insight ISSUE 15, JUNE 2020
Business updates on Covid-19 Staff health and safety is, and will continue to be, our number one priority.
Learner Survey 2020 We have the latest results from the 2020 Learner Survey
Staff in the spotlight This month we have put the spotlight on Antony Leach.
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welcome Well, what a frankly bizarre and bonkers couple of months it has been. While it has been an incredibly uncertain and challenging time for so many, it has also been a truly phenomenal period of seeing people coming together and showing what we are all capable of. On behalf of all the Directors we cannot thank you enough for all your incredible hard work and resourcefulness at adapting to these times.
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We have seen a level of care, kindness and support for others that is exactly what ACT are all about. From continuing to provide excellent services to our learners, to supporting the wider community and key workers, you have all been brilliant. Keep up the cracking effort and above all continue to stay safe and well.
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important dates
Pride Month 1 June - 30 June 2020
contents Returning to work
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In the know
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Addressing racism
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Learner survey results
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Working from home
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P&D updates
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Competition time
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Counselling during coronavirus
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Innovation 24 Spotlight on ACT Schools 26 ACT Schools restricted faceto-face learning will resume 29th June
Staff in the spotlight 28 Welsh corner
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The book club
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Welcome to our latest recruits
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Latest from the CAVC Group
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Returning to work On 3rd June, Kirsty Williams, Minister for Education, held a briefing in which she outlined some changes for schools, colleges and universities. The announcement gave details of schools reopening on Monday 29th June, with restricted class sizes, summer term extended by one week and autumn half term becoming two weeks.
How our decisions will be led As you are aware we deliver a number of different types of provision and the pace at which face-to-face delivery will start to return and how, may differ for each of these programmes. We will be working closely with delivery teams in each of these areas to prioritise which groups of learners will need to return first, whilst of course following government guidelines and looking at individual circumstances of staff, health and safety requirements and social distancing guidelines. Louise Williams, Operations Director, continues to head a group of key team members who are working carefully through the guidelines, carrying out reviews of working environments and developing policies and procedures to allow us to start to return when it is safe to do so. The feedback from Louise’s team, will also inform which groups of staff and learners can return over the summer and how we will do this.
What this means for ACT? We will not be rushing with the process of bringing everyone back to work. We will do what is appropriate for our staff, learners and stakeholders. However, we are of course keen to start bringing back some face-to-face learning where we can, particularly for vulnerable groups of learners, those in need of practical assessment or tests/exams and learners struggling to engage with online delivery.
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What we are doing now Alongside all of this, we are still working, teaching, supporting and progressing learners online and we will continue to support the majority of our learners this way throughout the summer. Many of these delivery techniques will continue to remain an integral part of our curriculum.
We will not be rushing with the process of bringing everyone back to work. We will do what is appropriate for our staff, learners and stakeholders
Support for you We appreciate that for some of you discussing an eventual return to centres may be very welcome, whilst for others this may spark anxiety. Please be assured we will continue to keep you involved and updated with developments as they happen and we encourage you to keep talking with your line manager and to support one another. Our People and Development and Care, Support and Guidance teams are also available for support.
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know Kellogg’s Breakfast Club grant We are chuffed as chips to announce that our ACT Schools provision in both Cardiff and Caerphilly have been awarded a Kellogg’s Breakfast Club grant to help make sure our learners get a decent meal at the beginning of the day. A big thank you to FareShare who have been hugely supportive in setting this up.
Wellbeing resources We have a number of resources on our intranet pages dedicated to wellbeing advice, tips for surviving at home during lockdown, opportunities to build on your CPD training, how to work from home and a whole lot more. Head to the intranet to find out more
Support for Llamau learners We are pleased to report that we have four learners from Llamau who are enrolling onto our ‘Digital Taster Sessions’, in order to help them prepare for their transition to our vocational courses when face to face delivery resumes in the future.
The Beauty Room The Beauty Room at OPH donated plastic aprons, gloves and some masks to Belevista Care Home in Harrowby Street, Cardiff Bay. Many care homes are currently struggling for protective equipment so the donation is hugely appreciated.
Whatever challenges we may currently be facing, ensuring our learners have all the support they need is our number one priority!
The animals at our Hadfield Road centre are doing great! For those of you who have been asking, we just wanted to let you know that the animals at our Hadfield Road centre are doing great. Laura Richards, Animal Care Assessor said, “The animals are all doing well and loving the peace and quiet. Staff are travelling back and forth all week to check on them. Terry the terrapin has even had a new fancy waterfall filter installed, which he thinks is amazing!”. A big thank you to the Animal Care Team for all your hard work and a special thank you to all those who have been checking in on the animals.
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Our Food Bank is still going strong! We are incredibly proud to report that our Food Bank based out of the OPH café, has now been running for 12 weeks. The services we have been providing to our most vulnerable learners and the wider community has proven to be invaluable. We currently have 72 households that we are delivering to every week with our amazing café staff Graham White, Daniel Griffiths and Jodie Smith creating approximately 800 meals per week. We have been receiving 1.2 tons of donated food from FareShare per month, all of which would have ended up in landfill. In addition, big name businesses such as Costa, Greggs, Pizza Express, Nandos and McDonalds have also been donating food deliveries. We would like to give a big thanks to everyone who has been involved, particularly all the staff volunteers who have helped deliver packages to our learners. Also, an enormous thanks and standing ovation to Emma Page who has been key in organising the food bank from day one. A big thanks to Matt Burnett and Sarah Stokes too, who have been helping Emma to coordinate everything.
Helping feed frontline workers Every week we deliver a food drop off to staff at St David’s Hospital in Cardiff. We are so grateful to the NHS and all our frontline workers for taking care of us all during this time, so were grateful for the opportunity to show our support!
Oasis Centre
Scrubs for the NHS
The Oasis centre in Splott were in desperate need of flour to continue making bread for the refugees and asylum seekers they support. Thankfully we were able to source them a large bag from our suppliers, which resulted in 54 baked bread rolls to feed their service users.
A big round of applause to Nickie Rainsford-Lewis and Natasha Kingsbury who have both been making and donating scrub bags so that their local NHS staff can take off their uniforms and put them straight in the wash. Well done to you both for your amazing efforts!
Did you know… In the last 30 days at ACT, there have been 20,496 messages, 1602 calls, and 1899 meetings! We have not forgotten how to email though – we have sent 74,947 of those! These statistics show just how well everyone is adapting to remote working!
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Working tirelessly to deliver NHS Core Induction digitally An enormous round of applause to Angela Clifford-Hillman, Helen Aldridge, Alison Phillips and Gareth Mathias who have been working tirelessly to deliver the NHS core induction for Aneurin Bevan digitally online. On Easter Good Friday they received 147 learners and by the end of the Easter week had 350, with 50-100 learners logging on daily. These learners are a mix of recalled NHS staff, 3rd year nursing students and members of the public, wanting to do their bit during the Covid-19 outbreak. The success of this delivery is the result of incredible teamwork across many teams. A huge thank you to all these staff members who sacrificed their Easter Break to help support the NHS at a time of need. The delivery of this training has ensured an extra 52 Health Care Social Workers are able to enter the NHS. This number has been increasing daily with the additional support of the whole Clinical Health/Facilities Service Team who are all on board working hard. Thank you so much to every single one of you – you are all super stars!
MTS sub-provider providing free forklift training to FareShare Following a call to action from ACT, Ian Bills who owns and operates South Wales and Southwest Forklift, one of MTS’ sub-providers, is volunteering for FareShare 2 days a week. Ian has also been offering free forklift training to fellow FareShare volunteers to help store and put away food deliveries at the warehouse.
Suzanne Meredith and Kristen Evans. An enormous round of applause to our ACT Health & Social Care assessors Suzanne Meredith and Kristen Evans. Suzanne is currently working overtime to support the Red Cross while Kristen is helping to support at REACT. Thank you so much for all the fantastic work you are both doing to help others - we salute you!
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A&E Support An enormous thanks to Daniel James, a Clinical Health Assessor, who in addition to working his full hours supporting learners, is also working weekend shifts at University Hospital Wales in Cardiff. Daniel is currently stepping up to support in the A&E department of the hospital as the NHS battle to deal with this pandemic. Thank you so much Daniel!
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Louise Small A ginormous shout out to Louise Small, one of our Clinical Health learners who usually works in Urology Theatre but due to the current pandemic has been deployed to intensive care. This absolute hero of a lady is not only working on the frontline, but alongside this is also still trying to complete her Clinical Health diploma and juggle her family responsibilities, with a young daughter at home. Louise thank you so much from everyone here at ACT. We could not be prouder or more grateful!
Free digital fitness workouts in exchange for food donations
Baked by Lou raising money for Cardiff charities
A big thanks to Nathan Blackwell, Partner Manager, who has been offering free fitness classes on Facebook in exchange for food donations to gift his local community.
A big thank you to Louisa Mallett, Business Services Apprenticeship Trainer who donated 25% of her online shop proceeds to charity during part of the lockdown. Lou successfully raised £305.60 which she will be donating between two Cardiff charities – The Wallich (helping homelessness) and Oasis (helping refugees and asylum seekers). Thank you, Lou!
To date, he has delivered four food packages to the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend, three to local care homes and one to a mental health unit. Well done Nathan!
ACT Learner named ‘Welsh Apprentice of the Year’ We are proud to share that one of our learners, James Phillips was named ‘Welsh Apprentice of the Year’ at the MHFED / City & Guild National Barber Competitions in March. Despite only barbering for just over a year, James, 17, who is currently studying his Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Barbering with ACT, was nominated by his employer, Avenue Male Grooming. James commented, “My boss put me on an Apprenticeship with ACT as soon as I started at Avenue, so I’m so happy to have won this award. Once I’ve completed my Level 2 with ACT, I want to start on my Level 3 straightaway. Lesley Hanson my assessor has been a wicked help! I just want to get as many ualifications as possible so I can achieve my goal of becoming the best barber I can possibly be.” A huge well done to James on his success and to Lesley Hanson for supporting James to achieve his goals!
Record OneFile Usage Daily Usage and engagement with OneFile has increased by 33% compared to 2019. April 2020 saw a record 370,307 recorded events on our OneFile account, which is a huge increase compared to 2019 (257,740). A big shout out to our Traineeships Team who are now also completing their digital reviews via OneFile too.
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Skills Competition Wales Rebeka Geciova, Hairdressing, Beauty & Barbering, Inclusive Hairdressing
An enormous congratulations to all our learners from our Traineeship and Apprenticeship programmes who participated in Skills Competition Wales in February. The competition aims to raise the profile of skills in Wales and offers students, trainees and apprentices in Wales a chance to challenge, benchmark and raise their skills by taking part in competitions across a range of sectors.
Eden Kemp, Hairdressing, Beauty & Barbering, Inclusive Hairdressing Marmalade Bal, Hairdressing, Beauty & Barbering, Inclusive Hairdressing
APPRENTICESHIPS
Funded by the Welsh Government, the competition is run by a dedicated network of colleges, work-based learning providers and employer-led organisations. A massive round of applause to all our learners who participated on the day, particularly those who secured medals.
Ellis Potter, Accountancy
Well done to: Alex Beaumont, Coby Jay Barratt, Angela Driscoll, Rebeka Geciova, Marmalade Ball, Ellis Potter, Mollie Jones and Kathryn Rees. Each competitor’s achievements are a direct result of their hard work, determination and dedication through the competition and training processes.
We are delighted to report that following on from the event, we have two learners registered for the World Skills UK Competitions. Traineeship learner, Alex Beaumont from our Business Services programme, has registered for the Software Solutions for Business competition. He had previously been awarded a bronze for his Inclusive ICT Skills competition entry. Rhiannon Fisher, who is a Hairdressing, Beauty and Barbering apprentice has registered for the Hairdressing competition. Good luck both, we will all be rooting for you!
Mollie Jones, Accountancy Kathryn Rees, Accountancy Kelly Ellis, Childcare
A huge thanks also to their incredibly supportive tutors at ACT: Rebecca Broad, Loren Latchman, Mary Foley, Leah Howell, Karen Richards, Navvab Vaughan and Hayley Carter. We were incredibly proud to have the following learners representing ACT in the competition:
TRAINEESHIPS Alex Beaumont, Business Services, Copy Typing & Formatting Text & Data Daniel Hopkins, Information Technology, Copy Typing & Formatting Text & Data Coby Jay Barratt, Information Technology, Copy Typing & Formatting Text & Data Angela Driscoll, Hairdressing,Beauty & Barbering, Inclusive Hairdressing
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High Engagement We are delighted to report that despite 17% of our Apprenticeship learners being on furlough across ACT and the sub network, amazingly 98% of those learners are still actively engaging with their learning programme and making progress towards qualifications. This is a fantastic result! Even with the challenges of being at home during lockdown and having to adapt to remote learning, engagement from learners has been really high. Our figures show that we have 98% engagement among apprentices and 80% among Traineeship learners. Well done to all our delivery staff for continuing to do a fantastic job in supporting our learners and ensuring we deliver excellent services!
A big thanks to our Business Development Team who have been extremely busy ensuring learners are still being signed up online The implementation of digital sign ups has proven to be successful so far, with very few problems. From May we already have over 94 starts and have also taken on 11 brand new employers, as well as continuing to prospect new clients. In addition to that, ACT have also recently won a tender to deliver a two-year contract for First Aid Training! A brilliant result.
Claire Mirbelle, Head of Business Development, commented, “The Business Development Team have been working really hard to keep things moving forward and I’m incredibly proud of how well everyone in the team has managed to keep it all together. They’ve coped with massive changes to how we usually operate and have really stepped up and adapted to the challenges we’ve faced. I’m very appreciative of all their efforts.”
We have also seen a fantastic response to our recent Employer Survey with over 150 clients responding. We will have some excellent feedback to share from the survey very soon so keep your eyes peeled.
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Addressing racism, inclusivity and diversity
Many of you will have heard about the recent tragic and brutal killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and so many other black lives in the USA, and the subsequent response from across the world with the Black Lives Matter protests.
We all know racism is not just a problem in the USA, it is a problem worldwide.  
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What are we doing now?
We want to take this opportunity to reiterate that we deeply believe in fairness, equality and respect for all human lives. We have always taken the issue of inclusivity and diversity seriously, and equality is at the heart of everything we do.
There is a well-established relationship in Wales between poverty and ethnicity, as we see all too well when teaching and working with some of the most vulnerable learners in our society. With that in mind, we are; •
Reviewing our curriculum to ensure it includes the issues that have been raised through recent events, and that it is adequately dealing with discrimination in all its forms.
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Reaching out and seeking guidance from other organisations and using their knowledge and expertise to help us with this.
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Getting advice on how to improve the issues of diversity in the workplace.
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Using the information and data gathered from our Best Companies surveys, and our own internal diversity audits, to improve on the work we are already doing to increase the diversity of our workforce.
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Looking into improving access to mentoring programmes that provide opportunities for Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC)
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Introducing Diversity Champions within our organisations to promote diversity and inclusivity.
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Our initial recruitment, staff induction policies and on-going staff equality and diversity training that promotes equality and inclusivity for all, across ACT and our partners. We address racism and discrimination within our ACT Traineeship curriculum. This raises awareness and gives our learners a voice to share their experiences. All of which results in some really important and impactful conversations and learning. We have pledged allegiance to the Leadership and Diversity Scheme, which helps organisations to achieve an inclusive culture in which everyone receives fair and equal treatment, regardless of their background.
However, we must do more and we clearly recognise that we cannot be complacent. We can always do better, and as educational training providers, we will.
We encourage everyone, especially those who are struggling right now, to talk to their family, friends and colleagues. To really listen and share our experiences and stories with another, so we might learn from them and grow together.
We are fully committed to the long-term work of challenging racism, and indeed all forms of discrimination, so that equality is achieved for all.
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Our Learner Survey results We are proud as punch to report that once again we have scored some fantastic ratings and feedback from our recent Learner Survey. This year over 3171 learners completed our 2020 Learner Voice Survey (across the ACT Network) which is an increase of 797 learners from 2019. An amazing level of engagement considering the uncertain and unusual times we find ourselves living through.
“In a short amount of time I have made extremely good progress - I thank both of my tutors for this. Due to their positive attitudes I have thrived in my course on Construction.” Traineeship Learner
“ACT has been brilliant. They are very supportive and the learning environment is great.”
Here are just a few of the standout comments learners have shared with us.
Apprenticeship Learner
“I am thoroughly enjoying the programme and have almost finished it. I have received outstanding support from both Jane Vaughan and Lisa Beecham who are both exceptional tutors and from whom I have learnt so much. Both are extremely proactive in responding to any queries or providing additional help and for that I am truly grateful.”
“A collaboration with an an ACT Tutor, Angelina Hummel, helped me discover my potential. She made my learning journey achievable, enjoyable and possible. During the course I have noticed a big change in my wellbeing. I will always remember Angelina as both my tutor and a friend. She has shown me I can achieve more than I think, if I just gain confidence.”
Level 4 Business Administration Learner
“I have really enjoyed my experience with ACT. Sam Holland was a great tutor and always made sure I was pushing myself to submit the best assignments I could. He also helped link the qualification back to my job role which really helped give the qualification context in my everyday life. He always made sure I was aware of the support available to me, and took the time to check in on my wellbeing, as well as my academic progress. I really appreciated this!”
Digital Learning Design Learner
These fantastic results and glowing feedback comments are testament to the incredible staff we have and their determination and commitment to deliver the very best services to our learners. An enormous thank you to each and every one of you for working so hard to continue to offer our learners the best support possible. These brilliant results are entirely down to you.
IT, Social Media and Digital Marketing Learner
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3171 learners
Ninety Four Percent
95 Percent
of our learners said that their qualification with ACT is helping them to achieve their goals
of our learners said that their qualiďŹ cation is relevant to their job role
96%
of our learners said they felt safe learning with ACT
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working from home With lockdown happening so suddenly, many of us found ourselves having to adapt to working from home overnight. Below, our Digital Champions, share their experiences of working remotely in lockdown, the challenges they have faced and how they have overcome them.
To overcome this, we have been able to observe some learner sessions and team meetings, as well as carry out remote “walk and talk” sessions. We have also adjusted some teaching resources to ensure employers are still engaging and adapting some elements of the “practice” qualification. For those learners who are not as confident using digital tools, I have suggested alternative methods such as using What’s App, which they know how to use.
Hayley Carter – CCLD Assessor What has gone well? As a team we have been able to continue with remote teaching and learning sessions to deliver the “CORE” of our new CCPLD qualification. Using a variety of digital platforms and evidence to document this, we have enabled learners to still continue to progress on their qualification even in the current circumstances
Top Tips During remote working, I think it is really important to maintain contact with your work colleagues through digital platforms, and to share ideas and suggestions, as well as to “offload.” It is good to take the time to chat and catch up, so you know you are not in this alone!
What has been challenging and how have you tried to overcome it? Due to the qualification requirements, the new CPLD qualification and the “practical” element involved, remote learning has naturally impacted delivering the qualification.
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of devices connected whilst working and also the number of tabs open using the Internet.
Mel Ingram - IT assessor What has gone well? Going completely digital with our delivery has had such a positive response from both learners and assessors. My learners are more engaged and the Digital Learning Design course is now more paramount than ever for learners completing work for their employer.
Top Tips Teams has loads of features that can be utilised for digital learning such as audio and video calls, screen sharing, chat facilities as well as file sharing and integrating other tools. Also, I recommend when recording a meeting for assessment, to start recording the session immediately so the timings are correct. More tips for facilitating distance learning can be found here: https://bit.ly/2MuKdrz
What has been challenging and how have you tried to overcome it? As everything is done over the Internet, having a good connection has been the biggest challenge. To overcome this, I limit the number
Sam Holland - IT, Social Media & Digital Marketing Curriculum Developer What has gone well? One of the greatest successes has been running digital workshops for learners. As we are unable to deliver our usual full day workshops, we have been delivering webinar sessions that last no more than two hours to keep the learners engaged. Through using Nearpod we are still able to set learners up with engaging and meaningful activities. The key to success is accessibility for learners! We have found that with support from apps like Nearpod, Whereby, Trello, Microsoft Teams etc. even our most technophobic learners can engage with minimal issues.
Teams. We have also been participating in verbal discussions and Q&As with learners over the phone using apps like Cube ACR. The app allows you to easily record your phone conversations with learners, then upload the files to the relevant assessments. For those learners without any access to IT, this app has been invaluable. Top Tips While not being able to offer face-to-face learning has its challenges, we are finding that creating more learner led resources to empower learners to complete work on their own, is hugely improving their confidence. The app Nearpod has the ability to create learner-led resources, which we have received some really good feedback from. Another resource we utilise for learners is OneFile courses through learners VLE. We have created several of these courses with links to Microsoft Forms, so the learners can complete their written work within these forms, and the assessor can be notified when they are completed. While it does take a bit of admin work, it is a lot more interesting and engaging for the learner than just being set an assessment with criteria attached.
What has been challenging and how have you tried to overcome it? Technophobia and low levels of digital literacy are some of the main challenges we face, particularly with learners who struggle to even access the internet at home. We have gotten over this challenge in a number of ways. Firstly, by recording our screens using PowerPoint we can give basic tutorials on software packages or just using a computer. This allows us to give visual demonstrations and guidance to those learners who are unable to access things like
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P&D
Latest from People and Development Changes to mileage and expenses procedure We appreciate in these very difficult times and with everyone working from home at present that there will be little, if any mileage and expenses claimed at the moment. However, after an initial postponement of 2 months, here is a reminder of the changes to the mileage and expenses procedure that have now been implemented in readiness for when we return to work as normal. Mileage Claim process The cut-off date for employees to submit their mileage and expenses claims to their Line Managers via IRIS HR for approval is the 12th of the month at the latest (or the Friday before where the 12th falls on a weekend).
Line Managers have until the 14th of each month in order to review and approve all mileage and expenses claims in IRIS HR for them to be included in the current month’s payroll. Staff must claim mileage on a monthly basis (maximum 6-week period to allow for any missed cut off deadlines where staff have been on annual leave or absent.) This is the maximum that can be claimed. Only in exceptional circumstances i.e. a prolonged absence from work can anything outside of this remit be approved and the P&D department should be contacted in this instance. Staff are no longer able to back claim for 3 months. These changes are effective for June’s payroll onwards.
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In addition, from 1st June 2020, staff members who have a car uplift must now claim mileage at a rate of 25p per mile. The option has been set up in IRIS HR and staff should select “Mileage – car uplift” from the drop-down menu. If any staff members would still like to be sent their mileage report for the tax year ending 5th April 2020 in order to claim mileage tax relief via HMRC for any mileage below 10,000 miles, please contact Steve Clark in payroll who will be more than happy to provide this information and can do on an annual basis when requested. He can be contacted at payroll@acttraining.org.uk
P&D New E-learning Management System We are excited to share that the new Learning Management System (LMS) will be launching in the next few months. The system will allow scope for staff to train and participate in more e-learning, rather than face-to-face sessions. With over 200 staff regularly accessing our Staff Learning & Development SharePoint page on the intranet, it is fantastic to see so many staff committed to their personal development and embracing remote learning in this current situation.
Staff Recognition Awards
Great Manager Nominees
In light of the current circumstances we find ourselves in, we have recently added some new COVID-19 specific categories to the Staff Recognition Awards.
Best Companies are currently running a survey to acknowledge all the fantastic managers who are going above and beyond in their leadership roles during lockdown. We are delighted to report that to date the following managers have all received nominations: Hollie Keepings, Kathryn Mathias, Rebecca Cooper, Clare Harden, Lewis Bowden, Rosalyn Lovatt, Gemma Thain, Ann Rees, Helen Clarke, Becky Morris, Jonathan Ridout, Kate Haines, Antony Leach and Kelly Harry.
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Award for supporting the community during Covid-19 (including NHS, employers etc)
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Award for supporting colleagues during Covid-19
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Award for supporting learners during Covid-19
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Award for innovation during Covid-19
Be sure to have your say on who you think deserves some recognition for all the fabulous work they’ve been doing by heading here.
Here are just a few of the lovely things staff had to say about their managers: “I can honestly say they are best manager I have ever had, putting everyone's well-being above everything else.” “I would not be where I am today without my manager” “They make what is a hard job from day to day, just that little bit easier, manageable, and fun.” Well done to all those nominated and good luck! If you’d like to acknowledge your manager then visit greatmanager.co.uk
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P&D Selenity Expenses+ system Lastly, some exciting news regarding the new mileage and expenses system. We recognise the expenses process on IRIS HR is often a time-consuming process particularly for staff who claim a lot of mileage. The expenses module will now only be in use up until 31st August. From 1st September 2020 we will have a new expenses system with a provider called Selenity.
We want the process to be simple and take up as little of your time as possible to complete. Some of the benefits of this new system include a mobile app for staff to use which has GPS mileage recording facility, built in home to office deductions, ability to upload digital receipts, ability to save regular journeys and pull up those details each time you need to claim etc. We have started the process of sending all our data and users to our assigned Project Manager and will send out further communication in the next month with more details along with training webinars when the system is due to be
rolled out so you can familiarise yourself with them. Each staff member will have a desktop version and mobile app for use to claim. In order to utilise the GPS function, we need to set the home to work mileage deduction parameters in the system and unfortunately the system will not be able to recognise more than one base of work. As a result, in order to implement a new system such as this with use of GPS, the nearest centre for administration / mileage purposes when visiting learners in the workplace agreement that was implemented back in August 2017 can no longer be utilised. All staff will need to revert back to having one main base of work only and this is what would be used to calculate any home to work mileage deductions from claims where applicable. As this was implemented mainly for assessors and we have since introduced a home working policy, we do not foresee this having a major impact as the majority of staff this was put in place for are now homeworking and all assessors are eligible to apply for homeworking
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after passing their 6-month probationary period. This is an exciting new system which should hopefully minimise the amount of time spent claiming mileage and having to manually deduct home to work calculations etc. Mileage can now be updated and stored on the go. The Staff mileage and expenses policy will be reviewed and updated in respect of the new system and will be issued in due course in order to familiarise yourselves with. For any questions or queries on any of the above please contact the P&D team who will be happy to help. We will send out further communication on this closer to the time.
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Treat yourself! It is competition time again. We all need a little something to keep our spirits up right now. With a little help from Crwst Bakery, we have found just the thing. Up for grabs this month is a delicious Sticky Toffee Pudding and Brownie Pudding set for 2. The bundle also features Crwst’s very own Sea Salted Caramel and a packet of Belgian chocolate buttons to make your own luxurious chocolate sauce! To be in with a change of winning, all you have to do is answer this question.
What percentage of our learners rated ACT positively in our recent Learner Survey? Clue: the results are in this issue of Insight
Click here to enter.
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Counselling during Coronavirus
We understand it can be difficult to maintain our mental health and wellbeing when we are trying to cope with the uncertainty and challenges that Covid-19 has brought to our lives. In the weeks and months ahead you may feel overwhelmed, depressed or perhaps suffer a loss. ACT want you to know that we are here for you.
How? Although our counselling team are currently unable to run face-to-face appointments within our centres, appointments are currently taking place over the telephone or through video calls. Video sessions are taking place via Microsoft Teams or WhatsApp video call, depending on the staff member’s preference and consent to the platform’s level of data protection and security. The referral process during Covid-19 is the same as usual, staff members can refer on their own behalf or have their manager refer for them. Simply email: counselling@acttraining.org.uk
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Where? All sessions take place during core working hours and usually last around an hour. However, the length of sessions can be made shorter, depending on your preferences and commitments. All members of staff are entitled to up to 6 sessions of counselling per year. As always, counselling referrals and sessions remain confidential: no one else at ACT needs to know you are having counselling, unless you want them to know.
More information Please contact our counsellors Debra Jones or Cate Harding-Jones directly if you have any questions or concerns and want to chat them before making a referral. We want to support everyone as much as possible during this difficult time, so please get in touch if you have any concerns or questions about this.
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Thought for the day From Cate Harding-Jones What can you hear? During lockdown, many people have noticed the presence of bird song. It has always been there, but the lack of traffic, of rushing, of being distracted have cleared space to hear the birds sing. With more time at home, and more time in this glorious sunshine, I have definitely learnt to appreciate the birds more.
This pandemic brings out many different sounds, feelings and thoughts. Some are to be treasured, and some cause great difficulty and anxiety. All can help us understand ourselves and others better – our emotions, our reactions, and what we need to feel safe and well. My thought for today is to listen to what is going on inside and around us and react with kindness to what we hear. These are strange times and sometimes it can help to acknowledge the sounds that surround us, without the need to judge or immediately fix them.
I have heard other things too, that I might not have noticed before. I have heard people saying ‘hello’ a lot more as strangers pass by. I have heard myself sound irritated a lot more as I spent my time with the same people day in day out. I have heard messages of fear, uncertainty, hope, death, planning and community support.
I have found this article particularly helpful in this process. I hope it is helpful to you too.
Domestic Abuse Support We know that during this difficult time of lockdown, cases of domestic abuse have increased dramatically. Statistically, this is something that may be affecting staff members either directly or indirectly, so we want to offer our support and reassure you that you are not alone and you do not have to suffer in silence. There are many different types of domestic abuse, including: Coercive control, physical violence, financial abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, verbal abuse and online abuse.
Help IS available. Anyone can call the free, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 20000 247 if you are concerned. nationaldahelpline.org.uk There is further information on recognising domestic violence and where to get help during COVID-19 from the government’s website here. Our counselling service is also available to any staff member who is struggling and would like someone to talk to in confidence.
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innovation Virtual Induction and Training With lockdown happening almost overnight, all of us have had to adapt quickly to working from home and rethinking how we continue to deliver services to our learners. four mornings a week, using a virtual classroom, presentations, videos and discussions for the day’s topic. The learners are also sent home study to carry out at their own pace, linked to the day’s topic via Nearpod which they can complete ready for the next session. Home study includes a variety of activities from open ended questions, quizzes, memory games, multi choice polls, word search suggestions and even some physical activities. There were recent links to Joe Wicks workout videos to encourage exercise and movement!
Rosalyn Lovatt, Regional Manager at our Hadfield Road Centre and Garod Griffiths, Peripatetic Tutor have shown how innovative we can be and how quickly we can adapt when times call for it. Concerned that some Traineeship learners would not be able to access training during the lock down, or would have to wait until face-to-face learning resumed, Rosalyn and Garod created a Virtual Induction programme to ensure learners remained engaged and motivated.
"Our learners have gotten on board with online learning and adapted really well"
Using platforms, such as Whereby or Nearpod, for the virtual classroom has ensured that all leaners are able to access the programme. Not all learners have tablets or laptops, so it is essential that no one is disadvantaged and that the classroom could be accessed by a mobile phone.
They compiled a four-week induction timetable of various topics which could be taught online to all Traineeship learners. These topics include: Week 1 - About ACT and getting to know everyone Week 2 - Wellbeing Week 3 - Employability Week 4 - Self awareness
On the final week of the programme, our ACT Tutors are invited into the virtual classroom to meet the learners and answer any questions they may have about transitioning onto their specific routes. Our ALS staff are also involved in the process and work to support all learners and identify any specific needs they may have. To date, there are five groups running in the virtual centre, with two recently completing their training and moving on to their chosen routes
The Virtual Induction programme delivers onehour training sessions to Traineeship learners,
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and centres. In total the virtual training centre has started 26 learners since lockdown began and the programme has received excellent feedback from the learners to date. Speaking about the success of the Virtual Induction programme, Rosalyn Lovatt, commented: “We are really pleased with the learners' engagement in the training as this set up is completely new to everyone. Our learners have gotten on board with online learning and adapted really well. Initially many of the learners were really nervous being on camera and did not want to speak, but as time progressed their confidence has grown massively. It has been nice to hear conversations between the learners continuing as if they were in a face-to-face environment together.
I would like to give a massive thank you to Garod Griffiths, Tim Middleton and Karen Evans who have all been working hard to deliver the Virtual Induction sessions. Thanks also to Claire Baker and a variety of the ALS team who sit in on the classes to offer support and safeguarding for the learners.” Garod Griffiths added, “We hope the programme continues to go from strength to strength! When I designed the Nearpod curriculum for each of the 16 lessons of the Virtual Induction programme, we always kept in mind the need for it to be as relevant to the learner’s journey as possible, and really wanted it to be consistent in this approach for each day of its delivery.
hopefully to inspire each learner to achieve and succeed. We have achieved 100% attendance and 100% completion rate for all the 16 home study activities, with some really positive feedback being reported by the learners before joining their routes. It is a great result!” A massive well done to everyone involved in the creation, delivery and running of the Virtual Induction Programme. Here is some of the fantastic feedback to date from learners. “It is so easy to access the work” “Topics were fresh, never boring and the homework was good” “This really helps keep me in a routine”
The sessions needed to be tailor made and as engaging and stimulating as possible to increase motivation and
Have you heard? THIS ISSUE'S PODCAST
Courier Daily Fancy listening to some positive and inspiring stories of how small businesses are adapting to the pandemic? Check out Courier Daily. The podcast provides a dose of insight and inspiration for navigating a path forward. Listen here
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ACT Schools Well done to all our incredible ACT Schools staff who are working tirelessly to continue supporting our learners during lockdown, many of whom are vulnerable. The team responded quickly to the Covid-19 situation and have been employing their creative skills to set up challenges for the learners within Google Classrooms to ensure our learners remain engaged. In a recent survey, learners and parents both rated the support from ACT as 4.7/5 stars. An absolutely brilliant result!
Several of our learners are on track to achieve 6 GCSE's or equivalents our best GCSE grades yet! GCSE grades have now been determined and we are really pleased with the performance of our learners, several of whom are on track to achieve 6 GCSE's or equivalents - our best GCSE grades yet! Alongside this, Schools have also been working closely with Careers Wales, colleges and local authorities to make sure our learners will be leaving us with positive destinations to move on to. Despite being kept busy with all of the above, the Schools staff morale has also been kept high with team quiz afternoons and some questionable
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costume choices from some of the staff. We’ll say no more. Keep up the fantastic work guys! We are really proud to share that Logan Turner, a student at our ACT Schools Caerphilly provision was recently awarded Caerphilly Youth Services member of the year. Logan was up against some serious competition so we were delighted to hear of his success. Logan had struck up a lovely relationship with our CEO, Andrew Cooksley, earlier this year when Andrew visited the Caerphilly Schools centre. Speaking about Logan’s achievement, Antony Leach, Caerphilly Schools Centre Manager, commented, “Logan is a lovely young man with huge amounts of potential. All of us at ACT Schools are immensely proud of him. We are disappointed that we have not had the opportunity to spend the last few months of year 11 with him, but knowing he is doing so well away from school makes us so proud. None of us will forget the day he challenged Mr Andrew Cooksley to a bet…and won!”
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STAFF IN THE
spotlight This month we put the spotlight on Antony Leach who joined ACT in September 2014. Antony works as the Centre Manager at our Caerphilly Schools provision.
Tell us a little bit about your role, and what your average day looks like. I manage the Caerphilly Schools site. I am responsible for the safeguarding and wellbeing of staff and pupils
as well as acting as the link between the school and other professionals within the local authority along with parents and carers. The day starts with a team briefing where any pupil’s issues/safeguarding issues are discussed along with attendance issues and anything else that is relevant. I spend as much time in the classrooms as my time permits me. It is nice to see the pupils develop into young adults. Each day is uniquely different and brings its different challenges. What is the most rewarding part of your current role? Safeguarding vulnerable children is a high priority for me and the team all share that vision. Collaborative work is central to safeguarding. We all
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hold different parts of a very complex jigsaw. Through strong relationships, collaborative work and the sharing of crucial information we are able to safely manage some of the most vulnerable young people in society. Watching that work in action is by far the most rewarding aspect of this role. Of course, outcomes are important, but I believe that if a child is cared for, feels safe and secure then the outcomes will naturally occur. Tell us an interesting fact about yourself‌ In 2011 I was lucky enough to get divorced and my 2 children stayed with me. I was working on the child protection team within social services at the time and had to give up work to do the school runs. I made the decision that I would give up work, return to University and
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when I graduated I would get a term time job and consider getting back on the dating train. That stuck with me as I completed my Education Psychology degree raising two young children. Fast forward a number of years later to the day I officially received my results. I was due to go on a first date and whilst sat outside waiting for her to finish work I took a call from ACT offering me a job with Schools. The date went on to be my wife and mother of my third child and the job went on to be the term time role that I visualised all those years ago. Spooky! Where is the best place you have travelled to? In 2017 I got married in Positano, Italy. The Amalfi Coast is incredible! The food is out of this world and the people are lovely. I would definitely recommend visiting there at some point in your life. What was the last album you listened to? I am a big Coldplay fan and will almost always be listening to something of theirs at some point. The last full album I listened to was ‘Birdy’ by Birdy. It was her debut album from 2011. She is a super talented singer/songwriter.
What’s the worst job you’ve ever had?
What would be your top tip for colleagues?
I had a few paper rounds as a kid. Sundays are a nightmare! Those bags are heavy and it was always the top floor of the flats that used to have the heaviest papers. It was good money for posting papers through a letter box but do you really need all of those magazines that come with them?
I understand that this is very cliché, but I love my job and I feel very lucky to be in a job I love. It isn’t easy and some days are incredibly challenging. However, I feel privileged to be in a job I love with a client group I enjoy working for and colleagues I enjoy working with. It is all too easy to feel entitled and that we deserve what we
"Of course, outcomes are important, but I believe that if a child is cared for, feels safe and secure then the outcomes will naturally occur." How do you like to spend your time when you’re not working? I am really lucky that my children are older now and share some of the same interests as me. I am a HUGE Liverpool FC fan so spend time watching the best team in the world play with my 16-year-old son. I also love spending time with my girls. I have not gone as far as starting a Tik Tok account but spending time with them is really important for me. Our Schools provision is really busy everyday so sometimes just doing nothing is a treat. Sitting in silence, reading or listening to Alan Watts audio books is heaven for me and I try to do as much of that as possible too.
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get. My tip would be to practice gratitude for all that you have and know that hard work takes you where good luck can find you. A big thank you to Antony for taking the time to answer our questions this month. If you would like to feature in our Staff in the Spotlight section, or have a colleague you’d like to put forward, please e-mail Rachael Lewis.
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cornel cymraeg welsh corner
Mae’n teimlo fel amser maith yn ôl bellach, ond diolch enfawr i bawb a gymerodd yr amser i gystadlu yng Nghystadleuaeth Caru Cymru eleni. Mae safon y ceisiadau yn parhau i wella o flwyddyn i flwyddyn! Llongyfarchiadau enfawr i Laura Swann a oedd yr enillydd cyffredinol y gystadleuaeth, â fydd yn derbyn tabled Samsung. Gweler isod am weddill y canlyniadau. It seems like such a long time ago now, but a huge thanks and enormous round of applause to everyone who took the time to enter this year’s Caru Cymru Competition. The standard of entries continues to get better and better year on year! A massive congratulations to Laura Swann who was the overall winner of the competition and will receive a Samsung tablet. Please see below for the rest of the results.
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Canlyniadau Canu Cymru Canu Cymru Results Coginio Cookery
Sgiliau galwedigaethol Vocational skills
Dysgwr Learner 1af/st - Laura Swann 'Sheep showstopper' (ACT Hadfield Road Animal Care) 2il/nd - Abigail Elrick 'Daffodil cupcakes' (Vale Llamau) 3ydd/rd - Engagement learners 'Welshcakes' (ACT Bridgend)
Dysgwr Learner 1af/st - Construction learners 'Welsh Mosaic' (ACT Hadfield Road) 2il/nd - Bayley Harris 'Daffodil hairstyle' (Hyfforddiant Ceredigion Training) 3ydd/rd - Eli Heyburn 'Animal booklet' (ACT Bridgend)
Staff 1af/st - Melanie Mills 'Bara Brith' (ACT) 2il/nd - Jemma Howard Jones 'Catherine Zeta's fusion Welshcakes' (ACT)
Ffotograffiaeth Photography Dysgwr Learner
3ydd/rd - Andy Edwards 'Welshcakes' (ACT Bridgend)
1af/st - Paige Giles 'Castles and daffodils' (ACT Caerphilly)
Cyfraniad y Gymuned Community Contribution
2il/nd - Jaime-Leigh Smith 'View of Pen-y Fan' (ACT Caerphilly)
1af/st - Nicola Morgan (ACT)
Staff
2il/nd - Adam Fowler (INSPIRE Training)
1af/st - Alison Phillips 'Sheep' (ACT)
3ydd/rd - Gwenllian Jenkins (Urdd)
2il/nd - Melanie Mills 'Snowdon lake' (ACT) 3ydd/rd - Delwyn Edwards 'Choir' (ACT)
Cyfryngau creadigol Creative media Dysgwr Learner
Ysgrifennu creadigol Creative writing
1af/st - Learning for Life learners 'A Welsh Collage' (Llamau)
Dysgwr Learner
2il/nd - Leah Aspinall 'Dragon graphic' (Animal care ACT) 3ydd/rd - Taylor Nicholls 'Positive Praise pot' (Llamau) Highly Commended Traineeship learners 'Montage' (Tydfil Training)
1af/st - Engagement Learners 'Proud to be Welsh' (Llamau RCT) 2il/nd - Kida Ball 'Proud to be Welsh bilingual poem' (ACT Caerphilly) 3ydd/rd - Chloe Rogers 'Roald Dahl' (ACT Barry) Staff 1af/st - Anthony Shapcott 'A visitor’s guide to South Wales' (Talk Training)
Staff 1st - Carly Murray 'Sosban Fach video' (ACT) 2il/nd - HSC Team 'Video montage' (ACT)
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2il/nd - Dawn Rice 'Incidental Welsh... cer amdani' (Portal)
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Introducing our new Welsh Champions As part of our ongoing commitment to our Welsh Promise, ACT have recently recruited more Welsh Champions across our centres to actively promote Welsh in and around ACT with both staff and learners.
Our new recruits are: OPH Ops, Jemma Howard Jones
Hadfield Road Centre, Trystan R. Griffiths
OPH Apps, Eirudd Gregorian
Barry and Bridgend Centres, Sara Loveluck Frank
OPH Traineeships, Kayleigh Phipps
Ebbw Vale and Aberdare Centre, Johanne Cross Solis
Schools, Paul Jenkins
Caerphilly Centre, Jayne Chalk
Eirudd Gregorian | Health & Social Care Assessor: “I absolutely love the fact that I am Welsh and a fluent Welsh speaker. I was brought up in a Welsh speaking household with a Welsh Baptist minister for a father and an award-winning Welsh poet for a mother. I support colleagues and learners to embrace the Welsh language (one of the oldest European languages) and culture, to ensure that it is kept alive for future generations.”
Jayne Chalk | ESW Tutor: “I wanted to be a Welsh Champion as I am extremely proud to be Welsh and love everything to do with the culture and the language. I have also recently completed a 2 year ‘Welsh for Families’ course at night school to refresh my skills. I am now facing my biggest challenge with the Welsh language yet; my English husband wants to learn our National Anthem. Eek!”
Sera Loveluck-Frank | ESW Tutor: “I'm a big advocate for promoting Welsh heritage – I don't think people fully appreciate how beautiful our language and country is and I'd like to change this. I think it's important for us to use our native language whenever possible and encourage younger people to speak it to. The Welsh language seems to have a 'reputation' of being very difficult to learn and I think it's important that we change this!”
Paul Jenkins | KS4 tutor with ACT schools: “I wanted to be a Welsh Champion to raise awareness of the benefits of speaking welsh and help promote the welsh language around ACT. I learnt the language as a child and am proud to speak welsh. I like the fact that I can speak the language of my country and links to our heritage.”
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k boo ub Cl The
Next recommended read... Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire
Akala is a hip-hop artist, writer and social entrepreneur, as well as the co-founder of The Hip-Hop Shakespeare Company. Akala has appeared on Channel 4, ITV, MTV, Sky Arts and the BBC, speaking on wide-ranging subjects from music, race, youth engagement, British/African-Caribbean culture and the arts, with numerous online lectures and performances that have millions of views. From the first time he was stopped and searched as a child, to the day he realised his mum was white, to his first encounters with racist teachers - race and class have shaped Akala's life and outlook. In this unique book he takes his own experiences and widens them out to look at the social, historical and political factors that have left us where we are today. Covering everything from the police, education and identity to politics, sexual objectification and the far right, Natives will speak directly to British denial and squeamishness when it comes to confronting issues of race and class that are at the heart of the legacy of Britain's racialised empire.
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Want to take part in our next book club? Books are free for the first 50 staff who request a copy (first come first served basis) and could count towards your CPD hours (subject to suitability). Request your copy by emailing bookclub@ acttraining.org.uk by Friday 3rd July.
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welcome to our newest recruits! Abigail Gibbins Higher Level Teaching Assistant
Amanda Lewis Health & Social Care Assessor (Powys)
Daniel Williams Learning & Development Assessor
Gino Basiletti Systems Developer
Janine Massey Internal Quality Assurer (Higher Management)
John Miles Facilities & Purchasing Assistant
Jordan Haines Analytics Assistant
Keith Pritchard AAT Tutor
Kerry Gower Continuous Improvement Co-ordinator
Kirsty Eatwell CCLD Assessor
Maria Hendley Apprenticeship New Business Advisor
Michael Knott Learning & Development Advisor
Rebecca Willis Learning Support Assistant
Samantha Hibbs Temporary Cleaning Operative (Caerphilly)
Scarlett Davies CCLD Assessor
Stacey Cassidy Data Administrator
Tammy Douglas Health & Social Care IQA
Tsitsi Muhwati School Cook
Farewell to‌ Kyle Donnelly - Barbering Tutor/Assessor Gareth Houston - Learning & Development Amber Lovesey - Higher Level Teaching Assistant Mike Ramsden - Management Higher Apprenticeship Assessor Karuna Sparks - ILM Tutor
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latest news Here we celebrate some of the fantastic good news stories that are taking place across the CAVC Group.
Here are just some of the highlights from the survey:
96%
of our learners rated us positively A Stitch in Time Cardiff and Vale College Fashion and Textiles Lecturer Kerry Cameron has been working hard, volunteering to create scrubs for health workers in the NHS and care organisations. is partsaid of athey group of 20 people, including of ourKerry learners teachers, costume scenic painters, felt safe learning with designers, ACT curtain makers and retired workers, who came together on social media to raise ÂŁ2,000 to make 200 scrubs.
96% 95%
of our learners said that You can read more their qualification with ACT about Kerry’s story here is helping them to achieve their goals
Returning to the front line
94%
Cardiff and Vale College Health and Social Care Lecturer, Tracy Adams, decided to take of ourpressure learners offsaid the that NHS and give up her Easter their break qualification to returnisto nursing full time.
relevant to their job role
Head here for the full story.
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This publication has been brought to you by the Marketing & Communications team. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this issue. If you have suggestions, stories or ideas you’d like to share in future issues please do get in touch with Rachael Lewis, Communications Officer rachaellewis@acttraining.org.uk Your ideas and input are always welcome!
