Holland & Barrett’s apprenticeship programme achieves high rating by Ofsted
Holland & Barrett’s apprenticeship scheme has achieved a rating of ‘good’ from Ofsted inspectors, with all key areas achieving consistently high ratings.
The UK’s leading wellness retailer launched its apprenticeship programme in 2020 and in less than three years has been awarded the sought-after rating in the first inspection of the programme since it was introduced.
Interviewing a host of learners, managers, trainers and multiple meetings, the inspection measured H&B in five key areas of the education inspection framework, including quality of education, behaviours and attitudes of learners, personal development, leadership & management, and safeguarding.
The report, published following an inspection in July, praised H&B leaders and managers for providing “high quality apprenticeships that support the organisation and the needs of the workforce” who “value the contributions that apprentices make to their business.”
The report goes on to say that apprentices describe H&B as providing as “inclusive and supportive working environment, in which their mental and physical health are a priority. Because of this, apprentices are committed to their apprenticeships and want to succeed.”
Gerald Pearce, Director of Learning & Development at Holland & Barrett, said: “We are delighted with the result of the Ofsted inspection, which is a testament to the ongoing dedication and hard work of colleagues throughout H&B, and of course to those undertaking their apprenticeship with us.
H&B is relatively new to the world of apprenticeships, gaining our employer provider status in July 2020. Ofsted sets high standards from its training providers, and to be awarded a ‘Good’ rating on our first inspection provides reassurance of the high quality of our programmes which help to develop our colleagues skills and support them in achieving their career aspirations.”
Sarah Dempsey, Head of Apprenticeships at Holland & Barrett, commented “Setting up our apprenticeship scheme in late 2020 was like stepping into a new adventure so, fast forward three years, we’re immensely proud to have earned recognition on our management strategies, learning initiatives, and other crucial parts of the programme. We’re looking forward to continuing our commitment to excellence, crafting management, development and technical skills programmes that pave the way for our colleagues’ futures.”
For more information on Holland & Barrett’s careers, please visit here.
