To further build on its experience and expertise when it comes to selecting and working with timber products, Jewson has implemented a new timber star performance programme, a timber and sheet material knowledge and sales based training programme.

The new programme forms part of the merchant’s on-going commitment to deliver not only quality products, range and availability to the trade professional, but crucial guidance on the sourcing of the products. Today, over 600 members of staff from specialist Jewson timber branches, regional sales centres and the Jewson branch network have been involved in the timber star performance programme.

Working on a star rating system, the levels range from one to four stars reflecting the different level of knowledge required to deal direct with trade professionals and offer the best customer service experience. Candidates reaching four stars have the option to achieve five stars by undertaking an advanced BTEC diploma in timber studies, which is scheduled to commence in 2014.

On their journey through the star rating system, Jewson staff are required to complete the relevant e-learning modules on the Greenworks Learning Gateway website, in order to gain their certificates. A selection of the modules are accessible to customers via the Jewson sponsored wood campus website - www.woodcampus.co.uk.

Paul Robertson, product manager of timber and panel at Jewson, said: “At Jewson we recognise that one of our greatest assets is the expertise of our staff and the timber star performance programme will ensure that this level of expertise is not only sustained but developed further. It also acts as a conduit to advise staff on new timber regulations and best practice guidelines.”

He continued: “So far we have issued a total of 52 certificates to staff who have completed their training to the required level and we expect this figure to increase rapidly over the coming months. The new timber programme reinforces our continued commitment to training within the business and the importance of this when it comes to delivering the best possible service to our customers.”