When John and Gaynor McNally bought Greenfields Kennels and Cattery six years ago, the business was run down and in great need of updating and improving. The couple had three members of staff – two full-time and one apprentice. They were new to the Apprenticeship programme and didn’t know how it would work. They knew that it wasn’t just the bricks and mortar that needed to change, but also the staffing and leadership. As they built the business, John and Gaynor realised the importance of having young people who are keen, committed and eager to learn.
When the apprentices sign up they have very little idea of what it takes to be a kennel officer, which is a very responsible job. They are not thrown in at the deep end when they arrive but are guided through their work step by step to ensure they are confident with each role before moving to the next. Initially they work alongside a very experienced member of staff who will monitor them at all times, and as they progress, they are regularly examined to ensure that all policies and procedures are followed. They are encouraged to ask questions, no matter how trivial they may seem.
Apprentices attend Reaseheath College one day a week, where they work towards gaining an NVQ2 in Animal Care. John and Gaynor are committed to helping them achieve their NVQ, and will give whatever help and guidance is required, including helping with college work in the evenings. One mother of an apprentice wrote to the couple to say how much her daughter had matured since starting at Greenfields, and she was convinced it was because she was so happy in her work.
John and Gaynor have worked hard to create confident and pleasant adults who have a strong belief in the importance of commitment, hard work and team work. This has been a huge success, with customers frequently commenting on the pleasant, caring staff. In return, the apprentices have brought energy and vitality to Greenfield, and with their help they have built up the daily average intake from 24 to 118 dogs and 16 to 40 cats. This has resulted in increased profits for the kennels and cattery, which has enabled the business to improve and expand. With the support of Reaseheath College, apprentices have gone on to become managers and mentors.