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Preim commits to staff development through apprentice training

FROM number crunching to grounds maintenance – estate management company Preim is investing in staff through a series of apprenticeship programmes across the business. 

As the UK marks National Apprenticeship Week (7-14 February), Preim is celebrating the success of its very own trainees from areas including finance and caretaking.  

Now in its 15th year, the annual theme of the 2022 Government-backed week is ‘build the future’ and reflects on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop their skills and know-how whilst allowing businesses to develop a talented workforce.  

Peterborough-based Preim has invested in a number of staff currently undergoing training as part of an apprenticeship programme alongside their role within the company. 

Among them is Assistant Caretaker Cheyenne Turbett, based at the Badersfield development in Norfolk.

Cheyenne Turbett, Assistant Caretaker

Under the guidance of Senior Caretaker James Plant and Caretaker John Jackson, Cheyenne is 11 months into a job that allows her to embrace her love of the great outdoors with a passion for learning and a thirst for knowledge.  

Having joined the company last March, Cheyenne can spend her practical days doing anything from grass cutting and planting to dealing with resident queries. She said: “So far, a lot of my training has been on the job from James and John which I really enjoy.  

“I get to see first-hand how James and John have managed the grounds for nearly 12 years, teaching me how to use all the equipment in the correct way and how to communicate with residents to ensure they know we have their best interests at heart.” 

Cheyenne combines her on the job with regular college training. She added: “I would definitely encourage others to join an apprenticeship scheme because you’re learning so many new things.  

“For me, it’s helped to improve my social skills, through the regular communication with residents, and understand fully how the caretaker team I work with manages the grounds at the development.”  

Sam Kevorkian, Utilities Administrator

Meanwhile, Utilities Administrator Sam Kevorkian is using his apprenticeship to better understand the role of finance teams within organisations.

Having joined Preim 10 months ago after completing a master’s degree, Sam is successfully combining his workplace duties alongside his studies as part of a three-year Chartered Institute of Management Accounts level 7 qualification. 

He said: “Studying alongside my job is helping me gain a deeper knowledge whilst applying what I have learned to what I am doing. Since my allocated study day lands on a Thursday, I find that coming into work on Friday is like looking at my tasks with a fresh set of eyes. The more I can grasp from my course, the more I am able to understand my processes fully and the context behind my job role.  

“At the end of the two-year course, I want to fully understand how to manage, evaluate and analyse all areas of finance and hopefully apply my new skills and knowledge more efficiently and effectively across my role. “ 

Before joining Preim, Rita Bell worked as a Logistics Analyst for News UK. Now part of the Client Finance team, her apprenticeship is set to be completed in the next 36 months.  

Rita Bell, Client Finance

Her collaborative week within her service charge accountant role includes a day-a-week of dedicated study; either at home or travelling to London.

She said: “I am hoping to complete my apprenticeship by the end of 2024. My end goal would be able to support Preim’s finance function at any level required. An apprenticeship is the best way to get a qualification while working in the role. At the end of the process, you will have a qualification combined with a hands-on experience. Normally you will have a qualification or work experience; an apprenticeship allows you to have both.” 

David Dunkley, Head of Support Services at Preim added: “At Preim we believe that investing in formal training for staff is a great incentive for those looking to upskill and progress on their chosen career path. Commitment to development from both sides increases trust, motivation and ultimately benefits staff retention in the long term.” 

To find out more about career opportunities at Preim visit https://preim.co.uk/leasehold-block-manager-peterborough/ 

Note to editors 

Preim manages a range of residential estates and communities across England and Wales. Using the latest estate management knowledge, Preim ensures its teams have the best information at hand to manage each community efficiently. These services range from engaging with residents, through community mobilising, to effective stewardship of green spaces and private infrastructure, to good governance with budgets, payments and administrative duties. For more information visit preim.co.uk