TRAINING FOCUS: BRADFORDS
apprentices are fully conversant with their role. Coming out of their apprenticeship, they will be guided to become fully independent workers, able to build on their knowledge and experience and increase their competence. “As they progress in their role, we offer continued development opportunities. Through reviews and regular one-to-ones, training needs are identified and programmes are put in place,” Young continues. “We offer a variety of opportunities, depending on ability and aspiration. For those who want to progress and become managers, there are specific management development programmes as well as a Fast Track programme, which aims to progress the ‘Managers of the Future’, by giving them a one-year intensive training programme and mentor support.”
Others may choose to become experts in their particular role and Bradfords helps them build their product knowledge and capability through online training programmes, learning from others and external training courses. Throughout their career with the group, Young says that apprentices will be offered a wide range of training and will be encouraged to take responsibility for their own development.
Benefits for all
“For us, the benefits of such a programme are significant. We currently have a number of learners on apprenticeship schemes and every one of them is a real credit to the team. Each of our apprentices have made an impact and a valuable contribution from the start. “For our learners, they’re guaranteed a permanent role on successful completion of the apprenticeship. Apprentices receive regular performance feedback, are paid well above the national apprentice rate and receive pay reviews every six months.”
As well as the wider benefits of attracting a new generation of employees, Young says the company has found the opportunity for development and to see individuals grow in confidence is highly motivational for managers. The chance for existing staff to share their knowledge and experience with apprentices has also had a really positive impact across the business, he says. “We’ve faced some significant challenges in the industry over the past 10 years, but with the help of the great teams we have across the business, we’ve continued to build and grow. Bradfords celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2020 and we believe our Group Apprenticeship Programme will play a big role in ensuring we have the talent we need to continue to keep our momentum going for another 250 years.” BMJ
Zoe, Amy and Rob have joined Bradfords Building Supplies through the company’s apprenticeship scheme: “When we had our practical assessment, I knew what I was talking about and it gave me a huge amount of confidence. Everything I was asked to do I knew how to do. It made me feel very confident about my professional direction and that all the hard work was worth it. Everyone keeps an eye on me and encourages me – it’s like a family unit here which is great.
I actually want to be a Sales Rep. I know it’s stressful and you’ve got to hit figures, but that’s what I feel like I’d be the best at. I’m great at talking to people and building relationships. I’m still open to anything as long as I’m with a company where I know they can help. And it’s never too much to ask someone for help in this company… I love that.”
Zoe Harvey, sales advisor Dorchester branch
Zoe Harvey, sales advisor, Dorchester branch
“We got to do a 5% scheme, where we spent 5% of the time working in other departments – marketing, accounts, lots of different places that without doing the apprenticeship you wouldn’t be able to do. And that’s incredible because people think that when things like sales posters turn up, they just turn up. But when you’ve seen the effort put in by marketing, it makes more sense. It was through this process that I ended up getting a job in Key Accounts. I fell in love with the role and it gave me an opportunity to grow my skillset whilst doing an apprenticeship.
Next, I want to go on the Bradfords Fast Track to manager course. I want to be the manager that, before I came to Bradfords, I never had in previous jobs.” Amy Todd, sales advisor, Exeter branch
Amy Todd, sales advisor Exeter branch
“Lynda Moore from the HR team arranged a group session at the innovation centre at Yeovil, where we all came together from across the different branches. We got to hear from career coaches and how to progress in the business. The banter was real, but everyone came away from the session with a real serious thought of ‘right, I’m going to do this to become a better person/sales advisor, I want to be a manager, a director.’ What a great experience to have.
I’m considering joining the forces. The apprenticeship has really helped me to feel ready for this. I joined Bradfords straight from school and it’s moulded me into the best I can be. I want to progress. Bradfords has given me loads of opportunities.” Rob Graham, sales assistant, Glastonbury branch
Rob Graham, sales assistant Glastonbury branch
March 2021
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
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