Made in Chesterfield

NLT throws a lifeline to Chesterfield youngster whose army career dreams were cut short by COVID-19

A young man who had has dreams of a career in the Paratroopers cruelly cut short by the pandemic, has been put on a new employment path thanks to NLT Training Services’ Step Into Employment programme.

Seventeen-year-old Josh Gaynor from Ashgate in Chesterfield left school last year to join the army as a junior soldier at the Army Foundation College (AFC) in Harrogate. Unfortunately, COVID outbreaks and subsequent quarantining meant his platoon missed weeks of vital training, so were set home.

Returning home, Josh struggled to get employment so enrolled on NLT’s Step Into Employment programme. Through the free six-week programme he is now undertaking vital work experience at The Kelstedge pub on Matlock Road.

Although the pub is closed during lockdown, it is doing takeaway food Friday to Sunday each week. Josh has joined the kitchen team on a part-time basis and is helping with meal preparation.

Josh commented: “I was gutted to leave AFC Harrogate but I am very relieved to be able to start something new. I am finding it really fun at The Kelstedge. I am working with a good set of people.”

Once the pub fully re-opens landlord and owner Simon Oxspring hopes to offer Josh paid employment and a permanent role on the team.

He commented: “Not knowing what demand would be like when we launched our takeaway service, the Step into Employment programme was an excellent way for us to provide someone with much-needed work experience and also determine whether we would be in a position to create a new salaried role.

“Josh has really impressed us and we’re looking forward to welcoming him to the team permanently once we are allowed to re-open fully.”

Prior to undertaking work experience at The Kelstedge, Josh received employability coaching at NLT’s offices in Brimington. This enabled him to compile his CV and also look at areas that best matched his skill set and interests. After receiving the offer of work experience, Step into Employment funded the completion of Josh’s Food Hygiene certificate to ensure he was work-ready.

NLT Training Services launched the free six-week Step Into Employment programme last year following the award of a Community Funds Grant.

Prioritising 16 – 24-year-olds, a group which has seen the biggest rise in unemployment since the pandemic, the programme is open to anyone who is currently not in employment, education or training.

Step Into Employment covers a number of practical work-ready skills, including CV preparation, interview techniques, cover letter writing and job search support as well as work experience at local companies operating in a range of sectors.

If you would like to find out more about how you can get involved with the Step into Employment programme, please get in touch with Janice Parker on 07947 550 571 or email janice.parker@nlt-training.co.uk.

NLT Training Services supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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MPs praise Chesterfield College for its work in developing skills for the future

The Minister for Apprenticeship and Skills, Gillian Keegan MP, visited Chesterfield College virtually last week (Thursday, 28th January).

During the visit, she praised leaders of the college for the work they are undertaking and confirmed that the strategic direction of the organisation meets the ambitions of the Government’s vision for further education, and the role colleges will play in future skills development across the UK.

Local MPs, Toby Perkins, Lee Rowley and Mark Fletcher attended the visit, and pledged their support for the college and the vital role it plays in the development of local communities.

They also praised the college for the work it had undertaken before and during the pandemic.

The visitors explored how the college supports employers, students and apprentices whilst also discussing the challenges and opportunities facing the further education sector.

Topics for discussion included how the college is addressing local skills needs, creatively developing the curriculum, adapting to meet financial constraints, and responding to meet the needs of students and apprentices in lockdown.

Julie Richards, Principal and Chief Executive of the Chesterfield College Group explained: “Our vision is to be recognised as an outstanding college by the communities we serve. We equip our students and apprentices with the skills, knowledge and behaviours they need for success in both their career and personal life.

“The college aims to be the first choice for education and skills in our local area, equipping individuals and employers with the skills they need both now and in the future, supporting our economy to grow and prosper.

“We are making significant progress in realising our vision and the proposals set out in the recently announced FE White Paper places the college in a very favourable position to address the ambitions of Government.

“However, to support the growth and development of people through further education we need parity of funding with schools and support to ensure both young people and adults can access the skills they need for a bright and prosperous future.”

Gillian Keegan MP said: “It was great to be able to virtually visit Chesterfield College to hear how they are supporting learners to build the skills they need to be successful in their future careers.

“I really enjoyed speaking to students Jack and Georgie, who have so much enthusiasm for their studies, and have continued to work hard during the lockdown to develop their skills and knowledge.”

The Minister met a student and an apprentice during the visit and asked about their experiences of learning with the college. Beauty Therapy student, Georgie McGregor and Electrical Installation Apprentice, Jack Harris who is completing his apprenticeship at the Chatsworth Estate in Derbyshire, explained how the college is helping them to realise their ambitions.

The Minister asked them how lockdown was affecting their learning and what opportunities had arisen. She also asked about careers advice and the importance of supporting young people into the most appropriate study options.

Georgie told the Minister: “The college has a great programme to advise students of our careers options. We are provided with advice and guidance relating to the different routes open to us when we go out to the big wide world. Employers take part on our online learning which helps us to understand how to apply our skills in industry.”

“We are currently focusing on theory as part of the Level 3 course, by working online with live lessons delivered by our tutors. Getting the theory done means as soon as we can get back in the classroom we can use the knowledge we are gaining now to support us as we develop our practical skills.”

Jack explained how he spent his time during furlough getting ahead in his studies and completing 10 practice papers for his exam. His hard work paid off and he achieved a pass of 98%.

He told the Minister how the college has supported him as he has progressed through the levels of study and how hard he is working to fulfil his ambition to become Head Electrician at the Chatsworth Estate.

The Minister praised Jack and Georgie for their attitude and using their time wisely in lockdown.

She wished them well in their studies and promised to return to visit in person as soon as she is able, asking if Georgie would do her make-up when she comes to see the facilities and more of the initiatives she had heard about during her virtual visit.

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Eye in the sky heralds Chesterfield College and Chesterfield Waterside learning partnership

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Is it a new speed camera?

A new camera has appeared on the roof of Chesterfield College, leaving motorists on the A61 scratching their heads.

The camera is part of a learning partnership between Chesterfield Waterside, Chesterfield College and Britcon (UK) Ltd, the company appointed to build the new seven-storey, Grade A office block named One Waterside Place.

The building is the first phase of the ‘Basin Square’ character area within the £340 million Chesterfield Waterside regeneration scheme and has been forward funded by Chesterfield Borough Council.

The camera, which is focussed on the construction site, is recording the entire build process of One Waterside Place. The footage of the build process will be shared with students at the college, helping them keep up-to-date with construction methods as part of their studies, and will also be part of their virtual learning during the pandemic.

In addition to sharing the footage, once social distance restrictions allow, Britcon (UK) Ltd will be offering site tours and work experience to both local schools and Chesterfield College’s construction students.

The Chesterfield Waterside site is conveniently located within walking distance of Chesterfield College’s purpose-built construction facility, East Block One, which means when students return to college they will be able to visit the site.

Tom Swallow, Development Manager at Bolsterstone Group Plc, the company leading the Chesterfield Waterside project, commented: “I’d like to thank Chesterfield College for allowing us to use its premises for the camera installation. I’m particularly delighted that we’re able to work with the college and get students involved in the construction of the new office block, albeit remotely for now.

“Working alongside Chesterfield Borough Council, we’re looking forward to sharing footage of One Waterside Place coming out of the ground over the coming months and hope to have students on site to once restrictions allow in order to support their learning and development.”

Gavin Varley, Director of Engineering and Construction at Chesterfield College said: “This partnership provides a fantastic opportunity for our students to witness the process of developing a high profile site on their doorstep. Learning on site is invaluable and we are hopeful that we can do that soon. However, the footage from the camera will definitely enhance students’ virtual learning experience over the coming weeks. It will provide a unique, real life example to further their understanding of the development process and construction techniques.”

Construction of One Waterside Place began in October last year and is expected to be completed in August 2021. Britcon, a leading Civil Engineering, Building and Steel Frame Solutions company, has been appointed as the main contractor to construct the office building.

As part of the contract with Chesterfield Borough Council, Britcon will utilise local labour and local contractors across the whole build process as well as working closely with the college.

To ensure you keep up-to-date with the latest developments at Chesterfield Waterside, visit ChesterfieldWaterside.co.uk or follow the development on Facebook and Twitter.

Chesterfield College and Chesterfield Waterside support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Councils Team up to Host Third Virtual Apprenticeships and Jobs Fair

Chesterfield Borough Council, North East Derbyshire District Council and Bolsover District Council have teamed up to host a third virtual jobs fair, that aims to highlight career opportunities for local residents in all three areas.

The virtual event will take place across all three council’s social media pages on Wednesday 27 January between 10:00 am and 12:00 pm. All the vacancies and opportunities can be found by searching for #DerbyshireJobsFair on social media. The councils will also be sharing vacancies from organisations across the area throughout the event.

After the great success of the first two virtual jobs fairs, which featured hundreds of available roles, it is hoped that even more employers will get involved and showcase the current opportunities they have available.

Many employers have already signed up to advertise vacancies but there are still spaces available.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It’s fantastic that following the success of the first two virtual jobs fairs that we can work together again to support our communities.

“Covid-19 is having a serious effect on the local economy and it is absolutely vital that we support both businesses and local people. Lots of people have lost jobs this year and we must do everything we can to support our residents at this difficult time.”

North East Derbyshire District Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Councillor Carolyn Renwick, said: “Our last online jobs fair proved extremely successful, reaching tens of thousands of residents who were interested in the vacancies. By working in partnership with our neighbouring authorities we can really escalate the opportunities available to a wider audience, at a time when help and opportunity is so desperately needed.”

Liz Smyth, Cabinet Member for Economic Development at Bolsover District Council, said: “A virtual Jobs Fair is the ideal way for people looking for work to find new and exciting opportunities. With the difficulties we have all faced during the pandemic it is important that we do what we can to support residents who may have lost their jobs or need to find further employment.”

The event will be held on 27 January 2021 from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter social media channels. Businesses wishing to advertise and take part can do so free of charge, email mark.szadura@ne-derbyshire.gov.uk with your expression of interest.

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Global inspirational education speaker to headline town’s 2021 Skills and Employability Conference

One of the most inspirational leaders of his generation, award winning speaker, author and former Long Eaton headteacher Richard Gerver, will headline this year’s Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Skills and Employability Conference.

Passionate about collaboration between businesses and education, Richard will address the profound challenges that now face young people and educators at the conference, which is being held virtually on Wednesday 10 February from 8.30am – 10.00am.

He will bring his own experience of turning around a failing primary school 10 years ago, to highlight the need to radically transform the education system from its current highly prescriptive environment to one of flexibility, to enable more young people to get the jobs they aspire to.

Usually speaking on the international stage and working with governments and global corporations including Microsoft and Google, the pandemic has seen Richard locked down which gave the event organisers the opportunity to secure him for the virtual conference.

Richard commented: “Schools are under immense pressure right now so I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak to educators and businesses in my home county of Derbyshire and bring my insight and experience to the conference which I hope will provide support and reassurance during this unprecedented time.”

He added: “It is fantastic to be in Chesterfield, albeit it virtually. I know the town well and am a regular visitor to Queen’s Park through my work with Derbyshire County Cricket Club.”

At the virtual conference Richard will also be joined in the speaker line-up by Rachel Quinn, Head of People and Skills at D2N2 LEP who leads on D2N2’s People and Skills strategy and programmes and policy relating to careers, employability, social inclusion and inclusive growth.

The event, which is free to attend, is organised by Chesterfield Borough Council, D2N2 Enterprise Advisor Network, CEC and Destination Chesterfield, and is open to businesses, schools and education providers in North Derbyshire.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Deputy Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “It’s vital that young people and businesses can access all the information they need to plan for their future, and the Employability and Skills Conference is always an important source of information for them. We are delighted to be joined by Richard as keynote speaker at this year’s event. His experiences in educational change make him the ideal speaker after the last year, I look forward to hearing his insights and I’m sure he will be a real hit with other attendees.”

To secure your place at the Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Employability and Skills Conference, please visit https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/chesterfield-north-derbyshire-employability-skills-conference/

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Chesterfield Champions work together in offering support to local vaccine rollout

Two Chesterfield businesses are working in tandem as part of efforts to speed-up the covid-19 vaccine rollout across Chesterfield.

Casa Hotel has been working closely with PCT Healthcare, the parent company to get the green light from the government and NHS England to vaccinate residents at Casa Hotel.

Casa Hotel owner, Steve Perez announced on his official Twitter account on Monday, 18th January that Casa has been given the go-ahead to become a vaccination centre from 1st February until the end of June.

Darryl Dethick, head of business transformation at PCT Healthcare said: “We’re delighted to be working with the team at the Casa hotel in Chesterfield along with the team at NHS England to get our Covid vaccination site up and running as soon as possible.  It’s great to be able to work together and support each other in helping to protect our local community.

“Community Pharmacy is really well placed to help look after the health needs of the local population and our Pharmacists and teams are really excited about being able to be part of the national vaccination campaign.”

Joe Cattee, PCT Healthcare director

Casa Hotel owner, Steve Perez said: We have a big car park, lots of space and being a modern building. We are very accessible, including toilets which is very important to the elderly. Instead of waiting in line on a cold pavement, waiting before and after the vaccination can be done in the warmth, under cover.

“We are used to being a 24 hour operation so that poses no issues to us.  We have the resources between us. We have come together as Chesterfield Champions with very different businesses for the benefit of the town.”

The collaboration comes as Chesterfield Borough Council recently announced vaccines are beginning to take place at Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel, along with several other venues across Derbyshire.

PCT Healthcare and Casa Hotel support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

steve perez honorary degree

Casa Hotel owner, Steve Perez

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Fifth cohort of RISE graduate scheme now available to Chesterfield businesses

The latest cohort of graduates is now available to Chesterfield businesses, as part of a unique business support initiative focussed on enabling small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to grow through the employment of graduate talent.

RISE has been effective in helping SMEs overcome the barriers faced in graduate recruitment and equipping them with the tools and know-how to become successful graduate employers.

Since 2013 RISE has supported more than 400 SMEs based across the Sheffield City Region, including Chesterfield successfully recruit over 500 graduates.

Many of those businesses have gone on to report increases in turnover, productivity, innovation and growth as a result. The enhanced RISE project now provides even more comprehensive business support and business benefits.

  • RISE support is free for businesses to use
  • The scheme will help businesses access top quality graduate talent for your business through the following means:
    • Help to draft an advert, providing graduate-specific labour market advice and expertise
    • Advertise the role as part of a national targeted advertising campaign
    • Undertake candidate selection processes using application forms, technical tests, video interviews and assessment centres
    • Assist in the logistics of setting up final interviews
  • Sessions/training on best-practice recruitment, allowing us to transfer the know-how to recruit graduates in the future
  • A grant available for businesses who use the scheme for the first time

Oliver Tarrant, SME Engagement manager with RISE said: “During these uncertain times we recognise how important it is that small and medium sized businesses, who are wanting to grow their business and recruit talented graduates, receive high-quality, straightforward, and safe support.

“We will work closely with businesses to provide a tailored service and to help them save costs and time, offering a rigorous selection process.

“We are engaging with businesses from now until 10th February, but we are ideally looking for businesses to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Rikki Stout, Head of HR at Barlborough-based e-commerce business, Xbite, explains: “We connected with RISE because we wanted to meet, train and develop fresh graduate talent. We understand the value in finding ambitious young people who are hungry for experience and seeking a challenge. RISE has matched us with excellent people straight from university, meaning we can nurture and develop them early on. We are part of their journey and they are part of ours.

“There are many challenges faced by businesses looking to recruit graduates. Time to recruit well is a big one. As is the cost of sourcing, meeting and connecting with people. This is addressed by RISE. But fear of bringing in new people who might not have the exact experience of your systems or industry shouldn’t be a barrier to growth.”

Rikki Stout, Xbite

You can find out more by going to the RISE website or by emailing  oliver@risescr.co.uk

RISE is part-funded by the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.

 

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ActionCOACH Chesterfield offers six local companies complimentary acess to 2021 business bootcamp

ActionCOACH Chesterfield are offering six businesses complimentary access to its Business Bootcamp 2021.

The chosen 6 will have access to the group’s ActionCLUB sessions. these will be 2 hour sessions for up to 2 people per business, for 4 weeks. Everything will be measurable so ActionCOACH can actively track the results they know you will achieve.

At the end of January a panel of judges, including Actioncoach Chesterfield’s Fiaz Sadiq and Dom Stevens from Destination Chesterfield will analyse the results of all 6 businesses and pick a winner.

The winning prize will be 12 months complimentary ActionCLUB membership worth £5940, with sessions being held every 2 weeks.

Business Coach and managing director of ActionCOACH, Fiaz Sadiq said: “Many business owners work IN their business and it’s even more important now to invest time in learning on how to work ON your business. Creating synergies between all the moving parts of their business from Mindset, Marketing, Finance, Virtual Leadership and Management in an ever-changing Digital Economy”

“ActionCOACH Chesterfield has been open for Business since September 2020, and during the short time we have been open we have not only serviced paying clients – but opened our doors to any local businesses struggling in the current climate, by gifting them free coaching sessions to help them achieve their goals and teach them basic business survival skills.

“We have shared one on one coaching sessions with local businesses in need, as well as gifted webinars to help them shift their mindset from “how will I survive this” to “I will survive this”.

Applicants should send the following details to the email address provided:

  • Who they are
  • Brief into to their business
  • What their goals are and the help they need to achieve them

The application deadline is Friday the 29th January 2020 – so make sure you submit your application to Chesterfield@actioncoach.co.uk before then to be in with a chance of winning this amazing prize.

ActionCOACH supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

 

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Council leaders urge Government to back HS2 Eastern Leg in response to NIC report

Chesterfield Borough Council has released a response to the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC)’s recently published report that has recommended scaling back HS2’s Eastern Leg in favour of regional rail link development.

Don’t Cut Here! A Case study on Why the economies of Chesterfield and Sheffield need HS2 in full has been released today (Wednesday 22 December 2020), urging the Government to deliver on its promise of developing HS2’s Eastern Leg to “regenerate, level up and make a real difference to people and communities” in Chesterfield and Derbyshire.

The case study has been released by Chesterfield Borough Council, in conjunction with Connecting Britain to highlight what it says are HS2 East’s “enormous opportunities for the UK economy that will drive growth, but which are currently at risk of being thwarted.”
It follows the NIC’s Rail Needs Assessment for the North and Midlands, which was published in December and included an option to leave out most of Line 2b East until 2050 and beyond, something which local authorities claim would have a “devastating” economic impact on the region.

Chesterfield Borough Council has referenced the Staveley Corridor regeneration, which is centred around a new HS2 Staveley Infrastructure Maintenance Depot (IMD) and promises a huge scope of opportunity for the area, with creation of jobs, infrastructure, housing and inward investment.

Opportunities for growth and regeneration include the £125m reopening of the Barrow Hill Line, a £100m link road, the development of 3,500 new homes and the creation of 2,200 new jobs around the area. But the IMD will only be required if HS2 East is delivered in full by 2040.

The document also covers the lasting legacy of HS2 in the eastern region, which would see one million people better connected by the line, 10,000s of cars taken off the roads and 1,000s of bi-modal trains replaced, supporting the government’s decarbonisation targets.

Much of HS2 East’s proposals are focused around masterplans which are already in place for the development of Chesterfield and Sheffield Stations, incorporating pedestrian friendly access and local public transport links.

Responding to the publication of the report last week, Councillor Tricia Gilby, Chesterfield Borough Council Leader, said she was ‘hugely disappointed’ that of the options presented the National Infrastructure Commission does not recommend delivery of the eastern leg of HS2 in full.

“This directly conflicts with the Government’s pledge to levelling up in areas like ours. It also seriously undermines local plans for growth in the North and the Midlands,” Cllr Gilby added.

Now Councillor Gilby joins other regional leaders in pushing forward the case for the Government to commit to the HS2 Eastern Leg in full – to realise the ‘once in a generation’ opportunity to shape the region’s future, and avoid land already earmarked for related development being left in limbo for years.

“After decades of underinvestment in strategic rail infrastructure, delivering HS2 is a once in a generation chance to transform connectivity, attract investment, create new jobs, build new homes, boost skills and opportunity and level-up communities across the North, Midlands and beyond. This is even more crucial to our economic future in optimising recovery from the pandemic, which has hit the North and Midlands hard.

“For Chesterfield, the failure to deliver the Eastern Leg in full means facing the prospect of reduced connectivity for our communities, as well as damaging the momentum we have built up around our ambitious comprehensive plans for both Staveley and the area around Chesterfield Station.

“In the Staveley area alone, planned growth worth at least £1bn has been catalysed by the planned HS2 maintenance depot. Taking this away would be a huge blow for an area that has had its hopes raised on the back of HS2’s plans and would leave a huge question mark over how we can deliver the ambitious growth plans our communities need and deserve.

“It is vital that the Eastern Leg of HS2 is delivered in full and that delivery starts as soon as possible. This is about more than just rail and trains – it’s about new jobs, new homes and new starts for communities that have been denied these opportunities over many years.

“This is a critical issue for Chesterfield and Staveley. I will not rest in working with council and business leaders along the planned Eastern Leg to hold Government to account and to ensure that the Prime Minister honours his commitment to deliver HS2 East in full. Time is of the essence to re-assert the strength of Chesterfield’s social and economic case ahead of Government’s planned publication of its Integrated Rail Plan.”

Scott Knowles, Chief Executive at East Midlands Chamber, said: “HS2 East is home to 13 million people, and about six million jobs, equating to 20% of the UK, larger than the economy of Denmark. Chesterfield shows how the investment does far more than just getting people to city centres. The importance of this opportunity to regenerate, level up and make a real difference to people and communities cannot be overstated and must not be missed.”

Dom Stevens, manager of Destination Chesterfield commented: “Chesterfield is already moving forward with significant plans and developments so that the town can maximise the wide range of economic benefits HS2 has to offer.

“The originally proposed spur of the line arriving at Chesterfield Station will improve connectivity, journey times and capacity on our rail network locally and nationally, bringing with it vital investment opportunities.

“We would urge the NIC to rethink its recommendations and take into the account the huge strides our town has already made to regenerate its economy, with HS2 playing a huge role in attracting new people into the area to invest, live and work.”

To read Don’t Cut Here! A Case study on Why the economies of Chesterfield and Sheffield need HS2 in full online visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/media/1492665/chesterfield-borough-council-hs2-document.pdf

 

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Chesterfield College awarded £500,000 towards centre of excellence focusing on modern construction and digital technologies.

A new Centre of Excellence focusing on modern construction and digital technologies will be built at Chesterfield College after the scheme was awarded a £500,000 grant from the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

The investment will support the D2N2 LEP’s vision of greener homes and technology, along with more energy-efficient public building; with construction being one of the most important sectors to the regional economy.

The project is one of ten across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire which has received funding from D2N2’s £44 million share of the government’s £900 million Getting Building Fund.

The programme of investment is being used to improve digital infrastructure; support skills and career opportunities; and the transition to a low carbon economy to drive economic growth following the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

The funding award will allow Chesterfield College to create a new centre where local students will be able to learn state-of-the-art techniques such as Building Information Modelling and Virtual and Augmented reality.

The new centre, which will be housed in pre-existing premises owned by the college, will complement the current curriculum being delivered to teach advanced manufacturing and building techniques. It will offer learners the opportunity to develop the skills which employers need to meet current and future demands in their sector.

It’s hoped that these new skills will enhance learners employment and career development opportunities as well as their earning potential. The facility will also support the growing demand from employers for a workforce well versed in new technologies and construction methods..

With funding for the £875,000 facility now secured work will begin on the site ready to accept learner by April 2021.

The Centre of Excellence is just the latest capital investment D2N2 has made in Chesterfield and follows recent investments into the construction of the Hollis Lane Link Road, the station area redevelopment, and the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project totalling £6.85 million.

D2N2 Chair Elizabeth Fagan CBE said: “Through the Getting Building Fund, D2N2 is investing in projects that will drive the regeneration of our regional economy, adapt to new opportunities, and create a more resilient economy for everyone.”
“I’m pleased D2N2 has been able to invest in this Centre of Excellence at Chesterfield College. Ensuring our workforce has the skills to take advantage of ever more sophisticated and greener construction methods is an essential part of our vision for a cleaner and more sustainable economy.”

David Malone, Deputy Principal of the Chesterfield College Group said: “This funding will allow us to give local people the chance to develop the skills they need to be competitive in the job market as demands of the construction and engineering sector change.
“The Centre of Excellence will allow us to enhance what we already offer students and apprentices and ensure employers have access to a talent pool of people with the skills they need. We are excited to be able to bring together expertise in digital technology with modern construction in one purpose built facility and we look forward to welcoming the first students through the doors in 2021.”

Minister for Regional Growth and Local Government, Luke Hall MP said: “We’re supporting students across the country gain the skills they need to succeed in today’s new and emerging industries.
“That’s why we’re supporting Chesterfield College’s Centre of Excellence with a £500,000 Getting Building Fund investment.

“The innovative new facilities will allow local people to progress to high quality, well paid jobs while also meeting the recruitment demands of the region’s businesses.”

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Chesterfield College helps employers access £2 billion of government funding to recruit young people

Chesterfield College is helping employers make the most of government funding to grow their workforce and help young people into employment. The college is now a provider and intermediary of the government’s Kickstart Scheme, helping businesses of all sizes, in all sectors, to get access to their share of £2 billion of funding to provide meaningful 6-month job placements for 16-24-year olds.

The scheme was launched earlier this year as part of a recovery package of measures outlined by the chancellor, Rishi Sunak. It offers employers a means of growing their workforce with a talent pool of people looking for a route into employment.

The WorkSkills team at Chesterfield College is working with employers to apply for funding, liaise with JobCentrePlus, choose the right candidates, and provide any additional training needs alongside the job placements.

Funding available for each job will cover the relevant National Minimum Wage, plus NI contributions and any auto enrolment pension costs for up to 25 hours a week. Employers will be able to benefit from a fully funded new member of staff, but they can also choose to top up and pay above the minimum wage or cover the costs beyond 25 hours per week.

There is also funding available to support young people to develop new skills and to help them move into sustained employment after they have completed their Kickstart funded job. Free upfront and on-going training, designed to support the new roles created, will be provided by the college to ensure new employees can make the most of their opportunity.

Lee Kirton, WorkSkills Delivery Manager from Chesterfield College said: “This a fantastic opportunity for employers of all sizes to grow their workforce and access a large pool of candidates with potential and ambition, ready for an opportunity to kick start their career. Our expertise of working with employers, young people and JobCentrePlus will give employers the best chance of accessing this pot of funding and benefiting from the Kickstart scheme. We are passionate about working together to create meaningful job placements for young people to develop in.”

For more information about the rules of Kickstart scheme and how to access funding working with Chesterfield College, visit https://www.chesterfield.ac.uk/kickstart-scheme-launches-2-billion-of-funded-roles-now-available-for-employers/

Find out more about apprenticeships in Chesterfield here

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