Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Builders merchant Gibbs & Dandy, part of Jewson, has seen over 60 of its customers receive training in the latest sustainable and renewable technologies, via the group’s Greenworks Academy.
Academy manager, Marcus Jefford said: “The success of Greenworks in 2011, has been driven by the impending Green Deal, as well as the challenging economic market, which has encouraged installers to diversify their business offering.”
“Our practical approach to training and learning, which includes four different roof rigs with differing tile surfaces, allowing installers to practice solar PV and thermal panel installation, as well as four large mobile walls, which are used to demonstrate and practice insulated rendering, has ensured repeat business and recommendations, as well as equipping trade professionals with the skills they will be using day-in-day-out.
“Plus, the support provided after the initial training to ensure that the knowledge and skills they’ve acquired are adopted into a successful business model, has been one of the standout features for the academy.
“We hope to build on this success for 2012 by continually updating our training in line with the latest legislative developments and creating an environment where installers can work with cutting edge technology, before it’s even entered the marketplace.”
The extensive facility can accommodate up to 40 delegates a day, and courses on offer include: introductory courses to renewable technologies such as UFH, External Wall Insulation, Solar PV and Rainwater Harvesting, BPEC and City & Guilds qualifications in sustainable technologies, as well as Energy Assessor courses and the popular MCS training.
