Way2Go - National 8

THE YEAR THAT WAS...

1997

WHAT WAS GOING ON IN THIS YEAR?...

SEE PAGE 22

ROAD TO SS! IAL! SUCCTOE RING SPEC SQA - mO

ISSUE 08 SEPTEMBER 2010

LIVE/LEARN/ ASPIRE/ACHIEVE SAFE ROAD USER AWARD

P14

P18 P50 UNDERSTAND THE ROAD AND USE IT SAFELY

playtime TOP GEAR ReVieWS ILL THE TOPS...

ST

FOR LOADS mORE GREAT CAREERS INFO VISIT: WWW.WAY2GOmAGAZINE.CO.UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 1

7/9/10 17:05:21

W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 2

7/9/10 17:05:23

WITH THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS...

WWW.WAY2GOMAGAZINE.CO.UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 3

7/9/10 17:05:42

Nanotechnology

explore the world of nanomaterials...

The interest in nanomater ials and nanotechnology was started by Richard Feynman [a famous pa rticle physicist and lectur er] in 1959, who gave a talk entitled ‘plenty of room at the bottom’.

Ultimately, nanomaterial is about making mater s ials with atomic precis ion, allowing incredibl control of their propertie e s and enabling a whole range of applications.

Such atomic control can already be achieved in the scientific laboratory and control at the ten s of nanometer scale is commonly found in the electronics industry.

NanoMaterials Inspiring Commercial

04 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 4

Success

There are fewer and few er young people going into science, however it is as important as ev er to keep their interest in subjects that shape our lives and are essen tial in helping to combat the challenges of today and the future. To ass ist this, NanoCentral® has developed the It’s small world educational a programme for school students.

Schools, groups and individuals seeking to learn more about how nanomaterials is revolu tionizing modern mater ials science should vie our website www.nanoce w ntral.eu and also conta ct Dr Steve Devine for more infomation, includ ing a teachers handou t. tel: 01740 625 729 email: steve.devine@na nocentral.eu web: www.nanocentral.e u

WWW.NANOCENTRAL.EU 7/9/10 17:05:54

WWW.WAY2GOMAGAZINE.CO.UK

n EDUCATION n CAREERS n LIFESTYLE

05 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 5

7/9/10 17:06:02

INTRODUCTION

WELCOmE TO ISSUE 08: Welcome Back!

With the Summer break now fading into the distance, W2G is back.

SAFE ROAD USER AWARD

Hopefully a lot of you will have received some excellent news over the last couple of months, and for some this will be the defining year of your education.

With the possibilities of further education, training or seeking employment, for others it will be a time to prepare and decide on your future, but for everyone it will be a time to continue the good work of the previous term.

In this issue we look at all things Motoring, with special emphasis on the Road Safety User Award from the SQA. Alongside this we look at the different aspects of Motoring including owning, driving, the dreaded Driving Test, Motorsport and how to become a concept designer.

All the usual features are inside - The Year Was..., with the top ten’s from 1997, Marty the Mit is back with Time2Cook and check out Playtime, which also has a driving theme.

PAGE 14 PAGE 18

Katy Meets - the latest feature from Katy Bennett our student reporter, got to spend some time with Cpl James Wise from RAF Brize Norton, looking at how he has reached his W2G aims of Live/Learn/Aspire/Achieve.

If you would like to get in touch, to give your opinion on any subject we have covered or something you think we should be taking a look at, email W2G as always production@distinctivepublishing.co.uk also if you would like to feature your school, college or organisation, the address is the same.

All of us at W2G hope you enjoy the read and look forward to hearing from you.

Distinctive Publishing Ltd, 8th floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU

T: 0191 4788346

John Dean & Francis Griss

FEATURE EDITOR

deangriss@btinternet.com Pete Thompson

PRODUCTION mANAGER pete.thompson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

UNDERSTAND THE ROAD AND USE IT SAFELY

TOP GEAR PS...

STILL THE TO

PAGE 50

Ewan Waterhouse

BUSINESS DEVELOPmENT mANAGER ewan.waterhouse@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 6

7/9/10 17:06:18

LIVE/LEARN/ASPIRE/ACHIEVE

CONTENTS W2G mAGAZINE 08 6. PLAYTImE 12. CHOOSING A CAREER - OPITO 14. SAFE ROAD USER - SQA 22. THE YEAR THAT WAS...1997 24. BACK TO SCHOOL! - NEXUS 26. mOTORSPORT NEVER mORE POPULAR 28. ENCOURAGEmENT DESPITE TOUGH TImE IN THE DRAGON’S - TREE OF KNOWLEDGE 29. UNDERSTANDING ROAD SIGNS 30. BECOmING A CAR DESIGNER 32. ROAD SAFETY 33. UNIVERSITY RETHINK - NOTGOINGTOUNI.CO.UK 34. INSPIRING YOUNG PEOPLE - A4E 36. TO SEA THE WORLD AND GO FAR - mAERSK 38. SCHO0LCHILDREN INSPIRE POLICE FILm NORTHUmBRIA POLICE 40. KATY mEETS...

42. THE NEXT STEP - ROLLS ROYCE 44. NEW ENTERPRISE IN NEWCASTLE! - RTC NORTH 46. SCIENCE AND mATHS - NWDA 50. TOP GEAR STILL THE TOPS 52. WHEN ONLY YOUR BEST WILL DO - CHEmICAL NW 54. PART OF THE NATIONAL AImHIGHER PROGRAmmE - AImHIGHER LANCASHIRE 56. CAmPAIGNERS SEEK TO REDUCE DEATH OF YOUNG PEOPLE ON THE ROADS 58. TImE 2 COOK

PLAYTImE PAGE 08 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 7

7/9/10 17:06:21

playtime THE A-TEAm

BY THE

mILLER

mOVIES...

The awesome foursome are Iraq War veterans – who have to operate covertly on a CIA-run mission to prove to the US military that they were framed for a crime they didn’t commit. It’s action from the word go as character introductions take little time and background stories aren’t immediately important. As the story progresses and more characters are woven into the plot, the pace doesn’t change and there’s a strong story with a few neat twists thrown into the mix and pop culture references are used well for comic relief.

There are plenty of laughs as The A-Team’s kept light. Carnahan uses the four to great effect; particularly newcomer Sharlto Copley (District 9) as Murdock, whose manic nature both surprises and stuns. Cooper, going down the Hugh Grant-inspired ‘charmer’ road, is settling in nicely to big roles, while Liam Neeson as Colonel ‘Hannibal’ Smith presents a friendly-but-badass father figure to Jackson’s inspired ‘BA’ Baracus. There’s a great on-screen team chemistry, and with Patrick Wilson as CIA agent Lynch and Brian Bloom’s villain Pike, the ensemble are engaging – even with a bit of cheese thrown in. The A-Team certainly gets an A+ from me!

4

RATING hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND YOU SEE: n Smoking Aces n knight rider n District 9

08 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 8

“THE A-TEAm CERTAINLY GETS AN A+ FROm mE!”

7/9/10 17:06:27

.

PLAYTImE

. . .

S ’ D DV

“THIS WON’T WIN ANY AWARDS FOR BRAINS OR ORIGINALITY, BUT IT’S BETTER ACTED THAN YOU mIGHT EXPECT”

DEATHRACE

Within four years from 2008 the economy of the US has fallen into disaster, Unemployment and crime rises, and private corporations run most prisons across the nation for profit. The movie focuses on the Terminal Island Prison, which broadcast “Death Race” to the world. Death Race is not only a race to the finish line, but a battle pitting car against car.

Since all Paul WS Anderson’s films (‘Resident Evil’, ‘AVP’ etc.) are video-game-inflected compendia of his favourite ’70s films, a remake of the 1975 movie ‘Death Race 2000’ as a futuristic ‘reality’ TV show makes perfect sense. The same cannot be said for the plot, which is in constant danger of having its wheels come off.

Bullet-headed action man Jason Statham launches himself fearlessly into his role as steel worker Jensen Ames, framed for murder by Joan Allen’s elegant prison governor, who finds himself taking over the role of masked racer and audience favourite, ‘Frankenstein’.

The deal is, win five races, go free; but first Ames has to use his driving skills and some serious firepower to defeat cartoon villains with nicknames such as Machine Gun Joe and The Grimm Reaper. This won’t win any awards for brains or originality, but it’s better acted than you might expect.

3

RATING hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND YOU SEE: n Die Hard 4.0 n Fast and Furious n Death Race 2000

09 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 9

7/9/10 17:06:37

PLAYTImE

. . .

C I S U m

JASON DERULO - RIDIN SOLO Jason Derülo is a Haitian American singersongwriter, dancer choreographer, producer and actor. He has written hit singles for documents Lil Wayne, Pleasure P and Birdman since 2007, his debut single “Whatcha Say was released to radio in June 2009.

With a top ten album and two smash singles already in the bag, he’s proving more than capable of keeping up with the British R&B stars currently doing the transatlantic chart business. Now it’s time for single number three - and Jase seems to have forgotten all about that lady who was plaguing his brain on predecessor ‘In My Head’.

In fact, as the track’s glistening synths cosy up to clattering beats, the R&B wunderkind declares: “I’m solo, I’m ridin’ solo.” This is another catchy, engaging effort that should keep Derulo near the top on both sides of the pond.

4

RATING hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND LISTEN TOO: n Taio Cruz n Jay Sean n Chris Brown

10 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 10

“m “mORE THAN CAPABLE OF KEEPING UP WITH THE BRITISH R&B STARS”

7/9/10 17:06:40

PLAYTImE

GAmES...

F1 2010

Unlike previous F1 racing games, Codemasters have tried to re-invent the Formula One game by offering an extensive career mode which is heavily influenced by your on-track results, where you will be able to comment to the press, engage in contract negotiations and much more. This has resulted in the game slogan “Be the driver, live the life”. Codemasters also claim to have the best weather system ever seen in any racing game .

F1 2010 will include all of the official teams, drivers and circuits from the coming season. It will also feature the return of seven times F1 Drivers’ Champion Michael Schumacher, the introduction of several new teams, and the brand new Korean International Circuit.

In F1 2010 gamers will take on the full, expanded grid in a variety of game modes including Grand Prix, Championship, Time Trial and an extensive, innovative Career mode. F1 2010 will also feature a highly advanced damage model, fully dynamic weather system and extensive competitive multiplayer options. It’s easily the most realistic F1 game out there, and with the added career mode you will never have to buy any other racing game!

5

RATING hhhhh

IF YOU LIKED THIS I RECOMMEND YOU SEE: n Forza Motorsport 3 n Blur n Need for Speed: Shift

“IT’S EASILY THE mOST REALISTIC F1 GAmE OUT THERE”

11 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 11

7/9/10 17:06:45

CHOOSING a career working ’t doesn industry oil the within rigs the on life a ean m always other exciting opportunities directly connected There are many to the energy sector that are just waiting to be explored...

12 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 12

www.opito.com 7/9/10 17:06:47

jUST LOOK AT HOW RYAN BROADHURST’S CAREER HAS TAKEN OFF SINCE HE FULFILLED HIS DREAm OF BECOmING A HELICOPTER PILOT WITH CHC HELICOPTER. The 24-year-old, has been with the leading offshore services provider for two years, began flight training whilst still at school.

The semi-professional footballer who plays for Highland League side Inverurie Locos regularly flies to oil rigs off the coast of North-east Scotland.

“I’m not sure if the job is really that glamorous but I remember when I first joined CHC getting a real adrenalin rush at the start of every shift,” said Ryan.

“That gave me an overwhelming feeling of how all my training had been worthwhile and that I had achieved my career goal.

“There’s no doubt it is a rewarding profession and it is certainly a nice feeling bringing the offshore workers home so they can enjoy their time off, particularly on days like Christmas Eve. “If anyone is considering pursuing a career as a pilot I’d recommend they take an introductory flight with a training school.

“This keeps us fully prepared for worst case scenarios.”

All the helicopter operators also benefit from the OPITO safety standards which prepare industry workers for working within the oil industry.

Some OPTIO-Approved training centres run courses like Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) which is the survival course everyone must complete before they are permitted to start work.

Apart from the basics of training oil workers on what to expect during normal flight operations, one element of the BOSIET is called the HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training).

This training session allows delegates to practice emergency drills in the event that the helicopter has to ditch into the sea.

The training involves getting into a mock helicopter that is lowered into a swimming pool. In one of these exercises, the HUET actually turns upside down under water.

This just shows how committed training specialists like OPITO and operators like CHC are to achieving the highest possible safety standards which are now very much a part of everyday life for Ryan Broadhurst.

“Whether that’s with a fixed wing aircraft or in a helicopter you should really have a go, that’s how I got hooked.”

So just what does Ryan believe is the most important factor to consider when it comes to flying on a daily basis?

“In a word safety. When it comes to our industry safety is the number one priority and it doesn’t matter whether it’s on the ground prior to a flight or in the air during a flight.

“From the beginning of my training it was drilled into me to complete the task in hand in the safest possible way.

“We are trained to the safety standards of the Civil Aviation Authority and we are regularly checked by that body.

“At CHC we also have our own internal training programmes in order for each individual pilot to demonstrate that they are competent enough to complete the relevant tasks.

“During these checks, which take place at least twice a year, we simulate a number of emergency situations and are assessed on our ability to deal with them.

PICTURES TAKEN

BY TIm DUNTON

WWW.OPITO.COm W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 13

13 7/9/10 17:06:51

Safe Road User Award

It’s easy to say you have confidence out on the road. Is it real or a front?

How often has your heart leapt into your mouth – walking out on the road, on your bike or in a car that’s had to brake too hard, too fast?

14 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 14

coming to schools and colleges near you soon...

7/9/10 17:06:58

After you mastered crossing the road safely as a child, nobody really shows you how to best use and behave out on the road before you start learning to drive.

That’s why the Safe Road User Award was developed. Its main purpose is to help you develop better road sense and make you a much more confident road user.

WWW.SQA.ORG UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 15

15 7/9/10 17:07:06

Developing a positive road user attitude...

The focus is on developing a responsible, careful and considerate attitude toward road use. It will help you to be effective in the safe use of roads as a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist or when you learn to drive.

You could develop these skills through self and peer assessment activities in the following contexts: n n

n

How drugs, alcohol, mental fitness and fatigue can affect your use of the road Risk assess a journey where you will identify possible dangers and put measures in place to stop accidents or incidents happening Risk assess a sequence of road use, identify unacceptable behaviours and areas for improvement to ensure safe road use

Understanding how to use the roads - Prepare for a journey by rOAD n Identify the modes of transport you could use for a journey n Outline which is the most appropriate mode of transport in your circumstances n Plan the best route for your journey n Outline how you would decide if you and/or your companions are fit to travel

Identify what needs to be considered before going on a journey by road n Outline the legal responsibilities of a road user n State the documentation required for using a vehicle on the road n Outline the safety checks that should be carried out before using a vehicle

16 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 16

WWW.Sqa.ORG UK 7/9/10 17:07:10

COmING TO SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES NEAR YOU SOON...

W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 17

17 7/9/10 17:07:15

What you will do n Identify key elements of the Highway Code n Identify road types, junctions and pedestrian crossings and describe their functions n Identify traffic signals, road signs and markings n Identify signals given by other road users n Identify what to do at different junctions and crossings n State the factors that affect a safe road speed n Identify how different road users are affected by stopping distances n Identify how and where to leave a vehicle safely and securely

Describe how to use the roads with regards to the Highway Code and other road users n Describe how to use the road in accordance with the principles of the Highway Code n Outline why keeping up to date with changes in the Highway Code contributes to safe road use n Describe the correct response to traffic signals, road markings, signals given by others and traffic control measures n Describe what to do if you are in a vehicle that breaks down n Describe what to do if you are involved in, or are a witness to, an incident

18 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 18

coming to schools and colleges near you soon...

7/9/10 17:07:19

As a bonus, successful completion of the Award gives you a head start on your UK theory driving test. You will be able to sit an abridged version of this if taken within three years of successfully completing the Safe Road User Award.

You will get a certificate to prove your Safe Road User skills. It comes from the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and the Driving Standards Authority (DSA).

WWW.SQA.ORG UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 19

19 7/9/10 17:07:25

Personal testimonies from the students of Balwearie High School in Kirkcaldy who were among the first to successfully complete the course:

Laura mcLach

lan SRU, 2009

.

“I admit that I was a bit scare d and not very the start of the confident on th course. I was e roads at taking lessons in my Dad’s ca and had a wee r. (somebody ra accident n into the back such a fright. of us) so that g However, this c ave me ourse has reall to drive and to y boosted my c just generally o nfidence being out there than panicking using the road in certain situa s. Rather tions I can now way through it. remain calm a The course has nd think my made me aware attention I nee d to have when of how much c are and using the road can affect me.” s and how othe r road users

009.

U, 2 Rory Imlach SR

at ve learned a gre a h I , e rs u o c e th “Since being on it is important to y h w d n a w o h om knowing deal, ranging fr fe condition to sa a in g in n n oes keep your car ru o, the course d ls A t. n e id c c a nd how to act in an t your attitude a u o b a k in th to roughly lots to get you calm. I have tho p e e k to is it t d have how importan h this course an it w rd a o b n o g enjoyed bein iends.” nded it to my fr e m m o c re y d a e alr

20 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 20

WWW.SQA.ORG UK 7/9/10 17:07:29

COmING TO SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES NEAR YOU SOON...

W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 21

21 7/9/10 17:07:34

1997

. .

S A W T A H T R A E Y THE

jAN 20 Bill Clinton is inaugurated for his second term as President of the United States of America

FEB 22 In Roslin, Scotland scientists announce that an adult sheep named Dolly had been successfully cloned mAR 24 The English Patient wins the Oscar for the best picture APR 21 A Pegasus rocket carries the remains of 24 people into earth orbit, in the first space burial mAY 1 Labour leader Tony Blair is elected Prime Minister with a landslide majority bringing to an end 18 years of Conservative government jUN 11 House of Commons votes for a total ban on handguns jUL 9 Mike Tyson’s boxing licence is suspended for at least one year and he is fined $3 million for biting Evandar Holyfield’s ear during a title fight

AUG 31 Diana, Princess of Wales is taken to hospital after a car accident shortly after midnight in the Pont de l’Alma road tunnel in Paris. She is pronounced dead at 4.00 a.m.

SEP 6 The funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales takes place at Westminster Abbey, watched by over 2 billion people worldwide OCT 17 The remains of Che Guevara are laid to rest will full military honours in a specially built mausoleum in the city of Santa Cruz, Cuba, where he had won the decisive battle of the Cuban Revolution 39 years earlier

NOV 14 Saddam Husein refused to allow United States inspectors working for the UN to search Iraqi weapon sites DEC 19 The film Titanic directed by James Cameron becomes the highest grossing film of all time

Top 10 movies...

Top 10 SongS...

Candle In The Wind - Elton John Barbie Girl - Aqua I’ll Be Missing You - Puff Daddy and Faith Evans Perfect Day - Various Artists Teletubbies Say Eh-Oh - Teletubbies Men In Black - Will Smith Don’t Speak - No Doubt Torn - Natalie Imbruglia Spice Up Your Life - Spice Girls Tubthumping - Chumbawamba

Top 10 games...

Age of Empires Curse of Monkey Island Fallout Myth: The Fallen Lords The Last Express Star Wars Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II Blade Runner Total Annihilation Quake II Dungeon Keeper

Titanic The Lost World: Jurassic Park Men in Black Tomorrow Never Dies Air Force One As Good As It Gets Liar Liar My Best Friend’s Wedding The Fifth Element The Full Monty

22 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 22

7/9/10 17:07:47

W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 23

7/9/10 17:07:53

Back to school!

It’s that time again – a new school year – maybe you’re even at a new school.

Nexus can help you get there and get home.

24 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 24

www.nexus.org.uk 7/9/10 17:08:12

Have a look at the School travel section of nexus.org.uk for information about travelling to school by public transport. And the School bus services section gives full details of the 300 special bus services a day we run to schools in Tyne and Wear.

We can help you get around in your free time too. If you’re looking for ideas of places to go and things to do – check out the Explore Tyne and Wear section of nexus.org.uk. It gives you details of loads of places in Tyne and Wear you can get to easily by public transport – from beaches and castles to cinemas and shopping – as well as events. And for each place or event, we tell you the nearest Metro station and best buses to get there.

Nexus.org.uk is the place to go to for timetable, route and ticket information. Here’s some information that’ll help you save some money on bus and Metro fares – the right one for you will depend on how old you are.

Have a look at the College students section of nexus.org.uk for details of how to get to all of the main colleges in Tyne and Wear.

IF YOU’RE UNDER 16 – GET A CAT! You can travel all day on all public transport in Tyne and Wear for just £1 if you have an U16 Child All-day Ticket (U16 CAT).

The single child fare is 50p, so use the U16 CAT as a return ticket – or make several journeys with it and save loads of money!

So, if you travel to school and back by bus or Metro, buy a ticket in the morning and you’ll be able to use it on your way home too. Or if you go back to your friend’s house after school before you go home, or perhaps pop to the shops, your £1 CAT will still get you there.

And the CAT can be even better value at weekends and in school holidays, when you have more time to get out and about – use it to meet up with friends or visit your Gran, go shopping or to the cinema, get your hair cut or have a day at the seaside.

You’ll need to show your Under 16 Card to be able to buy the U16 single fare or U16 CAT. Under 16 Cards are free, so if you haven’t got one, get an application form from any Nexus TravelShop or at nexus. org.uk.

So all you need to do is buy a CAT at the start of your day, keep it safe, and wherever the day takes you, as long as you’re in Tyne and Wear, you won’t have to worry about having enough money for fares.

We also sell season tickets for travel to school - School Passes – which mean that you don’t need to find change for fares every day. Further details of all tickets available to children and young people are on nexus.org.uk.

WHAT IF I’m OVER 16?

A wide range of tickets can be used on Metro, Shields Ferry, bus and local rail services or on a combination of them all. The ticket section of nexus.org.uk will help you work out which is the best one for you to buy, depending on which type of transport you’re using and how often you’re travelling. There are special season tickets if you just use one type of transport (eg the 16 -18 Metro Student Card if you just use Metro) or the Network One 16-19 Ticket if you use more than one type/ all types of public transport.

Have a look at the School travel section of nexus.org.uk for information about travelling to school by public transport. And the School bus services section gives full details of the 300 special bus services a day we run to schools in Tyne and Wear.

WWW.NEXUS.ORG.UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 25

25 7/9/10 17:08:44

mOTORSPORT NEVER mORE POPULAR

een motorsport has never b y more popular with man king c o fl le p o e p f o s d n a s u tho , s e p y t ll a f o s e c ra s e s to witnes llying. ra o t e n O la u rm o F m o fr

26 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 26

7/9/10 17:08:51

However, few may perhaps realise that the idea stretches as far back at the late 19th Century; indeed, motor-racing can trace its history back to the years following the construction of the first successful gasolinefueled automobiles.

The first race ever staged was in 1887 by the chief editor of Paris publication Le Vélocipède, Monsieur Fossier. It ran for the equivelant of two kilometres and was won by one Georges Bouton in a car he had constructed with a friend. Won may be a somewhat strong word given that he was only competitor who actually arrived it was perhaps not the greatest of achievements!

However, by completing the course, Georges Bouton had shown what was possible and in the years that followed, the French well and truly got the racing bug.

The big breakthrough happened in 1894 when the Parisian magazine Le Petit Journal organised the world’s first competitive race from Paris to Rouen. Sixty nine cars took part, among them a team from French motor firm Peugeot.

The winner, a Frenchman called Count JulesAlbert de Dion, completed the 127 km course in six hours and forty eight minutes, clocking up an average speed of 19 kilometres an hour.

The event was a great success and motorracing was born.

By the early 20th Century, the French were staging international races on a regular basis but with the hugely popular events also came tragedy, the kind of tragedy that has always stalked the sport, that of high-speed crashes.

In the end, the number of fatal accidents brought the races to an end.

corners. The racing circuit was closed in 1939 as war-time aircraft production took over. Damage done to the track during World War Two meant that the track never reopened for racing but its place in the history of automobiles was secure.

As was its influence on others and perhaps the famous of American tracks is thought to have taken its inspiration from Brooklands, the Indianapolis Speedway opening in 1909, at the end of a decade that saw motorsports spreading across the globe.

However, motor-racing was not itself dead. Not surprisingly, given its role in the history of the motor car, the United States was now heavily involved in the new sport and the Milwaukee Mile is regarded as the oldest motor-racing track in the world with races held there since 1903, starting off for horses and moving onto cars.

However, the real change came about in the 1930s when motor companies started creating cars built specifically for racing. Before that, the vehicles had been, first and foremost, road cars but now designers realised that what was needed was cars designed especially to handle the unique stresses and strains of racing.

That decision to adapt a course originally made for horse-racing means that England could claim its place in the history of motorsport by creating the first course built specifically for motor-racing.

Engineers at famous names like Bugatti and Mercedes-Benz took to the challenge and transformed the world of racing with cars that were ever faster and more aerodynamic.

Brooklands, in Surrey, became the first purpose-built motor-racing venue in 1907, complete with its distinctive steep-banked

The decision to build racing cars was the catalyst for motorsport to grow at a remarkable rate and the later decades of the 20th Century saw the rapid development of many of the

By John Dean anD Frances Griss DeanGriss@Btinternet.com

W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 27

famous races that survive today, including the Le Mans twenty four race, a whole raft of Formula Grand Prix races, including Formula One with its star names, and the likes of touring car championships and rallying.

The result has been a history that is scattered with some of the greatest sporting icons of the age and perhaps the first to achieve true international stadium was the great Argentinian Formula One driver Juan Manuel Fangio.

Born in 1911, he dominated the first decade of Formula One, winning five Formula One World Driver’s Championships in the 1950s, a record which stood for 46 years until eventually being beaten by Michael Schumacher. What’s more, he did it with four different teams, Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and Maserati, a feat that has not been repeated since. Many still consider him to be the greatest driver of all time.

Many more greats were to follow to create a legacy which is as strong today as ever it was, Even though cars have become safer, and tracks better designed, the thrill of Formula One - and of all formats of racing - remains as strong as ever. It seems a long way from that first one-car race in 1887.

27 7/9/10 17:08:53

ENCOURAGEmENT DESPITE TOUGH TImE IN THE DRAGON’S DEN

The managing director of motivational training company Tree of Knowledge says that coming away empty-handed from hit TV show Dragons’ Den has restored his faith in business.

an Apodo in every second school in Scotland and Tree of Knowledge wanted the Dragons’ support with a planned October launch of their Apodo for the business market.

Directors appeared on the popular BBC 2 show in August, asking the Dragons for £100,000 in return for a 10 per cent stake in their business as they seek to expand from their Dunfermline base in Scotland into the English market.

The corporate Apodo features a mix of items, ranging from skipping ropes to a movie camera, for use in activities designed to motivate business bosses and their staff.

But, after more than two hours’ filming, they failed to clinch a deal after one Dragon said he’d be unhappy taking a big chunk of the business in return for his investment.

Mr Oattes, who appeared on the show with fellow director Alan Burton, from Dunfermline, said: “Getting the Dragons’ support for our corporate Apodo would have been fantastic. I am sure they would have opened a lot of doors for us.

Managing director Gavin Oattes said: “Basically, what Duncan Bannatyne was saying was that we can get along fine without his money and without giving up a lot of equity in our firm,”

“But ultimately they recognised that we don’t need their help for the price they’d be looking for. They could have tried to rip us off but didn’t and that’s restored our faith in business.”

“We take tremendous encouragement from that, and the fact that Dragon Peter Jones said we were probably the best in our field he had ever seen. The Dragons have a reputation for being ruthless and driving a hard bargain but they’re a bunch of softies really.”

Tree of Knowledge went to Dragons’ Den hoping to attract the support of entrepreneur Peter Jones, who has experience in the education sector south of the border.

Tree of Knowledge, which delivers motivational goods and services throughout the UK, work mainly in schools and wanted the Dragons’ help and investment as they prepare to attack the English education and corporate market.

One of the company’s key products is the Apodo, an oddly-shaped, multi-coloured, toolkit full of weird and wonderful materials designed for a range of interactive motivational activities. There’s

28 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 28

After what’s been described as a “confident pitch”, the Tree of Knowledge duo persuaded four of the five Dragons – James Caan clearly wasn’t interested – to have a go at one of their motivational games, ‘Naughty Ropes’ which involved untangling skipping ropes.

They laughed and joked their way through the exercise but Deborah Meaden then Theo Paphitis declared themselves out of the running as potential backers, followed by the negotiations with the remaining two Dragons which ultimately proved fruitless.

WWW.TREEOF.CO.UK 7/9/10 17:09:01

UNDERSTANDING ROAD SIGNS Understanding road signs is an mportant element of driving safely, but many drivers do not have a full working knowledge of many of the different road signs. This can be problematic, as it is not immediately obvious what some road signs are instructing you to do, or what they are warning you about. On most roads, you will only have a split second in which to react to the situation, so it is very important to have a good understanding of as many road signs as possible. Unsurprisingly, it can be a big challenge to know exactly what they all mean!

mOTORWAY SIGNALS These are often used to indicate that lanes are closed, or that you should change lanes. These types of signals involve red crosses above lanes or diagonal arrows pointing downwards to the left or right to tell you which lane to change into. They may also give instructions on speed limits, weather warnings and upcoming restrictions and accidents.

TRAFFIC SIGNS

WARNING SIGNS

Signs with red borders are usually related to restrictions. Signs with blue circles (but without red borders) usually refer to what you are allowed to do. Traffic signs to look out for include:

Triangular signs (often with red borders) usually involve warnings. Warning signs to look out for include:

n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

School crossing patrol Maximum speed signs Give way signs No entry signs No right turn No left turn No U-turns Give priority to other vehicles No overtaking Stop Go One-way traffic Minimum speed Mini-roundabout No waiting

n n n n n n n n n

Crossroads Roundabout Uneven road Slippery road Dual carriageway ends Steep hill downwards (or upwards) Traffic queues likely ahead Risk of ice Tunnel ahead

Getting to grips with the many different road signs can seem like an extremely daunting challenge, as there are so many of them, but buying a copy of the Highway Code will be beneficial, as many of the signs are featured.

www.dft.gov.uk/dvla W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 29

29 7/9/10 17:09:05

BECOMing A CAR DESIGNER

30 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 30

7/9/10 17:09:11

R

It’s a common predicament. You’re 16 years old and desperate to become a car designer but have little idea about how to achieve that burning ambition. Well, discovering Car Design News is a good start, but if you’re serious about training as a designer to work in a major car studio then you need to do a course in Transportation Design, a branch of Industrial Design (sometimes known as Product Design). Whereas several hundred design schools around the world run Industrial Design courses, only around 20 wordwide offer courses that specialise in Transportation or Automotive Design Amongst the variety of courses on offer, you need to select one that suits your requirements. Obviously a school that’s reasonably close to where you live is one starting point, although that may not be so easy if you’re outside a region where a course is located. The philosphy and reputation of the course and the teaching faculty are also important factors.

Some schools have strong links to nearby car companies or motor industry, where practicing designers will be involved on a part-time basis or for sponsored projects. A few of them have a stronger engineering bias, others may have more impressive modelling and workshop facilities or 24 hour studio access. It’s important to visit a few school degree shows and talk to students at the school to find out what the course entails, what the classes are like and to get in touch with the applications department early on. Many schools have open days and arranging to visit on one of these days is thoroughly recommended before making any decisions.

What qualifications do i need?

Most Transportation Design courses will require you to demonstrate your creative and artistic talent before short-listing you for an interview or offering a place, so good 2D drawing skills remain the prerequisite requirement. In terms of high school subjects, art and design qualifications are therefore an absolute must, so too is being able to work fluently with numbers, in order to cope with basic calculations for engineering topics, such as 3D volumes, aerodynamics or model scales. Therefore, good grades in maths or physics are the next key priority. After that, the ability to express your thoughts fluently in writing is a strong element of many course structures, with research reports or dissertations often forming a key element of final year studies. So, good grades in your national language and grammar should also feature in your high school qualifications.

Foreign languages are increasingly valued, as speaking only one language is likely to severely restrict your career options upon graduation. Don’t forget, the car industry is totally international in outlook and designers will typically work in several countries during the course of their careers. So, if you want to become the next Chris Bangle or Frank Stephenson a few languages might help...

application and course structure You need to prepare a good portfolio of design work, usually A2 or A3 format, although a digital portfolio on a CD-ROM may be accepted for overseas applications to schools. While computer skills such as Adobe PhotoShop or Rhino are increasingly expected, these should be seen as an additional design and representation tools, not replacements for basic 2D sketching skills. Remember, drawing is still the language of designers.

Most undergraduate courses are of 3 or 4 years duration, sometimes with the inclusion of an internship placement with a design studio in the third year. Courses usually offer several routeways (or majors) and students can decide these later on in the course once the core design skills have been taught. Typically the first year will be spent following a general Industrial Design programme of drawing skills and design theory, with later years focusing on more specialised presentation techniques, model making and computer skills.

What about an Ma course?

These are for designers who wish to hone their skills further. The normal requirement is for a first Degree in Transportation or Industrial Design, but other areas of design such as graphics, furniture, architecture or interior design are generally accepted too. The best known course is probably the RCA in London but other courses now exist in other major design schools. In terms of being hired, there may not be a big advantage over a BA graduate, but many companies will offer a slightly higher starting salary or job grade. Another factor is that, when jobs are tight, companies may favour the broader design background and more mature approach to design that an MA graduate should be able to offer.

i’M an engineer. can i becoMe a designer?

Not as easily as you might think. It’s a popular misconception that having an engineering background will be a big advantage, but that’s not necessarily the case. In many ways, the requirements are quite different. The ability to get highly creative ideas down on paper fluidly is not something that can be easily taught and the rational approach of engineering may hamper more creative solutions at the early stages.

It’s a lot easier to take an original sketch idea and seek to make it more practical than taking a mundane-but-feasible theme and try to inject some flair into it.

31 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 31

7/9/10 17:09:14

Y T E F A S D A O R any First of all there are m of any le p o e p r fo rs to c fa k s ri ns why age. The specific reaso her risk young people have a hig d traffic a ro a in d e lv vo in g in e b of x... crash are highly comple

WHY ARE YOUNG PEOPLE AT RISK? Young people are generally inexperienced road users. As with adolescent pedestrians or cyclists, the increased risk of a crash among young drivers can be mainly due to their inexperience on the roads. They may, for example, be less able to accurately perceive hazards, control the vehicle and make appropriate decisions on the road. Also social norms, including peer influence and the rebellion in youth culture can affect the behavior while acting on the road. For many young people, their friends (peers) are the most important people in their lives and are often also their primary source of behavioral norms. Teenagers can be led by what is considered “cool”, not necessarily what is safe. Peer pressure can mean that young people are more likely to behave in a risky manner on the road, both as novice drivers or riders, and as pedestrians.

Furthermore recent research indicates that the parts of the brain responsible for decision making may be still under development until well after the teenage years, also impacting on the behavior on the road. These reasons on top of the use of alcohol and/or drugs in traffic, not using a seatbelt or wearing a helmet, driving at high speed make young people vulnerable. In short, young peoples high risk levels are a product of both who they are and the environment in which they exist.

GENDER Among drivers particularly young males are at risk. They are almost three times as likely to be killed as their female counterparts. Young males take more risks, for example young men likely to drive at excessive or inappropriate speeds, are less likely to wear their helmets and not using seatbelts. Furthermore different testosterone levels partially explain the different behavior between young men and women.

WHAT CAN BE DONE? Understanding the risks faced by young road users is important in order to plan appropriate programmes to reduce road traffic deaths and injuries among young people. Most of the interventions that reduce the risk of road traffic injuries among the general population will also reduce the occurrence among youth. In addition, experience from high-income countries shows that sustained efforts to implement interventions targeted specifically at young adults can lead to great success in reducing the numbers of deaths and injuries among young people.

In conclusion young people are difficult to reach. Parents will have less influence on them and authorities like the police are often involved when it is already too late. To connect with young people

you have to speak their ‘language’ but remain credible and authentic

32 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 32

7/9/10 17:09:16

S L L A C S E N O j Y LORD DIGB K N I H T E R Y T I S FOR A UNIVER urce websites so re er re ca t en ud st d pular dedicate iversity focus. un One of the UK’s most po to k in th re a r fo ll nes in his ca s that people need is backing Lord Digby jo ve lie be I, CB e th of l ra tor Gene Lord jones, the ex-Direc d by going to university ee cc su ly on n ca u yo et that to get out of the minds goingtouni.co.uk ot .n w w w at ge sa es m which is the core With UCAS predicting that 200,000 young people will be unable to attend university and an average of 70 graduates applying for each graduate level job, it has never been more important for people to look into the alternatives and realise that a successful career can be achieved without attending a full time campus based university degree course. Lord Jones believes that we need more young people working towards a vocational training course or work based learning option, rather than believing that they are a failure if they do not follow the tradition route of going to university.

Carl Gilleard, from the Association of Graduate Recruiters, believes that there may have “just been too much emphasis on going to university” and agrees that many young people would be better off choosing an alternative path.

A YouGov poll found that only 35% of teachers could see a clear progression route for Vocational Qualifications, compared to 85% who could see a clear progression route for the traditional academic path.

Sarah Clover, Communications Director at notgoingtouni.co.uk, is glad that other people are finally taking a more common sense approach to university saying “While I believe that university is a valid option for many people, I feel that young people need to be made aware of the marketplace which awaits them when they graduate so that they can decide if it is the best route to take.

The fact that 52 per cent of employers believe the jobs market has too many people with purely academic qualifications, and 68 per cent of employers think there are too few candidates with vocational qualifications and practical skills, also shows that ignoring any alternatives to the academic route during careers advice is actually putting young people at a disadvantage when they enter the world of work.“ Notgoingtouni.co.uk offers an extensive range of alternative options to university including Apprenticeships, Foundation Degrees, distance learning, and employer funded study as well as training courses in over 40 different sectors. For more information please visit at our website at www.notgoingtouni.co.uk

WWW.NOTGOINGTOUNI.CO.UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 33

33 7/9/10 17:09:18

Inspiring Young People

Over the 2009/10 academic year, A4e have been delivering the Skills4me programme within two Darlington secondary schools, Darlington Education Village and Hummersknott. A4e facilitators liaised closely with teaching and pastoral staff within these establishments along with Connexions PA’s in order to highlight young people who would serve to benefit most from the programme.

34 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 34

www.mya4e.com 7/9/10 17:09:21

AS A RESULT A4E STAFF STARTED WORKING WITH 29 YOUNG PEOPLE ASSISTING THEm TO DEVELOP A VARIETY OF SKILLS AND RAISING THEIR AWARENESS OF THE ImPORTANCE OF BEING FULLY PREPARED FOR THE TRANSITION FROm SCHOOL TO FURTHER EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EmPLOYmENT. The Skills4me programme is aimed at young people who require support to help with the transition to work, training or further education and is designed to offer activities and support to learners, thanks to funding from the European Social Fund via the Skills Funding Agency.

SKILLS4mE AImS TO ASSIST THE YOUNG PEOPLE TO: n

develop a range of interpersonal skills

n

explore personal goals

n

explore career paths

n

enhance their school curriculum

n

increase their knowledge of the ‘World of Work’

n

develop their employability skills

n

support their economic well-being

n

raise their achievement and improve their self-esteem.

It is a flexible programme which will provide young people with important knowledge of IT, communication and other skills to enable them to apply for employment or training, as well as motivational activities, such as visits to outdoor activity centres.

that are valued by employers, further education establishments and training providers.

The activities utilised by facilitators delivering the programme were geared around employability skills and raising awareness of the opportunities available for young people in terms of employment, education and further training within Darlington and further afield. The programme also involved CV development, the application process, interview preparation and recognising individual skills and qualities.

“I feel that this programme has enabled the young people involved to showcase their skills and abilities and raised their awareness of the importance of developing such skills.”

Michael Hill, Alternative Education Coordinator, Tees Valley Education Business Partnership.

This programme was hugely successful and culminated in the groups combined achieving 1477 points at GCSE which will be transferred to the schools totals for the academic year. These groups also managed to achieve 46 accredited qualifications, 39 of these being at Level 2. 100% of the learners involved in the Skills4me programme within Hummersknott and Darlington Education Village moved on to positive destinations.

A4e delivered a programme based around the development of employability skills and enabling the young people involved to progress into a positive further education, training or employment destination post 16.

As part of this innovative and forward thinking programme the learners had the opportunity to work towards the ASDAN Wider Key Skills in Problem Solving, Working with Others and Improving Own Learning and Performance.

These qualifications provide a way to accredit Personal Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS). Wider Key Skills can be personalised and applied to different programmes, ages, ability ranges and contexts within the 14-19 curriculum. The Wider Key Skills can also be utilised to support learner provision, as part of an effective framework that maximises experiences by focusing on personalised learning and accreditation. They can also contribute to improvements in self-esteem, motivation and the quality of learning and performance.

Each Wider Key Skill is worth 18.8 points at Level 1, 34.5 points at Level 2 and 20 UCAS points at Level 3. The rationale for incorporating these qualifications within A4e’s delivery of Skills4me was to give the learners the opportunity to acquire valuable accredited qualifications with real world applications

WWW.mYA4E.COm W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 35

35 7/9/10 17:09:25

TO SEA THE WORLD AND GO FAR…FOLLOW THE STAR WITH mAERSK’S OFFICER TRAINING SCHEmE

A CAREER AT SEA IS NOT YOUR AVERAGE jOB… -

Working 9 to 5?

n Train to become an Officer of the Watch with the world’s leading shipping company

Stuck in an office?

n You’ll be paid to travel and work across the world

20 days holiday?

n When you qualify...try up to 20 weeks

No promotion prospects?

n With hard work you could be Captain or Chief Engineer

36 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 36

WWW.SEACAREERS.CO.UK 7/9/10 17:09:38

AND WHAT’S mORE…

No student debt at the end of your training. Maersk pays your tuition fees and a sponsorship allowance.

HOW TO APPLY

ENGINEER OFFICER RESPONSIBILITIES

For more information and to apply online for Maersk’s Officer Training Scheme please visit www.seacareers.co.uk. We are currently accepting applications for our September 2011 intake of cadets

n Operation and day-to-day maintenance of the ships machinery

WHY TRAIN WITH mAERSK?

including the main engine, generators, compressors, pumps and a range of other equipment. n As an Engineering Officer you must be decisive, and be able to

problem solve and work under pressure.

The Maersk Company Limited is one of the largest ship owners in the UK. Vessels range from product tankers and container vessels to some of the world’s most powerful offshore support vessels. Maersk Line is one of the largest container fleets in the world, and the Emma Maersk is the largest container vessel ever built. Not only is she renowned for sheer size, but also her technological and environmental advancements. This flagship vessel is a symbol of strength and innovation that reflects Maersk’s place as industry leader. You will travel to various different destinations whilst working onboard a variety of vessels.

DECK OFFICER RESPONSIBILITIES

TRAINING ROUTES HND, Foundation Degree or Full Degree The minimum entry requirements are: n For the HND training route, 5 GCSE’s at grade C or above,

including Maths, English and Science. n For the Foundation Degree route, 120 UCAS tariff points

including GCSEs in Maths, English and Science at grade C or above. n For the Full Degree route, 240 UCAS tariff points. n Applicants must be EU nationals and have resided in the UK for

a minimum period of 12 months

n Navigating the vessel at sea using satellite navigation, radar, and

communication systems n Weather monitoring n Ensuring the safety of the vessel’s crew and cargo n In port you will be involved in berthing and cargo operations;

overseeing the loading and unloading of cargo as efficiently as possible

n Applicants must be in good health in order to pass an ENG1

medical Your training will take place over three years and be made up of five phases. Three of the five phases will be spent at college, whilst the remaining two will be spent at sea gaining practical experience alongside qualified merchant navy officers.

WWW.SEACAREERS.CO.UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 37

37 7/9/10 17:10:00

SCHOOLCHILDREN INSPIRE POLICE FILm ABOUT ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR

38 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 38

WWW.EBEAT.ORG.UK 7/9/10 17:10:03

The creative ideas of North East schoolchildren inspired a new police film. Pupils under 18 from schools across Northumbria were asked to think about the problem from their point of view - looking at issues in their neighbourhood and action they would like to see taken.

Youngsters were asked to send in their ideas as part of a competition run by Northumbria Police, with the winning entry being made into a professional short film to be used as part of the force’s anti-social behaviour summer campaign.

The winning entry came from Shiremoor Primary School in North Tyneside, a colourfully illlustrated story about three youths who are reported to police by a good samaritan for causing distress in their neighbourhood.

PC Kevin Rogerson, of the Whitley Bay Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Although anti-social behaviour is usually caused by a small minority of people, it can cause misery for communities. Sometimes we forget that young people can also be victims of anti-social behaviour.

“This competition has helped to raise awareness of anti-social behaviour, and it has enabled the youngsters to think about how the actions of a small number of people can affect a whole community.

“It has also produced some excellent ideas and artwork from local school children, which is testament to the way they have embraced this competition.”

Helen Clegg-Hood, Headteacher at Shiremoor Primary School, said: “Our year six pupils worked together to design story boards on issues of anti social behaviour.

“They are thrilled that their story has won the competition and is to be made into a film. Their success is a credit to the children who are very keen to promote good citizenship.”

The new short film will be screened in September at schools across the force, and also on the internet by visiting the force’s new website ebeat.

The website has proved popular since it was launched earlier this year aimed at giving young people more information about Northumbria Police.

It contains crime prevention information and personal safety advice aimed at youngsters. Issues such as alcohol, awareness, drug misuse and bullying are all featured on the site, with information on where to get help and what is and isn’t legal.

WWW.EBEAT.ORG.UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 39

39 7/9/10 17:10:06

HI Katy here, Well, after my first W2G assignment into the world of business, my second could not have been more different – an appointment with the Armed Forces.

I recently spent some time in the company of Cpl. James (Jimmy) Wise from RAF Brize Norton, in Oxfordshire, who gave me a brilliant insight into life in the Royal Air Force and the photographic branch, where he started as a Stills Photographer, but given the opportunities and training courses available Jimmy now works in both Stills and Video formats.

Jimmy guided me through his working day, and the opportunities that have been made available to him in both a professional and a personal life through his involvement with the RAF. Although giving me a great overview of his day to day life, Jimmy, who is now nine years into his 22 year career, has also been on tours of duty in both Iraq and Afghanistan, so this was really the full insight into life in the Military.

CPl Wise also told me of his involvement with the RAF Falcons Parachute Display team videoing jumps from the ground. He is also required to film other parachute types from the ramp of a C130 Hercules aircraft from heights of up to 27,000 feet. He said ‘’this was an experience and a really enjoyable project to work on.’’

Asked if he had ever parachuted, Jimmy replied ‘’ No, but if the opportunity arose I think I would like to try it.’’

A couple more interesting facts from Cpl. Wise – he was the main photographer at the first display of the RAF Falcons summer tour which started at RAF Brize Norton and he was also involved with their 2010 brochure.

Jimmy was kind enough to have the W2G 20 Questions interview, with me, which gives everyone the chance to see how his life has changed from a weekend job to a Junior Non-Commissioned officer.

From a meeting with the Queen to a photographic trip to Kenya, to a tour of duty in the theatre of war Jimmy has certainly achieved the W2G goals of Live/Learn/Aspire/Achieve.

Hope you enjoy reading about my latest assignment as much as I did in researching and meeting with Jimmy.

Bye for now Katy

40 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 40

By John Dean anD Frances Griss DeanGriss@Btinternet.com

7/9/10 17:10:28

Q4.) IF YOU COULD WORK IN ANY LOCATION WHERE WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

I have been fortunate enough in my career to have travelled to Kenya, Serbia, Norway, Cyprus, the USA, Iraq, Afghanistan and countless locations around the UK and I hope to keep visiting new places as I continue to work for the Royal Air Force. Kenya is possibly my favourite so far, it really gave me some good photo opportunities.

Q5.) AS A PERSON, DESCRIBE YOUR THREE mAIN QUALITIES?

KATY mEETS.... jAmES WISE, ROYAL AIR FORCE Name: Cpl James Wise Job Title: Junior Noncommissioned Officer (JNCO) Photographic Section Company: Royal Air Force Lives: RAF Brize Norton Q1.) WHAT BROUGHT YOU INTO RAF AND PHOTOGRAPHY?

After leaving college and being turned away by every media company I applied to for an interview, sheer chance and encouragement from my family persuaded me to respond to an internet advert.

Q2.) WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO ANYBODY THINKING OF jOINING THE SERVICES?

It’s definitely a career worth pursuing, as it can offer a wide range of experiences and training that’s hard to find in civvy street.

Q3.) WHAT IS THE mOST ImPORTANT THING THAT IS LOOKED FOR IN A NEW RECRUIT?

A good attitude. The worst trait to have in the military is a ‘Can’t be bothered’ attitude. If you’re keen and want to succeed, the military is definitely an option worth looking at.

I would have to say that I’m efficient, likeable and hard working. I enjoy coming to work when there’s a lot to do, and I try to finish every day with a clean slate. However it is important to have some time to socialise, some of my best friends have been made whilst I’ve been in the Royal Air Force.

Q6.) AND YOUR WORST QUALITY?

Sometimes when I’m working I tend to shut out all other noises and things that distract me. This can be difficult for somebody trying to ask me a question.

Q7.) WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR mOST SATISFYING mOmENT IN YOUR CAREER?

The day I received my paperwork to “sign on” for 22 years.

Q8.) WHAT DO YOU ALWAYS CARRY WITH YOU TO WORK?

A pen. In my experience people will often require things on the spur of the moment, if you write it down you are less likely to forget to do it.

Q9.) WOULD YOU SAY YOU LIVE FOR WORK OR WORK TO LIVE?

Before I had a family I would have said “live for work” but now I work to live. That doesn’t mean I’m not willing to do whatever is asked of me in order to support my family.

Q10.) WHO IS THE mOST FAmOUS PERSON YOU HAVE EVER mET – WHAT WERE THEY LIKE?

I have met the Queen for the final inspection of RAF Coltishall in Norfolk, it was brief and a little nerve racking, she was very nice.

Q11.) WHO IN YOUR VIEW IS A ROLE mODEL AND WHY?

Anybody can be a role model, good or bad. So I feel it is important to set a good example at all times, don’t be late, polish your shoes and be polite. If you set a good example people are likely to follow.

Q13.) WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST jOB AND THE AmOUNT IN YOUR FIRST PAY PACKET?

When I was at college I worked in the ‘Famous Army Stores’ every Saturday and Sunday selling sleeping bags and tents. I didn’t earn much but it kept me in video games.

Q14.) IF YOU COULD CHOSE TO WORK FOR ANY COmPANY IN THE WORLD, WHICH ONE WOULD IT BE AND WHY? If I chose to leave the Royal Air Force, I think I would start my own business but hopefully I’ll win the lottery before then.

Q15.) IF YOU WON THE LOTTERY WOULD YOU RETIRE? I’m not sure, I probably would.

Q16.) DO YOU mAKE TImE FOR LUNCH EVERY DAY?

Absolutely, lunch is important. Though, sometimes, it may be a little later than usual because a job needs finishing. I still make time for lunch.

Q17.) WHAT IS A NORmAL DAY FOR YOU?

I start work at 0800hrs and perform any photographic tasking that is required. This is often technical images of aircraft parts, public relations images or ID photographs for military passes. I normally finish work at 1700hrs.

Sometimes I am required to work unsociable hours, but it doesn’t go unrewarded.

Q18.) IF YOU COULD WORK IN A COmPLETELY DIFFERENT FIELD, WHAT WOULD IT BE? I would quite like to do something which involves being outside. My wife is an archaeologist; I might give that a try.

Q19.) IF YOU COULD TURN THE CLOCK BACK, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE CHANGED ABOUT YOUR CAREER?

Nothing. I am very happy with my career, I can only hope to steer it in the right direction for the future.

Q20.) WHAT HOBBIES DO YOU HAVE?

The Royal Air Force really encourage hobbies and most RAF bases have a number of clubs, including Sub Aqua, Sailing, Climbing, Archery, Photography to name just a few. I have been involved with Theatre Groups and Rough Shooting Clubs they are a great way of meeting likeminded people you might not otherwise meet.

Q12.) WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST ACHIEVEmENT?

I was incredibly proud when I was promoted to Corporal as it is like being given a big “thumbs up” as if somebody is saying “We want you to stay in the Royal Air Force.”

41 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 41

7/9/10 17:10:29

When I finished my A Levels in June 2006 I was torn between going to university and training to be a history teacher or doing a completely different route and going into engineering.

I kept my eyes open for all available routes and looked into various different apprenticeship programs. Yet it was my older sister who spotted an advertisement in The Chronicle for Rolls Royce North East Training Centre and wondered if I would be interested. She passed on the advert that she had found and I really liked the look of it. I did some further research into the training program by looking at the website and found out the full extent of the program; the thing I liked most being that it gave you the opportunity to get a grounding in all forms of engineering, such as machining, welding and even CAD. As I wasn’t too sure about what road I wanted to go down in engineering I thought this program seemed perfect for me. As I read on I discovered the program got even better, as you were also guaranteed a job at the end of it, as well as a multitude of qualifications. After reading all of this, my application was in the post later that day.

The next step was an aptitude test, followed by an interview. Although I felt my interview went dreadfully wrong, apparently I had something that they liked the look of, as a few days later a letter of acceptance came through my door. When I received my A Level results in August, despite doing well enough to get into university, my mind had already been won over by engineering.

When I turned up for the start date I remember being quite daunted by the fact there were another ninety-eight lads and one lass, and I didn’t know any of them. However within about ten minutes of walking through the door friendships were already being made as we soon discovered we were all in the same boat.

Over the next few months we were taught how to use milling machines, lathes, welding equipment, hand tools, taught about wiring electrical components and how to program CNC machinery. This was done by spending a month at the Training Centre and then a month at Newcastle College, where you study the theory side of the practical work you did at the Training Centre (which isn’t as boring as it sounds).

CRAIG WALLACE and up to date electrical technology. They pay quite well there too, which also helps with job satisfaction!

With a large window of opportunity for career progression in front of me, I can honestly say it would never have happened without the good and hard work by Rolls Royce North East Training Centre. Thank you Rolls Royce! And thank you to Keith Robson as well! You hero you!

Just before Christmas I had three successive job interviews, for Smiths Electrical Vehicles, Jordan Engineering and Egger UK. When I went for the interviews with a number of other apprentices we were given tours around each of the factories and after I had been around all of them I knew exactly which one I wanted to get a job at. The interviews for Smiths and Egger were both for Electrical Maintenance positions, whereas Jordan was for a machinist position. By this point I knew I wanted to go into electrical engineering, having always had a taste for playing with electricity. I think it was on the Wednesday before Christmas when I received a phone call from the Training Centre saying that I had been offered a position at Egger UK, which left me delighted as that was the only one of the three I really wanted to work for.

Since then I have spent the past three years at Egger and I am literally days away from completing my apprenticeship, I can truly say that I have not looked back since. Egger have supported me very well during my time there by sending me on a vast amount of training courses; paying for me to further my studies on a Foundation Degree; and by allowing me to gain experience on a large amount of electrical equipment, from old and discontinued stuff, to the most modern

42 01 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 42

North East Training Centre

WWW.RRNETC.CO.UK 7/9/10 17:10:33

Currently I am studying a foundation degree in Building Services at Northumbria University I am enjoying this and progressing well. Cool Breeze have funded this and would like me to complete a full degree with Honours. I am enjoying my new challenge and over the last two years have developed my skills in estimating, costing, producing prospective company quotes. Initially I was to complete a NVQ level 3 in Draughting, however my Rolls Royce assessor has changed my pathway to a more technical based qualifacation including my draughting skills. This will provide me with a much better advanced apprenticeship and I am still on target to complete by March 2010.

CHRIS CROZIER After being told that I was ill experienced to be an apprentice by a local engineering company I endeavoured to find a training organisation that could help me pursue an apprenticeship, to begin my career in engineering. My Father suggested contacting Rolls Royce Training Centre in Newcastle which he had heard very good reviews of, which could provide me with the necessary training. After I completed aptitude tests in Maths, Mechanical & Spatial Awareness I was given a short interview, and then accepted into their apprenticeship scheme to begin in September 2006. I was very grateful for this opportunity to develop myself gaining new skills and experience in an engineering environment and look forwarded to a future within the industry.

I am now going out on site and dealing with construction industry clients and Cool Breeze customers, and developing my communitcation skills. I feel in the near future i will further develop my skills, gaining new experience and i can see what a good opportunity i was given by Rolls Royce to pursue a career in engineering. They have helped me realise where my potenital lies within this everchanging industry. I had no idea 3 year ago where I would end up or what doors would have opened for me and i look forward to my future.

At Rolls Royce Training Centre I completed a NVQ Level 2 in PEO’s and a BTEC First Diploma in engineering. I progressed to a BTEC National Certificate in Manufacturing and achieved distinctions and merits for my hard efforts. A local air conditioning company Cool Breeze Ltd were seeking an new technical apprentice to produce estimates, quotes and CAD drawings for various construction industry clients. After an interview with Cool Breeze Managing Director I was fortunate enough to be offered a position with a start in July 2007.

I was delighted with this opportunity as I had already realised that a technical services apprenticeship was what I was looking for, and Cool Breeze seemed like the place which could provide me with the support for the remainder of my apprenticeship and future within the industry.

WWW.RRNETC.CO.UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 43

02 43 7/9/10 17:10:36

NEW ENTERPRISE I Thanks to the European Commission and Newcastle City Council over a thousand young people across the city of Newcastle will benefit from enterprise focused investment in their future.

As part of the new £3.5 million Newcastle Enterprise Package over 1,000 young people from schools and youth groups across the city will access FREE programmes aimed at increasing their business skills and knowledge of enterprise. Helping young people to move into a position where they would seriously consider self employment the programmes delivered by RTC North will offer a wide Pick and Mix range of enterprise activity.

Delivered in schools or working with youth groups, sessions will be offered as interactive lessons, half day workshops or full day activity programmes. Available sessions include:

n n n n n n n n n n

Creative thinking and problem solving Idea generation Introduction to business/social enterprise Decision making Entrepreneur case studies and mentoring support Business planning Financial awareness Marketing awareness VVirtual business simulation experience Signposting to regional support and other providers of enterprise education

Working closely with RTC North as part of the Enterprise Package programme Walker Technology College will kick off a series of enterprise activities for young people and CPD opportunities for staff from November 09. With Year 10 students currently working on an enterprise project culminating in Enterprise Week Joanne Lulham from Walker college said:

“AT WALKER TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE, WE GREATLY APPRECIATE THE SUPPORT PROVIDED BY RTC, THE STAFF HAVE BEEN FANTASTIC. RTC HAVE CREATED RESOURCES WHICH ARE RELEVANT AND APPROPRIATE TO THE STUDENTS NEEDS. RTC’S INVOLVEmENT WILL GREATLY ENHANCE THE DELIVERY OF THE CURRICULUm AND THUS FURTHER THE STUDENTS LEVEL OF UNDERSTANDING.” *FREE depending on eligible post code

44 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 44

WWW.RTCNORTH-EDUCATION.ORG.UK 7/9/10 17:10:38

E IN NEWCASTLE !

To compliment the enterprise activities delivered to young people in Newcastle, FREE CPD training for staff is also available. Targeting key influencers of enterprise across the city, idea generation and business simulation sessions will be offered to youth workers, teachers, volunteers and advisers working with young people. With training already delivered to Connexions advisers and KeyFund facilitators across Newcastle Janine Marshall from RTC North commented:

“WE ARE CURRENTLY ENTERING A REALLY EXCITING PERIOD OF ENTERPRISE LEARNING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN OUR REGION. BY WORKING WITH KEY INFLUENCERS AND ADVISERS OF THESE GROUPS WE WILL ENSURE THAT ENTERPRISE LEARNING WILL BECOmE EmBEDDED AND SUSTAINABLE. WE ARE PLANNING TO REACH OVER ONE THOUSAND YOUNG PEOPLE ACROSS NEWCASTLE AND RECOGNISE THE “TRAIN THE TRAINERS” WORKSHOPS ARE CRUCIAL TO THE SUCCESS OF THIS INITIATIVE.” The two part training programme for staff aims to increase knowledge of entrepreneurship by offering a one day business simulation workshop complemented by a suite of three half day thematic workshops. The Business simulation process is a valuable element of the support package offering participants the opportunity to run their own virtual business. Supported by business planning, sourcing finance and marketing sessions Influencers will be better placed to help young people develop their skills for running a venture.

CONTACT US NOW FOR FURTHER INFORmATION:

T: 0191 5164400 E: enquiries@rtcnorth.co.uk W: www.rtcnorth-education.org.uk RTC North is a trusted delivery partner of business support, innovation and enterprise programmes on behalf of regional development agencies, the European Commission, local authorities and central government.

WWW.RTCNORTH-EDUCATION.ORG.UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 45

45 7/9/10 17:10:43

and Maths Science where they can take you!

– see

n ca u yo s er re ca ng ti ci ex e th of e m Discover so l Science, ve -le A ng yi ud st by t es w th or N e th do in .

Technology, Engineering and Maths Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths are the cornerstones of a productive nation and can affect everything we do in our daily lives. They form the basis for many careers and industries and can be fascinating in their own right.

The future of the region’s productivity lies heavily on young people choosing to stick with these exciting subjects, which are often referred to as STEM subjects. STEM subjects have the ability to improve the quality of people’s everyday lives and find solutions to global challenges, such as sustainable economic development.

Choose Science Science can allow you to discover how ideas contribute to technological change – affecting industry, business and the environment Science is far more diverse than the traditional Chemistry, Physics and Biology subjects

46 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 46

Choose Technology Technology gives you the skills to understand of economic, industrial and environmental issues within industry and business Technology opens the door for careers in engineering – automotive, forensic, aerospace environmental… the list is truly endless

Choose Maths Maths is important for all members of a modern society, for its use in the workplace, business and finance Maths is the basic tool for understanding economics

Maths is essential for participation in the knowledge economy Maths gives you the ability to work on problems and in contexts beyond the school gates

Choose ICT ICT skills let you understand and apply skills purposefully in learning, everyday life and employment ICT presents numerous career opportunities that are fast-moving, full of variety, interesting and rewarding

www.futuremorph.org 7/9/10 17:10:51

Interested?

Visit www.FutureMorph.org to view just how exciting and rewarding studying technology, engineering or maths beyond the age of 16 can be. It isn’t just a one track road to becoming a scientist or engineer – the skills and knowledge you gain are valuable in almost any career and will make you very employable.

STEM Careers in the Northwest Energy & Environmental Technologies “Think Green” is the new hot topic on everyone’s lips – from homes to business, travel, transport and leisure, the future is definitely one that will be led by environmentally friendly and eco-conscious firms.

It is for this very reason that careers in the energy and environmental technologies sector are growing at a phenomenal rate – the range of jobs available in these industries is huge, especially in England’s Northwest, which is taking the lead on climate change, energy and wider sustainable development…. In a sector that nationally employs over 530,000 people there is no doubt that there is a career that would suit you. Over the next 10 years the sector needs to recruit over 14,000 people within the UK to replace those that are retiring or moving onto jobs in other industries, so there are plenty of opportunities at all levels.

The main categories of employment are management, scientific, technical and craft, commercial and sales, and administrative/clerical.

Demand is high for skilled engineers and technicians, scientists, operatives and customer care staff in particular and for flexibility and adaptability necessary across all occupations in an ever-changing working environment.

Where do I start?

As with many industries there are a number of ways to get into the top jobs. The most important factor is to ensure you have good grades – especially in maths, science and technology. Taking these subjects at A-Level or equivalent will stand you in good stead of working your way up the ladder.

Apprenticeships are a great opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised qualification, gain work experience and develop transferable skills - all while getting paid! Apprenticeships are available at several levels, including a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) or Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ). This includes key or core skills, employment rights and responsibilities and in some cases a Technical Certificate. By the end of the programme, the mix of training undertaken ensures that you are both competent to do the job you have been training for, and you have the essential underpinning knowledge and transferable skills.

Advanced Manufacturing Manufacturing is a crucial sector in the North West economy. Here are some key facts about four of the main manufacturing industries chemicals, aerospace, automotive and technical textiles: They employ around 400,000 people in the region - about 12% of the workforce.

There are over 20, 000 businesses across the four industries in the Northwest.

The industries are together worth almost £15 bn to the region’s economy.

All of these facts mean there are fantastic, exciting opportunities for you to start your career in manufacturing in the Northwest. Make sure you visit the Skills NW careers event in February, the biggest skills and careers event happening in the region, to get a real taste of different future career options in manufacturing.

Chemicals Chemicals are absolutely vital to our daily lives – they end up being used in loads of products and services we purchase every day. There may be many stages between the processing of a chemical and the final consumer, but it is estimated that each UK household either directly or indirectly spends around £30 per week on chemicals.

The North West is the largest regional centre for chemical manufacture in the UK and the sector employs 51,000 highly skilled people.

Chemicals is also one of the North West’s largest exporter and 60% of the world’s top 50 chemical manufacturers are based in the region, including major companies in: • Petrochemicals • Pharmaceuticals • Cleaning agents, soap and detergents • Performance and speciality chemicals • Agrochemicals • Polymers and plastics • Coatings • Advanced flexible materials.

These are just some of the well-known names located in the Northwest: AstraZeneca, Ineos Group, Unilever, Shell UK, Innospec, Solvay, Brunner Mond, Innovia Films, GrowHow and Johnson Matthey.

The North West region has a strong science and engineering base with 15,000 graduates each year in science, technology, and engineering and maths subjects. Universities in Manchester, Liverpool & Central Lancashire have major strengths with respect to chemical related research and a track record in innovation and Lancaster University complements a specialises in environmental chemistry.

You can start your career in chemicals through a wide range of routes - from apprenticeship schemes through to graduate and recruitment.

There is demand for people with diplomas, NVQs and degrees and there are also opportunities to study whilst working and move from NVQs through to foundations degrees and onwards…

Learn more about the industry and careers in chemicals at www.cogent-careers.com and www.chemicalsnorthwest.org.uk.

www.scienceandmaths.net W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 47

47 7/9/10 17:10:53

TECHNICAL TEXTILES

AEROSPACE

The Advanced Flexible Materials sector is also known as Technical textiles. In technical textiles, the performance and physical properties are more important than other features, such as colour, style, handle and price.

Aerospace is one of the UK’s most highly-advanced and successful industries, with a turnover of £20 bn a year.

Firms in this industry produce textiles, materials, fabrics and composites and cater for a wide range of high performance end-use markets including

• Construction • Civil engineering • Industrial applications • Automotive & aerospace • Medical applications • Technical and high performance garments.

There are about 450 companies in technical textiles in the Northwest, employing 22,000 people. This is the largest technical textile cluster in Europe. The sector supplies materials to a large number of businesses in other sectors so it is a really important sector in the region.

EXAmPLES OF mATERIALS USED IN TECHNICAL TEXTILES ARE: • Composite materials are used in F1 cars, top-end sports cars and aircraft.

• Protective clothing materials are used in military and police uniforms and bullet proof products.

• Automotive fabrics are used in sound insulation, seat fabrics and airbags.

• Industrial fabrics are used in camouflage and beltings for the print and aluminium industries.

• Medical fabrics are used to make bandages and replacement joints.

It is possible to get into technical textiles through apprenticeships, further education NVQs and degree courses.

Find out more about career opportunities at www.skillfast-uk.org/justthejob/ and www.nwtexnet.co.uk

48 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 48

The Northwest aerospace industry is the largest in the UK, accounts for almost one third of total UK turnover, employs over 60, 000 people and is recognised as a global centre of excellence. In total, more than 100 major aircraft types have their roots in the region. The major aerospace companies all have a presence in the region – BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and Airbus.

There are great opportunities in aerospace design and engineering.

The industry is at the forefront of efforts to tackle the climate change impacts of transport and we are beginning to see revolutionary changes to aircraft design. Aerospace engineers design and develop products such as:

• Airliners • Helicopters • Fighter jets • Satellites • Space vehicles engineers.

They also work on components that make up aircraft such as landing gear, engines and electrical/electronic systems also require highly specialised skills.

Specialist opportunities include careers in:

• Aerodynamics • Propulsion • Manufacturing Management • Materials & structures.

• Avionics • Systems Iwntegration Get more information on careers in aerospace at www.semta.org.uk/careers__qualifications.aspx and www.aerospace.co.uk.

WWW.APPRENTICESHIPS.ORG.UK

7/9/10 17:10:54

AUTOmOTIVE

DIGITAL & CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

The automotive industry is very important to our economy. Nationally, it employs 200,000 people in over 3,000 companies. The Northwest is the second most significant region for the industry in the UK. In 2007 we produced over 220,000 cars and over 20,000 trucks and buses.

As the ‘wow-factor’ goes, a career in the Digital & Creative Industries won’t disappoint. England’s Northwest is internationally recognised as a hub of creative talent, with an incredible amount to offer those who wish to pursue a career in this exciting industry. career

Some key facts about the Northwest automotive industry • Worth over £9 bn per year • Employs over 40,000 people in 500 companies.

• The auto industry in the Northwest specialises in making commercial vehicles – particularly buses and trucks.

• To respond to climate change the government has set big targets to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from vehicles by 60% by 2050.

Already, average new car emissions have dropped by 12 per cent in nine years, thanks to investment in technologies like hybrids, biofuel cars, low-emission diesels and improvements in fuel economy.

• Northwest companies are pushing ahead with systems to improve the environmental impact of vehicles. For example, Torotrak in Leyland have developed new transmission systems to cut vehicle’s fuel consumption.

• They are also involved in the development of new systems for energy storage which will be used in the 2009 F1 season.

• The need to continue environmental improvements will create more opportunities for engineering careers in the region.

The industry is looking for young people who have the right technical and personal skills and are keen to meet the challenges of new technology. In the manufacturing sector, traditional engineering skills are influenced more and more by advances in robotics and computers but also personal leadership skills. Companies need engineers with electronics, systems and software skills. These are the roles in demand by the industry:

• Design engineers • Electronic engineers • Production engineers • Technicians • Maintenance • Tool-making • Prototyping You can get more information on careers in automotive at www.semta.org.uk and www.nwautoalliance.com

There are no hard or fast rules when it comes to training, however the right personality and tons of enthusiasm can get you a head start. It is a very competitive environment and to get ahead you have to be willing to work hard with 100% commitment - Whether you want to work behind-the-scenes, in front-of-camera or in the expanding world of digital or interactive platforms, there’s a lot that you can do to improve your chances of success. In terms of creative buzz, few careers provide the same job satisfaction as those in the media and if you’ve got what it takes, the rewards can be great.

If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry, you’re not alone!

Many people who now have a dream job were once in your position.

A bit of timely research might just give you the kick-start you need.

For training, advice and all the latest recruitment news visit www.skillset.org - Skillset is the UK’s Audio Visual Industries Sector Skills Council, covering areas such as broadcast, film, video, interactive media and photo imaging – they can help with the different jobs that are available and the career routes open to you.

WWW.NWDA.CO.UK

W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 49

49 7/9/10 17:11:01

Top Gear ... still the tops

Other television programme-makers may try to argue the point but when it comes to television motoring shows, the biggest and the best in the UK is Top Gear.

50 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 50

By John Dean and Frances Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

7/9/10 17:11:03

Now viewed all over the world as well, the show has made presenters Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May big stars and among the most influential figures in the car world. A critical comment from them about a new make of vehicle can cause all sorts of damage to sales.

Top Gear has had a chequered history, starting out as a car-based BBC television series produced by BBC Birmingham, and broadcast on BBC2 between 1977 and 2001.

It was a 30-minute magazine format programmes presented by a number of people, including William Woollard, Angela Rippon, Noel Edmonds, and Jeremy Clarkson himself, and was a world away from today‘s hugely popular show Originally, Top Gear reviewed new car models and covered other car-related issues such as road safety.

Other features included classic car events and reports on motorsport.

However, in time it became edgier and more controversial, moving away from its somewhat staid beginnings and pulling in huge audiences to become BBC2’s Top viewed programme with audiences topping five million from 1988.

However, the success did not last and following the departure of many well-known presenters, the audience fell from a peak of six million to under three million by the early 2000s. Among the departures was Clarkson.

In 2002, Channel 5 launched Fifth Gear, a car show featuring many former Top Gear presenters including Tiff Needell, Quentin Willson and Vicki Butler-Henderson, and the BBC had had enough.

After the first series of Fifth Gear was completed, the corporation decided to give Top Gear one last chance and relaunch the show with a studio-based format featuring Clarkson, Hammond and, after the first series, James May. The rest, as they say, is history. The new show’s irreverent and exciting format struck a chord with viewers who loved stunts like driving old bangers across Africa and taking vehicles to the Pole and up mountains, who tuned in in their millions to see celebrity guests being interviewed and trying out their driving skills, and who thoroughly appreciated car reviews featuring the likes of super-cars filmed against backdrops containing helicopter gunships and Army snipers.

Also popular has been the mysterious character The Stig, the show’s tame racing driver who pushes new cars to their limit round the Top Gear track.

The beguiling combination of humour, irreverence, celebrities and stunts has proved an enduring recipe for success.

www.bbc.co.uk/topgear/ W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 51

51 7/9/10 17:11:05

Paul (centre) receiving his award from Nicola Eagleton-Crowther of The Manufacturing Institute and Steve Mould.

When only your best will do Paul Staniland is a research chemist at Croda International, a global leader in speciality chemicals. Earlier this year, Paul scooped the Young Achiever Award at the 2010 Chemicals Northwest Awards for his work in the lab and in the local community. Here Paul talks to Chemicals Northwest about his job and where ‘doing your best’ can get you.

New product development I work at Croda as a research chemist, in the Metal Oxides Synthesis laboratory in Widnes. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO) are used widely in sun care applications, and my job involves developing new products which provide benefits to formulation scientists in the cosmetic industry.

I find my job really interesting, every day provides me with a different challenge; this certainly makes going to work exciting. I enjoy being able to express my ideas, trying different experiments which may not work initially, but help on the way to my eventual goal.

I also like having the opportunity to work with people from other areas of the business, including manufacturing, sales, finance and marketing.

On a typical day, I carry out research experiments on a small scale. This involves lots of tests to ensure the final product we launch is optimised.

If these experiments are successful, I liaise with our production plant to carry out trials on a much larger scale.

52 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 52

www.croda.com 7/9/10 17:11:17

WORKING IN R&D The best part about the job is launching a new product after months of hard work. There is a definite sense of achievement when I look back at the stages of research I have been through during a project.

The worst aspect is being able to find enough hours to do what I would like to do! Working in R&D (research and development) requires organisation and project management skills. There can be so many ideas and tasks to carry out during a typical day, that if you do not prioritise and work logically, it can easily become overwhelming.

Along with my day-to-day research, I am responsible for organising the numerous activities Croda undertakes within the local community. I organise Children Challenging Industry days, during which local primary schools visit the site to see our facilities, and arrange for our staff to help with various projects at the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre in Widnes. I appreciate the opportunity to give something back to the local community in this way.

STUDY CHOICES I went to Bury Church of England High School near Manchester, and did separate science GCSEs in Chemistry, Biology and Physics, along with subjects such as Geography and German. I then went on to Holy Cross College in Bury to study A-Levels in Chemistry, Geography, and English Language (quite a diverse combination of subjects!). Whilst I realised I needed certain subjects to get into university, I very much wanted to do subjects that I enjoyed.

I went on to complete a PhD in Inorganic Chemistry at Loughborough University and Postdoctoral work. These both gave me an excellent insight into how to conduct R&D work. There are many occasions when scientific research may not work; previous jobs taught me to keep going, think of new ideas and that negative results can be as useful as positive ones!

CAREER ADVICE I was always told by my parents and teachers to ‘do my best’ and this is something I still look to do now. My theory is that if I give everything then I cannot look back and have any regrets later.

I’ve also learnt that it’s important not to give up on things so easily.

I almost left my Chemistry degree course to study another subject, but was advised to continue by my lecturers and parents. I am glad I persevered, as the sense of achievement when I received my degree definitely made it worthwhile.

In the future, I’d like to continue working in R&D; I think it gives the possibility to be creative and make a difference which many careers do not. I would like to continue to raise awareness of science, and continually progress my career – or, in my parents’ words, ‘do my best’.

ABOUT CRODA INTERNATIONAL Croda International is a global leader in speciality chemicals, sold to a wide range of markets - from personal care to health care; from crop care to coatings and polymers. Croda’s products form vital ingredients in many ‘household name’ products and every day, every one of us will use a Croda product in some shape or form.

Over the last decade, Croda’s skin, sun and hair care technologists have helped manufacturers create unique and patented technologies designed to answer current and future market trends. A mix of natural raw material sourcing combined with creative chemistry enables Croda to offer exceptional solutions to the challenges facing its customers.

WWW.CHEmICALSNORTHWEST.ORG.UK W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 53

53 7/9/10 17:11:22

Aimhigher Lancashirepart of the national Aimhigher programme

Aimhigher Lancashire is part of the national Aimhigher who programme, which encourages young people with potential higher’. would not normally consider Higher Education (HE) to ‘aim greater It aims to raise aspirations, widen horizons and create a skills base in the workplace.

01 54 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 54

www.aimhigher.ac.uk/lancashire 7/9/10 17:11:23

Aimhigher Lancashire is one of 5 area partnerships in the North West, and is represented by relevant stakeholders and agencies in Lancashire who are committed to the development and promotion of a coherent programme of activities

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF AImHIGHER? n

n

n

n n n

Raise aspirations and motivation to enter HE among young people in schools, further education and workplace learning, who are from under-represented groups Raise the attainment of potential HE students, who are from underrepresented groups, so that they gain the academic or vocational qualifications and learning skills that will enable them to enter HE Strengthen progression routes into HE via vocational courses, including Apprenticeships, whether they are delivered in schools, colleges or the workplace Offer Information, Advice and Guidance to potential HE students, their teachers and families.

Work with employers and training providers to progress students onto vocational routes to HE Encourage those already in the workplace to become full-time, parttime or distance learning students

WHO BENEFITS FROm AImHIGHER LANCASHIRE? Aimhigher Lancashire delivers a wide range of activities to young people aged 13-30, who have the potential to progress to HE but are under-achieving, undecided or lacking in confidence. The programme particularly focuses on young people from neighbourhoods with lower than average HE participation, people whose family have no previous experience of HE, young people in care, some minority ethnic groups and the disabled.

WHAT ACTIVITIES DOES AImHIGHER LANCASHIRE OFFER? n n n n n n n

HE awareness workshops delivered by current students at a local University Master Classes to enthuse future students and taster sessions in subject specific areas Recruitment and support for summer schools for those who are still undecided about applying to HE. Mentoring. Student ambassadors will work as mentors to young people to prepare them for the transition into FE and then HE. Managing money workshops to improve knowledge and understanding of the financial issues associated with HE Study Skills workshops such as Time Management, Mind Mapping and Revision and Exam Techniques.

Information sessions for parents and carers

We are proud to be part of the Lancashire Lifelong Learning Network which has over 40,000 learning opportunities for vocational learners in Lancashire

ACTIVITIES ARE TARGETED AT: Young people aged 13-19 currently under-represented in HE, and their families n Hard to reach and excluded groups of young people and work-based learners n

AND THESE ARE DELIVERED THROUGH:

Schools and colleges in each of the 14-19 Partnership/LEAD groups, supported by an Aimhigher Lancashire co-ordinator n The 4 Universities in Lancashire (HEIs) n A central management and administration team hosted by UCLan n

02 55 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 55

7/9/10 17:11:31

Campaigners seek to reduce death of young people on the roads

56 W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 56

By John Dean and Frances Griss deangriss@btinternet.com

7/9/10 17:11:36

ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGNERS ARE TARGETING YOUNG PEOPLE IN AN EFFORT TO CUT DOWN ON THE NUMBER OF ACCIDENTS. Research suggests that too many young people break the speed limit, putting themselves and other drivers at risk.

A survey published this summer by the road safety charity Brake and courier FedEx showed that many young people admit to shocking levels of speeding, often when they have their friends in the car with them.

The survey of 2,800 British youngsters, carried out as part of the charity-backed 2young2die campaign, found: n More than half (56%) have been a passenger in a car driven by a young driver at more

than 40 mph in a 30 mph limit or at more than 70 mph on a rural road.

n 1 in 5 (23%) have raced on a public road as a driver or passenger. n 1 in 10 (10%) have overtaken another vehicle, at speed, without being able to see

what is coming.

The research also showed that young passengers find it difficult to protest when put at risk by speed, or simply don’t realise they are in danger.

More than half (58%) of young passengers surveyed who’d been in a car driven by a speeding young driver said they didn’t ask the driver to slow down.

According to Brake and the courier, the result of such actions was a tragic loss of young lives. Road crashes are the biggest killer of young people aged 15-24 with young drivers involved in more fatal crashes than any other age group of drivers.

And 43% of people who die on the road in crashes involving speed are aged 16-25.

Brake, which wants to the Government to introduce a graduated driver licensing system so that young people can learn to drive in stages over a longer time period, is supported by the Association of British Insurers which also wants to dramatically reduce casualties among young people Ellen Booth, Brake campaigns officer, said: “Many young people get a thrill from driving fast with their friends in the car, but because of the way young people’s brains develop, they often don’t yet have the ability to control their thrill-seeking tendencies. They often feel invincible and over-estimate their power to get out of trouble. Brake is urging the Government to take steps now to stop more families suffering the devastation of the death of a teenager.”

The survey was carried out using anonymous questionnaires completed by 2,800 14-25 year olds in schools and colleges throughout the UK as part of the 2young2die campaign.

The campaign aims to stop deaths and injuries involving young drivers and motorcycle riders by running workshops in schools, colleges and youth offender institutions, led by volunteers trained by Brake. The volunteers include bereaved and seriously injured road crash victims, emergency service professionals such as paramedics and fire officers, teachers and youth workers. These volunteers engage groups of young people in hardhitting discussions about the extent of deaths and injuries on roads involving young drivers.

Will Martin, Managing Director, Operations, FedEx Express, said: “The results of this survey show the importance of educating young people on road safety and the consequences of their actions if they ignore the risks of speeding and do not pay full attention while driving. The work that Brake does is critical to reducing the number of deaths on the UK roads each year and FedEx Express is proud to support this cause.”

For more information about the 2young2die campaign, go to www.2young2die.org.uk

www.2young2die.org.uk W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 57

57 7/9/10 17:11:39

216 x

K O O C 2 T mE

cook it!... to ve lo e w , so e or m en ev od...and Here at W2G we love our nfoand pull on that old oven glove. It’s... so tie on that apro

Bangers & mash INGREDIENTS n n n n n n n n

4 value sausages Red onion, sliced 2 baking potato, peeled and diced 2 tsp vegetable oil 150 ml gravy, made up from gravy granules 2 tsp margarine 4 tbsp milk 2 tsp English mustard

mETHOD...

1. Preheat the grill 2. Cook the potato in lightly salted boiling water for 10 mins 3. Separate and pierce the sausages and grill them for 10-12 mins 4. Heat the oil in a saucepan and fry the onions for 2-3 mins 5. Pour in the gravy and simmer until it thickens 6.

Drain the potato and mash with the butter or margarine, mustard and milk until creamy

spoon the mash onto a plate, top with the sausages and 7. Topourserve, the gravy over both

2

Serves:

COST: £0.80 PER SERVING PREP. TImE: 5 mINS COOKING TImE: 20 mINS mORE EXCITING RECIPE’S FROm mARTY THE mIT NEXT TImE!!!

58 061

W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 58

7/9/10 17:11:46

216 x 275 way2go ebeat advert_Layout 1 18/05/2010 14:34 Page 1

ebea t

t!...

www.ebeat.org.uk

What’s it like to be a real cop?

What can you do to stay safe?

What’s prison life really like?

Just some of the questions you can find answers to in

log on and find games, competitions and more...

061

W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 59

7/9/10 17:11:48

W2G(NATIONAL)08.indd 60

7/9/10 17:11:57