Connaught takes 'express' training

Connaught is heavily investing in NVQ training for its people cleaning the Tyne and Wear Metro as part of its commitment to deliver the very best service for its client and its passengers.

Over 100 employees will be receiving training across six NVQ courses ranging from cleaning building interiors to courses on customer service and management. Each training module will be tailored to the specific requirements of the contract so that passengers using the Metro and the local bus services reach their destinations via a clean, hygienic environment.

In April Connaught secured a multi-million pound contract to clean the entire Tyne and Wear Metro network for the next five years in a deal with Nexus, which owns, manages and is modernising the Metro in a £300 million programme. The training is a crucial part of Connaught’s operation and ensures all its employees on the contract enjoy sufficient support, training and development.

“We want to empower our people to take responsibility for the platforms, carriages and depots they are cleaning,” explained Darren Frost, managing director of Connaught Environmental. “This training is also about encouraging employees to interact with the passengers and give out train information and respond to passenger enquiries. Our teams are ambassadors for Connaught and Nexus, not just cleaners.”

The training is being delivered by CSM Consulting and will begin in August. Connaught’s employees will be rewarded and given incentives based on their commitment to the programme and their respective development, regardless of which NVQ level they are working towards.

Kevin McManus, workforce development consultant for CSM, said: “This investment in training and development helps employees unlock their potential and gives them the skills, competence and confidence to develop in their careers and beyond. Our aim is to provide the most comprehensive training in the sector, so that they can continue to attract and retain highly motivated and committed employees. This is going to be an exciting scheme and it’s great to be working with Nexus and Connaught.”

Mick Carbro, Metro director, said: “Training is an important element for all employees in Metro. Working in partnership with Connaught and CSM Consulting will mean that we will be delivering excellent service to our customers.”

www.connaught.plc.uk