Training Policy 
It is the policy of the company that all staff will take part in training sessions in order to develop their trade knowledge skills and where possible, promote within the company.
The company has qualified training instructors who have attended courses on the techniques of instruction.
All employees are considered for suitable internal/external courses, as they become available.
All new employees will receive an Induction programme and full instruction carried out by experienced trainers. They will continue to receive a period of training in order to achieve a pre-determined rate of efficiency.
When an employee is promoted or transferred to a different department or branch, training by an experienced trainer will be given prior to or immediately after the move.
We offer NVQ programmes in all areas as well as other suitable professional qualifications, and all employees will be encouraged to participate.
Staff appraisals are carried out at local level periodically to ascertain training needs, training effectiveness and individual progress. All staff assessed in this way are given opportunities to discuss the outcome of the appraisal and action plans agreed.
General Principles
a) The company is fully committed to the development of it’s employees.
b) In order to become a Total Quality Company and to meet our short and long
term objectives, investment in staff development is an essential prerequisite.
c) A F Blakemore believes that it’s investment in staff will further the growth of
them as individuals.
d) Development opportunities are available to all staff.
e) Staff development is seen as an investment in the future prosperity of the
company.
f) Staff development is built on a clear understanding of the company business
objectives and is aimed at producing a shared commitment to meet the
challenges of change.
g) Staff development is resourced to provide the highest standards of quality and
cost efficiency.
h) Staff development is aimed at enhancing the career prospects of individual
employees and is competence based leading to recognised qualifications wherever possible.
i) Staff development must be owned by all of the people of A F Blakemore, Managers and Staff. It is based on the planned development of individuals to meet:
- Current and future business needs and the resulting need for skills, knowledge and competencies among it’s employees.
- The development needs of individuals agreed at honest, open appraisals of competence.
- Clear, set standards of employee performance requirements agreed, on a collective and/or individual basis.
j) Support and encouragement will be given to employees to undertake studies,
training, development, membership of appropriate professional bodies where
they will be of direct benefit to both the individual and the company in terms of
current and future job.