Remote learning milestone for Heller employee

1 min read

The first NVQ level 5 to be obtained ‘remotely’ in the UK has been achieved by Ken Best, Health and Safety Officer and manager of the fixture manufacturing department at Redditch based Heller Machine Tools.

Mr Best studied at North East Worcestershire College, receiving his graduation certificate from Home Secretary and local MP Jacqui Smith at a ceremony in Redditch Town Hall early in October. At the same time, John Hollingsworth (a machine tool fitter at Heller) achieved his NVQ level 4 in Health and Safety. “I am pleased to have achieved this level of training and to be able to use what I have learned effectively at Heller,” said Mr Best. “I believe that I have helped implement a positive health and safety culture within the workplace. Our strong Health and Safety culture underpins the exceptional quality of Heller machines and productivity of the Redditch plant”. Mr Best has worked for Heller for over 30 years, starting out in the company’s machine shop and progressing through the company to become manager of the fixture manufacturing department. He took advantage of Heller’s “Open Door” policy on training in applying to undertake formalised training in Health and Safety. His responsibilities also include induction training, development and training of other health and safety staff at Heller as well as running the company’s Health and Safety committee. In the process of training, Mr Best has become a Chartered Member of IOSH. He is now studying for his Masters Degree in Health and Safety, again supported by Heller.