A KIDDERMINSTER window specialist has built its own training academy to create the next generation of fitters, installers and design consultants.

5 Star Windows and Conservatories, which has seen a sales boom since lockdown, has invested £150,000 in its new academy at its Kidderminster showroom that is capable of supporting 100 people every year.

It will cover the company’s existing staff, new recruits, apprentices and several commercial partners, with the idea being to give individuals in-depth product knowledge, access to new design software and updates on the latest industry regulations.

Richard Manser, managing director at 5 Star Windows and Conservatories, said: “Our products are premium quality, but installation is equally important. The service and workmanship that we provide have been key to our success throughout the pandemic and we want to make sure this continues going forward.

“With this in mind, we decided to create our own dedicated Training Academy, which can be the hub for personal development work, recruitment and our regular intake of apprentices.”

“There are courses for the construction arm of the business, for our 19-strong sales team and for the next generation of designers.

“The objective is to enable us to provide customers with an even better experience and to make sure we can continue to bring their ideas to life.”

Bethan Owen, Design Consultant at 5 Star, is one of the first beneficiaries of the new Academy. She said: “The training has been incredibly thorough. I had a three-month long induction, and the support has been ongoing ever since."

Dan Price has also made a strong start to his 5 Star journey after joining as a Design Consultant in April. He said: “The online learning, one-to-one training and the shadowing of more experienced colleagues meant I could hit the ground running when I started seeing customers."