that links with businesses will provide real-world experience and guidance to shape the career paths of young people.

Keith Hirst, Headteacher at Brookfield Community School, emphasised the importance of this initiative: “There is no better way to inspire our young people and give them insights into the world of work than by connecting them with local businesses. Engaging in activities like mock interviews, careers fairs, and Q&A sessions allows our students to understand how businesses operate and what it takes to build a successful career.”

Mr. Hirst added: “We aim to support our local businesses in developing strong workforces. These sessions offer mutual benefits—for our schools, our young people, and Chesterfield’s broader economy.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the council’s Skills and Employment Partnership, echoed these sentiments, urging businesses to get involved: “It is vital that we bridge the gap between education and business to ensure our young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in their chosen careers.

“Businesses have a crucial role to play in inspiring future talent, showcasing the diverse career opportunities available in Chesterfield, and preparing local students for their future steps. This is not just a chance to contribute to the community but an opportunity to connect with potential future employees, understand the emerging workforce’s expectations, and ensure that the skills they are nurturing align with industry needs.”

For more information on how your business can support local schools, including a list of schools and event dates, please visit the Chesterfield website.

Looking to upskill your workforce and boost your business? Explore available resources and support at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/

Businessperson speaks to room full of school pupils

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