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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Print Digital Media and GBS Apprenticeships support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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

Outdoor performance space created at Springwell Community College

A new performance canopy has been built at Springwell Community College with funding provided through the Staveley Town Deal.

The new canopy is next to the performing arts block – providing space for summer concerts and productions to be held outside. It can also be used by students during the day as a covered social and dining space.

Ian Wingfield, headteacher at Springwell Community College, said: “The SCART (Springwell Community Arts) provision at Springwell has had a challenging time through the pandemic and this investment will help to reboot and enhance this highly regarded programme. The new performance space is a welcome addition to our college and creates new opportunities for students to develop their skills and build on stage experience.”

The performance canopy was constructed during half term and benches have been placed under the canopy to provide a sheltered social and dining space.

As part of the Town Deal process, accelerator funding worth £500,000 was granted by Government to deliver projects ahead of the full set of projects that form Staveley Town Deal.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The accelerator funding has really helped kickstart the Town Deal and demonstrates the broad ambitions of the Town Deal Board. The projects that have been supported through accelerator funding aim to improve the quality of life for local residents and ensure that Staveley is a place to start, to stay and to grow. I look forward to the summer when we can enjoy outdoor performances at Springwell Community College and I hope the community will turn out to support these performances too.”

Accelerator funding has also been used to create new play facilities on King George V Playing Field, upgrade CCTV in Staveley Town Centre, improve drainage on the Chantry Playing Fields and to undertake preparatory works for DRIIVe a rail innovation and training centre which will be built in Barrow Hill.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The accelerator projects are really just the first step in delivering the wider Town Deal, there will be lots of updates around the eleven key projects that form the Town Investment Plan over the next few months as well as the opportunity for residents to get involved.”

Find out more about Staveley Town Deal on the Chesterfield Borough Council website: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal

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The Derbyshire Times to offer money saving vouchers at Vicar Lane Shopping Centre

The Derbyshire Times is teaming up with local retailers to encourage readers to support Chesterfield town centre businesses – and save them money at the same time.

The paper is running a set of vouchers in its March 17 edition which will give readers the chance to claim money off purchases at stores at the Vicar Lane, as well as free drinks – and even free parking at the shopping centre’s car park.

Derbyshire Times editor Phil Bramley said: “We know the cost of living crisis is hitting us all – as well as our local town centre shops, as customers count the pennies.

“That’s why we’re launching the new campaign to help support our high street – AND save readers money when they spend with local businesses.

“The aim is simple, we are encouraging all readers to make a conscious decision to shop locally and spend some time and money with Chesterfield’s shops, businesses and independent traders.

“In return, they’re offering exclusive money-saving deals to thank you for your support, and to help us all with the rising cost of living.

“The vouchers are valid at a number or stores on Vicar Lane, from a free cuppa at the Vintage Tearooms to money off the latest fashion from Ministry and Bon Marche, there are great offers to save your cash – whilst you support your local high street too..”

For more details, see this week’s Derbyshire Times or visit www.derbyshiretimes.co.uk/business

Based in the heart of Chesterfield, Vicar Lane Shopping Centre is a modern, open-air shopping centre home to a range of popular high-street retailers and a mix of unique independent stores. Find out more about shopping in Chesterfield town centre: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/shopping/chesterfield-town-centre/

The Derbyshire Times and Vicar Lane Shopping Centre support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

(Above photo) Vicar Lane Shopping Centre (Top Right photo) Phil Bramley, Derbyshire Times Editor

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Residents encouraged to have their say on Staveley Regeneration Route

New proposals to build a road linking Chesterfield and Staveley have been drawn-up to cut congestion and open up land for employment and housing.

Derbyshire County Council is asking residents and commuters for their views on the proposals for the £130 million Chesterfield Staveley Regeneration Route before finalising its approach to government for funding for the project.

The project is designed to cut the amount of traffic using the A619 through Brimington, Hollingwood and Staveley, reducing issues with traffic delays and queuing, HGVs passing residential property, and improving noise and air quality.

Residents can take a look at the plans online and give their views on the proposals as well as commenting on the current issues with traffic along the A619 and how they might be affected.

Councillor Carolyn Renwick, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Environment, said: “This is a major project to level-up and bring extra investment to support economic growth in the area.

“As well as addressing problems with congestion and traffic flow on the A619 through Brimington, Hollingwood and Staveley, it will unlock opportunities to develop land alongside the route to bring much-needed new homes and jobs to the area.

“I’d urge everyone to take a look at the latest proposals and give us their views.”

The new route is proposed to stretch 3.7 miles from the roundabout by Sainsbury’s on the A619 in Chesterfield to Hall Lane in Staveley.

It is proposed to build 3 new bridges to carry the road over Chesterfield Canal which would need some slight realignments at 2 of the crossing points to accommodate the bridges.

The proposed route will include a 2 metre pavement on both sides of the carriageway, and a segregated cycle track. Connections to the Chesterfield Canal towpath will also be provided at several points along the route.

If funding for the project is approved, more detailed proposals will be drawn-up and further consultation with local communities will be held before any work can begin.

The closing date for comments is Friday 10 April 2022.

Major regeneration is set to take across Staveley over the next few years thanks to the Staveley Town Deal programme, with more housing and jobs set to be brought to the area.

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ActionCOACH Chesterfield team takes on 10km charity walk around Chatsworth

The team at ActionCOACH Chesterfield is taking on a charity effort today (Tuesday, 15th March) to raise funds for a hospice close to their heart.

They are embarking on a 10 kilometer ‘memory walk’ around Chatsworth, with up to 10 people expected to take part in the hike.

Any funds donated to the charity challenge will be given to the Nottinghamshire Hospice. The charity is dear to the team, with many team members sadly losing loved ones to terminal illnesses.

Donna Aplin, Business Development Manager at ActionCOACH Chesterfield said: “As a team, part of our growth journey is about helping others. We all saw the amazing work the charity has been doing and wanted to support. Being out together is also about team building and supporting the community. The charity is very close to our hearts and we wanted to recognise the work they do and what an invaluable service they provide.

“My sister has worked as a volunteer for several years in the local hospice. The support is amazing what they offer and it has stuck with me to help anyway I can. We have all appreciated the support and assistance provided by organisations like Nottinghamshire Hospice and we at ActionCOACH Chesterfield want to show our appreciation for the work of the charity.

“In times of need the Chesterfield community has always shown a big heart and no matter how small a donation in these difficult times would be greatly appreciated.”

To find out more about the challenge and to donate, go to: https://actioncoach.tributepage.org/

ActionCOACH Chesterfield 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 ranked as second best place in the UK to raise a family

A study has Chesterfield as one of the best towns in the country to bring up Children.

The town ranked 2nd in a list of the 50 best towns and cities in the analysis carried out by children’s electric car supplier, Electric Ride-on cars.

The company said: “By analysing multiple factors across towns and cities in England, such as schools, homes, childcare, and quality of life the best places to raise a family have been revealed.”

Chesterfield came just behind Lincoln which topped the list, but came above the likes of Newcastle, Liverpool, Nottingham, London and Leeds to name a few.

The article states: “The Derbyshire town of Chesterfield is the second-best place to raise a family with a score of 7.18, which is 2.21 higher than the average score. There are almost 30 schools per square mile on average in the Chesterfield area, it also scores well for safety and air quality.”

Chesterfield also ranked highly in terms of air quality and safety – with 87.5 and 75.49 out of 100 respectively – both key factors to consider when it comes to raising happy and healthy children.

You can see the full survey here.

The ranking follows analysis in 2021 by Rightmove, which found that Chesterfield is the happiest town in the East Midlands. Find out more about the study here.

Rightmove data also saw a surge in people and families looking to relocate to Chesterfield and use the town as a commuter base, with great transport links to nearby Sheffield, Nottingham and Derby. The town is also commutable to London by train in under two hours, with a direct service from the town running to St. Pancras International.

To find out more about the great quality of life on offer in Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/

The town’s business community are set to come together to celebrate achievements across Chesterfield and the rapid regeneration and growth currently taking place next week, (Wednesday 23rd March 2022) at the sold-out Celebrate Chesterfield 2022. Find out more.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , ,

Chesterfield Royal Hospital launches fundraiser for first-of-its-kind health and wellbeing hub

The Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity has launched a £2m fundraising campaign for the proposed ‘Health and Wellbeing Hub’ at the Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Hospital.

The first-of-its kind proposed ‘Health and Wellbeing Hub’ will be a purpose-built facility, which will be financed by the charity through fundraising. The Hub is designed to ‘care for carers’ – those people working around the clock at the Trust, to provide care to our communities and families.

Ken Godber, Director of the Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity, said: “We are appealing for local people, communities and businesses to help raise the required funds to create this fantastic new facility which would offer counselling, breakout areas, gym and outdoor teams and games areas for everybody who works at the Trust.”

The facility is hoping to open its doors in Spring 2023 and is one of the corner stone campaigns for 2022/23 for the Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity. The appeal is for all local people, groups, teams and businesses to think how they are able to contribute, fundraise and support this ambitious and exciting project.

Atul Patel, Chair of the Charity, said: “By doing this we would be making the hospital more attractive to new recruits, supporting colleagues after tough experiences and protecting their health and wellbeing. I’m particularly proud of this campaign as it means we’ll be able to support people which is so important especially after the last two years when they have truly gone above and beyond to ensure we have had the care we needed during the pandemic.”

Donations can be made through the Trust website or Chesterfield Royal Hospital Charity – JustGiving.

Local businesses can support the appeal by becoming members of the Corporate Champions Club – where tailor-made packages of support can offer businesses and large organisations a direct link to the Charity and ensure they are recognised for their ongoing commitment.

Set to open seven days a week, the fully accessible Hub will offer those working at the Trust a variety of modern health and wellbeing facilities and services around the clock. Once established, the Hub may be developed further to include a special Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) pitch, which will be booked in advance and allow for team games and bonding such football, hockey etc. There will also be counselling rooms and complimentary therapies as well as talking therapies and areas for group and individual reflections after traumatic incidents, like those seen during the pandemic.

A state-of-the-art gym will give staff the opportunity keep health and strong, preventing illness and injury, as well as reducing stress levels. There will potentially be pop-up facilities too – cookery demonstrations, dancing, specialist training and holistic therapies to ensure a full package is offered and our colleagues have access to the very best facilities.

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.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital

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Dozens of Chesterfield businesses given online boost by Digital High Street project

Chesterfield businesses have been given a helping hand to boost their confidence and skills to trade online as part of an innovative project – with tailor-made advice designed to build resilience if their physical buildings are forced to close in a crisis.

Chesterfield Borough Council teamed up with East Midlands Chamber to launch the Chesterfield Digital High Street in June 2021 and the project has since helped 84 local businesses to make the most of their presence online. It offers support and guidance on using online tools but can also provide funding for e-commerce websites.

TwelfthCraft is a retail emporium based in The Shambles specialising in dolls houses, miniatures, accessories, curios and gifts. Since joining the project Caroline Gleadall, who owns and manages the store has created an online presence which has led to a 10% increase in sales and has developed a plan to further expand her business over the next three years.

Caroline said: “Thanks to the project, I feel like I’ve already achieved so much. I’ve developed the confidence to pay for Facebook advertising, and the time I’m committing to my social media presence has provided lots of new connections, allowed me to contact my customers, and given them the opportunity to leave reviews I’m about to launch my new e-commerce website which will help me reach new markets.”

The project is open to businesses across the borough. Brampton Brewery is a long-established micro-brewery based on Chatsworth Road but they have benefitted through the Digital High Street project.

Chris Radford, managing director and head brewer, explained: “We have received grant funding through the project for a new website with enhanced e-commerce functionality. Once launched, we hope to see significant growth in our online sales.

“To any business considering getting involved, I’d say this – just do it! There really is no reason not to. You’ll have access to a wide range of advice and services from industry specialists who just want to see you succeed.”

Councillor Dean Collins, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for economic growth, said: “It’s been a really difficult time for local businesses during the pandemic – many which were left with limited options to trade when Covid-19 forced their buildings to close.

“We’ve been committed to supporting local businesses weather this unprecedented time, and it’s fantastic that so many are already benefitting from this project and realising their full potential. Thank you to East Midlands Chamber for their support and work on this project. If you run a local business there is still time to sign up and find out how you could grow your business online.”

East Midlands Chamber head of enterprise Paul Stuart said: “Purchasing habits have changed as a result of Covid-19, with fewer in-store visitors and a move towards online transactions.

“We expect this to be a long-term shift, so it’s vital that businesses ensure they see this as an opportunity, rather than a threat.

“By engaging with the Chesterfield Digital High Street project, small businesses can benefit from expert support to equip themselves with the right mix of tools needed for the online world – something that will complement their existing services, attract new customers and, ultimately, future-proof their organisations.”

Purpose Media has been supporting the project and have advised over 30 businesses in Chesterfield as part of the Chesterfield Digital High Street Project.

Purpose Media business development manager Grace Golden said: “Through our work in the Chesterfield Digital High Street project, we have helped businesses learn new ways to engage with customers, attract business and increase profitability.

“By implementing new activity online such as posting videos or using Facebook advertising, they have renewed optimism for their future and have confidence in their ability to marketing their business.”

Discover how your business can benefit from this project by visiting: www.emc-dnl.co.uk/chesterfield-digital-high-street

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Brand-new apartments now on-sale at Chesterfield’s Waterside Quarter development

Leading housebuilder Avant Homes has released a collection of brand-new one and two-bedroom apartments for sale at its popular £36m Waterside Quarter development in Chesterfield.

Located off Brimington Road, the new apartments at the development are available in three impressive designs with prices ranging from £124,995 for a one-bedroom flat to £158,495 for a two-bedroom apartment.

The apartment building is located in a prime location at Waterside Quarter with easy access to the entrance while also sitting in a private cul-de-sac, close to the River Rother. Each home across the three-storey buildings include an open-plan living space, double bedrooms and ample storage.

Named The Stevenson, The Hepworth and The Tapton apartments, the homes also comprise a high-quality specification which features a designer kitchen with integrated appliances and boutique bathrooms with full height tiling.

Avant Homes Central sales and marketing director, Dawn Bennett, said: “Waterside Quarter is one of our most highly-anticipated developments within the region, so it’s exciting to launch our apartments to appeal even further to the wide range of buyers looking to purchase in Chesterfield.

“The Stevenson, The Hepworth and The Tapton are exclusive to Waterside Quarter and buyers won’t be able to find them at any of our other developments, so with the limited availability we’re sure they will receive great interest from commuters and first-time buyers, alike.”

Waterside Quarter forms a key part of the wider £340m Chesterfield Waterside project which is one of the UK’s largest regeneration schemes.

Once complete, it will feature 173-homes across a range of one, two, three and four-bedroom properties. Available homes at Waterside Quarter are currently priced from £124,995 for a one-bedroom apartment to £295,995 for a four-bedroom semi-detached home with three storeys.

Based in Chesterfield, Avant Homes Central is part of the Avant Homes group, one of the leading private developers of residential property in the UK. The group currently has 55 developments across its five operating regions.

Find out more about the Chesterfield Waterside development at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/developments/chesterfield-waterside/

Avant Homes 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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Junction Arts intern progresses into apprentice role

Chesterfield-based community organisation Junction Arts is continuing it’s growth, by promoting intern Martha Bramwell into a full-time Projects Apprentice role.

Martha is now aiming to become a full-time projects assistant with Junction Arts, following the completion of her apprenticeship.

Originally starting with Junction Arts back in December 2020, Martha was looking to gain hands on experience within community arts to support her Foundation Art Course at Chesterfield College.

However, Hannah Bowdler, Relationship Fundraiser at Junction Arts explained how much of an impact the young intern made since joining the organisation: “Martha has made a huge impact on the charity. During her time with us, she has worked with each of our team members getting a wider understanding of the running of a community arts charity. With each person, she has shared her enthusiasm and energy making Junction Arts a truly positive place to work.

“Her direct impact on the charity includes, redesigning our new office layout in West Studios, after we downsized. It is now a welcoming and practical workspace for us to use as a hub for all our projects and activities.

“Project wise, Martha has been a vital deputy during projects including the Chesterfield Lantern Parade. Supporting a project coordinator to run a busy and complicated celebration event whilst learning what’s needed to make a large scale project successful.”

Hannah added that she was delighted to see the continued growth of the charity: “It’s a very exciting time for the charity, whilst in our 45th year Martha has enabled Junctions Arts to take the next steps to increase our capacity. Through her supportive role within the charity and with this soon to increase, the types of projects and number of communities we can work with and support has really increased in the years leading out of the pandemic.”

Martha expressed her delight at being taken on in a permanent capacity: “I am absolutely ecstatic to be offered a permanent role with Junction Arts. I can honestly say receiving the Job offer from our Managing Director, Paul, was one of the happiest moments in my life. As I feel I have worked really hard and this area is something I am really passionate about and I’m so excited for my future with Junction arts.

“Every day I’m surrounded by a supportive team who have individually worked with me trying to give me the best experience possible over the last 15 months.

“I love having roles in events and being with local communities. In December, I played a part in creating Chesterfield’s first lantern parade. I had an overwhelming sense of pride seeing all the lanterns made by school children and members of the community walk together from Queen’s Park into the town centre and will treasure this memory forever. After a difficult couple of years, I’ve never seen so many smiling faces in one place. At 19 years old, I feel so grateful that my days are filled with creativity, exciting projects and great people.

“I love the community we have here in Chesterfield and I think that’s what makes chesterfield such a great place to live, work and enjoy! I am very excited to see Chesterfield in the future and how it will develop into a town with creativity in every corner and street.”

Hannah added that the charity is now looking to further support young talent in the region by taking on a new intern: “Within the next month, we will start the process for advertising for a 1 year Internship from July 2022. It is currently an unpaid role of up to 15 hours a week, depending on the applicates availability. Applicants are to be 18yrs +.

“The Intern is positioned at the centre of the charity, with opportunities to work with all the team, support on projects and events, access to training and involved in the planning of projects. This is an entry level role into the creative/community arts/charity sector.

“We are actively looking for funding to make this a 2 day paid for position, as an investment into young people and new careers within the area.

“As a busy charity, we are always looking for volunteers on our events and projects to help them run smoothly and have a positive impact on those to attend. More details of volunteering with Junction Arts can be found here: https://junctionarts.org/volunteer/”

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

Junction Arts at the Tapton Lock Festival

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Blue Plaque unveiled at University of Derby’s St. Helena Campus in Chesterfield

A Blue Plaque has been unveiled at the University of Derby’s Chesterfield campus to commemorate the building and its significance as a prominent former girl’s school in the area.

The plaque was unveiled at the Grade II listed building, St Helena, formerly Chesterfield Girls High School, by Dr Maureen Strelley, a former pupil and Bolsover GP, at an event hosted in collaboration with the Chesterfield Civic Society on Monday 7 March, 2022.

The building was originally designed by G.H. Widdows, one of the outstanding school architects of his day and was his first major project for the county council. Opened as a new secondary school in 1911 by the Duchess of Devonshire, the school provided transformative education for many pupils, before it closed in 1991.

In 2016, the University fully transformed the building, which is now regarded as a centre of excellence for health, providing some of the best teaching facilities in the UK for nursing courses.

Professor Keith McLay, Provost – Learning and Teaching at the University of Derby, said: “We are delighted that a Blue Plaque has been unveiled at our St Helena building in recognition of its historic significance.

“The University sympathetically restored the building, retaining most of its original features, and is now a teaching and learning environment for students who are going into valuable careers in the healthcare profession. We are proud of the building and its heritage as a pioneering educational establishment.”

Philip Riden, Chairman of Chesterfield Civic Society, added: “It is fantastic that this wonderful building, which provided life changing opportunities for so many young people, has been recognised with a Blue Plaque.“Looking back at its history, the first secondary school for girls in Chesterfield was a private school run from a house called East Bank on Sheffield Road. Faced with the need to provide places under the 1902 Education Act, the county council bought up the school and got it temporarily recognised as a public secondary school on condition that they built a new school as soon as possible, which they did on an extremely ambitious scale.“This school, which was renamed St Helena School in 1947, and Chesterfield School, which offered education to boys, were important as major agents of social mobility for their pupils, which they took from a number of schools across the borough and adjoining county area. Both enabled their pupils to proceed to higher education and onto successful professional careers, which is very much aligned to the work and ambitions of the University of Derby today.”

Other attendees at the event included Dr Denise Baker, Interim Pro Vice-Chancellor Dean of the College of Health, Psychology and Social Care at the University of Derby, Professor Stephen Wordsworth, Interim Deputy Dean of the same College, and Frank Gorman, Secretary of the Chesterfield Civic Society.After the unveiling ceremony, all attendees were invited to lunch and a tour around the campus.As well as learning spaces, the University’s Chesterfield campus is home to the Innovation Centre Chesterfield, which allows small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to incubate new business ideas, increase their speed of growth and de-risk the process of developing new products.

Chesterfield businesses are being invited to a ‘Planning for Growth’ event at the St. Helena Campus on 27th April 2022. Organisations will be able to discover the support available to help make their goals a reality and expand their network through meeting like-minded business leaders. To find out more and book your place, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/planning-for-growth-chesterfield/

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

Photo supplied by Richard Richards Photography

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