Category Archives: Training & Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships, Caerphilly, Education, Education News, News from Wales, Training & Apprenticeships

Over 1,000 learners completed a qualification with ‘excellent’ rated Educ8 Training Group

Educ8 students of 2022-2023 have celebrated their graduation in the iconic Llancaicah Fawr Manor in Caerphilly. Students were invited on stage to recognise their achievements alongside friends, family, and Educ8 staff.

Jude Holloway, Managing Director at Educ8 Training Group, said: “This year’s Gradu8 Ceremony was as fantastic as ever, and it is always a joy to applaud our graduates for their hard work and recognise their achievements.

Graduation is an opportunity to not only celebrate our brilliant learners, but also an opportunity to highlight just how valuable a vocational qualification is and that learning can be a lifelong and continuous process.”

In the last academic year, Educ8 Training Group has supported more than 1,000 learners to complete their qualifications, with 93.75% of students describing Educ8 as an ‘excellent’ learning provider.

The morning and afternoon ceremonies celebrated the graduates from some of Educ8’s core disciplines, such as Customer Service, Business Administration, Leadership & Management, Marketing, Social Media, Health & Social Care, Hair & Beauty, Equine & Animal Care, and more.

Speaking on what her apprenticeship has meant for her, Sammy O’Brien, a HR Manager at Protectorcomms who graduated from Business Admin Level 4 this year, said: “I already had the experience and knew how to do my job, but studying an apprenticeship with Educ8 Training meant I had a formal qualification and recognition for my work. Being able to graduate was amazing. It’s great that Educ8 offers the chance to celebrate through a graduation ceremony. It was a wonderful day and made me feel proud of what I had achieved.”

Educ8 Training Group continues to innovate in its training and education provision, having just this year launched a new Energy and Carbon Management apprenticeship with support from the Welsh Government, introduced a new apprenticeship in Equestrian Sporting Excellence through Haddon Training, and pioneered new VR training for hairdressing apprentices from ISA Training in collaboration with CEMET.

Championing learning in all forms and for all ages, Educ8 Training Group has also witnessed a marked increase in apprenticeships in 2023, where rising tuition fees and the need for upskilling while working are seeing more people choose an apprenticeship as a practical route to qualification.

Susan Billington, National Account Manager at Educ8 Training Group, said: “Apprenticeships offer fantastic career opportunities allowing learners to earn while they learn. Learners can avoid accumulating massive debt while at the same time equipping themselves with practical skills and industry connections.”

Apprenticeships are an excellent method for business growth, providing incentives such as the Employer Incentive Scheme (EIS) that helps to support learners who have a disability into the world of work, as well as maximising value through cutting-edge knowledge and skills.

Whether you’re a young person wanting to take their first step on the career ladder and gain invaluable practical experience in a field you’re passionate about, you want to take your career in a new direction, or you are looking to build on the skills you already have to progress your career, Educ8 Training Group is a fantastic place to gain all the qualifications you need.

It’s never too late to learn and start a new, exciting career journey. If you are interested in studying a qualification with Educ8, visit www.educ8training.co.uk.

Hospitality, News, Training & Apprenticeships

The Celtic Collection achieves 100th apprentice milestone

The Celtic Collection, comprising a luxury resort, hotels and lodges across South Wales, has just enrolled its 100th active apprentice with the country’s leading provider of apprenticeships to the hospitality industry.

Daniel Wright, 21, who works at The Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, has the distinction of becoming The Celtic Collection’s centurion apprentice, by enrolling onto a Foundation Apprenticeship in Professional Cookery with Cambrian Training Company.

Daniel Wright, Cambrian Training Company’s 100th apprentice at The Celtic Collection.

“Becoming an apprentice chef has been a transformative journey,” said Daniel. “The excitement of being the 100th apprentice fuels my passion even more. Together, we’re cooking up a future filled with endless possibilities.

“With determination and support from my amazing team, inspiring managers and the guidance of my training officer Will Richards, I’m confident in successfully completing my apprenticeship.”

 

The Celtic Collection comprises 10 venues, including the flagship Celtic Manor Resort, International Convention Centre Wales, Coldra Court Hotel, Tŷ Hotel Magor, Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront and The Parkgate Hotel, Cardiff.

Apprenticeships delivered by Cambrian Training Company are prioritised to train and develop the workforce of over 1,600 employees across the group.

The Celtic Collection’s Celtic Pathways programme has enhanced staff skills, motivation and retention by giving all existing employees and new recruits the opportunity to work towards a qualification. Apprenticeships are a key part of this programme.

 

Award-winning training provider Cambrian Training Company plays a key role in delivering accredited apprenticeships, from Level 2 to Level 5, in Hospitality, Professional Cookery, Leadership and Management, Customer Service and Business Administration, AAT Accounting as well as (BIIAB) British Institute of Inn keeping qualifications.

The company’s training officers work with apprentices across the group, from the kitchen, culinary and front of house teams to staff working in human resources, accounts, maintenance and spas.

The Celtic Collection offers a range of initiatives to recruit, engage and empower employees to create their own career paths, upskill and achieve recognised qualifications to grow their career.

 

Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething said: “Apprenticeships can help futureproof, motivate and diversify a workforce by providing people with the opportunity to gain high-quality vocational skills. They are also crucial to our ambitious vision for a Wales where no one is held back.

“It’s excellent news that The Celtic Collection are celebrating their 100th apprentice and have seen the valuable role apprenticeships play in developing staff skills, motivating and retaining staff.  As the 100th apprentice, I wish Daniel well in his future career.” 

 

Tracy Israel, The Celtic Collection’s director of talent and development, said: “Apprenticeships are a critical part of our talent development and management philosophy. We are focused on looking after the talent already within the business as well as the talent we recruit. 

“The challenge we have within hospitality is attracting people into the industry. When we recruit people, we want to retain them by providing key opportunities to develop both professionally and personally. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to do this.

“We are reliant on ensuring that we have the right people in the right jobs, with the right skills and competencies; in order to deliver the best guest experience.

“We have some amazing apprentices within the business who act as apprenticeship ambassadors, which has resulted in employees now approaching us asking to do qualifications rather than the business having to encourage them.”

Praising the partnership with pan-Wales training provider Cambrian Training Company, she added: “They feel like part of the family and I sometimes have to remind myself that they are actually an independent company.

“Because of our longstanding partnership, they understand our needs so well, which is critical. We believe that we are quite unique in the hospitality industry in being a privately owned, family business with core values which are replicated by Cambrian Training. There is a real synergy between both parties.

“I love Cambrian Training Company’s ‘can do’ attitude and the fact that they come to me with ideas of how they can help the business, which is a major plus point.”

 

Cambrian Training Company’s business development officer, Rob Hookham, works closely with Tracy and is delighted to have enrolled all of the 100 apprentices at The Celtic Collection.

“This milestone showcases the immense potential of apprenticeships as a viable and rewarding career pathway,” he said. “The significance of this achievement extends beyond the numbers; it symbolises the triumph of determination, resilience and the power of collaboration.

“By combining practical, hands-on experience with theoretical learning, apprenticeships offer a unique opportunity for individuals to develop their skills, gain industry-specific knowledge and embark on a fulfilling career journey.

“This could not be done without all the training officers at Cambrian Training Company, which has not only succeeded in fostering a culture of excellence and professionalism, but has also established a strong network of support and mentorship.

“The apprentices, through their collective efforts, have created a vibrant community of learners, each supporting and inspiring one another to reach greater heights.”

 

The Apprenticeship Programme in Wales is funded by the Welsh Government with support from the European Social Fund.

Header Image caption:

A small group of the 100 apprentices alongside The Celtic Collection colleagues, including director of talent and development Tracy Israel and Cambrian Training Company’s training officers (left to right) Jane Gammon, Scott Morgan, Craig Bennett and Rob Hookham.  

 

Employee Engagement, Employee Motivation, Training, Training & Apprenticeships

Why Modern Professionals Are Investing More in Personal Development

In the ever-evolving landscape of the professional world, the quest for excellence remains paramount. It’s no longer just about degrees and technical proficiencies. The modern professional is actively seeking holistic development, aiming not just for success in the workplace but for personal fulfilment and growth. With a myriad of opportunities available and a dynamically changing job market, it’s crucial to understand why there’s been a significant shift towards personal development. Let’s embark on this journey, unveiling the reasons behind this change and the paramount importance of investing in oneself.

The Shift in Workplace Values: Understanding the Modern Professional’s Mindset

Gone are the days when clocking in and out of a 9-to-5 was the be-all and end-all. Today’s professionals crave more. They seek purpose, flexibility, and a sense of belonging. A paycheck is no longer the sole motivation; it’s about deriving true satisfaction from one’s work and the impact it creates. The modern professional is also acutely aware of the transient nature of jobs. With technology and globalisation reshaping industries, it’s become evident that adaptability and continuous learning are not just perks but necessities. Thus, professionals are adapting to these shifts and taking proactive measures to align with the evolving workplace values.

The ROI of Personal Development: Why It’s Worth the Investment

The term ‘Return on Investment’ or ROI is not restricted to finance. When professionals invest in personal development, the returns manifest in diverse forms – heightened confidence, broader skill sets, and increased opportunities for advancement. Think of it as compound interest for your career. Every course attended, every seminar participated in, and every book read adds layers of depth to one’s profile. Moreover, in a competitive market, these investments can be the distinguishing factor between stagnation and career progression. Companies are more inclined towards individuals who show a keen interest in growth, making personal development not just an asset but an essential tool for career enhancement.

Beyond Technical Skills: The Importance of Soft Skills in Today’s Job Market

While technical prowess has traditionally been the yardstick for many professional roles, the landscape of what’s deemed valuable is undergoing a seismic shift. Soft skills, once considered secondary, have emerged at the forefront of today’s job market. These encompass abilities like communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. With automation and artificial intelligence taking over routine tasks, it’s the uniquely human attributes that set individuals apart. Employers are increasingly recognising that while technical aptitude is teachable, attributes like adaptability, empathy, and problem-solving are invaluable. After all, machines can process, but it’s humans who truly connect, understand, and innovate. In the matrix of career development, soft skills have undoubtedly become the golden thread linking success across various sectors.

Future-Proofing Your Career: Staying Relevant in a Rapidly Evolving World

In an era where job roles evolve almost as quickly as technology does, professionals face the pressing challenge of staying relevant. This is where the concept of line management comes into play. Effective line management isn’t just about overseeing tasks or projects; it’s about recognising the need for continuous skill enhancement and facilitating growth opportunities. It involves guiding team members to add value not just to the organisation but to their individual career trajectories. By honing line management skills, professionals ensure they’re equipped to navigate the changing tides, manage teams efficiently, and make impactful decisions. It’s this proactive approach that ensures not just job security but the ability to lead and inspire in an ever-changing professional landscape.

Building Resilience and Adaptability: The Cornerstones of Modern Career Success

Change, they say, is the only constant. In today’s fast-paced professional world, this adage holds truer than ever. Resilience and adaptability are no longer just admirable traits; they’re cornerstones for success. Resilience equips professionals to handle setbacks, learn from failures, and bounce back with renewed vigour. Meanwhile, adaptability ensures they remain agile, ready to pivot as industries evolve and new opportunities emerge. Together, these skills form a formidable combination, preparing individuals to handle challenges, seize new prospects, and mould their careers to the changing demands of the market. Those who embrace these attributes not only survive the storms but harness them, steering their careers towards uncharted successes.

Lifelong Learning: The Key to Sustainable Career Growth

The notion that education ends after formal schooling is a relic of the past. In the current professional milieu, the most successful individuals embrace the ethos of lifelong learning. With industries and technologies evolving at a dizzying pace, static knowledge quickly becomes obsolete. Lifelong learning is the compass that directs professionals through the labyrinth of change, ensuring they remain relevant, competent, and ahead of the curve. By actively seeking out new knowledge and skills, professionals not only adapt to changes but often become the drivers of innovation within their spheres. It’s this commitment to continuous growth and curiosity that fortifies a sustainable and ascending career trajectory.

Personal Branding: Crafting a Unique Identity in the Digital Age

In today’s digital-centric era, professionals are more than just their CVs or job titles. They are brands, with unique identities that resonate across online platforms. Personal branding is the art of curating and projecting a distinct and consistent image, one that encapsulates skills, values, and aspirations. With platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and personal blogs, professionals have the tools to shape their narrative, reaching global audiences. Crafting a compelling personal brand not only sets individuals apart in crowded job markets but also attracts opportunities that align with their values and vision. In essence, it’s about authenticity, and in a digital age where visibility is paramount, a strong personal brand is an invaluable asset.

Networking and Collaboration: How Personal Development Opens Doors

The power of connection in the professional world is immeasurable. Personal development isn’t solely about individual skills or knowledge acquisition; it’s intrinsically linked with building robust networks and fostering collaboration. Networking events, seminars, workshops, and online courses all offer platforms for professionals to interact, share ideas, and forge meaningful relationships. These connections often lead to collaborative ventures, job opportunities, and the exchange of invaluable insights. Furthermore, in an interconnected world, the adage, “it’s not what you know, but who you know,” gains even more prominence. By investing in personal development, professionals inadvertently expand their horizons, unlocking doors previously unimagined.

 

Construction, Construction News, Training & Apprenticeships

High hopes for Design Engineer Construct! as it bids for “alternative academic qualification” status

Pioneering learning programme celebrates tenth birthday in the House of Lords, amid calls for greater support from ministers, industry and universities 

The creator of Design Engineer Construct! (DEC), an innovative and successful learning programme which builds a professional talent pipeline into the construction industry, is today appealing for its qualifications to be recognised as a key academic subject for university entrance in England.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, July 5th), Class Of Your Own, the social enterprise established to support delivery of the DEC programme, celebrates ten years of nurturing young talent at an event hosted by former education minister, Lord Knight, in the House of Lords.

Although the DEC programme was launched in 2013, a number of UK universities still don’t accept it as a facilitating subject for entry into architecture, engineering and construction degree courses, despite a growing skills gap.

Alison Watson

Alison Watson, creator of DEC and founder and Chief Executive of Class Of Your Own, says: “It’s ten years since the Construction 2025 strategy set out a vision to promote the success of the UK construction sector as a sector of choice for young people.

“The strategy recommended early engagement in schools that should be consistently applied right through to further and higher education. DEC was cited as an effective solution, and it still remains one of the most respected through-school programmes a decade later, despite an ever-changing secondary education landscape.”

 

If all universities accepted DEC as a facilitating subject, thousands more young people could look forward to a bright future in an industry that desperately needs such professionals.

 

Watson adds: “The students coming through the DEC programme are outstanding. They’re seeing incredible success at university and in advanced, higher and degree apprenticeships.

“Despite the lack of consistent support and investment from governments, universities and industry, they are delivering the skills needed to exceed our country’s ambitions for a digital, zero-carbon, climate-resilient, construction industry.”

 

Thirty students will attend the House of Lords event tomorrow, each of whom represents a major DEC success story and each reinforces the need to deliver applied academic subjects in school from an early age, particularly given the focus on ‘leveling up’ educational opportunities for all children.

 

John Haylett is one of DEC’s star students. John’s background typifies those of “disadvantaged working class” pupils and especially those in coastal towns referenced in a number of recent reports. He not only excelled in his DEC studies but now works for global consultancy Atkins, was a finalist for two years running in the RICS Young Surveyor of the Year and just last month was awarded a first-class degree in Building Surveying from Anglia Ruskin University.

 

John Haylett said: “If all students were given the chances I was given, then the construction industry would have a much bigger pipeline of young people. DEC provided me not only with a future successful career but with a foundation in the job and industry that I love.”

 

A recent study by the charity Engineering UK reports that a “staggering” increase in the number of girls studying maths and physics at A level is needed to bridge engineering’s gender gap.

Graduate civil engineer Lauren Cunningham has just achieved a first through her degree apprenticeship with global engineering consultancy Sweco at Liverpool John Moores University.

Heriot-Watt University civil engineering graduate Alizah Mughal has also achieved a first in her Masters degree. Both Lauren and Alizah studied DEC at school and cite the subject as the inspiration for their careers.

Three DEC success stories from three different students from the South East and North West of England, and Scotland, with so many more across the UK and around the world.

DEC has risen above the challenges of the Department for Education’s past review of qualifications for students aged 16 and above. It was retained on the ‘high value course’ premium list to encourage delivery of subjects that are “crucial for the labour market, lead to higher wage returns and a more productive economy”.

Furthermore, DEC was spared the recent cull of Level 3 qualifications that ‘overlap’ with the government’s new T-level programmes.

DEC’s organisers hope that with the next cycle of government reforms taking shape, a new hope is on the horizon for this dynamic qualification.

From 2025, only qualifications that are “necessary, high quality and have a clear purpose” will remain an option for young people.

Watson hopes that DEC, as it is submitted this month as an ‘alternative academic qualification’ (AAQ), will bring a whole new respect to the wide range of professions in the construction industry and channel even more uptake for Built Environment degree courses and apprenticeship routes.

 

Watson finishes: “DEC is not a gimmick and it’s not a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. It’s a subject in its own right, studied all the way through school and taught by outstanding teachers.

“Our planet cannot wait for more reports and more conversations. It needs collaborative action from the world’s biggest carbon contributor, and I hope, as we celebrate ten years of incredible student outcomes – the real proof of the pudding, that government, industry and academia will now fully support Design Engineer Construct! as a most robust and highly respected route into higher education.”
—

Header image caption: DEC students from left Lauren Cunningham, John Haylett and founder Alison Watson

L&D, News, Training & Apprenticeships, Wales

LEARNING DISABILITY WEEK: Skills competitions are kickstarting careers for young people with additional learning needs

Bluestone is just one business in Wales giving competitors paid job placements

Young people with additional learning needs are being given a platform to showcase their skills in a competitive environment to help secure placements in the working world.

King, Morgan and Cecily, from Pembrokeshire, are just one group of learners whose performance at Skills Competition Wales and WorldSkills UK has helped them land paid work experience.

They are currently on a supported internship programme with major Welsh employer, Bluestone National Park Resort, having impressed the award-winning resort destination after their triumph in skills competitions.

The trio, who started out at Pembrokeshire College’s Life Skills Academy, are now gaining real work experience in a range of placements within the IT, food and beverage, retail, and housekeeping industries.

King Khamhanphon, who works at Bluestone’s café, said: “I work at the café at Bluestone and really enjoy it because of the team. I feel very supported and am currently a semi-finalist in the inclusive competition Restaurant Service category for WorldSkills UK’s National Finals. The competitions and my internship at Bluestone have helped me to develop my skills and confidence a lot.”

King Khamhanphon

In Wales, inclusive competitions are funded by the Welsh Government through Skills Competition Wales and are delivered by the Inspiring Skills in Wales project. Promising competitors often go on to compete in the national competitions at WorldSkills UK.

Those interested in competing in inclusive competitions can choose to compete from a selection of 12 categories including Automotive Technology, Woodwork, Childcare, Life Skills and more.

The competitions aim to not only help improve young people’s confidence and employability skills but seek to break down barriers and help learners reach significant milestones in their personal life such as securing a job and gaining financial independence.

Emma Jones, Curriculum Manager at the Life Skills Academy, said: “We’re so proud of all our learners. It’s fantastic to see how far they’ve come since starting at the academy and at their supported internships. Learners are sometimes nervous about participating in skills competitions, but it really helps to build their confidence and often gives them the boost they needed to transition into real working environments.”

“The pride that our learners have in being an authentic contributor to their community has been truly overwhelming and we are experiencing such growth in this area of our curriculum.”

Helen John, Bluestone Academy Manager, said: “We’re committed to providing opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities through workplace learning and training. The Life Skills Academy supported internship initiative is one of which we’ve had particular success and was brought to our attention through the learners’ success in several skills competitions.

“Inclusive skills competitions are a brilliant way for young people who might not otherwise have had a chance to perform under pressure in a working environment before, and as a business, we have experienced first-hand the benefits of hiring people who have a fresh perspective and varied and talented skillset.”

Welsh Government Minister for Economy, Vaughan Gething, said: “Wales is showing itself to be a leading force in paving the way for opportunities for young people with disabilities and additional learning needs. I’d like to thank the learners, tutors and organisations involved in these initiatives for their hard work in helping to transform the expectations, experiences, and outcomes for so many children and young people in Wales.

“The aim of Skills Competition Wales and WorldSkills is to celebrate learners’ skills and achievements while raising their employability skills, so it’s fantastic to see reputable organisations such as Pembrokeshire College and Bluestone launching these sorts of programmes together.”

For anyone interested in getting involved in skills competitions, they can visit https://inspiringskills.gov.wales/ for more information.

 

News, Training, Training & Apprenticeships, Wales

A Winning Streak For Team Wales In UK Skills Olympics

59 Welsh competitors were awarded medals for their triumphs at the WorldSkills UK National Finals

For the fourth year running, Team Wales has claimed the title as the top performing region in the WorldSkills UK National Finals, coming away with more medals than any other UK region.

More than five thousand young people registered to take part in this year’s WorldSkills UK competitions, with only 537 selected to compete in the UK finals. Out of the 130 strong Welsh competitors, 15 gold, 22 silver, 15 bronze, and 7 highly commended medals were awarded to competitors from Wales.

Team Wales also topped the Foundation Skills area league table, seeing Welsh competitors scoop 16 medals – trumping competitors from other UK regions, including London, East Midlands and the Northwest.

The official results were announced during a live medal ceremony on a special edition of Steph McGovern’s Packed Lunch last Friday and came after a series of national competitions that took place across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

WorldSkills UK supports young people to take part in skills competitions, assessment, and benchmarking, with competitors from all four nations competing against one another to achieve national recognition in their chosen category.

 

Rosie Boddy (20), from Wrexham, is currently on an apprenticeship with Airbus. She won the gold medal in the Aircraft Maintenance category this year and is thrilled to be championing females in STEM fields. She said:

“I’m so proud to have won a medal at WorldSkills UK Finals. Having the opportunity to improve on my current skills and adopt new ones to help me progress my career has been amazing.

“Skills competitions have allowed me to experience areas of my industry that I don’t necessarily come across day-to-day. I’ve found new aspects within the industry that I now love. I’ll carry my WorldSkills experience with me as I continue my apprenticeship and throughout the rest of my working life.”

 

The competitions challenge competitors in four different sectors to be named the best in their skill, including Construction & Infrastructure, Engineering & Technology, Health, Hospitality and Lifestyle, and Digital, Business & Creative.

Cardiff & Vale College hosted a number of finals and was this year’s host venue for all of the Foundation Skills Competitions – group of competitions that are designed for students who have a statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) and/or disabilities.

 

Economy Minister Vaughan Gething said: “I’m delighted to celebrate another outstanding year for Team Wales at the WorldSkills UK National Finals. Each year Wales raises the bar higher, standards increase, and competitors go above and beyond to proudly represent our country.

“The Welsh Government is committed to investing in our future generations and providing our young people with opportunities to develop world class skills. WorldSkills and the Inspiring Skills in Wales project are an important part of this. I wish this year’s competitors the best of luck as they use these skills to forge successful future careers in Wales.”

 

WorldSkills UK, Deputy CEO Ben Blackledge: “What a performance. Being crowned best in the UK is no mean feat, especially with all the disruptions and difficulties the competitors have had to overcome in recent years.

“Everyone who put themselves forward for the WorldSkills UK competitions this year is a real inspiration and should be proud of their efforts. Skills are the lifeblood of every economy, creating high quality jobs, rewarding careers, inward investment and growth.”

Partly funded by the Welsh Government and run by a dedicated network of colleges, work-based learning providers and employer-led organisations, WorldSkills UK aims to inspire and upskill future generations by developing young people’s vocational skills while celebrating their achievements.

Competitions begin at a regional level with Skills Competition Wales led by the Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales project, and progress through to national and international competitions.

 

For more information on WorldSkills UK and how to start your journey as a competitor, tutor or employer in Wales, visit https://inspiringskills.gov.wales/.

 

Finance and Banking, News, Training & Apprenticeships, Transport

‘Big Sister’ mentoring role for Clarion Wealth Planning’s Ella Davies

A chartered financial planner at Clarion Wealth Planning has begun a mentoring role as a ‘Big Sister’ to a teenage girl in a programme run by the award-winning social enterprise Girls Out Loud.

After undergoing training earlier in the summer, Ella Davies has teamed up with a Year Eight pupil for the year-long programme to help boost the youngster’s self-confidence and aspirations in a series of one-to-one sessions.

The programme was launched at the Co-op Academy Manchester, where Ella was introduced to her ‘Little Sister’.

Ella said: “I’m proud, excited and thrilled to be involved in the programme and to act as a role model to my ‘Little Sister’. It’s a privilege, and I am looking forward very much to spending time with her.

“She wants to be part of the programme to have someone to talk to, to be there just for her and someone to trust.

“It’s a big responsibility, but it is a great way of giving back and hopefully making a positive difference.

“She is super active and very bright but feels frustrated in school. She hopes to be a forensic scientist, so we spoke about how she can harness her energy and learn to enjoy her lessons, which will help her to meet her career aspirations.”

Ella added: “At Clarion we are committed to changing lives for the better through supporting our local communities and good causes in a variety of different ways, and this is another illustration of that commitment.”

Girls Out Loud, founded by Jane Kenyon, is dedicated to helping teenage girls to achieve their goals by boosting their confidence, emotional resilience, self-assurance and self-esteem.

The Big Sister programme sees role models from diverse backgrounds mentoring girls to embed a more empowering mindset in them.

Jane said: “Our teen girls are navigating a challenging landscape today and having someone to listen and talk to and can help them with a myriad of decisions and options they face on a daily basis.

“Our Big Sisters are smart female role models committed to being that guide. They create a very special relationship with no judgement or agenda, and become a young girl’s champion, encouraging and guiding her to find her voice, her self-belief, her gumption and her aspiration.

“Interestingly, after over a decade of leading this programme, I also see many of our Big Sisters go on the same journey of discovery, as the process of mentoring a teen girl is a self-reflective one and creates learning and development opportunities for both mentor and mentee.”

Clarion, which is based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire, provides lifelong financial planning to business owners and families across the north west and beyond.

Education, Education News, News, STEM, Training & Apprenticeships

National Grid’s partnership with Connectr inspires 50,000 young people into STEM careers in its major education programme’s second year

Award-winning HR platform and talent solutions specialist, Connectr, today announced the results from its partnership with National Grid, and its London Power Tunnels project (LPT), in delivering a dynamic programme to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.

LPT, a major engineering scheme to rewire the Capital, has worked with Connect to deliver an ambitious five-year campaign encouraging disadvantaged students in Years 9-13 across South London communities into a STEM-focussed career. Launched in 2020, the programme blends digital and in-person activity with an aim to impact 100,000 young people by 2025 – however, at the end of its second year, the initiative has already engaged over 50,000 students.

Over the last 12 months, highlights include:

  • 12,467 workshops and Q&A sessions
  • 4,754 assembly takeovers
  • 12,906 Resource Packs to a network of educators
  • A Virtual Work Experience Week to 190 students, supported by 12 guest speakers and 10 Digital Mentors
  • 1,035 insight events

The success of year two was supported by 100 volunteers from National Grid, and engaged a total of 31,352 students – exceeding its second year target by 43%.

The STEM and career programmes give back to the communities impacted by LPT and its tunnelling works by showcasing career routes into STEM for socio-economically disadvantaged young people. The programme not only supports National Grid’s wider objective of working towards a greener grid, but also proactively addresses the demand for the energy sector to fill 400,000 roles by 2050 in order to successfully reach Net Zero.

 

Connectr designed the programme with National Grid to inspire an underrepresented community of students and their educators during the UK’s pandemic recovery through a dynamic blend of activity, whilst offering a meaningful volunteering opportunity to National Grid employees.

Utilising Connectr’s engagement platform and wider services, this included:

  • In-person workshops for Years 9, 11 & 12
  • Virtual Q&A sessions for Years 9-13
  • Online events across key dates including National Apprenticeship Week and Engineering Week for Years 9-13
  • Assembly takeovers
  • Resource packs for educators to deliver classroom workshops
  • Virtual Work Experience Week for Years 11, 12 & 13
  • Digital mentoring support

 

Connectr’s Founder and Managing Director, Will Akerman, commented, “I am thrilled to see the impact our partnership with National Grid has delivered so far. Connectr is built upon a mission to give every person equal power and opportunity to shape their future – and the success to date of The London Power Tunnels Project truly exemplifies this. I’m delighted to see how Connectr’s platform and services are facilitating such positive change and very much look forward to continuing this impact alongside National Grid into Year 3 and beyond.”

 

Gareth Burden, Project Director for National Grid said: “Growing our next generation of STEM leaders starts with our young people. The Connectr programme brings engineering to life for students, helping them to practise and develop solutions for complex problems. It is a perfect fit with our aim to encourage and inspire young people to work on ground-breaking projects, showing them a STEM career is one with purpose and an exciting future.”

 

For more information on Connectr’s learning technology, visit www.connectr.com/products/employee-engagement

 

Apprenticeships, Construction, Training & Apprenticeships

How to Start a Career in Woodworking

If you’ve either just finished school or are looking for an exciting career change, then woodworking may be for you. There’s a lot of avenues you can go down in the woodworking world. You could be a carpenter and work for a building company, or you could be a woodworker and craft incredible designs. If you’re looking for tips and advice on how to get into the business of woodworking then you’re in the right place!

Calderbrook woodworking machinery have helped create this guide on everything you need to know about starting a new career in woodworking. Keep reading to find out more information.

 

Understanding the difference between woodworking and carpentry 

The two key areas of woodworking careers are being a woodworker and a carpenter. Many people believe these two careers are the same but they actually have key differences, despite falling under the same umbrella of woodworking. 

When you want to start a career in woodworking, it’s important you decide between being a woodworker and a carpenter. But what are the differences? Keep reading to find out.

Woodworking 

Woodworking is very much associated with the artistic side of woodwork. If you’re creative and love making things out of wood then this is the career for you. Woodworking is about carving unique creations out of wood. 

The demand for wooden trinkets has gone up in recent years due to the originality that comes from it. Nobody wishes to have something that everyone else has anymore, making woodworking a great career choice.

Carpentry 

Carpentry is a trade that’s all about building and repairing things with wood. Usually, as a carpenter you’ll work with builders to install and craft structures within a house. As a carpenter you’ll need to possess certain skills such as being good at mathematics and having great attention to detail. 

Carpentry is all about the structural part of woodwork, going into this trade is incredibly rewarding and there are plenty of career options available. Consider this woodworking career if this sounds like something you’d love! 

 

Become a woodwork apprentice 

If you’re a young person looking to start a career in woodworking, an apprenticeship is a great stepping stone. Becoming a woodwork apprentice will teach you all the necessary skills you need to become a successful woodworker. 

You may be working on a construction site for carpentry or within a wood workshop. These are two environments that will keep you busy and learning, the perfect start to your woodworking career. 

At the end of your apprenticeship you will receive a qualification, this will make it easier for you to go on to your next woodworking job. Having work experience is very valuable and can help you get a headstart in your career.

What tools, equipment, and machinery will I need?

To start up your business as a professional woodworker, you’ll need some key tools, equipment, and machinery. Here are the basics that you’ll need to get you started:

  • Table saw
  • Band saw
  • Beam saw
  • Dust collector
  • Chisel

These are the essentials, although you may find you need some more tools and machinery as you advance. 

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In-Comm Training lands major apprenticeship contract with automotive supplier

A leading independent training provider is celebrating winning its largest apprenticeship contract in years after signing a major deal with Lander Tubular Products.

In-Comm Training, which operates three state-of-the-art technical academies across the Black Country and Shropshire, has become the strategic training partner for the supplier of precision engineered metallic and plastic manipulated pipe assemblies for the automotive, commercial vehicle and off-highway sectors.

Forty Level 2 apprentices in Lean Manufacturing Operations will be recruited over the next six months in a bid to develop a future talent pool that can help the manufacturer meet a rapidly growing order book.

The new relationship will cover all recruitment and selection, advice on tapping into funding, induction process and delivery of training, with In-Comm trainers and assessors set to be permanently based at Lander Tubular Products’ internal academy at its Woodgate Business Park factory in Birmingham.

“This is a major milestone for our business, and we’re delighted that another high-profile industrial specialist has chosen to adopt our employer-led approach to apprenticeships and training in general,” explained Paul Hodgetts, Business Development Manager at In-Comm Training.

“The tender process was over a three-month period, involved six providers and numerous visits to each other’s locations. We were able to listen, understand exactly what the firm needed and then put together a flexible learning package that obviously appealed to the management team here.”

He continued: “Everything kicks off in September with a cohort of 15, then this is followed a month later with 10 more apprentices and the final 15 need to be in place by December. So, the message for young people and mature learners looking for a career change is simple – there’s the potential for high quality jobs with a world class automotive supplier, get in touch!”
With over 140 year’s history, Lander Tubular Products is a leading manufacturer of precision engineered metallic and plastic manipulated tubular products for the automotive, off-highway, and industrial sectors.

The company, which has three manufacturing sites in the UK and a further two production facilities in the USA, has a long history of delivering award-winning apprenticeship programmes.

Its product range covers multiple applications for the transfer of fluids or air, and tubular structural products for a broad range of major OEM and tier one customers.

Growing its own staff has always been a priority and this new contract marks the next phase of its workforce development, with pathways being created so that individuals can work all the way towards Technical Apprenticeships, a Degree in Engineering and Manufacturing and upskilling opportunities in continuous improvement, quality and leadership & management.

Anita Davenport-Brooks, Group HR Manager, added her support: “We’ve known about In-Comm for some time and were really impressed with the way they took the time to listen and tailor the approach to suit exactly what we need.

“The course will give every apprentice core manufacturing skills, as well as developing softer ones and encouraging the right behaviours to fit our culture. All the training will be completed at our factory, which will give us great flexibility when balancing shopfloor demand.

“I’m also keen to look at how we can work together to shape new Apprenticeship qualifications that are currently missing in industry. One example, is early discussions about creating a Level 3 Technical Operator course that could be the next step for our apprentices.”

She concluded: “Vocational learning is so important for us and, next year, the plan is to recruit up to 100 apprentices. Working with In-Comm Training will save over £200,000 on recruitment costs alone in 2022 and that does not take into account the bottom line benefits our learners will deliver to our three businesses across the Midlands.

“Several of our senior team and middle managers all started with an apprenticeship and are now critical to our future success.”

Lander Tubular Products, which was recently named as the number one company in the Top 50 SME Apprentice Employers Rankings by the National Apprenticeship Service, will also tap into other services offered by In-Comm Training.

This includes upskilling courses, health and safety consultancy and lobbying, with Anita already taking her place on the training provider’s new Skills Steering Group.