Apex Radio Systems

“Through programmes like this, staff can reach their potential and organisations can expand to offer a wider range of services to their customers.”

Ian Curry  Customer Service Manager

Business sector:

Communication

Employees:

5-49

Region:

North East

Company profile:

Apex Radio Systems, based in Newcastle, specialises in the hire and sale of two-way communications equipment to the retail, leisure and construction industries.

The Challenge

As a fairly small company, with just ten employees, Apex knew how crucial it was to train their staff and enhance their professional skills. “Having a small workforce, it is essential that our staff improve and build upon the skills they have, so we can continue to improve our services and customer care,” explains Customer Service Manager Ian Curry.

The Solution

In 2004, the company signed up to the Employer Training Pilot – the scheme which has now developed into the new national Train to Gain service. Through the scheme, they were able to get straightforward advice on what training they needed, as well as training subsidies and wage compensation to cover the cost of the time spent studying.

Three of their employees have now successfully completed an NVQ Level 2 in Information Technology. The course, delivered by Newcastle College, covered a broad base of skills including email distribution and database creation, and took place on site so the employees did not even need to leave the workplace.

The Results

Thanks to the scheme, Apex has been able to:

• Train their employees in areas specific to their company that will help to shape their future success.
• Help their employees develop new skills and reach their full potential.
• Improve the services the company offers and enhance their customer care.