Mid Cheshire College Recognised for Training Success

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Proving that good training provision begins at home, Mid Cheshire College is celebrating being recognised for its work in furthering the development of their own staff.

The college has become the latest in the area to be awarded Investor In People (IIP) status. This came in the light of the support and training it gives its employees and the assistance they can make use of in a supportive environment. The award was made following the visit of a specialist assessor. The assessor interviewed more than 50 employees before awarding this new status to the college.

The award recognises that the college’s work in this arena goes beyond merely preserving the status quo, and looks to the future development of the college, the staff and the local community. The college was praised for its new “Talent Spotting” programme, and more than 40 staff, from all parts of the college, have begun a one-year development programme to give them the self-confidence, skills and knowledge to be able to apply for more senior posts in the future.

A Testimony to Dedication

The award was presented to the College’s staff development officer Sarah Ashworth by Liz Davis, chief executive of the Cheshire and Warrington Learning and Skills Council (LSC). And the principal of the College, John Reilly, welcomed this award as a sign that his move towards turning the college into a top national institution.

“Investor In People (IIP) status is not an easy standard to achieve, by any means,” he said. “I am really pleased for all the staff who have worked so hard to take the college forward. This award is a testimony to their dedication and professionalism.” He also made it clear that this award does not mark the end of the road, but merely a milestone along the way. “The award also shows that Mid-Cheshire College is serious about its intention to become one of the top 10% of colleges in the UK.”

He continued: “We will only achieve this goal by having the best staff in the sector and its my responsibility, as principal, to ensure they have the highest possible levels of support in terms of training and development.” And in this light, he brought the attention back to the real achievers in this award, the staff of the college. “Its also important to remember that IIP is not just about the academic side of the college,” he said. “Its also an acknowledgement of the valued contribution of our support staff – such as technicians, catering and administrative staff – who provide an excellent service for our students.

Jethro Marsh

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