Charity group chalks up 11,898 hours of training

Coventry Sports Foundation has been recognised for its commitment to developing its workforce after chalking up 11,898 hours of staff training in a 12-month period.

The charity group achieved the feat by providing 6,249 hours of in-house training at its three sites, in addition to signing up staff for 5,649 hours of external training.

The registered charity employs 185 people and has been recognised by the Investors in People National Standard for the fourth consecutive time since first achieving the standard in 2002.

Employees were given access to a broad range of courses ranging from NVQ level business administration, leisure management and fitness instructor training to abseiling and archery.

Kath Healion, operations manager at Coventry Sports Foundation, said delivering the equivalent of 495 full days in just 365 calendar days underlined the organisation's commitment to help staff develop and further their careers.

"Coventry Sports Foundation has always been committed to developing and training its workforce and we recognise the value of our employees and their contribution to the success of the organisation," she said.

"The foundation is totally committed to equipping its entire staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out duties effectively and develop their career prospects.

"We are convinced that achieving the recognition of the Investors in People National Standard has both improved our ability to get the best from our workforce as well as an indication of our commitment to continuous improvement."

The training received by members of Coventry Sport Foundation has also helped to reduce staff turnover, with large numbers of staff remaining with the organisation for many years.

"We currently have a number of employees who are in management and supervisor roles who started out as modern apprentices with the foundation and through training, experience and qualifications obtained; they have progressed within the company.

"Others have progressed into positions such as lifeguards, fitness instructors, receptionists and sports coaches - the opportunities are wide and varied."