Hovis's relationship with the College of North West London began six years ago. Joyce Morris of the HR department has remained impressed with the College's ability to understand the business and with its solutions-focussed approach.

Training need:

It was discovered that many of the employees had low literacy levels and would not be able to complete vocational training courses without first acquiring the underpinning language skills. Without such training, their career progression opportunities would remain limited.

Programme:

In addition to the English training offered, the College also brokered a partnership arrangement between Hovis and In-Place Training, a workbased training provided specialising in National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs).

Training was planned around shift rotas to minimise any negative impact on production. Participation was open to all staff so long as they could attend in their own time. If this was not possible, managers would release their staff for training. Each employee was given an individual training plan with training goals so that their development could be tracked.

Progress was monitored and reviewed at internal meetings and meetings with the course tutors. Site managers were also allowed to drop in on classes unannounced and observe lessons.

Impact of training:

The positive impact of the training was immediate. There has been a noticeable change in the 'yes boss' culture  as well as improved internal communication - also replicated with external customers. There has been a reduction in sick leave and accidents at work because training staff are more able to understand their roles and responsibilities.

For the College the proof of the impact their work has made is in the repeat business. Joyce is in discussion with the College to run new language and vocational courses and would gladly recommend the training provider to her regional counterparts:

"I'm not going to shop around. I know what works."