By Dave Robson
For proof that Optimum Skills’ approach to upskilling works, look no further than the company itself.
Now in its 10th year, the Newton Aycliffe firm has forged a reputation for providing high-quality training and apprenticeship programmes.
But within its own ranks are several examples of staff who’ve practised what the firm preaches by taking courses to develop their own skills.
Optimum Skills has already worked with several businesses on the park to enhance each firm’s training requirements.
And Optimum knows the approach works – because many of their own people have done it too.
Apprenticeship account manager Charley Haigh explained: “We’ve put several of our employees through apprenticeships and training courses to develop their skills and knowledge.
“It means they can develop and progress to other roles, such as team leader, management or senior leadership teams.
“It also shows other firms on the park the advantages of upskilling their employees. It can help with staff retention because you’re investing in their career, rather than just getting someone in to do a job, and you can train people how you want them trained.
“And depending on eligibility criteria, apprenticeships can be part or even fully funded, so they really are accessible for any company.”
So, Optimum Skills’ 50-strong workforce contains numerous examples of how upskilling has helped their careers. Let’s meet just a few of them…
Kayleigh Lowdon – digital marketing executive
“I started with Optimum in 2018 on a Level 3 digital marketing apprenticeship. Since then, I’ve progressed in my role, completing a skills bootcamp in digital leadership, which has supported me as our team grows and I need more leadership skills. I’m looking forward to my next opportunity, the Level 3 team leader apprenticeship.”
Michelle Johnson – business services manager
“Since starting with Optimum Skills in 2018 as an MIS officer, I have achieved a Level 3 apprenticeship in business administration, which helped me progress to my current role as business services manager, covering responsibilities in finance and HR. I’ve recently achieved my AAT Level 2 in bookkeeping and I’m now preparing to sign up for my AAT Level 3 in accountancy.”
Mel Thompson – MIS manager
“I started with Optimum Skills in 2018 as MIS administrator and enrolled to a business administration Level 3 apprenticeship, which gave me a good understanding of office roles and responsibilities. I then enrolled onto a team leader Level 3 apprenticeship in 2019 and progressed to MIS manager, where I learned how to manage the MIS team and learn about different management techniques. I have also completed short courses in equality and diversity, safeguarding and prevent, and mental health first aid.”
Christine Gregory – MIS and audit officer
“I have worked in further education for more than 14 years but started with Optimum Skills three years ago. I have progressed within my role and am in the process of completing a Six Sigma Lean Skills Bootcamp to assist my role and help other teams streamline processes.”
Chelsea McGarrell – business account manager
“I have been with Optimum Skills from the start, with my 10th anniversary of service this year. In that time, I’ve completed Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships in recruitment which have allowed me to gain skills, knowledge and confidence on the job, and make great partnerships with referral partners and other training providers. I am looking forward to carrying on progressing and moving onto a Level 3 team leader apprenticeship.”
Charley Haigh – apprenticeship account manager
“I started a Level 2 recruitment resource apprenticeship in 2016 and progressed onto a Level 3 recruitment consultant apprenticeship. I began working for Optimum Skills in 2020 on the recruitment team and progressed to the business development team. The skills and knowledge I gained from the apprenticeship and continuous upskilling have contributed to my success, allowing me to develop in my role. I’m now on the Skills Bootcamp in Six Sigma, which will support our teams’ processes.”
More upskilling courses the staff have taken advantage of include Level 5 operations departmental manager, Six Sigma accredited training and Level 3 content creator.
To find out more about the training and apprenticeships Optimum Skills can offer, contact Charley at [email protected]
- Pictured above: Optimum Skills team members Michelle Johnson, Christine Gregory, Mel Thompson, Louise Kirsopp, Charley Haigh, Kayleigh Lowdon and Chelsea McGarrell.