”What I have found with Pier training is that they are able to support me in all aspects of apprenticeship delivery. They are a trusted partner and I have developed a very good working relationships with them over a relatively short period of time. What I like about Pier is that they are flexible in their approach. They will do whatever is necessary to ensure quality of delivery is maintained and that learners and line managers are fully engaged with the process. They have been able to attend learner engagement events across various Spire hospital sites across the country with me to raise awareness of clinical apprenticeships and to sign learners up – they have been a great support to me. Pier training team have met with Heads of departments and learners alike to readily engage them with the idea of apprenticeships and to ensure that they are fully engaged with the process”.

D Barker, Apprenticeship Manager SPIRE HEALTHCARE GROUP

‘’Staff at Pier Training are working with South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust effectively, resulting in a seamless process for myself as the apprenticeship co-ordinator and the trust. Pier and Ruth Dollen’s (CPM’s) support is of great value to me, they have a flexible approach and have tailored their delivery model to suit our requirements. I have built up a trusted partnership with Pier and have regular communications and meetings to support us with our staff learning needs. Apprentices are extremely happy with their onboarding process, and have a full understanding of the programmes and what’s involved before they start the learning journey. They are actively encouraged to take ownership of their qualification. We have had positive feedback from our learners about tutors from Pier Training- especially about Tracey Storer who is very supportive, motivates the learners, and plans her teaching and learning sessions to stretch our apprentices to help them achieve their full potential’’.

L Johnston, Apprenticeship Coordinator South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust

All learners have responded really positively and feel really happy with the sessions so far. Doing the sessions as a group rather than individually actually motivates the learners to get involved and do the work. As we have been able to pre-book the sessions we have been able to be proactive and put the dates onto each learners rota, this really helps with attendance and also shows them that we feel it’s important we allow them the time to attend the sessions and complete their work. The trainers ( Rene and her colleague Jan Smith) communicate excellently with the Registered Manager letting her know progress as it happens. This is really supportive so that the RM can track the progress. We feel that we are working collaboratively with you in order to achieve the outcome, which is fantastic.

N Sharpe, Director S Group

Over the course of my recovery I have found huge support and assistance from Lindsay Moody, someone whose had similar issues. He has recently completed a Mental Health First Aid Trainer course and I have registered to do the same in November. After completing the course and after a period of experience, I will, hopefully, be qualified to train people in a work environment to recognise a mental health issue and to take initial action in assisting recognising and recommending a course of action.

For myself, I have always found it incredibly helpful to open up about these issues and I really believe that participating in this course will help me and will also help others overcome or face up to mental health issues. As I am so open, I have had messages from, and conversations with, so many individuals who have their own personal experiences either themselves or with family members and friends. I have to say, mostly female. It’s a known fact that mental issues amongst the male population are prevalent because of their failure to address the issues.

Thank you Lindsay, it’s all down to you.

Lyndsay Moody- Mental Health Trainer

Feedback from a Levy employer post induction session today. (Very in-depth about expectations and clear about the layout of the course. I’ve spoken to all 5 learners who have told me they left with plenty of information and feel prepared and motivated to get started.
I sat in for one of the sessions and it’s encouraging to see the level of support and individualised learning the apprentices will be getting. The communication has been really good throughout, so far, and we hope this continues. Our learners felt very relaxed during the sessions and the staff members very approachable)

Levy employer (Warwickshire County Council- Unique Care)

”The training is working well helping staff to develop and change their approach. They now think around why they are undertaking tasks. It is definitely going in the right direction resulting in changes and benefits for the business.”

Gary Kitchin -MD HMK Automation commenting on delivery of L5 Operations and Dept Manager and Team Leader Supervisor standards to their staff.

Oh wow gosh really! chuffed to bits thank you so much, that has really made me feel like I can complete this apprenticeship programme.

As I told you I may struggle with the level 2 functional skills due not being in education or training over the last 10yrs, my little grey cells ‘both of them’ have had a hard time!
I have hands-on knowledge of the course contents with over 20yrs of work related experience, but transferring my thoughts and experience on paper is something I have never found easy I’m afraid.

I hope within this next chapter of learning, I will embrace and achieve the knowledge and skills which I can then pass on and help others. What more could I ask for?

I know with your support, I really feel I can complete the apprenticeship programme. This will also secure my financial future with career progression and achieving a recognised professional qualification. I didn’t have the opportunity or support before to achieve. So thanks to you and i feel that my future is a lot more positive and secure.

Many thanks again.

Tracey Fairhurst, HCA Spire Healthcare