9 June 2016

Growth through training and development

BPIF member, Print4Printers offers a great online solution for trade NCR sets, books and pads.

Since recruiting their first apprentice back in 2012, Print4Printers has so far helped four young people gain NVQ qualifications in Print, with another three candidates underway.

Owner, Matt Kent says "Apprentices start with no previous industry experience, and quite often come straight out of school or college. In many cases it is their first experience of work of any sort, so they have a lot to learn from day one. The right attitude is important, and it doesn't take long for them to settle in as part of the team."

"One of our newest recruits, Evan, came for ‘interview' when he was just 15, before he had even sat his GCSEs. He joined us after the summer holiday and is making very good progress in his role as Apprentice Print Finisher."

Work based training for each process has been split into basic, intermediate and advanced levels, with some of the ‘on-the-job' help being given by previous apprentices.

"One of the most satisfying things about working with apprentices is seeing them pass on skills that they have only recently acquired themselves." added Matt.

Many of the day-to-day tasks, such as goods-inward, site safety monitoring, fire warden and first aid, are now carried out by the apprentices. With opportunities for further progression as the company continues to develop.

Due to the success of the online service, Print4Printers recently moved to larger premises in Alfreton, Derbyshire, allowing them accommodate two existing reel to sheet presses along with a still to be commissioned five colour twin-web.

Dawn Reid the BPIF Midland Regional Director added ‘finding good quality candidates takes a little effort from both sides, I believe Matt had an innovative solution for one such advert with a bill board outside of his premises! Whatever method works, we're happy to support and can certainly help with the training element'.

For further information please contact Ceri Priddle - [email protected]