The Special Award was presented by Skills for Security’s chief executive David Greer and David Hutchinson, head of the National Open College Network, and is designed to recognise and reward outstanding practice in the field of training across the security business sector.
Members of the Judging Panel (which included SMT Online’s Editor Brian Sims and Andy Clutton, the Editor of Risk UK) were impressed with Pointer’s staff retention and profit figures, so too the company’s attention to detail when it comes to service to the customer.
“Very impressed by the company’s work on Modern Apprenticeships”… “The company trains its own staff as well as staff from other firms to produce the engineers of tomorrow”… “Customer service is absolutely first class”… “You can’t buy experience, and this company has 36 years’ experience in the bag in terms of working in the electrical and security systems sector”… These were some of the Judges’ comments.
Commitment to developing apprenticeships
Pointer’s submission demonstrated the huge commitment that learning and development manager Hugh Lawson and the team have for developing the apprenticeship programme and continually improve its effectiveness.
As a result of that commitment to ‘Old Dogs, New Tricks’, the company has achieved a 100% apprenticeship completion rate for the past seven years, seen an increase in the number and calibre of applications for apprenticeships, received a better response from employers and developed a career path for both young people within the industry and more experienced colleagues.
In short, the company’s training regime really does represent a phenomenal record of achievement.
Leaving a legacy for the next generation
Receiving the award at Skills for Security’s Scotland Conference (which took place at the Auchentoshan Distillery on the outskirts of Glasgow), a delighted Hugh Lawson commented: “We’re extremely pleased to receive this award. The organisation has made a huge commitment to the development and delivery of the apprenticeship programme. It’s very rewarding to see these apprentices achieve their qualifications, and to leave a legacy for the next generation of the security industry.”
Back in 2003, Pointer attained two National Training Awards. The company is also an approved training centre for the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and, not surprisingly, an Investor in People. The organisation’s Health and Safety Training is approved by Safety Pass Alliance (SPA) and the Client Contractor National Safety Group (CCNSG).
Praise from Skills for Security
In congratulating Pointer, David Greer commented: “This year’s Skills for Security Scotland Conference was entitled Slainte Mhath! (a Gaelic toast) in order to draw attention to the vital role that the security industry continues to play in Scotland’s success. What better example to demonstrate this success than Pointer, who clearly highlight the successful part that apprenticeships play for the Scottish security systems sector. We are extremely pleased for Pointer.”
The Skills for Security Scotland Conference was supported by main sponsor City & Guilds and Edexcel. SMT Online was the Official Media Partner for the event.
