As one of the UK's leading childcare companies, Bertram Nursery
Group prides itself on the quality of staff training - from the
newest recruit to the most experienced employee.
The company, which has 17 nurseries throughout Scotland,
believes its commitment to training is reflected in the level of
services delivered. Its aim is to continually deliver a learning
environment which enables its 249 staff to nurture each child's
qualities and build strong working partnerships with the children's
families.
Training and development manager Louise Grant said: "We have our
own in-house training company - Happitots Training - where the team
has a wealth of knowledge in the childcare sector and in the
delivery of the Modern Apprenticeship framework in Children's Care,
Learning and Development."
As well as a highly successful induction week for new employees,
the company has recently introduced 'Underpinning Knowledge'
classes for their trainees.
"The induction week helps alleviate any worries or concerns
trainees might have, especially if this is their first job after
leaving school. We want to reassure our 62 apprentices that we
will be there for support and guidance throughout their Modern
Apprenticeship duration," explained Louise.
She added: "The new classes are aimed at giving our apprentices
a clearer understanding of what is expected of them when completing
their SVQ Level 3 qualification. They focus on hot topics such as
child development, legislation and health and well-being. We have
designed them to be extremely interactive and they are a good
opportunity for people to reinforce their learning in workshops and
through group discussions."
Bertram Nursery Group was recently recognised by Investors in
People for the third time. "In building a unique foundation for
each and every Modern Apprentice we continually provide dedicated
support and genuine care for each candidate. We relish seeing each
person move through the different stages in their training path to
become a qualified practitioner," said Louise.
The group was a finalist in the medium sized employers category
of the Skills Development Scotland Modern Apprenticeship Awards
held in December 2010.