HUNTERS, the York-based property group, is the first UK company to be jointly recognised for its in-house training courses by both City & Guilds and the Institute of Leadership and Management, the UK's leading awarding bodies for work-related qualifications.

The fast-growing firm offers its employees more than 30 in-house training opportunities.

Following 12 months of work to develop a pilot Bespoke Award process, Hunters has developed three approved training standards.

Glynis Frew, director at Hunters, said: "We're delighted to have become the first company in the country to have its in-house training jointly recognised by both organisations in this way.

"This is not only advantageous for our team in terms of the quality of training they receive, but also provides a recognised Bespoke Award certificate, when they complete each standard. It also demonstrates how Hunters Property Group is driving standards within the property industry."

Kim Parish, chief executive of the Institute of Leadership and Management, said: "Choosing to have both City & Guilds and ILM recognise their in-house training demonstrates Hunters is not just equipping its staff with the skills they need to excel in their core areas of work, but also to lead and manage their teams effectively. It is a winning combination and we are delighted to be part of it."

The three standards include eight modules that assess best practice within the estate agency and property industry, a course assessing selling skills, ethics and behavioral styles and a management course.

The Hunters training academy also offers other courses ranging from presentation skills to phone techniques.