Training and career development for apprentices at Atkinson Building Contractors
Penrith-based building firm Atkinsons has employed more than 100 apprentices since 1991, and over half are still employed by the firm.
Tony Ripley was the first apprentice to be taken on, and 32 years later is now the firm’s commercial manager.
Tim Halford, a current apprentice is undertaking a degree in Quantity Surveying as part of his apprenticeship.
Tim said: “I have just completed the first year of the course and it has definitely guided me onto the right path to securing a future within the construction industry.
“I am very grateful to Atkinsons for supporting me through this qualification to help me progress my career here. The support from my employers has been great and I feel a valued member of the team.”
Connah Rutherford has worked for Atkinsons for the last four years, starting as an apprentice and is now studying towards a Level 4 Construction Quantity Surveying Technician course.
Connah said: “It’s great to have the support of my employer as I get ready to start my training. The knowledge from my peers and experience working on our current housing developments has enabled me to get a head start on the training.”
Inspira helps DWP recruit for local work coach roles
Employability experts Inspira are helping the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to recruit local work coach roles.
The DWP is currently seeking individuals who are customer-focused and possess the necessary skills, commitment, and capabilities to provide exceptional public service from the Barrow office.
Inspira is hosting an open evening for people to understand more about the roles available and the application process. The sessions will also offer an overview of the skills and behaviours needed for the work coach roles and identify transferrable skills.
The open evening will take place on Wednesday 13th December between 5.30-7.30pm.
Inspira are also offering advice to DWP claimants who may be suitable for the role through the provision of up-skilling sessions, where they will be supported with all aspects of the application process – from preparing their CV and personal statement to interview skills and preparation.
Judith Wilkinson, partnership manager at DWP said: “DWP have asked Inspira to deliver these sessions as they have an excellent track record making a positive difference in supporting people who are looking for work and those wishing to change or improve their careers.”
Julia Winder, area operations manager for Inspira said: “Our team in Barrow are pleased to be working with the DWP to assist with their recruitment needs.
“At Inspira, we’re dedicated to helping local individuals improve their skills and open up new career opportunities. For those who have been out of work for an extended period, we recognise that extra support and guidance may be necessary to prepare them for the application and selection process, and to build their confidence.”
Baristas showcase skills in coffee masterclass
Staff from sister hotels in the Lake District and North Lancashire have taken part in a barista skills competition.
Hospitality staff from The Wild Boar and Low Wood Bay Resort and Spa near Windermere joined colleagues from Lancaster House Hotel to display an array of innovative coffee preparations and latte art to judges from Matthew Algie Coffee Roastery.
Four Baristas from Low Wood Bay competed – Pawel Moskala, Erdal Ali, George Taylor and Aml Nayef.
They were joined by Joanne Shuttleworth and Vaclav Kolar from The Wild Boar.
Vaclav won first place as the 2023 Barista of the year for his artistry and unique creation of what the judges described as a sensational ‘Smokehouse Coffee’.
Hannah McQuire from English Lakes Hotels Resorts and Venues said: “The baristas were judged on creativity, presentation, the process of making their beverages and of course, above all, taste.
“The standard was extremely high across the board but Vaclav pipped his rivals in the end due to the beauty and precision of his method in making the drink and the skills demonstrated as we watched.”
Agile Group Systems and Services announces strategic leadership appointments to drive growth
Agile Group Systems and Services (AGSS) has announced two senior leadership appointments.
The firm provides digital transformation services for advanced industries, with offices in Kirkby Stephen and Preston.
Alistair Urquhar has been appointed as group managing director and was previously the general manager of the firm.
He will be responsible for revenue growth within the group and will oversee the scaling of AGSS’s operations in the UK, US and globally.
Alistair said: “I am honoured to take on the role of group managing director at AGSS. This is an exciting time for our company and wider industry as technology continues to drive efficiency and speed gains.
“I am acutely aware of the responsibility that comes with leading an already high-performing team, which is why my focus will be on harnessing our collective strengths to further enhance our market position.”
Tom Rootes, who previously worked as the firm’s director of innovation, has been promoted to group strategic programmes director.
Tom said: “I am thrilled to be leading AGSS’s strategic programs. The opportunities ahead are immense, and I look forward to leveraging my experience to further strengthen our market position and deliver on key initiatives such as our Innovate UK-backed Carbon Calculator project.”
Lake District Hotels celebrates staff achievements at third annual awards ceremony
Lake District Hotels hosted its third annual employee appreciation awards on Tuesday 21st November, showcasing the company’s commitment to recognising and honouring the exceptional contributions of its workforce.
The awards recognised long-standing members of staff and highlighted the efforts of those who have completed apprenticeships and degrees during through their work.
Jodey Houston, supervisor of Mizu pan-Asian restaurant at the Lodore Falls Hotel and Spa was awarded the employee of the year.
“I am truly honoured and humbled to receive the award. This recognition means so much to me, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to my colleagues and superiors who saw something special in me,” said Jodey.
The group’s purchase ledger Tricia Irving, based at the head office in Keswick, received the going the extra mile award for her consistent efforts in getting the hotels ready for Christmas.
Tricia is responsible for the firm’s festive displays which she prepares throughout the year.
“Receiving the award for organising the Christmas decorations across all six hotels is truly heartwarming. Christmas is a magical time, and being entrusted with creating that enchantment for guests and colleagues brings me immense joy – it’s great to have been recognised for it,” said Tricia.
Dani Hope, director of Lake District Hotels said: “Our annual employee awards are a moment to celebrate the incredible dedication and hard work of our teams. It’s a pleasure to acknowledge their achievements and contributions that make Lake District Hotels the exceptional establishment it is.”
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