Punch Pub Company has proved that it’s serious about training with the launch of a Team Player development programme using E-learning, DVDs and coaching to get them on a first step on a clear Career Pathway through the ranks.

Punch launched its E-learning platform in October 2008 and has successfully trained over 11,000 new recruits on Food Hygiene, Health and Safety and Licensing Law, courses which have provided these individuals recognised qualifications. The new programme will build on this success to deliver an all encompassing induction for new pub team members during their first 13 weeks.

Head of Retail Training, David Mayes, explains: “We’ve looked at how adults learn and developed an induction programme that is easy to follow and incredibly successful at building knowledge and encouraging the right behaviours. 

“We’ve fully embraced the new technology available to us and used DVDs, which we’ve filmed in our own pubs with our own people, and online e-learning modules, to deliver an innovative training programme. Our training is based on providing the knowledge, creating understanding and putting new skills into practice.”

On joining the company, a Team Player is assigned a coach from the pub’s management team who supports them as they complete the programme. After successfully completing a series of online modules and assessments, a Team Player’s training doesn’t end there. Team Players can continue along Punch’s clear Career Pathway to become a Team Leader and on to a Deputy General Manager or General Manager. They are also encouraged to consider other roles within the Field Support team and at the company’s Support Centre in Burton-on-Trent.