In the last of a series on firms recognised at the Awards for Achievement, Tom Bradshaw reports on IoD and GTA University Centre Excellence in Training nominee Specsavers THE Specsavers Academy was founded in early 2005 to coordinate in-house training.

Since then it has provided more than 1,500 opportunities for employees.

The academy is a key strategic tool for the company – it is designed to ensure training meets the needs of individuals and the future requirements of the business.

Director of HR Emma Hughes said: ‘It is abundantly clear that one size does not fit all when it comes to learning. The training at Specsavers is designed to develop staff with purpose-led courses.

‘We were so proud to be nominated in recognition of all the hard work that has gone into the conception and development of the Specsavers Academy.’

The Graduate Choice programme is another integral component of the scheme. It allows selected graduates to undertake a two-year course working in a variety of roles within the company before making long-term career decisions.

The courses start in September, with applications accepted from June.

‘If you have recently graduated, or are about to and you are not sure which business area you would like to pursue, we may have the perfect employment solution,’ she said.