The Bedford College Group is strengthening its commitment to industry-led education by welcoming Box & Charnock Ltd as the newest member of its Employer Partnership Scheme.

The partnership builds on a long-standing relationship between the Group and the Bedford-based building services company, which has supported apprenticeships and skills development for many years.

Established in 1977, Box & Charnock specialises in the design and delivery of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and heating services within the residential, education & commercial sectors throughout the Home Counties and London Boroughs.

Over the years, Box & Charnock has trained many young people through apprenticeships in conjunction with learning at Bedford College and currently has 6 apprentices, including 2 recently joined Electrical apprentices. Their decision to formalise the partnership through the Employer Partnership Scheme marks a new chapter in their commitment to supporting young people as they transition from education into the workforce.

Box & Charnock

Enhancing employability

The Bedford College Group’s Employer Partnership Scheme brings together forward-thinking organisations to ensure students gain the skills, industry insight and real-world experience needed to succeed in competitive sectors. By connecting the curriculum with real employers, the scheme helps to enhance students’ employability and create a stronger pipeline of talent for industry.

As an Employer Partner, Box & Charnock has committed to taking part in a range of activities and engagements throughout the academic year. They have already delivered three successful “meet the students” sessions, two with plumbing students at the Group’s specialist Plumbing Centre in Kempston, and another with electrical students at the Bedford College campus, and are exploring further opportunities, including work experience, careers fairs and additional apprenticeship recruitment.

Rachel Roberts, Partnership Manager at The Bedford College Group, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Box & Charnock to our Employer Partnership Scheme. Their long history of nurturing apprentices and supporting skills development makes them an invaluable addition to our network. By working closely with employers like Box & Charnock, we can ensure our students gain the practical knowledge, confidence and industry exposure they need to succeed in their chosen careers. This partnership not only enhances our students’ experience but also strengthens the local talent pipeline for the wider construction and building services sector.”

Steven Box, Joint Managing Director at Box & Charnock, said:

“Becoming an Employer Partner with The Bedford College Group is a natural and exciting step for us. We have always believed in giving young people the opportunity to learn, grow and build successful careers.  By engaging more closely with students, sharing our experience and offering meaningful opportunities, we hope to inspire the next generation of skilled building services professionals. We look forward to continuing our long relationship with the College and supporting students as they move from education into employment.”

As Box & Charnock continues to sustainably grow, their ongoing involvement in Bedford College activities, from “meet the students” sessions to industry-focused careers events and apprenticeship pathways, will give learners valuable insight into the building services sector and a clearer route into local employment.

Find out more

For more information on The Bedford College Group Employer Partnership Scheme, contact the team at partnerships@bedford.ac.uk

To find out more about Box & Charnock, visit https://boxcharnock.com

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