P Chester & Sons

P Chester & Son has been a family business for over 50 years.  Spencer Chester explained that his father (Peter Chester) started the heating and ventilating business in 1957 and today it is recognised as one of the most established local businesses in Bedford.

Spencer and his brother Philip now run the business that employs 25 people supplying heating, ventilating, water and waste systems to commercial businesses, including solar, gas, oil, comfort cooling and heat pump systems.

Spencer Chester said:

“We have successfully put a number of employees through training with Bedford College over the last few years.  This not only includes young apprentices studying NVQs but also more mature learners who may have decided on a career change and need to learn the skills of the trade for the first time.”

“The recession has meant that we have had to release some of our apprentices but they are still studying with Bedford College so that when there is an upturn in the economy they will have the skills needed to work in the industry.”

What were your training objectives?

“To obtain relevant industry qualifications for our employees, to the benefit of our business.”

Were they achieved?

“Yes – the training at Bedford College is to industry standards that gives employees the skills needed for a successful business.”

What has been the impact on your performance?

“A business is successful when it has well trained employees – Bedford College has helped us to achieve that.”

“We have good contacts with Bedford College and would certainly use them for future training needs.  I have recently visiting the new Plumbing Centre where training aids and the latest equipment are impressive and realistic to the industry.”

What has been the impact on the organisation’s performance?

“Better skilled employees are better for the company.  The balance between skills and experience is key to success.  In this business it is one thing to acquire the skills and another to put them into practice.  Everyone lacks confidence when they first start out no matter how highly trained they are.”

“By combining excellent training from Bedford College with the experience gained on site at P Chester & Sons, we can develop employees and ensure that they are well equipped to work for our company to high industry standards.”