CPBigwood’s commitment to apprentices has paid off, with a regular stream of new talent being taken on.
Launched in autumn 2012 as something of an experiment, the project has proved a resounding success.
The two “guinea pigs”, Joseph Scully and Alison Scoble, completed their training and were both hired full-time.
Joseph, from Castle Bromwich, went into the general accounts team, assisting with sales ledger, purchase ledger and credit control operations. He is now a sales ledger/credit controller.
Alison, from Solihull, was placed in the credit control department. She is now a credit controller.
Since then, Jack Odell and Zafreen Merchant have taken the same path, property assistant and residential service charge accounts assistant respectively.
Managing partner Nigel Curry said: “We are thrilled with the way the scheme has worked out and the application and commitment from all the young people in the process of grabbing their opportunity.
“We were very keen to give those struggling to get on the employment ladder a chance. It is fair to say we were a little unsure how it might work out but it got our full commitment, was appraised along the way, and its success has been heart-warming for all of us.
“I must pay tribute to staff whose mentoring and encouragement of sometimes pretty raw recruits has been exemplary. But I must also praise the youngsters themselves for their determination and hard work. They are the future of the firm and proving a significant asset.”
Following in the footsteps of Joseph and Alison are apprentices Lee Breeze, credit control/ purchase ledger; Chantelle Wellington, credit control; Anthony Gordon, property management; Isabelle Clewer, residential service charge; Alexander Dickson, IT; and Danielle Walton, data entry clerk for training and compliance.
CPBigwood operates its apprenticeship scheme in partnership with Protocol Consultancy Services.
Award-winning Protocol has 15 staff and a team of part time consultants servicing 60 employers on its books, of which CPBigwood is now one of the biggest in terms of starters.
Indeed such has been the success of the relationship and the high regard in which the property agents are held, there is hot competition between the students to get picked up by the firm.
Jodie Johnson, accounts service manager, a leading mentor, said: “The link has worked well and I am confident many more will be taken on via this productive route.
“It has been lovely to see them find their feet, progress and achieve.”