Case Studies
Custom Design
Custom Design was formed in 1994 by Gary Aldred and Gary Steel. Throughout this time they have strived to deliver innovation and quality to all their products. The company manufactures their own kitchens & bedrooms and employ their own installation team, which ensures quality service from design to completion. From the start employing apprentices has been at the centre of the company’s culture. Having a no nonsense approach, they work in partnership with the customer to deliver a bespoke, personal, friendly and professional service. Their list of clients includes sporting stars and politicians.
At present 5 apprentices are being trained by the company in their workshop and on site. All the apprentices spend 1 day per week at the College and the rest of the week learning on the job from experienced joiners.
Colin Eales, Workshop Manager said,
“We have worked with the College for several years and are pleased to continue to do so. The College is very flexible and understanding of our company’s specific needs and they have helped us develop and train our apprentices to the high standard we require.”
Mears Ltd
Mears Ltd is the leading social housing repairs and maintenance provider in the UK and a growing presence in the domiciliary care market. Mears also has a subsidiary mechanical and engineering division. They are an ambitious company with a powerful vision, operating in a growing market, with an excellent financial base, strong management, great people and excellent clients.
The business is focused on the social housing and community sector where they bring the highest standards of care to people, their homes and their communities. Mears Ltd currently have five Apprentices with Bishop Auckland College in Plumbing, Electrical and Joinery trades.
The College is currently working with 20 of their locally based staff in Newton Aycliffe in order to help them gain NVQ Level 2 qualifications in Fitted Interiors, Tiling and Carry and Deliver.
Ray Wilkinson Regional HR Advisor said,
“We are very keen to work with our local College, and already have strong links through our current Apprentices and our aim is to develop further links to help us deliver high quality training for our employees. Colin Middlemass has recently accepted an invitation to sit on the Governing Board of the College.”
Conder Products
Conder Products are a leading supplier of waste water treatments systems based in Peterlee.
John Errington, Production Manager said,
“I would just like to comment on the first class services, flexibility, support and guidance our company received from the tutors at Bishop Auckland College. The Performing Manufacturing Operation Level 2 training carried out over the last 5 months, has been a great help to our company and also to our employees. The training has not only led to our employees gaining a better understanding of the company’s requirements but has also helped increase productivity, achieve a sustainable high level of quality of goods being produced, and a reduction in accidents. Approximately 70% of our employees have completed the PMO training, and our team leaders have now progressed on to the Business Improvements Techniques NVQ Level 2 training. Employees are now starting to come forward with their own ideas and using their own initiative to improve the processes and the working environment. Thanks again for all the support and guidance from your tutors and College.”
