Whilst Covid-19 has not affected Selbey Anderson’s business output, all of our employees are currently working from home.

To help raise morale and offer members of staff the opportunity to learn something new, we have decided to create the SA College.

Over 60% of our work force have enrolled into the programme. Although aimed primarily at junior staff, some of whom were beginning to feel the effects of not coming into the office every day, four MD’s have also enrolled, as well as CEO Dominic Hawes Fairley.

The College is being run by Realise, with David Preston and Richard John acting as its coaches. Each week, student’s complete a short learning activity before devoting time to their chosen work-related and non-work-related skill.

Sign language, acrylic painting, baking, growth hacking, copywriting, social media and digital marketing are some of the skills that have been selected.

Simon Quarendon, COO of Selbey Anderson, said: “We set up the College because we’re determined to get something positive out of the situation. For us, that means everyone returning to the office with improved skill sets, as well as having studied something of personal interest.

“We’re hoping that the College will also act as a catalyst for creating even more of a learning culture across all the agencies in the group. It was an aspiration before; but now it’s a reality.”

A managing director who has enrolled, Mark Pinnes from Flagship Consulting, added: “Everyone has grasped the opportunity to develop their skills and abilities, not just within the work setting, but as human beings. That’s great for each team member, as well as Flagship’s culture, and it refreshes the depth of insight and range of skills we can bring to our clients.”

David Preston, CEO, Realise, commented: “We are delighted to be working with such a forward-thinking company as Selbey Anderson. Their commitment to their staff is already paying dividends, and many of their clients are now talking to us about developing a similar programme.”