Major independent agency sets up training academy

A major independent agency is launching a training academy for current and future employees. 
 
The Dacres Academy, will provide all eligible employees and every new starter at Dacre, Son and Hartley with the chance to gain a National Diploma in either Residential Property or Residential Lettings and Property Management, with a Level 3 NVQ that is endorsed by the National Federation of Property Professionals and the Association of Residential Lettings Agents.
 
"Levels of training and competence vary wildly within the property industry and [training] is mostly voluntary. Any firm wanting to demonstrate its commitment to high professional standards must therefore invest in its people in order to train them to the highest levels"says Patrick McCutcheon, head of residential sales at Dacre. 

The Dacres Academy will give all eligible sales, lettings and business administration employees the opportunity to work towards the qualifications over an 18 month period. 

Candidates will need to sit and pass four exams, as well as attend regular sessions with tutors where work will be set. All day-to-day activity, which can include carrying out market appraisals, processing offers as well as dealing with health and safety, energy performance certificates, contract law and property management, will be logged, documented and assessed.