Quest April - May 2019 by Bulldog Publishing

THE HOME OF EVERYTHING ELC April/May 2019

Quest October Final

10/6/04

2:49 PM

Page 1

20 YEARS OF QUEST

OCTOBER 2004

Driving & Transport Management QUARTERLY RECRUITMENT SUPPLEMENT OCTOBER 2004 “There are a number of skills issues facing the road transport industry today, in particular problems with recruitment and a shortage of drivers, accentuated by an ageing population of current drivers. Increased demand

This month focus on…

will make the problem worse” Minister for Transport

• look at the West Midlands • one man’s resettlement • hacking in progress ...

CONTACT: NICK STRAUGHAN ON 01223 499880 BULLDOG PUBLISHING LIMITED, 1 Church Lane, Whittlesford, Cambridge, CB2 4NX. Telephone: 01223 499880 Fax: 01223 499888 ISDN: 01223 839451 Email: info@questonline.co.uk. Website: www.questonline.co.uk

Published by Bulldog Publishing Limited

This issue comes with the Driving & Transport Management Supplement

Anniversary support and advice special

careers in…

• the oil and gas industry • the Merchant Navy, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and HM Coastguard • computing and information technology • hospitality, catering and the licensed trade • project management • construction industry • franchising

COURSE LISTINGS PAGE 63

Quest includes factfile - all you need to know about your education, retraining, resettlement and a lot more too - See page 58 Published by Bulldog Publishing Limited

11:51

Quest May Final:Quest May

Page 1

1/5/07

13:22

Quest June 2009:2009 05/06/2009 10:22 Page 1

Page 1

May 2007

Quest September Final_2010 06/09/2010 12:19 Page 1

June 2009

27/1/06

February 2006

Quest Feb 06 E

This month focus on…

Education, retraining and job opportunities for EVERYBODY in the Armed Forces

The resettlement magazine

This month careers in…

• telecommunications rigging • north-west England • choosing your resettlement training

• computing and information technology • technical authorship • logistics and distribution • prison and probation services • sports and fitness • diving • franchising

careers in… • • • • •

the emergency services – 999 the Civil Service rail industry driving instruction hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism • franchising

• • • • • •

motor industry security teaching franchising rail industry facilities management

focus on…

6PAGE 54

• one man’s resettlement – Martin Flanagan • choosing your resettlement training • south-east England

FACTFILE

hands on… • plumbing

Quest includes factfile - all you need to know about your education, retraining, resettlement and a lot more too - See page 56

Quest includes factfile - all you need to know about your education, retraining, resettlement and a lot more too - See page 68 Distributed by BFPO under contract

Distributed by BFPO under contract

COURSE LISTINGS CTP courses and events

Published by Bulldog Publishing Limited Distributed to all MoD Units by BFPO under contract

COURSE LISTINGS PAGE 73

Why your face fits

Andy McNab tells Quest why he believes Service leavers have the skills employers need

Quest includes factﬁle - all you need to know about your education, retraining, resettlement and a lot more too - See page 50

Published by Bulldog Publishing Limited

6PAGE 60

SEE PAGE 47

• choosing your resettlement training • greater London – including Middlesex

SEE PAGE 25

All you need to know about your education, retraining, resettlement and a lot more too

WIN £250

focus on…

COURSE LISTINGS PAGE 61

FREE SUBSCRIPTION OFFER INSIDE

ISSUE 139

AVIATION ENGINEERING BUILDING TRADES COMPUTING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIVING SALES SPORT AND FITNESS

This month careers in…

hands on… • plastering and artexing

September 2010 IN THIS ISSUE

(see page 6) September 2010

Distributed to all MoD Units by BFPO under contract

COURSE LISTINGS PAGE 55

Quest August 2011 Final DC_2011 02/08/2011 14:43 Page 1

Education, retraining and job opportunities for EVERYBODY in the Armed Forces

The resettlement magazine

RESETTLEMENT FOR ALL RANKS

April 2016

RESETTLEMENT FOR ALL RANKS

October 2016

THE HOME OF EVERYTHING ELC October/November 2018

DEFUSE YOUR INTERVIEW DEMONS Stand up for yourself and stand out from the crowd

August 2011 ISSUE 150

IN THIS ISSUE

men CAREERS IN THIS ISSUE:

MAKING THE TRANSITION

Building trades Civil aviation Human resources Project management

6PAGE 54 FACTFILE

COURSE LISTINGS

page 46

PLUS

Law

Access Diplomas Careers Civvy savvy Reserves Self-employment Transition support

Road transport and freight management

Give your new career

the green light

Distributed to all MoD Units by BFPO under contract

August 2011

Plus:

Factfile – resettlement rules and regs made easy!

The only monthly resettlement magazine distributed to all MoD units by BFPO under contract

Quest April 2016 PRESS.indd 1

Unbreakable you

How to win the fight with fragility

Win a limited edition remembrance print

Classless society

Get knowledge where you need it with remote learning

PREPARED

TO WIN Daisy Coleman, champion powerboat racer

Play the advantage

A CEN TU RY O F

6PAGE 25

CTP courses and events

How to get your own business up and running

Technical author

UNCOVERING THE HIDDEN JOB MARKET

6PAGE 60

SELF-STARTER?

CAREERS IN THIS ISSUE:

Endurance motorsport rising stars Martyn Compton and Mark Allen on turning adversity to advantage

6PAGE 10

All you need to know about your education, retraining, resettlement and a lot more too

page 14

Driven

DRIVING INSTRUCTION FRANCHISING HEALTH AND SAFETY MANAGEMENT AND LEADERSHIP RAIL INDUSTRY SURVEILLANCE WORKING IN BRITAIN’S UTILITIES

Smooth your transition the rugby way

questonline.co.uk 08/04/2016 14:10

The only monthly resettlement magazine distributed to all MoD units by BFPO under contract

questonline.co.uk

Quest October 2016.indd 1

INCORPORATING COURSES 4 FORCES COURSES I FUNDING I CAREERS I RESETTLEMENT

07/10/2016 12:17

INCORPORATING COURSES 4 FORCES COURSES I FUNDING I CAREERS I RESETTLEMENT

Quest Oct/Nov 2018 Final B.indd 1

8–2018 E 191 UD TIT RA G

questonline.co.uk 08/10/2018 14:22

questonline.co.uk

www.gastectraining.co.uk Gastec has more than 18 years experience in the resettlement training of MoD Service Leavers, with over 1,000 successfully trained students now working within the industry. Other providers promise - we deliver!

NEW ENTRANT GAS Intermediate Domestic Gas Utilisation This course will allow you to register with the Regulatory Body "Gas Safe Register" to carry out Domestic gas installation and service work within the UK.

OUR W ORK PLACE MENT FREE IS - GUA R ANTE AND G ED ENUI NE

Viewing of our facility always welcome. Call now to arrange your visit.

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ELCAS Evaluation rating is second to none, please take time to check out our current evaluation rating

COURSE CARRIES LEVEL 3 ACCREDITATION

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Gastec is a leading supplier of training and assessment services to the utilities industries, We have been providing training services at all levels for over 20 years. Gastec offer the full portfolio of training and assessment services for the countries leading Certification Bodies. Our state of the art training and assessment centre is just off the M1 in Milton Keynes. This purpose-built centre contains air-conditioned classrooms, Smart Board technology and a range of facilities to make your time with us enjoyable as well as productive. Together with our tailor-made workshops and refreshment facilities it all combines to make the learning experience as easy and as pleasant as possible. We at Gastec recognise the commitment you have made whilst serving and welcome the opportunity to ensure you have a prosperous future as you embark on a new career path. The Gastec New Entrant Gas Course will prepare you for an interesting and lucrative career in the gas utility sector.

NEW ENTRANT ELECTRICS EAL Level 3 Training Package Comprising:  18th Edition Wiring Regulations  Building Regulations for Electrical Installations  Periodic Inspection & Testing This course will allow you to register with a competent persons scheme to permit your work to be self- registered with any local building control office within the UK.

This is a fully recognisable national qualification from an Ofqual recognised Certification Body.

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CALL +44(0)1908 587665 Gastec Training & Assessment Centres Ltd, 6 Newmarket Court, Kingston, Milton Keynes, Bucks MK10 0AQ

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EDITOR THIS ISSUE MARKS THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LAUNCH OF QUEST! When the first edition rolled off the press in spring 1999, the aim was for it to be the essential guide to funding, courses, careers and resettlement. Two decades down the line, we hope we’re staying true to that purpose. The world around us may have changed enormously since that time, but one thing remains the same: just as it did in issue one 20 years ago, QUEST is still gathering together in one place all the information you’ll need to ensure a smooth transition. One noteworthy innovation since that time, however, is that we now also include comprehensive guidance on how to claim your ELC – and how to make best use of it. But we hope that’s the kind of positive change our readers welcome! In honour of our 20th birthday, we’ve made this issue a ‘support special’, with even more guidance than usual on practical ways to take charge of your transition. Take a look at our specially commissioned features starting on pages 6 and 10 to find out more. To complement this, we stay true to QUEST tradition with articles on distance learning, and two career areas we know are popular with both Service leavers and those still serving but thinking ahead to their transition: cyber security and drones training (two sectors practically unheard of 20 years ago, but now extremely important to

our everyday lives). Keeping them company, our one-stop education and funding planner summarises your education and personal development opportunities, offering ideas on improving your career prospects and highlighting the available funding sources, while regular self-employment guru Steve Bulleyment lifts the lid on the pros and cons of social media as a business tool. And, as proud sponsor of the upcoming British Ex-Forces in Business Awards (now in its second year), QUEST is delighted to bring you news of the shortlisted candidates. The ceremony itself takes place on 8 May and we’ll report on that in our June/July issue. As befits this special anniversary edition, we hope you find QUEST as packed with practical advice as we planned it to be all those years ago – your friendly guide through transition.

For all the latest information, visit our website: questonline.co.uk

Lynn Brown Editor

Quest and the Quest logo are registered trade marks of

Bulldog Publishing Limited 2 The Courtyard Alswick Hall Estate Buntingford Herts SG9 0AA Telephone: 01763 268120 email: info@questonline.co.uk www.questonline.co.uk EDITOR Lynn Brown MANAGING DIRECTOR Bruce Hodge ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER David Lidbury Account Managers Tony Heathfield Neil Rust Tom Sheldrick ACCOUNTS AND DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Martin Sells DESIGN AND PRODUCTION CB Creative Limited Tel: 01223 750566 www.cb2creative.com Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of information at the time of going to press. The Publishers can take no responsibility for inaccuracies due to changes after that date, nor can they accept responsibility for loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in this publication. Whilst every care is taken with artwork or film supplies, the Publishers cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage. The opinions expressed are those of the individual authors and not necessarily of the Publishers. All advertisements are accepted only on the grounds that they comply with the terms of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968 and all other relevant legislation. Inclusion of an advertisement cannot be construed as an endorsement for the advertiser or the product by the Publishers, their employees or agents. The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for any transaction between readers and advertisers. © All rights reserved. Not to be resold, lent, hired-out or otherwise reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the Publisher. Quest and Bulldog Publishing Limited are registered under the Data Protection Act (1984) registration number PX4096798

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April/May 2019

APRIL/MAY 2019 >>

Contents Support special: essential advice for resettlement

ING ELC EVERYTH ME OF THE HO

2019

April/May

Quest

October

Final

10/6/04

OCTOBER

2004 Driving QUARTERLY

Management 2004 OCTOBER & Transport SUPPLEMENT

RECRUITMENT

issues of skills a number industry “There are road transport with facing the problems particular of drivers, today, in and a shortage

population by an ageing demand accentuated Increased drivers. worse” of current the problem will make

recruitment

Minister for

pages 06 and 10

Transport

Lane, Whittlesford, 1 Church Website: LIMITED, PUBLISHING info@questonline.co.uk. 499880 BULLDOG 839451 Email: 01223 ON 01223 499888 ISDN: NICK STRAUGHAN Fax: 01223 CONTACT: 01223 499880 Telephone:

by Bulldog

Publishing

CB2 4NX. Cambridge, www.questonline.co.uk

Limited

with the comes This issue & Transport Driving Supplement Management Published

• look resettlement ... • one man’s in progress • hacking

Anniv e special and advic

in… careers gas industry oil and

and • the Navy, Maritime Coastguard and HM • the MerchantAgency technology Coastguardand information licensed trade the • computing catering and • hospitality, management • project industry • construction • franchising

Quest includes

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all you need

by Bulldog

to know

about your

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LISTINGS COURSE PAGE 63

education,

retraining,

resettlement

and a lot

more too

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Limited

Quest September

Final_2010

06/09/2010

Education,

1 12:19 Page

retraining

and job opportunities

for EVERYBODY

The resettlement

27/1/06

11:51

May Final:Quest

May

1/5/07

13:22

Page 1

05/06/2009

May 2007

1 10:22 Page

in the Armed

Forces

magazine

June 2009

May 2007

Quest

Page 1

This month in…technology careers and information computing

February

2006

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2009:2009

June 2009

Quest June

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Page 1

2:49 PM

This month on…Midlands focus at the West

September

• authorship • technical and distribution • logistics services probation • prison and fitness • sports and • diving • franchising

2010

ISSUE 139

IN THIS ISSUE

ENGINEERING AVIATION TRADES BUILDING AND COMPUTING TECHNOLOGY INFORMATION DIVING SALES FITNESS SPORT AND

6PAGE 54

This month focus on…ns rigging

about FACTFILE need to know All you retraining, your education, and a lot resettlement more too

• telecommunicatio England training • north-westyour resettlement • choosing

6PAGE 60

in… – 999 careers services emergency

This month in… careers industry

• the Service • the Civil • rail industry instruction • driving leisure, • hospitality,tourism travel and • franchising

Flanagan

on… training focus your resettlement Middlesex choosing

hands on…

• including London – • greater

• plumbing

- all you

need to

know about

your education,

factﬁle Limited Publishing by Bulldog MoD Units Published to all Distributed under contract by BFPO

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68 INSIDE - See page more too and a lot ON OFFER resettlement retraining, education, FREE SUBSCRIPTI about your to know COURSE

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about your

education,

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PAGE 61

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resettlement

and a lot

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all you need

by Bulldog

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Limited Publishing under contract

COURSE

LISTINGS

CTP courses

Why your

retraining,

COURSE

resettlement

LISTINGS

and a lot

more too

face fits

why he believes need tells Quest Andy McNab the skills employerspage 6) (see have

Service leavers

SEE PAGE 47

• one your resettlement • choosing England • south-east

• plastering and artexing

COURSE LISTINGS and events

WIN £250

on… – Martin focus training man’s resettlement

• motor • security • teaching • franchising • rail industry management • facilities

hands on… plastering

September

- See page

Distributed

to all MoD

Units by BFPO

2010

under contract

PAGE 55

PAGE 73

by BFPO

Limited factfile Publishing by Bulldog Published under contract by BFPO Distributed

Quest includes

THE HOME

2011 Final

DC_2011

02/08/2011

Education,

1 14:43 Page

retraining

and job opportunities

for EVERYBODY

The resettlement

in the Armed

October

ALL RANKS MENT FOR

for Stand up and stand yourself the out from crowd

? your SELF-STARTER How to get up

own business and running 46

page 14

Driven

YOUR ELC 14 ELC 101: the basics

ISSUE: IN THIS CAREERS trades

SURVEILLANCE IN BRITAIN’S WORKING UTILITIES

Building Civil aviation resources Human management Project

6PAGE 10 THE HIDDEN UNCOVERING JOB MARKET

Plus:

6PAGE 25 TRANSITION THE

– resettlement Factfile easy! regs made

MAKING

All retraining, your education, and a lot resettlement more too

6PAGE 60

COURSE LISTINGS and events CTP courses

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new career Give your n light

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Units by BFPO

Reserves t Self-employmen Transition

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champion Daisy Coleman, racer powerboat 8–2018

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society need it with Classless where you

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08/10/2018

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rising stars motorsportMark Allen on and Endurance Compton Martyn adversity to advantage turning

ISSUE

DRIVING FRANCHISING SAFETY HEALTH AND AND MANAGEMENT LEADERSHIP RAIL INDUSTRY

page

IN CAREERS THIS ISSUE:

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August 2011 150 ISSUE IN THISINSTRUCTION

FACTFILE to know about you need

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YOUR S DEFUSE IEW DEMON INTERV

April 2016

ALL RANKS MENT FOR

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6PAGE 54

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2016

RESETTLE

Forces

magazine

A CENTUR YO FG RA

Quest August

line.co.uk queston

OR REE INCORP I FUNDING I CA COURSES

YOUR NEW LIFE

16 Are you eligible for ELC? 18 How to use your ELC funding 20 How to claim if you are still serving 22 How to claim after leaving 24 Avoiding queries or rejection 26 ELC dos and don’ts 28 Distance learning 32 Higher-level study 36 Qualifications to further your Service career 38 On course: Cyber security

44 On course: Drone training 48 Useful contacts 50 Education and funding planner

THE HUB 52 Course and training options, transition news and reader reports

YOUR RESETTLEMENT

56 Ex-Forces in Business Awards 2019 58 Civvy savvy: self-employment advice 60 CTP courses and events 62 Transition factfile

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

SUPPORT SPECIAL: ESSENTIAL ADVICE FOR RESETTLEMENT FACTFILE

Take charge of your

transition

How can you approach your resettlement and transition journey in a successful and positive way? ‘The best and most practical advice I can offer is this: ask for help,’ says Ahmed Al-Nahhas, head of the military team at London-based law firm Bolt Burdon Kemp. And he’s here with some sound advice on how to do just that.

eaving any job can be daunting, but leaving the Forces family and taking your first steps on civvy street can be even more challenging – for a variety of reasons.

This has been recognised by the MoD, and it is great to see

YOUR NEW LIFE

that there is now more help than ever to prepare you for this enormous change. Having said that, planning ahead will definitely make your transition easier …

Resettlement support is out there One of the first challenges you may face after a successful military career is finding a job that would welcome your specific skills. Thankfully, Service personnel have many skills and qualities that are transferable. The Services invest a great deal of time in the career development of personnel, and – as you will know – offer many opportunities to obtain skills, qualifications and training while serving, much more so than most civilian organisations. Look to your strengths and consider your expertise a real advantage to your job applications. There are many trade-specific skills that can be very niche. Military technical expertise is highly sought after – for example, in the engineering, logistics, aviation, maritime and security industries.

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

I think, in many ways, what is even more attractive to some civilian employers is the range of personal qualities that Veterans often come equipped with, such as leadership, resilience, teamwork,

USEFUL WEBSITES

respect for others, loyalty and a strong work ethic. These qualities

Armed Forces Covenant: www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk

always translate well into employment, and many private-sector

Bolt Burdon Kemp: www.boltburdonkemp.co.uk

organisations are starting to understand the benefits of having

British Forces Resettlement Services: www.bfrss.org.uk

Veterans and Reservists involved in management roles, whatever

CTP: www.ctp.org.uk

the industry. So it’s not just what you know, but who you are that

Devon Forces Family: www.devonforcesfamily.org.uk

matters.

ELCAS: www.enhancedlearningcredits.com

Forces Law: www.forceslaw.com

Haig Housing Trust: www.haighousing.org.uk

The MoD, through the Career Transition Partnership (CTP),

Homes for Heroes: www.ukhomes4heroes.com/page10.html

provides resettlement support to eligible Service leavers and

MoD moving school packs:

Forces. This can include providing learning credits to help leavers

Poppy Factory: www.poppyfactory.org

gain qualifications. The CTP also assists with CVs and interview

Royal British Legion: www.britishlegion.org.uk

techniques. For those Veterans who have been wounded (depending

Royal Marines Charity: https://theroyalmarinescharity.org.uk

on the injury), these timings may be different. The good news is

Stoll: www.stoll.org.uk

that there is now support of some kind for everyone who leaves the

Veterans and Families Support Hub: www.vfrhub.com

Services, no matter what their reason for departure.

Veterans’ Gateway’s Self Help page:

Helpful organisations their spouses for up to two years before and after leaving the

www.gov.uk/government/publications/moving-school-packs

Many charities, such as The Poppy Factory and The Royal British Legion, run career and resettlement fairs, which inform

https://support.veteransgateway.org.uk/app/self_help/ l

Warwickshire County Council: www.warwickshire.gov.uk

Service leavers of support and opportunities that might be available to them on termination of their service. I would certainly recommend

Forces’ Family Federations

attending one of these once you start thinking about leaving the

Army Families Federation: https://aff.org.uk

Services so that you can gain ideas as to future employment

Naval Families Federation: https://nff.org.uk

opportunities. British Forces Resettlement Services holds events

Royal Air Force Families Federation: www.raf-ff.org.uk

throughout the year where you can meet advisers and potential employers in person. As another example, the Royal Marines Charity, offers funding

families, and they will need to find a new home and adapt to a new way of life too. This is challenging both emotionally and logistically,

for vocational training for a variety of civilian careers, and can

and will include deciding where to settle down, adapting to new

provide advice and guidance to those who wish to set up their own

cultural and financial circumstances, considering a spouse’s

businesses.

career, children’s schooling, and sometimes learning to live with

The Armed Forces Covenant Businesses, charities and public-sector organisations are encouraged by the government to sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant to

a permanent injury without the immediate support of a Medical Centre, DCMH or rehabilitation, as often found close to Service family accommodation. Service families are often adaptable, having been required

demonstrate their support to the Veteran community. The Armed

to move home countless times throughout their family life, and

Forces Covenant was introduced in 2011. It is a promise by the nation

developing keen skills of managing resources and budgets to a

to ensure that those who serve or who have served in the Armed

deadline! They also develop resilience in accepting the risks of

Forces, and their families, are treated fairly. The focus is on helping

deployment, often at short notice, dealing with injury and stress,

the Armed Forces community have the same access to governmental

and generally having to ‘roll with the punches’.

and commercial services as the public.

Service wives and husbands should not underestimate the

According to the MoD, 2,000 organisations had signed the

transferable skill set that they too have built up while supporting

Covenant by December 2017; the Post Office became the 3,000th

their serving spouse, and they may need to consider returning to

signatory in November 2018. To show our own commitment to

work or establishing themselves in a new career.

supporting Veterans, Bolt Burdon Kemp has also signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant. Take a look at the signatories to the Covenant and see if there

If you have children, they are likely to need to change schools. In order to make the transition as smooth as possible, the MoD has produced a helpful guide for parents which can be found here:

are any opportunities available to you from prospective employers,

www.gov.uk/government/publications/moving-school-packs There

who will look favourably upon your skills and experience gained in the

is practical advice, and the main thing to remember is that the more

Services.

information you can provide about your child, the smoother their

Your Service family

transition will be. Despite their great strengths and adaptability, Service families

When you leave the Forces, it is not just your working

still need help, and there are a number of initiatives under way to

circumstances that change. Many Service leavers will also have

refocus welfare provision on the needs of the family. questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

COURSE CHOICES SUPPORT FACTFILE SPECIAL: ESSENTIAL ADVICE FOR RESETTLEMENT

Family federations

with life outside of camp; train fares in particular can be shocking and

Each of the Forces’ Family Federations (Army Families Federation,

can really influence where you decide to settle.

Naval Families Federation, Royal Air Force Families Federation)

The Family Federation for your service can provide you with

have support and resources available to guide you through these

support and guidance here, and help you budget accordingly.

topics, which you may have never had to think about before, due to

Currently, seeking financial advice is not mandated when you leave

the Forces having taken care of this for you with each internal move.

all of the Forces, but I’d highly recommend it in order to minimise any

The three federations have just completed a two-year project called the Tri-Service Families Transition Project – this has looked at

unwelcome shocks when going through transition.

how to improve the barriers Service families face when transitioning

The emotional aspect

to civilian life. Their brief included looking at housing, finances,

Military culture and life involves a very different community spirit

schooling, employment and the emotional impact for not just the

to that in civilian life. When you leave, you may feel unsafe, anxious

serving person but also their family, when leaving the Forces.

and uncertain about the future. Joining Veteran support hubs (e.g.

It is hope that this project will now embed positive changes and

the Veterans and Families Support Hub) can also achieve the same

greater levels of support for Service leavers and their families. The

objective, helping you engage with those who understand what you

Naval Families Federation has published a guide aimed at Service

are going through in the local community. Local councils can also help by advertising or promoting groups

leavers and their families, entitled A Transition Guide for Naval

Service and Royal Marines Service Leavers and Families, which

where both Service leavers and their spouses and families can mix

provides clear and constructive guidance to help approach the

with the local community to get to know others and feel a sense

process and make it a success.

of belonging, be that through coffee morning groups, nurseries,

Housing

volunteering opportunities or local walking clubs. These days, social media channels can also provide a means

For advice on housing, a great place to start is the CTP housing

of connecting with those who understand the challenges and

resettlement guide – see www.ctp.org.uk/resettlement-guides/

adjustments of life outside the Forces. Acceptance and understanding

housing-396670 This has information about the steps to take to find

can be vital in getting used to your new circumstances.

accommodation in the UK and abroad. There is practical information for both single people and families. Veterans’ Gateway’s Self Help

Your future

page at https://support.veteransgateway.org.uk/app/self_help/

My clients tell me that it can be like leaving a family, but think

includes telephone numbers and email addresses for the Haig

positively – it is the start of something new!

Housing Trust and details of its 24-hour helpline, run in conjunction

Please don’t underestimate the emotional impact for you and/

with Connect Assist and Shelter: 0808 802 1212. There is also

or your family when your military career ends – 99% of transitions

information about applying for schools and how to access support.

happen successfully, but that doesn’t mean that the process is

Do not be put off by the name – Veterans’ Gateway is not just for

without its challenges. Advance planning and budgeting can make

Veterans or Service leavers themselves, but for their families too!

this process much easier for you.

Find out all about the invaluable help and advice offered by Veterans’ Gateway in the special feature starting on page 10.

The best and most practical advice I can offer is this: ask for help. There are many people and organisations willing to support

There may also be support schemes available in your local

you – the family federations, the CTP, Veterans’ Gateway, charities,

area. For example, a number of charities offer ‘help to buy’ support

local councils and publications such as QUEST, who are all focused

schemes or housing support generally, such as Stoll and Homes

on helping you make a smooth and successful transition from Service

for Heroes. Do not hesitate to ask councils in the areas you are

life.

considering moving to if there is any support or guidance they can

Good luck! Q

give you as a Service leaver, as well as information about things like bin collections and where the local recycling centre is. Examples of those councils offering great support information are Warwickshire County Council and Devon Forces Family. Those who may encounter problems with landlords or tenants

Ahmed Al-Nahhas is head

can obtain free initial advice from Forces Law, a network of solicitors

of the specialist military

who specialise in acting for s Services personnel.

team at Bolt Burdon

Finances

Kemp, acting exclusively for Service personnel

If you joined the Services at a young age, you may never have had

in claims involving

responsibility for things like paying Council Tax, water rates and

personal injury, clinical

other utilities, because these are normally charged at subsidised

negligence, bullying and

rates and/or deducted direct from your pay when living in Services

harassment. He can be

accommodation.

contacted by email at

You may also be unaware of the very high expenses that come with moving home, public transport and the other costs that come

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

ahmedal-nahhas@boltburdonkemp.co.uk

SIE RR A. A L PH A . VI C TO R. ECH O. We ’ r e p r o u d t o o f f e r c u r r e n t a n d f o r m e r m i l i t a r y p e r s o n n e l s a v i n g s o n s e l e c t e d v e h i c l e s.† Search: Ford Militar y Sales

† Selected vehicles only. Eligibility criteria applies. See ford.co.uk/militarysales for more information.

Model shown is a Fiesta ST-3 3-Door 1.5 200PS Manual Petrol with optional Full LED Headlamps. Fuel economy mpg (l/100km): Combined 40.4 (7.0). *CO 2 emissions 136g/km. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO 2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. * There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO 2 figures. The CO 2 figures shown, however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration.

SUPPORT SPECIAL: ESSENTIAL ADVICE FOR RESETTLEMENT FACTFILE

The transition period between the point of activating your departure from the Armed Forces to handing in your military ID card on your final day can be an unsettling time for any Service leaver, but what about the impact it has on your family? Luckily Veterans’ Gateway is on hand with advice and support. Read on to find out more …

Time for you to adjust … As much as you can try to mentally prepare for the fact you’ll no longer be in uniform, and will have the freedom to choose your ‘forever home’ and a new career on civvy street, there is no doubt that transition comes with its own uncertainties and an air of apprehension. You wouldn’t be human if you didn’t feel nervous about what lies ahead in the next chapter of your life. This period of resettlement can be wide ranging too – anything from a couple of months to sometimes even years, depending on your reasons for leaving the Services. If you’ve been medically discharged or made redundant, the fact that that this wasn’t your choice can really impact your transition. It’s a hard pill to swallow and even those who ‘choose’ to leave can find that adjusting to life on civvy street takes time – a change whose difficulties can be exacerbated when it’s a decision that’s been made for you.

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

… but what about your family?

Chief executive of the FiMT, Air Vice-Marshal Ray Lock CBE,

While you might long to wear ‘normal’ work clothes in an array

says that, ‘Within this important report there are many findings

of colours (anything but military green), and look forward to

and recommendations that will be familiar to anyone with an

never having to stand in front of your Commanding Officer

interest in transitioning from military to civilian life. Taking

ever again, it’s important to try to understand the concerns and

a holistic approach, beginning planning as early as possible

worries your family might be feeling. They may be experiencing

and involving the whole family are all aspects that have been

sheer joy at the thought of being able to paint walls after years

identified as key to successful transition in a variety of other

of the standard magnolia that’s adorned your quarters, and

research projects, and we should therefore not be surprised.

praising the fact they will never have to take down and rehang

However, this is the first time such evidence has been collated

the infamous issued curtains ever again, but what do they need

from serving families themselves.’

in terms of support when you finally drive off towards civvy street?

Veterans’ Gateway is here to help

‘PLAN EARLY’ The above-mentioned report – the first of its kind – has highlighted the need for better information and understanding

Veterans’ Gateway was launched in 2017 following Lord

of what life can be like after the Armed Forces so that both the

Ashcroft’s Veteran’s Transition review. With more than 2,000

Service leaver and their family members are prepared for the

military charities available to the Armed Forces community

realities of civvy street. With this in mind, Veterans’ Gateway

there was a clear need for a dedicated service to be the first

has come up with a simple way to ensure that Service leavers

point of contact for the Veteran community. Veterans’ Gateway

and their families are prepared for some of the challenges

represents a pathway to a full list of services, from housing to

transitioning brings, in the form of ‘PLAN EARLY’, because, let’s

mental health services, from financial to employment advice.

face it, where would the military be without a good acronym?

In fact the service will signpost a Veteran and their family to experts who can help with whatever they need. Since the service launched, there have been more than 22,000 contacts made via the 24/7 helpline, website and social media. It’s even free to access from overseas so that any Veteran in any corner of the world can get the help they need. The areas that people have most needed support in have been finance, mental well-being and employment. A specialist team, which includes Veterans from across all three Services, are on hand 365 days a year. They are on hand not only to assist with signposting queries, but can also help a Veteran or family member in crisis. Chris, one of the helpline advisors, joined the Royal

ARE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY LEAVING THE SERVICES? WE CAN HELP

Air Force in 1985 and served almost 10 years before being

P ROPERTY

What are your housing needs?

medically discharged. He admits it took him a lot of time to

L OCATION

Where will you live?

be able to settle back into civilian life, saying ‘I have been in

A JOB

What will you do?

N EW SKILLS

Will you need training?

E DUCATION

What schools are available for your kids?

A CCOUNTS

What will your budget be?

R EGISTER

Who will be your Doctor?

the support available to Veterans’ family members. A recent

L IFESTYLE

How will you meet new friends?

report, Lifting the Lid on Transition (see box), which was

Y OUR NEXT STEP

Contact Veterans’ Gateway

the same position as a lot of people who are calling us here at Veterans’ Gateway, so I can use my personal experiences to point them in the right direction for the best help.’

Spotlight on support This spring, Veterans’ Gateway is aiming to raise awareness of

conducted by the three Forces Families Federations and funded by the Forces In Mind Trust (FiMT), found that 51% of those surveyed didn’t know where to go for welfare services, while a further 72% didn’t know where to go for spousal employment

VETERANSGATEWAY.ORG.UK 0808 802 1212

– two of the many aspects of transitioning that information and support is available on from Veterans’ Gateway.

IT’S IMPORTANT TO TRY TO UNDERSTAND THE CONCERNS AND WORRIES YOUR FAMILY MIGHT BE FEELING

Do your homework The Veterans’ Gateway website at www.veteransgateway.org.uk can form the basis for some initial research into what you’ll need to do and how to go about it. There you’ll find various user guides on how to register for local health care and education, and advice on how to plan where to live and calculate how much it’ll cost April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

SUPPORT SPECIAL: ESSENTIAL ADVICE FOR RESETTLEMENT FACTFILE

Experts on hand to help

LIFTING THE LID ON TRANSITION

Veterans’ Gateway has a wealth of experts who can be available on

‘The project was a fascinating piece of work that allowed

the phone to talk about how to register for school places, medical and

us a unique insight into families’ experiences of transition.

dental practices, and how to access support through local authorities.

We are so grateful to the families who took part in our case

If you have any concerns over specialist support or services, the team

studies and who responded to the surveys, many of whom

at Veterans’ Gateway can assist you. There are more than 30 partner

had already left the Services; they had nothing to gain for

charities and organisations that Veterans and their families can be

their own transition journeys by sharing their views, but

referred to so that they get the range of support they might need. Referring again to Lifting the Lid on Transition, 66% of

were generous enough to tell us all about what challenges they’d faced and the support they needed, which has

respondents to the survey thought their quality of life would be

already proved beneficial to future families in transition.

better after transition. Of course, the reality of life outside the wire

‘We weren’t massively surprised by some of the research

will depend entirely on individual circumstances, but a good question

findings, but it was interesting to see that most of the

to ask is ‘Do you have an idea of what your life might look like before

evidence was relevant across all three Services.

you leave so that you can prepare yourself?’ Veterans’ Gateway has

‘It has been hugely rewarding to see so much of what

a number of tools that can help you with this, from budget calculators

we published in Lifting the Lid on Transition adopted by

to information on the realities of renting or applying for a mortgage,

a number of organisations, including the MoD with the

so that you can make the best decisions possible.

emerging Holistic Defence Transition Policy, and Veterans’ Gateway, which is taking some very practical, tangible steps

Expect the unexpected

to raise awareness of its services among families.’

Finding a gym that doesn’t cost a large amount after a career of

Kate McCullough, transition liaison,

unlimited free gym membership may be on your priority list, but

Army Families Federation

be prepared for the unexpected challenges ahead, like finding new social networks. One of the biggest changes will be not being surrounded by ‘instant military friends’ who are in the room next

you. There are online tick lists available so that your transition

to you, in the bar and always on hand. Instead you’ll be finding

isn’t one big daunting to-do list that’s buried underneath your

your feet in a new community. Veterans’ Gateway can help identify

diary brimming with leaving drinks and mess dining-out nights.

breakfast clubs and other community focal points so you feel you

Instead, you’ll be able to take a new approach, talk to your family,

have a go-to place where you can have banter with comrades and

involve them in the process and help them with their thoughts and

potentially even find a new gym buddy for when you’re continuing

concerns. Remember that the report highlighted that families want

OP MASSIVE well into civvy street.

to be involved and to help with the Service leaver’s transition:

Turning transition into opportunity

‘If anything could come out of this survey please let it be help

Transition can feel like the biggest burst of ‘life admin’ you’ll

and preparation for the whole family on what to expect and the

ever experience, but planning early enough and breaking it down

emotional cycle of change that happens.’

into steps will make it easier. Then you can begin to enjoy the opportunities that life can bring after a career in the military; you

‘Everyone in the family is affected by transition … the financial

will definitely have some extraordinary dits to tell in the bar from

impact affected all of us.’

your time serving, the only problem is, unfortunately, the drinks will never be as cheap as in the mess. Q

Planning for peace of mind While you were serving, and maybe away on deployment, knowing your family was settled and doing OK at home will have allowed

VETERANS’ GATEWAY

you to do the best possible job, and this is no different when it

Veterans’ Gateway is available to you whether you’re

comes to resettlement. Approaching resettlement like a new

on day one of your new life on civvy street or if, weeks,

posting, involving your family and ensuring they are factored into

months or even years down the line, you are in need of help

plans will help in the long run. School places, health care and the

and advice. Whether there is a simple question you need

local community will all need to be considered so that everyone’s needs are met. It’s easy to take certain elements of Service life

VG-190x132-TEXT-OUTLINED-reg-marks-bleed.pdf 1 26/03/2019 09:16:03

answering, or you have a situation that may need specialist support, contact the service and our experts will do the

for granted, with schools, nurseries, medical centres and even community groups all just moments away, but outside of the wire it’s these amenities that you need around you and choosing them

rest.

CMY

To contact Veterans’ Gateway …

can be challenging. If you team this with a new job that involves a

Call 0808 802 1212, visit www.veteransgateway.org.uk or

new commute, suddenly everything that was on your doorstep is a

text 81212

little bit more difficult to access.

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

We were formed in 1944 to care for the soldiers and families of those who fought in the Second World War. 75 years on, our purpose has not changed: we exist to ensure that all soldiers, veterans and their families are afforded the independence and dignity they deserve. To find out more, visit www.soldierscharity.org Help us be here for their tomorrow. Contact us for information on how you can apply for help, find out more, or get involved in one of our fundraising challenges: Tel: 020 7901 8900 Email: info@soldierscharity.org ABF The Soldiersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Charity is a registered charity in England and Wales (1146420) and Scotland (039189) Registered Office: Mountbarrow House 12 Elizabeth Street London SW1W 9RB

Left to right: Brenda Hale, John Tyson, Mark Smith

YOUR ELC ELC BASICS

ELC 101 The basics

ubject to certain eligibility criteria (see page 16), the ELC scheme offers currently serving

or former Service personnel access to a first full level 3 (GCE A-level or vocational equivalent) or a first higher education (HE) qualification (e.g. a foundation degree or a first undergraduate degree or equivalent) free from tuition fees. Here’s the basic information you need to know … l

The ELC lower tier offers up to three payments of up to £1,000 in three separate financial years; the higher tier offers up to three payments of up to £2,000 in three separate financial years.

The three separate years do not have to run consecutively, and may be a combination of both higher and lower levels.

Withdrawal once payment has been made due to foreseeable postings/

learning course if it continues for more

(the ELC element includes VAT but

Service activities will usually meant

than a year, or for a different learning

excludes travel, accommodation, food,

purpose each year.

books and materials).

If one course combines with others for

that no further claims will be allowed. l

If unexpected Service or

You must discuss your plans with

compassionate reasons cause your

a single learning purpose these can be

your line manager and education

withdrawal, you should seek advice

combined to claim ELC.

adviser before making any financial

from your Education Staff or Learning

A new ELC award was created in 2016.

commitment.

Adviser.Q

ELC are available for full- or part-time

which is a single payment of up to

study for a qualification at level 3 or

£3,000 for those with six or more

above, as defined on the NQF or SCQF,

years of qualifying service, which will

with an organisation on the approved

count as all three awards.

providers list maintained by ELCAS.

The PF FE/HE scheme provides

Service leavers and Service personnel

− – Service training

in their qualifying resettlement phase

You may not claim ELC for:

− – civilian accredited Service training

with access to a first full level 3 or a

(unless at least 30 hours extra work

first HE qualification (a foundation

is involved, together with a separate

degree or a first undergraduate

learning of at least 20% of the cost

It’s an aggregated lower-tier award,

You must make a contribution to your

ELC may be claimed for the same

exam, assessment or assignment)

ELC SCHEME: LATEST STATS

degree or equivalent) with support

− – membership fees

towards tuition fees.

− – books and materials

From its inception until the end of

Only one ELC claim can be made in

− – normal Service sport and

March 2019, a total of 390,010 people

any one financial year (April to March).

adventurous training.

had registered with the ELC scheme and 147,927 claims had been made, to the value of £242.2 million.

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

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u Gain two industry recognised qualifications u Gain official certification u ECS Card eligibility

YOUR ELC ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Are you eligible for ELC?

Take a look at the eligibility rules below to find out … l

All Regular Service Personnel (SP)

have left the Service or entered your

day of service, you will be eligible to claim

currently in service will be auto-

qualifying resettlement phase on or

ELC at the higher tier (£2,000), subject to

enrolled on the ELC scheme, as will

after 17 July 2008

meeting the other conditions associated

meet UK residency requirements to

with the scheme.

future SP on completion of their Phase 1 training. l

What about if you are medically

both ELC lower-tier and FEHE awards

medically discharged from service before

discharged?

increased from four to six years as

achieving the required number of years’

You are eligible to claim ELC at the lower

of 1 April 2017. If you had already

service. If this is the case, please seek

(£1,000) or higher (£2,000) tier depending

accumulated four years’ qualifying

advice from your unit education staffs.

on your length of service on the date of

In detail …

award and FEHE.

When can you start claiming ELC?

of service, you may be eligible to make

If you left service on or after 1 April

You can start claiming when you have

claims at the lower-tier rate if the injury

2016, you are entitled to post-service

accumulated the necessary qualifying

or illness was caused or significantly

access to ELC and FEHE for five years.

years of service. For example, if you

worsened, wholly or predominantly by

If you left between 1 April 2011 and 31

registered on the ELC scheme and have

service, as defined by the Armed Forces

March 2016 inclusive, you will have

been serving since 1 April 2000, you will

Compensation Scheme (JSP765).

until 31 March 2021 to use your ELC or

have been entitled to start claiming at the

FEHE (i.e. five years from March 2016).

£1,000 level from 1 April 2004 and at the

What if you are no longer serving?

If you left before 1 April 2011, you

£2,000 level from 1 April 2008. As noted

If you have already left the Service or are

will retain ten years of post-Service

above, from 1 April 2017, the qualifying

in your resettlement phase, you may be

access.

service for lower-tier awards increased

eligible to claim under the terms of the

from four to six years. However, if you

Publicly Funded Further Education/Higher

accumulated four years’ qualifying service

Education (PF FE/HE) scheme. Take a

before 1 April 2017, you will still be able to

look at the feature on page 22 to find out

claim your lower-tier awards.

more – or, for full details and to check the

must:

have completed four years of full-time

discharged prior to completing six years

detailed eligibility rules, visit

service or, since 1 April 2017, six years

What happens if you are made redundant?

have joined – or since April 2016

Irrespective of whether or not you applied

been automatically enrolled – on the

to be made redundant, you will cease

Find out more

scheme and completed four years’ or,

to accrue service for ELC eligibility on

Much more detailed information is

from 1 April 2017, six years’ qualifying

the day you leave service. If you have

available in JSP822, which can be

scheme membership

accrued six or more years’ service since

downloaded from the ELCAS website at

apply only for a first eligible FE/HE

registering on the scheme by your last day

www.enhancedlearningcredits.com Q

qualification at the level for which you

of service, you will still be eligible to claim

are academically qualified to enter

ELC at the lower tier (£1,000). If you have

learning on leaving the Service

accrued eight or more years’ service since registering on the scheme by your last

discharge. Additionally, if you are medically

your entitlement to use ELC lower-tier

To take advantage of ELC support, you

qualify for full state subsidy. Special eligibility criteria apply if you were

In brief … l

The qualifying service required for

service before 1 April 2017, you keep

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

www.enhancedlearningcredits.com

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YOUR ELC SPENDING OPTIONS

How to use your ELC funding When your claimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approved, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a wide choice of where to spend your funding

LC are available for full- or part-

professional self-development

time study for a qualification at

accreditation of prior learning

level 3 or above, as defined on the

vocational training

National Qualifications Framework/

registration and accreditation fees

Regulated Qualifications Framework (NQF/

sports qualifications

RQF),* with an organisation

overseas qualifications

on the approved providers list held by

resettlement training (during last two

ELCAS and viewable at

To find out more about accessing higher-

It could be an A-level, or an NVQ 3 or

level study in particular, take a look at our

equivalent award. You may also use ELC

feature on page 32.

Before deciding on a course, you should consider: l its relevance to your personal development plan l your ability to undertake it l likely disruptions to Service requirements l the flexibility of the study method.

* The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is

to fund anything above that, too, like

replacing the Qualifications and Credit Framework

university modules or nationally recognised

(QCF) from 1 October 2015 onwards.

diplomas. This might include:

years of service only).

www.enhancedlearningcredits.com

CHOOSING A COURSE

foundation degrees

postgraduate qualifications

other academic qualifications April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

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questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

YOUR ELC HOW TO CLAIM YOUR ELC

Making an application Your step-by-step guide

1. Read Joint Service Publication JSP822 – Defence Direction

and Guidance for Training and Education. 2. Think about what fits your personal development plan and your future.

8. Do not leave everything until the last minute. Allow time for any new publicly funded providers to be accepted on to the scheme, as the registration process can take several weeks. Once they have been accepted, you can submit an application

3. Discuss this with your line manager and education/learning

to study with them. 9. Providers are expected to waive any initial registration fee,

staff. 4. Get the necessary approval to enrol. 5. Go to the ELCAS website at www.enhancedlearningcredits.com and complete the ELC application form online.

so don’t pay any of your own money towards the cost of their tuition fees – if you do, it will not be refunded. 10. You must submit a separate claim form for each year of a course – if you don’t, it could result in support being

6. Check the ELCAS database of approved providers to see if the course you wish to enrol on is allowable under the rules. 7. If you wish to use a provider that is not on the list, ensure they

withdrawn. 11. Start learning, and make the most of your life! ELCAS has produced a useful flow diagram to sum up the claims

are eligible to participate in the scheme (they must deliver

process. You can find this in the Annex at the end of JSP822,

publicly funded FE/HE) and ask them to apply for scheme

which can be downloaded from the ELCAS website at

membership using the information on the ELC website.

www.enhancedlearningcredits.com Q

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YOUR ELC HOW TO CLAIM AFTER LEAVING

No longer serving? Here’s how to claim your ELC if you have left the Services

lthough the main purpose of ELC

Note: You should contact your SSR with questions only if you have been unable to find the answer to your query on the ELCAS website at www.enhancedlearningcredits. com (this also has a useful FAQs page).

evidence of your last day of Service,

is to encourage serving personnel

which could be a copy of your discharge

Royal Navy

to pursue higher-level learning that

document, a copy of your P45

ELC Manager, Mailpoint 3.3, Leach Building,

benefits both the learner and the Armed

terminating employment or a document

Whale Island, HMS Excellent, Portsmouth

Forces, it also allows level 3-plus learning

stamped by your regiment confirming

PO2 8BY

to be pursued during resettlement or for up to five years after leaving the Services.*

The majority of this learning is likely to be

your leaving date**

02392 625954

a copy of a utility bill showing your home

NAVYTRGHQ-EL3RRESETSO3C@mod.uk

address full information about the course you

Army

existing ones), with the qualification

wish to undertake and including details of

Learning Credit Scheme (LCS) Manager,

benefiting the learner and a future employer

your registration date where applicable.

Education Branch Zone 4, Floor 2, Army

vocational (learning new skills or enhancing

and, nationally, adding to the UK’s skills base.

On receipt of the CAN, you can proceed

Personnel Services Group, Home Command,

with payment by sending it, along with your

Ramillies Building, Army HQ

criteria listed on page 16. To make a claim,

20% minimum contribution, to the training

Monxton Road, Andover SP11 8HJ

download the appropriate form from the

provider.

Tel: The Army ELC helpline is currently

First of all, refer to the eligibility

ELCAS website and complete it fully, except

WHERE TO SEND CLAIMS IF YOU ARE NO LONGER SERVING

When you have completed your course,

closed until further notice; during this time

for Parts 4 and 5 – your Single Service

you must also complete the evaluation form

Representative (SSR) will complete these

and return it to ELCAS. If you do not do this it

elements (you will find their contact details in

could jeopardise your next claim. If you have

the accompanying box). Send your otherwise

any doubts about any aspect of this process,

Royal Air Force

fully completed claim form to them at the

contact your single-Service education/

Learning Credits Administrator,

relevant address (again, see box), along with:

learning representative for advice before

Accreditation and Education Wing, RAF

submitting a claim. Q

Central Training School, HQ 22 TrgGp, Room

all enquiries are to be made by email Army-ELC-Veterans@mod.gov.uk

221B, Trenchard Hall, RAF College, Cranwell

IMPORTANT!

*If you left the Service before 31 March 2016, please

All applications must be submitted to

refer to JSP822 at www.enhancedlearningcredits.com

01400 268 183

SSRs for approval at least 25 clear

for the expiration date of your claims.

Michael.Quainton100@mod.gov.uk

working days prior to the start of the

** If you were in the RAF, you can request a copy of

course you wish to take. They will

your discharge document from the RAF Disclosures

then submit approved applications to

team at www.raf.mod.uk/links/contacts.cfm Army

ELCAS. You should not submit your

personnel can request details of discharge dates from

claim form direct to ELCAS.

the Army Personnel Centre by calling 0845 6009663.

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

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Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest

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YOUR ELC HOW YOU CAN HELP

Avoiding queries or rejection How you can help things to run smoothly

LCAS deals with many claims that

minimum criteria (level 3 or above on the

and research and discuss your learning with

have to be queried or rejected: almost

NQF or RQF) or the learning provider is

your line manager and Service education or

not on the ELCAS approved providers list

learning adviser. This also applies if you are

failure to follow the correct procedure for

a qualifying ex-Service person using your

authorising the claim

ELC. The 25-working-day margin is in place

the course not commencing in the

for good reason. If you don’t plan far ahead

qualifying financial year

enough you could find yourself significantly

incorrect financial data, such as the

out of pocket as retrospective claims are not

authorisation note (CAN) from ELCAS

learner’s contribution being less than

allowed under any circumstances.

learners failing to allow sufficient time

20% or the MoD’s contribution calculated

20% of claims received fail to comply

with the correct procedures. Some of the

main reasons for rejection include: l

applicants enrolling on a course – and

sometimes paying a fee – without first obtaining the necessary claims l

as exceeding the ELC award

offered by an approved provider are

incomplete details or errors in course title

automatically admissible under the ELC

so any claim submitted within 25 working

or course level (these account for 25% of

scheme. This is a common mistake: one

days of the start of the course will

all rejected/queried claims)

provider may supply many courses, but only

applicants not registered on the ELCAS

those approved courses at NQF/RQF level 3

system

or above (and equivalent) listed on the ELCAS

more than one active claim being

website may be considered for ELC purposes.

between submitting a claim and starting a course – this takes at least five weeks,

automatically be rejected l

form for the previous claim has been completed – such claims are also

a second or third ELC claim being submitted before the course evaluation

Also, do not assume that all courses

processed for an individual in the same l

plan ahead and get it right first time

automatically rejected

To help avoid rejection on grounds such as

don’t buck the system or pay upfront

the course does not meet the necessary

those listed above, you should plan ahead,

complete your claim with care! Q

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

financial year.

So:

Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest

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YOUR ELC DOS AND DON’TS

ELC dos and don’ts Do:

it out on the ELCAS website at www.

your studies; if you don’t, and can’t

enhancedlearningcredits.com

provide evidence that you completed

make sure you understand the regulations – see Joint Service

ensure the training is delivered by an

the course, your future claims will be

Publication JSP822 – Defence Direction

approved ELC provider if using your

denied.

and Guidance for Training and

Individual Resettlement Training Cost

Education, which can be downloaded

(IRTC) grant along with ELC to fund a

Don’t:

from the ELCAS website at www.

nationally recognised qualification at

enhancedlearningcredits.com

level 3 or above

to course providers until you have

consult your education, learning,

received a claim authorisation note

and line managers to discuss your

training and/or resettlement adviser if

(CAN)

personal development plan

you aren’t sure of the best way to use

plan ahead, leaving at least 25 days

funding for your resettlement training

provider status means that the entire

remember that the scheme operates a

portfolio of a provider’s courses meets

needing to book a course

strict ‘three hits and you’re out’ policy;

the level 3 requirement

be prepared to provide evidence that

if you are eligible and have used the

the course you would like to do is at

Aggregated Lower Tier award you will

financially without having first obtained

least level 3 (or equivalent) on the

not be able to use it again, so think

approval from your own Service and a

National Qualifications Framework

carefully before submitting a claim

CAN from ELCAS

consult your education/learning staff

between submitting a claim and l

(NQF) or Qualifications and Credit

enrol on a course or commit yourself

enrol on a course with a new provider

Learning Adviser or Single Service

who is awaiting ‘approved’ status;

benefits the Service (unless your claim

representative if your last day in

wait until this has definitely been

is resettlement-related during your last

service alters from that originally

achieved – if this takes too long, look on

stated

the ELCAS website for an alternative

complete and return the evaluation

provider. Q

ensure the course provider has approved provider status by checking

automatically assume that approved

Framework (QCF),* and that it directly

two years of serving) l

inform your Education Staff,

commit any payment contributions

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

questionnaire when you’ve finished

Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest

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E LC 1060

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YOUR ELC DISTANCE LEARNING

Keep your distance! ... and let the classroom come to you

ASK YOURSELF … l

Does the course lead to the qualification I want/need?

Will the course train me to the level required (by me or a potential

hanks to distance learning, you

What’s involved?

can study when and where you

Courses delivered through distance

want. There’s no need to be

Can I view the training materials first,

learning range from those taking as

Can I chat to previous learners?

physically on-campus to study or take

little as a few hours, to degrees and

Do I have to pass an entry test?

(some) training courses. And that, of

postgraduate qualifications that may

How much support is available? And in

course, is a considerable benefit to those

involve several years’ study. So-called

of you posted to far-flung locations,

‘short courses’ typically last days or

Can the whole course be done at a

meaning that you can continue your

weeks as opposed to months or years.

distance, or is it necessary to attend

studies wherever in the world you may

Even those subjects with a strong

training sessions at specific times?

be. Nothing need come between you and your preparations for life in the civilian world. As well as ‘distance learning’, you may come across other, related, terms such as ‘open learning’ and ‘distance supported learning’.

practical element often have modules

To see a list of ODL QC-accredited learning providers, go to www.odlqc.org.uk and click on ‘Find an accredited provider’, bottom left.

types of learning are likely to overlap, but, as a rough guide, open learning includes

before committing?

what form?

How much time will I need to set aside

How much does the course cost?

Will there be an exam at the end?

Is the provider inspected or accredited

If I choose to study for a degree, do

that are suited to distance learning.

In truth, all of these

employer)? l

Thanks to the wide availability of useful

for study?

technology these days, learning materials

by an independent body?

and support may be

I have to complete it within three

provided by either one or a combination of the

years? l

following means: books,

for study problems as a result of

phone, DVD, CD-ROM, email, the internet, podcasts

Will I receive any special consideration operational duties?

Is the course available via learning

and via mobile learning; the latter

tools that I will be able to access? (For

more face-to-face classes than distance

is where the student accesses course

example, if you are in an environment

learning, while the word ‘supported’

content stored on a mobile device or

where IT availability is limited, you

usually indicates that there are tutors

through a wireless server. Some providers

should select a course where it is

and physical material available to help

offer course elements via the iTunes

possible to use paper and telephone,

students.

Store, which can be downloaded free of

at least for a limited period.)

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

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ELC 1217

PROVIDER NUMBER

YOUR ELC DISTANCE LEARNING

charge. Many courses make extensive

the entrance examinations of a particular

learning, and that use ICT systems to

use of the internet. Others involve tutor

professional body.

enable users to access learning.

groups, which may meet regularly,

Both higher education (HE) and

or ‘summer camps’ of a few weeks’

further education (FE) courses can

direct from the ‘horse’s mouth’

duration to provide classroom education

be taken via distance learning. The

(somebody who has first-hand experience

that complements regular, directed

difference between these is not always

of a course or a training provider),

coursework at a distance.

clear-cut though, and in some cases

written prospectuses and, of course, the

(e.g. foundation degrees), both types

internet. The website of the Open and

are involved. Many qualifications are

Distance Learning Quality Council (ODL

The great thing about distance learning –

modular; this means that you complete

QC) is particularly helpful (again see ‘Key

especially for those, like you, in the Armed

them in sections (modules), often of

contacts’).

Forces – is that it puts you in control of

your own choosing, and credits gained

your education. Once you have chosen

from a selection of such courses can be

and enrolled on your course (see below),

added together to ‘add up’ to degrees and

Who are the learning providers?

you are free to study when, where – and,

other HE qualifications. It is not always

Many learning providers are neither HE

these days, how – you choose, so you can

necessary to have an undergraduate

nor FE institutions, although they may

fit your education around your current

degree to gain a master’s; neither is it

have links of varying strengths with

work and/or family commitments. It’s

necessary to have one in order to achieve

one or more colleges or universities.

entirely up to you.

many professional qualifications.

Many companies run large training

At your convenience

And, of course, in these days of laptops,

Increasingly, Service people like you

departments, and there are also many

notebooks, tablets and mobile learning,

are taking distance learning modules

commercial organisations that provide

you can set up and study at a location of

as part of the training that contributes

training to paying clients. Much of the

your choice – home or work, at a cafe, even

to career progression. So, you could

training such providers deliver is of

while travelling. Importantly, too, you can

be studying with a view to gaining

excellent quality and targeted carefully

work at your own pace – there are no term

qualifications that will help you while in

at the needs of civilian employers in a

times to be rigidly stuck to (although you

the Forces or when you leave, or just for

specific market sector. Many commercial

may have to sit exams, which may take

personal interest – out of enthusiasm for a

businesses offering training use the

place only at specific times).

particular subject.

premises of academic institutions to

To sum up, distance study enables you

But how do you know who is a good

deliver courses, and may have contracts

take responsibility for your own learning.

provider and who is not? And exactly

with employment agencies to help their

However, although you will be in control,

which course do you need? All this choice

students find work.

a good provider will offer support – so you

can prove confusing! In the accompanying

will certainly not be alone, left completely

‘Ask yourself …’ panel, there is a checklist

some of the bigger distance learning

to your own devices, but will have back-up

that should help you.

organisations, however – as mentioned

and assistance as and when you require it.

You are likely to have heard of

above – there are many other providers

There are also likely to be self-checks and

Finding out more

interim tests to help ensure that you are

Service education and training staff, both

of courses, some with discounts for

on target, and tutor-marked assessments

within your unit and specialists, can often

Service people (ask your education

to provide valuable feedback, as well as a

provide the best advice about what you

and training adviser for further

telephone helpline to call or someone to

might want and what it is actually possible

information). Q

email for advice if you get stuck.

for you to achieve. They can also

How do I choose a course and provider?

provide you with information about the funding available to support your studies, and recommend

out there too, also offering a wide range

KEY CONTACTS

Although necessarily influenced by

the subjects that you should be

demand from learners, there are loads

encouraged to pursue – particularly

of courses available in distance learning

with a view to a second career when

form. And because the choice of provider

leaving the Services. Increasing numbers

0800 101 901

is huge, too, you are more than likely to

of Forces learning and education centres

www.learndirect.co.uk

be able to track down the course you

and personal learning advisers also have

@learndirect

are looking for. This may be something

access to e-learning opportunities.

that will give you a general grounding

Other information sources include

Information about courses is also

learndirect

Open and Distance Learning Quality

or background in a particular subject or

available from learndirect (see ‘Key

area (that you may go on to study in more

contacts’). It, too, runs its own courses

020 8658 8337

depth later), or you might be looking to

and learning centres with tutor support,

www.odlqc.org.uk

focus on something very specific – such as

where students can undertake online

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

Council (ODL QC)

Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest

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questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

YOUR ELC HIGHER-LEVEL STUDY

Aim higher!

Higher education at a college or university is about more than just degree courses – it offers a range of options, including Higher National Certificates and Diplomas (HNCs and HNDs), and foundation degrees, all of which generally have a more vocational slant. So, if you’re ready to step up to the next level, HE could be the option for you.

f you’re thinking of embarking on a

the subject. It might be a really fascinating

the option of progressing to a degree if you

higher education (HE) qualification

course, which promises to lead to a host of

perform well enough on the early parts of

that’s great – you can use your ELC

career openings, but if it turns out you’re no

the course.

to fund anything above level 3, and that

good at it, you’re unlikely to end up with a

includes university modules and nationally

good qualification at the end of it – and may

through students completing a number

recognised diplomas. Other HE courses open

even fail altogether.

of modules, the distinction between HE

to you for consideration include diplomas,

(generally academic) and further education

bachelor’s degrees, foundation degrees

the qualifications you already have and the

(FE) (often vocational) can be unclear.

and postgraduate qualifications. The only

subjects/areas you have a flair for. Other

Credits from a selection of courses can often

problem you are likely to have is in deciding

things you might want to think about include

be added together to gain degrees and other

exactly what and how to study!

the course provider’s academic reputation

HE qualifications.

Choosing an HE course

(you can find university league tables and

Both HE and FE courses can be taken via

subject ranking tables online), its graduate

distance learning. The difference between

You may already have a pretty good idea of

employment rates, and links between the

these is not always clear-cut, though, and

what you’d like to study at a higher level but,

university or college and employers.

in some cases (e.g. foundation degrees),

if you’re unsure, our advice is to make sure

Having decided what you want to study,

both types are involved. Many qualifications

you understand the nature of the subject you

you will be faced with a variety of ways of

are modular; this means that you complete

are considering, especially if it’s something

studying it.

them in sections (modules), often of your

new to you. So do your research, and ensure

It’s a good idea to start by thinking about

With many qualifications being earned

own choosing, and credits gained from a

you know exactly what a course is offering

How do HE courses differ?

you – topic areas, what the modules will

The most basic difference is between the

together to ‘add up’ to degrees and other HE

cover, etc. Whatever else you take in to

levels of courses. While most HE courses

qualifications.

consideration, it goes without saying that

lead to a degree, some lead to sub-degree

you must have a strong interest in the

qualifications such as a Higher National

subject and the course content, as you will be

Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma

TO HELP YOU CHOOSE …

spending three years or more occupied with

(HND) or a foundation degree. In general,

Which? University is a free and

it, which won’t be much fun if it turns out

such courses will be shorter than a degree

independent website packed with

you’re not that struck with it after all!

selection of such courses can be gathered

course, more vocationally orientated and will

everything you need to find the right

You are also likely to do better at a

have lower entry requirements. Some will be

university course for you. See

course if you already have an aptitude for

linked to degree courses, though, giving you

http://university.which.co.uk

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest

THE COLLEGE OF

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usually takes three or four years to complete

SOURCES OF ADVICE

access support under the FEHE scheme to

full-time (some degrees, such as medicine,

Your line manager should be your

commence studies at master’s level but they

can take five or six years).

first point of contact. Each unit has an

Please note that Service leavers cannot

education/learning specialist, and each

can utilise their ELC for study at this level.

Postgraduate qualifications

Service also has a network of educational

popular higher-level course options you

Postgraduate qualifications are HE

and learning centres where advice can be

could choose from …

qualifications that require learners to have

sought and ideas explored.

Here’s a rundown of some of the other

already completed a bachelor’s degree. Most

Higher national certificates (HNCs) and higher national diplomas (HNDs)

types of postgraduate qualification will include

students get together for joint study periods

taught and research elements. They generally

in open learning, with distance learning

fall into one of two categories: postgraduate

generally catering for students who are so

HNCs and HNDs are work-related

certificate or postgraduate diploma.

far away that they study almost entirely by

(vocational) HE qualifications. While on gaining knowledge, HNCs and HNDs are

Think you’re missing the necessary basics?

designed to give you the skills to put that

If you aren’t already in possession of the

ELC funding for higher education

knowledge to effective use in a particular

lower-level qualifications you would normally

The good news is that your ELC provides you

job. Highly valued by employers, both in

need to build on in order to secure your

with access to a first full level 3 or a first HE

the UK and overseas, they can also count

place on an HE course, the Access to Higher

qualification (e.g. foundation degree, first

towards membership of professional bodies

Education (HE) Diploma – often referred to

undergraduate degree or equivalent) free

and other employer organisations. HNCs

by its shorthand form, Access Diploma –

from tuition fees. This commitment means

can take one year to complete full-time and

could be for you. You can find out all you

that Service leavers who have joined at level

two years part-time (or via, say, distance

need to know about Access Diplomas on

2, say, and have taken the opportunity to

learning). HNDs take two years full-time and

our website: www.questonline.co.uk It’s a

gain a qualification such as an advanced

can also be taken part-time (which takes

qualification that prepares people for study

apprenticeship, or other accredited learning

longer). (The award of an HND requires more

at university, and is designed for those who

at level 3 or equivalent, may now be able to

units to be passed than for an HNC.) They

would like to study in HE but who left school

access their first higher-level qualification.

equate to approximately halfway between

without the usual qualifications, such as

an A-level and a degree, although they are,

A-levels. It is widely accepted by universities

– Defence Direction and Guidance for

as mentioned above, more practically based

and colleges, having been developed with

Training and Education, which can be

than the latter.

their support, and is designed to provide a

accessed and downloaded at www.

good grounding in the knowledge and study

enhancedlearningcredits.com Q

bachelor’s degrees (see below) tend to focus

Full details can be found in JSP822

Foundation degrees

skills needed to succeed in HE. Although

Foundation degrees combine learning with

equivalent to A-levels, Access Diploma

work experience if you decide you want

courses are put together with people who

to ‘earn while you learn’. The equivalent

haven’t studied for a while in mind – and

COURSE FINDERS Full- and part-time courses

of two-thirds of a full honours degree, this

most don’t require prior qualifications. Many

l Unistats:

is a fully flexible qualification that allows

are suitable for study part-time or in the

you to study full- or part-time to fit your

evenings, which adds to their flexibility. Most

universities and colleges, including

lifestyle. On passing, you will gain 240

FE colleges in England and Wales offer such

student satisfaction and jobs after

‘points’ towards a full degree course, and full

Access courses, and a number are available

study (you have to apply to the college

account will be taken of any prior learning

through distance learning, so you should

and experience you have accrued, too.

be able to find a course that is convenient

l UCAS:

Recent developments, including university

for you, and that caters for your interests

partnerships and funding, make these

or career ambitions. You can find out more

qualifications increasingly available to people

about Access to HE courses, browse courses

in the Services.

and read success stories on the Access to

Degree courses A bachelor’s degree is a course of HE

themselves.

http://unistats.direct.gov.uk/

Compare official course data from

or university direct) http://search.ucas.com

Search and apply for full-time courses by course name, provider name or location

National Careers Service: https://

Higher Education homepage at

nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/

www.accesstohe.ac.uk

advice/courses/Pages/default.aspx Search for full- and part-time courses

academic study leading to a qualification

How to learn

such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor

Qualifications can be earned through full-

Postgraduate study

of Science (BSc). They are sometimes known

time courses, part-time courses, day release,

l Prospects:

as ‘ordinary’ or ‘first’ degrees. A bachelor’s

night school, open and distance learning

degree is designed to give learners a

(see the feature on page 28 of this issue).

thorough understanding of a subject, and

There will usually be more times when

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

www.prospects.ac.uk/

postgraduate-courses l

Postgraduate Search: www.postgraduatesearch.com

YOUR ELC HIGHER-LEVEL STUDY

ELC Q&A

with Avionics Technician James Nolan Enlisted: December 1997 Years served to date: 22 Exit date: December 2019 Service branch: RAF Current rank: Sgt Specialisation/trade: Avionics Technician Hello James! Please tell us when and why you registered for ELC. I signed up for the ELC scheme early in my career, between 1999 and 2000 (aged 22) as I wanted to originally start a mechatronics course (electronics, mechanics and hydraulics) to assist with my (then) new engineering knowledge and skillset.

THE COURSE How did you select the course you are now undertaking? I had always wanted to do some form of higher education before leaving the Services. Originally I had been looking at a master’s in mechanical and electrical engineering. However, this all changed after a visit to the chiropractor. After receiving a chiropractic treatment that left me feeling nothing short of amazing, I started to wonder what this could be like as a career in itself. I spent time talking to my chiropractor and he suggested I attend an open day at McTimoney College in Abingdon, where I was able to find out more about the training and requirements if I were to take it forward. Did you receive any advice from chain of command/education? Although the decision to pursue a career in healthcare was considered different from the engineering field, it was well received by my chain of command, which fully endorsed my decision. It was advised that, because of the length and level of the course, time management had a major key to play in my being successful, and in balancing the needs of the Service to my own personal development and future plans. What qualification have you achieved as a result of using ELC? I now hold a bachelors degree (BSc) in Health Science, and fully intend to become fully qualified as a Doctor of Chiropractic in December 2019, with the qualification Master of Chiropractic (MChiro). Who is the course provider? McTimoney College, Abingdon, provided by BPP University, London.

Is the course well run and relevant? In short, yes! It’s a full-time (extended) five-year master’s degree course, which is delivered primarily at weekends to cater for people to study while in full-time employment. There is also a four-year fulltime course. What kind of learning does the course consist of? It’s a mixture of academic, practical, vocational and distance learning. Does it build on your military skills? [The qualifications James already holds are listed in the accompanying box.] In terms of transferable military and engineering skills: understanding complex systems, diagnosis and knowing the corrective action to be taken are as essential to an avionics engineer as they are to bio-mechanical engineering required by chiropractors. My experience has definitely stood me in good stead while undertaking this new field of expertise.

A QUALIFIED SUCCESS! Military qualifications: l

NVQ level 3 Aircraft Maintenance

BTEC Aeronautical Engineering

Junior Management & Leadership

Intermediate Management &

Multi Skilled Assimilation

Q Course – Tornado F3, Merlin Mk 3

Leadership (amalgamation electrical & avionics) & 3A, Puma Mk1 & Mk2, Reaper MQ9, Hercules C130J l

First Aid at Work

Fibre Optic Maintenance

Diversity & Inclusion

H&S at Work

Managing Safely

Civilian qualifications: l

City & Guilds – Motor Mechanics &

City & Guilds – Domestic Electrical

City & Guilds – Inspection & Testing

Health Science (BSc)

Master’s degree in Chiropractic

Auto Electrician Installation 18th Edition Certification

(MChiro) (December 2019)

How much learning is required? On average where I attend my course, it’s two weekends a month for 10 months of the year over five years, with a home schedule of roughly one to two hours of study daily. As well as the home study, I was required to complete 40 external and internal clinical observational hours. Also, I was required to attend an eight-day full-time residential week of study, and for exam preparation as part of the programme. Are you intending to take part in any other relevant training? I am planning to attend (and use my existing ELC for) sports massage therapy, a myofacial release course, acupuncture/dry needling, high-velocity low-amplitude (HVLA) spinal manipulation courses, self-employment business training and a book-keeping/ finances course. What do you hope the course will give you? A qualification to pursue a new and fantastic career, where I can use my skills to help people who are in need of physically manipulative healthcare.

ADVICE FOR OTHERS

Time management is key! Don’t leave it too late to plan your next move. Talk to your chain of command about your aspirations and let it be known what you are intending so they can offer advice where relevant. I used ELC to help me fund my qualification as a chiropractor. I took this course as part of my plan for leaving the RAF at 22 years. I would advise anyone in a similar situation to start their planning early. If you don’t know what you want to do next, think about what you don’t want to do and eliminate that from your plan. Get yourself informed about what’s out there to support you and help you be successful in your transition. If you’re not sure, then speak to the education centres or talk to people who have the information. Don’t leave it too late. I know it’s cliché, but what you put in, you will definitely get out, ELC and the Forces resettlement programme is one of a kind and is there for you. Don’t be scared to try something different, if you start planning early there’s plenty of time to find out if you like it or not. Don’t forget that, as an individual, you already have a sound core of transferable skills from your time in the military at your disposal – don’t be afraid to use them! To find out more, visit www.mctimoney-college.ac.uk Q

questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

YOUR ELC QUALIFICATIONS TO FURTHER YOUR SERVICE CAREER

Boost your prospects while serving How your ELC can benefit both you and your Service

s noted elsewhere in this

but that are also highly likely to prove

other areas are likely to serve you well in

publication, the main purpose

useful once you leave the Forces, could

future, too – not forgetting the benefit to

of ELC is to encourage serving

include accountancy and management

your Service branch now, of course! Q

personnel to pursue higher-level learning

qualifications, or courses related to

that benefits both the learner and the

health and safety, and facilities or project

Armed Forces. This is to comply with

management. Depending on your Service

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) rules,

role, you could find yourself in a position to

which state that any money provided for

embark on a range of studies that will turn

your personal development has to be of

out to have a very useful crossover into

TAX EXEMPTION MEASURES FOR THOSE WHO ARE NO LONGER SERVING

immediate benefit to both the Armed

the civilian workplace when the time comes

Under the ELC scheme, most courses

Forces and the individual – if not, the

for you to make the transition.

of study undertaken by individuals still

MoD would be liable for tax! (See the

For example, thinking of IT training

serving are exempt from taxation, either

accompanying box for more tax-related

as an example, the Tech Partnership (a

as income or as a benefit in kind, if they

information.)

network of employers working to creating

can be justified as ‘work related’. In

skills for the UK’s digital economy) has

order for Service leavers to benefit fully,

those courses that will benefit your own

The best of both worlds is offered by

been involved in putting together a

too, HMRC and MoD worked together to

career and promotion prospects in the

matrix of eligible higher-level vendor IT

reach an agreement on tax exemption.

Services – and ultimately help you find

qualifications, which in these high-tech

This means that the Service leaver (or

employment on leaving – as well as offering

times will prove as useful to you on leaving

their surviving spouse, civil partner or

a benefit to the Service while you remain

as they are while you remain in Service.

eligible partner, where appropriate) will

in uniform.

Similar work has taken place with Summit

not be required to pay income tax on

Skills with regard to building services

payments received under the ELC and

engineering-related courses. A great many

FEHE schemes. This allows them to draw

Some of the areas of education that your Service role might require,

maximum benefit from the schemes.at least for a limited period.

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

September 2015, 367,632 people had

â&#x2014;? membership fees be judged on their merits. The cancellation registered with the ELC scheme and â&#x2014;? books and materials and reinstatement process is published in Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE to to courses 111,094 claimscommitting had been made, the â&#x2014;? normal Service sport and adventurous JSP898 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Defence Direction and Guidance When responding to advertisements value of ÂŁ162.6please million. mention Quest training. on Training, Education and Skills. It is

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questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

YOUR ELC ON COURSE: CYBER SECURITY

This is your

cyber career calling! There’s currently a huge demand for cyber security professionals, and a worrying shortage of talent. In fact, recent research revealed that Europe is set to face a shortfall of 350,000 cyber security professionals by 2022. So how do we solve this problem – and fast? Perhaps you have the answer …

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

recent report from the IBM

passionate about new technologies. It’s

Institute for Business Value

an exciting industry, with an increasing

suggested that the above-

number of companies looking for help to

mentioned ‘talent gap’ can be closed

defend themselves or others from cyber

by filling cyber security roles through

attacks. Some typical roles and career

a ‘new collar’ approach. This means

areas are:

tapping in to professionals who might

education, training and awareness

not have a traditional college degree but

engineering, architecture and design

who do have in-demand technical skills

internet crime and data protection

and aptitudes. That could mean you!

operations and security management

policy makers and strategists

What’s involved?

research

According to Cyber Security Challenge

risk analytics and management

UK, a career in cyber security can be

threat management and forensics.

incredibly fulfilling and is ideally suited

Read about these in detail on the Cyber

to those who have a flair for problem

Security Challenge UK website at

solving, are good communicators and

www.cybersecuritychallenge.org.uk

ethical, reliable and motivated to protect

CYBER SECURITY CHALLENGE UK

their customers. In terms of specific

Cyber Security Challenge UK is a series

cyber security roles, IBM has found

of national competitions, learning

that Veterans are particularly suited to

programmes and networking initiatives

‘operator’ and ‘communicator’ positions.

designed to identify, inspire and enable

Looking specifically at operators, this

more people to become cyber security

might include threat-monitoring analysts,

professionals. Established to bolster

penetration testers, security operations

the national pool of cyber skills, it

centre analyst and cyber operations

offers a unique programme of activities

manager roles. Anybody who has worked

to introduce sufficient numbers of

in the operations centre in a warship, in

appropriately skilled individuals to

a military unit or in an RAF station will

learning and career opportunities in the

have the experience and transferable

profession.

attribute. This means they are highly

skills needed for dealing with cyber security incidents.

With IBM and SaluteMyJob Thanks to a partnership with IBM and

Cyber Security Challenge UK A series of competitions to test your cyber security skills, created by some of the largest security companies in the country, who are looking for the next generation of cyber defenders www.cybersecuritychallenge.org.uk

the Corsham Institute, SaluteMyJob is able to offer Veterans and Reservists free training in two of IBM’s key cyber security software products. Recognising the value and skillset Veterans can bring to a role in cyber security, IBM has already hired hundreds of ex-military personnel. In the USA, it announced in March last year that it would hire 2,000 Veterans

Get qualified

over the next four years. Here in the UK, it has an ongoing partnership with

An excellent recent entry on the IT

SaluteMyJob and the Corsham Institute

Governance blog, entitled ‘What are the

to provide Veterans with free training

best qualifications for a career in cyber

and certification on IBM’s i2 Analyst’s

security?’, provides plenty of advice and

Notebook data analysis and QRadar

information. To read it, click here: www.

cyber security products. While IBM

itgovernance.co.uk/blog/what-are-the-

provides the funding, software and

best-qualifications-for-a-career-in-cyber-

trainer, the Corsham Institute provides

security It’s an incredibly diverse area, but one

WE DID IT!

Skill up while serving

thing’s for sure: any career in information

Jasmine Eyers and Rebecca Thomas

The IBM report mentioned at the start

security requires a sound knowledge of IT

are just two of those who have already

of this feature highlights that the core

systems, so also ensure you take a good

benefited from SaluteMyJob’s free cyber

attributes and skills that employers

look at our computing and IT feature

courses. Read Jasmine’s story on page

are looking for in cyber security

to find out more. You’ll find it on our

42 and Rebecca’s on our website at

professionals are:

website here: www.questonline.co.uk/

www.questonline.co.uk/case-studies/

Explorer

careers/career/computing-and-it

article/rebecca-thomas

Problem Solver

To watch video interviews with Rebecca

Student

and Jasmine about their experiences on

Guardian, and

the course, their background and why

Consultant.

These attributes and skills can of course be found in a multitude of other sectors beyond cyber security. One such sector is the military. One of the core attributes seen time and again

Real recognition! Participants are awarded an IBM Open Badge certification on completion, which is recognised, respected and valued globally in the IT industry

they want to work in cyber, visit https:// play.buto.tv/WF2fL (for Rebecca’s story) and https://play.buto.tv/PQZyB (for Jasmine’s).

with military Veterans is the ‘Guardian’

questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

YOUR ELC ON COURSE: CYBER SECURITY

IT MAKES PERFECT BUSINESS SENSE TO UP-SKILL AND TRAIN VETERANS WITH A PROVEN SKILL-SET THAT IS DIFFICULT TO INTERVIEW FOR

Inside Cyber magazine Download here: www.cybersecuritychallenge.org.uk/inside-cyber-magazine

the training facilities and SaluteMyJob

It’s a virtuous circle in the sense

finds candidates from the Veterans

that, at the end of the training course,

community.

recruiters can get in touch with Veterans,

Designed to facilitate employment

and vice versa. Participants are awarded

into cyber security roles, this IBM

an IBM Open Badge certification on

Corporate Citizenship initiative is

completion, which is recognised,

part of a wider Veterans Employment

respected and valued globally in the IT

Accelerator grant programme in the USA,

industry.

Corsham Institute 01249 700888 info@corshaminstitute.org www.corshaminstitute.org @Corsham_Inst Cyber Security Challenge UK

addresses two issues: the challenges

sense to up-skill and train Veterans

01908 363432 queries@cybersecuritychallenge.org.uk www.cybersecuritychallenge.org.uk

faced by skilled Armed Forces Veterans

with a proven skill-set that is difficult to

@Cyberchallenge

transitioning back into civilian life and

interview for. With the right training and

the growing cyber security skills gap.

investment, the company hopes to start

Canada – and now the UK. The initiative

For IBM, it makes perfect business

closing the cyber security skills gap.

ANYBODY WHO HAS WORKED IN THE OPERATIONS CENTRE IN A WARSHIP, IN A MILITARY UNIT OR IN AN RAF STATION WILL HAVE THE EXPERIENCE AND TRANSFERABLE SKILLS NEEDED FOR DEALING WITH CYBER SECURITY INCIDENTS

KEY CONTACTS

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

Use your ELC Under the ELC scheme, a wide range of learning can be taken, provided it is offered by an approved provider listed on the ELC website at www. enhancedlearningcredits.com and is at level 3 or above. For full details of how to make the most of your ELC, refer to our in-depth features elsewhere on the QUEST website. Q

SaluteMyJob 01249 691415 info@salutemyjob.com (info), candidates@salutemyjob.com (job seekers) www.salutemyjob.com @SaluteMyJob National Cyber Security Centre www.ncsc.gov.uk @ncsc

UWTSD offers a wide range of degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate level.

We pride ourselves on our excellent links with industry with many courses delivering dual awards - One example is our Computer Networks course which carries CISCO accreditation.

Rece

ranke

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in thed 7th for Ac UK ade

Exper

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Tim Studees Higher Ed nt Exp erienc ucation e Sur vey

www.uwtsd.ac.uk/bsc-computer-networks We offer bursaries of up to ÂŁ1000 to armed forces personnel, recognition of prior learning as well as excellent support from specialist staff. Get in touch today and take the first step back into education. info@uwtsd.ac.uk | www.uwtsd.ac.uk ELCAS number 1763

Insight into the UK Surveillance Industry As the leading provider of covert surveillance and investigations, The Surveillance Group would like to offer military personnel the opportunity to attend a free Insight Day, to discover more about the surveillance industry. Upcoming Dates in 2019:

PLEASE CONTACT LEE ON 01905 767 879 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Early booking will avoid disappointment, so to confirm your attendance please contact Lee on 0800 5870170 or visit our website: www.thesurveillancegroup.com APPROVED BY MoD IN SUPPORT OF THE ELC SCHEME

E LC 2990

PROVIDER NUMBER

ARMED FORCES AD 125X185mm.qxp_Layout 1 25/03/2019 14:09 Page 1

Are you ex-armed forces and looking for a new career? Study with us under the Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme. The scheme assesses the skills and knowledge you gained while serving, including non-formal training. You don't necessarily need formal qualifications such as GCSEs or A levels.

Find out more about the scheme and what to do next, visit: southwales.ac.uk/armedforces questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

YOUR ELC CASE STUDY: CYBER SECURITY

On course for a cyber career Thanks to a partnership with IBM and the Corsham Institute, SaluteMyJob is able to offer Veterans and Reservists free training in two of IBM’s key cyber security software products – ambitious Army communications systems specialist, Jasmine Eyers, is just one of those who has already benefited

asmine Eyers is currently serving in the British Army as a communications systems specialist in the 21 Signal Regiment. Jasmine is currently going through resettlement and is due to leave the military this summer after 13 distinguished years. She has completed a number of cyber-related courses, including IBM’s i2 training course through SaluteMyJob, which she describes as ‘the best yet’. She is incredibly ambitious and has firmly set her sights on making her mark in the cyber security industry. Jasmine recalls one of her biggest achievements being early on in her career when she was a Lance Corporal and was sent to Morocco as a detachment commander, where as part of a team of five, she was in charge of all communications. It was huge achievement for Jasmine as it was her first experience of leadership with external agencies. The communications specialist says she is going to miss being in the military as it has been such a huge part of her life – but she knows it is time to move on. Before Jasmine started resettlement she had two plans: to look at both project management and cyber – in particular, information assurance roles. She has and is in the process of completing management qualifications – as well as a range of cyber certifications – but feels cyber is the industry she really wants to focus her attention on.

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

She explains: ‘Being in the IT sector within the Royal Signals, I already have some of the skill set needed for an information assurance role but now it’s about developing those skills and learning “civilian” qualifications in that area. It’s just something that personally I am really keen on going into.’ Jasmine says she has been finding resettlement ‘quite easy’ as she has been incredibly organised from the start. ‘I think being organised is a big part of it. Knowing what I wanted to go into, looking at the different areas within that field, as well as thinking about future promotion.’ Before Jasmine even signed off, she made herself a 12-month planner and looked at all the courses she wanted to do to get into the sector she was aiming for. She applied for courses that are relevant to what she needs – and her planner is now full up. Some of the courses Jasmine has completed, or is in the process of completing, include Cyber Network Foundation and Practitioner, Crucial Academy Information Assurance Course, Certificate in Management of Risk and AGILE. Jasmine believes she has gained a huge number of valuable skills, as well as experience, that will help her gain successful employment in the cyber industry. ‘Working within IT and security in my role at the moment, I work with cryptomaterial and have to make sure everything is secure. And it’s not just technical skills, it’s also the diversity of my skills. In the Signals we get trained on a lot of different equipment – so I have a diverse background on various systems. Also it is about the diversity of working with people. I get to work with different people from different organisations, different sectors, different levels and different backgrounds. I have learned quite a lot through diversity.’ Jasmine heard about SaluteMyJob, IBM and the Corsham Institute’s i2 training course through word of mouth. Individuals who successfully pass the course will be accredited by IBM as a certified i2 Analyst. She was full of praise for the course and would recommend it to other Service leavers.

‘It was really, really good! I highly recommend to anyone. The instructor was amazing. She made it really down to earth, really enjoyable to learn. The content and the whole course itself was pitched amazingly. It was just really interesting and was the best course I have done so far.’ With just a short time to go until Jasmine’s official last day in the Army, she is busy trying to gain as many qualifications as she can, as well as focusing on networking and trying to gain commercial experience. She says: ‘Half my time is about doing qualifications and the other half is working on networking, speaking to the right people within that environment, as well as organising work placements and insight days.’ She recommends attending Barclays Military Insight Day to Service leavers – she found it incredibly interesting and insightful. She offers this advice to other Service leavers going through resettlement who want to forge a career in cyber: ‘Look into cyber itself as there are various roles within that sector. Once you’ve seen a role that appeals to you, start networking, speak to people within that industry and get the qualifications you need. Also, create a 12-month plan. I’m networking through people I know who have left the Army and have gone into that industry. I’ve also been on Project Fortis [ see https://projectfortis.co.uk ] and noticed some really good links there, and have done a lot through LinkedIn as well. It’s all about being proactive. Even though you have 12 months it’s not a long time really.’ Finally, when asked what value Service leavers add to businesses, Jasmine says: ‘They are always striving for more. Not only looking to do what their job tells them to do, they are so much more proactive – they will seek out more opportunities to make an impact. We are adaptable and always trying to improve.’ Q

FIND OUT MORE If, like Jasmine, you are interested in SaluteMyJob’s FREE cyber courses, you can find out more at www.salutemyjob. com/training To watch a video interview with Jasmine about her experiences on the course, her background and why she wants to work in cyber, visit: https:// play.buto.tv/PQZyB

Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest .................................................

.................................................

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APPROVED BY MoD IN SUPPORT OF THE ELC SCHEME

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7359

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Resettlement Guide 2016 / www.questonline.co.uk

YOUR ELC

ON COURSE: DRONE TRAINING

The one

to watch Popularly depicted as the ‘eye in the sky’, the unprecedented growth in commercial acceptance of unmanned aerial vehicles – commonly known as drones – is fuelling an enormous upturn in related careers. Maybe it’s you who should be keeping an eye on them?

THE SKY IS NOT THE LIMIT!

It’s an exciting time for the industry and as companies continue to discover new uses for drones, it is expected that qualified drone

aims to start delivering parcels by drone next

operators will soon be in great demand. From

year. It says it will deliver parcels to ‘mobile

UAV pilot to engineer, there are many career

delivery receptacles’, which will effectively be

paths you could choose to follow. We look at

boxes on wheels that can take the package to

just a few of the most popular here.

a ‘secure location’.

Drone pilot/operator

Aerial photography and filming

If you love to fly quadcopters and other

If you are the visual type, with an eye for

gadgets, or have spent some time working

detail and enjoy creativity alongside the more

with UAVs during your Service career, you are

techie side of things, then you could make a

more than likely to have the skills necessary

great aerial photographer or film-maker. Roles

to become a civilian drone pilot. If it’s a

are already available in a variety of contexts

rones – or, to give them their proper

career you’d like to pursue, you can train to

(see the ‘UAVs in use’ box for some examples)

name, unmanned aerial vehicles

become a UAV pilot at a number of centres

and it’s also the kind of business that would

(UAVs) or unmanned aircraft systems

across the UK. As ever more industries begin

make a great start-up if you have the skills,

(UASs) – are already big business, and set

to realise and exploit the benefits of UAVs

necessary permissions (see below) and are

to get bigger. Originally stemming from

the availability of drone training courses is

military applications – you may have even

expanding, and you can choose the one you

used one yourself as part of your Service role

need to suit your available study time and

A DRONE BY ANY OTHER NAME …

– these days, the use of drones is expanding

career aspirations.

Commonly referred to as a drone, a

What’s involved?

UAV is an aircraft without a human

into many different industries, scientific,

CAA rules demand 400ft max height above surface level and 500m from the pilot

commercial and recreational. Already being

Package delivery

pilot aboard. A drone may fly either via

used in a huge variety of different areas,

Amazon had already announced a few years

remote control by a human operator, or

they have a burgeoning array of applications,

ago that it would be exploring the concept

fully or partly on its own, controlled by

in sectors such as aerial filming and

of drone delivery for its packages, and later

an onboard computer. Sometimes also

photography, agriculture, logistics (e.g. parcel

put out a job ad for a drone pilot. While the

referred to as remotely piloted aircraft

delivery), policing and surveillance, and even

listing is, of course, no longer active, the

systems (RPASs), small unmanned

drone racing. Despite their origins, military

qualifications it asked for might offer you

aircraft (SUA) or unmanned aircraft

drones are now completely outnumbered

some insight into the skills you’ll need: four-

systems (UASs), drones come in a variety

by their civilian counterparts, with the latest

plus years’ experience of drone piloting, with a

of shapes and sizes, ranging from small

figures estimating well over a million sold to

bonus if you have aeroplane pilot experience

handheld types up to large aircraft,

date.

too. And Google, under the title Project Wing,

potentially of a similar size to airliners.

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

A Permission for Commercial Operations (PfCO) is valid for up to 12 months and is subject to an annual renewal

Get qualified!

UAVS IN USE

CAA rules require all drone pilots who operate

Some typical roles for drones – offering

commercially to be certified. In 2010 it

career opportunities for their operators

introduced regulations that require operators

Aerial crop surveys

of small unmanned aircraft (SUAs, aka UAVs

Bird’s eye-view shots for marketing campaigns

considering self-employment in the civilian

or drones) used for aerial work purposes and

Commercial and motion picture film-making

workplace. The benefits of drone photography

those equipped for data acquisition and/or

Coordinating humanitarian aid

are becoming better known by the day, so the

surveillance to obtain permission from the

Crowd monitoring

opportunities are pretty endless and limited

CAA. This is known as the Permission for

Delivering medical supplies to otherwise

only by your own imagination. For example,

Commercial Operations (PfCO). ‘Commercial

inaccessible regions

there are now even companies that specialise

Operations’ are defined as using a UAV for

Fire detection and monitoring

in filming golf courses: tee-to-green shots of

commercial purposes – gaining any form of

Inspection of power lines and pipelines

golf holes that give potential putters a fresh

remuneration or ‘valuable consideration’ from

Keeping track of construction developments

perspective of the challenges they’ll face or

the drone flight. For the CAA to award the

Land survey

courses they might like to play.

PfCO, it requires a pilot to have undergone an

Landslide measurement

accredited training course.

Major accident investigation

A small selection of other examples from the growing list of drone-related job roles can

So, in order to fly a UAV for commercial

Offshore and onshore inspections

be seen in the accompanying box, ‘UAVs in

reasons, the key requirement is to hold a

Photography to assist planning applications

use’.

PfCO from the CAA. (Although you might

Property marketing

hear people refer to this as the ‘CAA

Providing graphics for 3D modelling

licence’, it is in fact ‘CAA permission’ and

Search and rescue

not a licence as such.) In order to gain this

Surveillance

Related skills gained in the Services Because drones started life in a military

permission, the CAA requires you to complete

context, there are obvious career

an operations manual and give evidence of

training providers in the UK have been

opportunities to be had for ex-Forces UAV

pilot competency, which is divided into three

accredited by the CAA. Courses are available

operators already in possession of the

critical elements:

in many locations across the country, and

remote piloting skills necessary to make the

1. adequate theoretical knowledge/general

there are different training options depending

transition to civilian drone use. You may have used such equipment while in uniform for reconnaissance, to gather battlefield intelligence, in target and decoy work,

airmanship 2. successful completion of a practical flight assessment 3. a minimum amount of recent flying

on your needs. During the course, your chosen training provider (NQE) will take you through a ‘ground school’ lasting around two days,

experience – those of you coming from a

where the process of writing your ops manual

non-aviation background would, in order

will be discussed in detail. Sometimes this

may be able to do an abbreviated conversion

to achieve this, need to attend a course

ground school is augmented by computer-

course; these usually take one day. So do

run by one of the National Qualified

based distance learning, and it will end with

remember to check with prospective training

Entities (NQEs) approved by the CAA.

an exam. After that, once your Operations’

operational support and of course in combat. If you already have a pilots’ licence, you

providers to see whether they can offer you

Should you choose to be employed by a

Manual has been checked by the NQE, there’s

this option.

current operator who already has a CAA-

a flight test. Once you have passed your flight

issued PfCO, then there is no requirement for

assessment the NQE issues a certificate of

experience is not automatically recognised by

However, please note that military UAV

you to apply for a PfCO yourself, as you can

recommendation and you can then apply for

the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). It’s still

simply be added as an approved remote pilot

your PfCO via the CAA’s online portal. The

a good idea, though, to keep a detailed record

to your employer’s PfCO.

NQE will usually help you to develop your

of all flying hours and operational experience,

operations manual as well as offering advice

route into the commercial drone industry.

What happens on the training course?

Although there’s no doubt that commercial

To gain the relevant qualification to fly a

UAV businesses value Service experience,

drone for commercial purposes, as well as

is fairly basic and effectively looks at your

it remains advisable to demonstrate your

being at least 18 years of age, you will need

mission planning, pre-flight inspections,

commitment to the industry by undertaking

to attend a training course and it’s vitally

maintaining visual line of sight at all times,

specific professional development where

important to make sure you use a provider

performing accurate controlled flight in both

available.

approved by the CAA. Several CAA-approved

GPS and Attitude (No GPS assistance) modes

as this may still afford you an easier

UAVs IN UK AIRSPACE

For full guidance, read CAP 722: http://publicapps.caa.co.uk/modalapplication.aspx?appid=11&mode=detail&id=415

on completing any additional paperwork needed. The flight test element of the training

(or equivalent), real-time monitoring of aircraft status, conducting a ‘return to home’ procedure, and finally shutting down the aircraft safely and logging necessary data. Note that training courses will not necessarily teach you how to fly a UAV, so questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

YOUR ELC ON COURSE: DRONE TRAINING

you will need to clarify whether or not this

option, you will need a large open space and,

is likely to be in the region of £1,500–£2,000

forms part of a course before you sign up. If

of course, permission from the landowner.

(not including travel and accommodation

it’s not offered and it’s something you need,

costs). You will also need to factor in public

you will have to find a consultancy service or

Training insurance

liability insurance costs before beginning

flight school that offers this training, or you

It’s also worth considering training insurance

commercial operations.

can teach yourself. If you go for the latter

and there are a number of providers, the British Model Flying Association –

What about the cost of the PfCO?

https://bmfa.org

The price of you initial PfCO application is

including:

HOW TO APPLY FOR YOUR PFCO

Coverdrone – www.coverdrone.com

currently £253 and there is also an annual

Once you have met all the above

Moonrock – www.moonrockinsurance.com

renewal fee to consider which is £190. You

requirements you can make an

through which you can access public liability

will also need to obtain an adequate level of

application using the CAA’s online

insurance.

insurance before the PfCO is granted; your

portal: www.caa.co.uk/Commercial-

requirements should be discussed with your

industry/Aircraft/Unmanned-aircraft/

Once you have your PfCO …

Small-drones/Applications-for-

Your PfCO allows you to fly within

unmanned-aircraft-operational-

the confines of the Air Navigation

authorisations/

Order, details of which are outlined

Allow up to 28 working days for your permission to be processed.

on the requirements page of the CAA website: www.caa.co.uk/

Commercial-Industry/Aircraft/Unmanned-

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL COURSE INVOLVE?

aircraft/Unmanned-Aircraft/#4294980001accordioncollapse-1 In most cases, to operate successfully

A typical NQE full course involves:

commercially you will need to be able to

one to three days of classroom

operate in congested areas. The benefit of

lessons and exercises

gaining your PfCO allows you to fly and work

written theory test

in congested areas. In some cases drone

flight assessment.

companies require enhanced permissions to

On successful completion of the theory

fly the drone at further distances or closer

element, the pilot will:

to people and buildings. For these enhanced

develop their own operations

permissions or Operational Safety Cases

manual

(OSCs), the CAA wants to see a far greater

practise aircraft operation/

emphasis on safety than that offered in

flying skills for the practical flight

passing the process outlined above.

assessment.

Finally, as mentioned above, if you are

Flight assessments are completed at

coming from an aviation background then

your own pace and:

the process could be a little easier for you as

are usually arranged separately but

you may not need to do the ground school.

may be available on the last day of

Do check with your provider first, though! The

the course

flight test and an operations manual will still

have no structured syllabus or

be required.

sequence of numbered exercises. the course are possible if you have:

How long does training take and how much does it cost?

flying experience (including model

In terms of time, how long your training takes

aircraft)

very much depends on how long it takes

a licence or certificate that allows

you to master your flying skills and pass the

you to fly in unsegregated airspace

flight assessment. Once you submit your

(e.g. PPL, glider rating).

documents to the CAA for approval they have

Concessions against the theory part of

See Section 2, Chapter 4, of CAP 722 for

a Service Level Agreement to issue your PfCO

full details: http://publicapps.caa.co.uk/

within 28 working days although with the new

modalapplication.aspx?appid=11&mode=

online system this is current around 12 days.

detail&id=415

As for cost, NQEs’ fees vary but by the time you have paid for the necessary course(s) and

Source: www.caa.co.uk

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

your CAA PfCO application (see below), this

insurance provider direct. Q

KEY CONTACTS

Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) 020 7379 7311 UAVenquiries@caa.co.uk www.caa.co.uk @UK_CAA ARPAS-UK (Association of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) membership@arpas.uk www.arpas.uk @ARPASUK NATS Holdings (National Air Traffic Services) 01489 616001 www.nats.aero or www.nats.aero/nsf/ rpas.aspx (for procedures for drone flights in controlled airspace – nonstandard flights) @NATSPressOffice Royal Aeronautical Society (RAES) 020 7670 4300 raes@aerosociety.com www.aerosociety.com @AeroSociety

European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) www.easa.eu or www.easa.europa.eu/ easa-and-you/key-topics/civil-drones-rpas (for specific UAV-related info) @EASA Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (USA) +1 703 845 9671 www.auvsi.org @AUVSI

YOUR ELC CASE STUDY: DRONES

New horizons in drone technology ‘Life as an RAF engineer taught me the value of operating in the air and I’ve drawn on this to help develop our drone business,’ says Elaine Whyte, now UK drones lead at PwC understanding of the sector, gave me a great deal more confidence in voicing my opinion on matters, and helped me take my career forward. More recently, I

was fortunate enough to be sponsored

went on a course to become an executive

as capital projects, real estate portfolios,

coach, which I found much tougher

landscapes for development and large

than I’d expected! As an engineer, when

structure maintenance conditions. This

presented with a problem I want to know

exciting and pioneering technology

what went wrong and search for the root

offering draws on my RAF operating

cause. This course taught me the power of

and engineering experience, as well as

problem solving by starting with the vision

commercial skills gained in PwC. The

of ‘what good looks like’. As a result, I

collaborative way of working in PwC

have changed my approach dramatically

means lots of people are eager to help

and am finding it a much more positive

take the proposition to clients, and I am

and optimistic place to be.

fortunate to have an experienced and

I joined PwC more than three years

committed team to drive this forward.

by the RAF throughout my time at

ago to work in our defence consulting

As part of PwC’s Intelligent Digital

Bristol University, where I studied

business. As an engineer and female in

team, which brings together technology,

electronic engineering. This meant that,

the RAF I had been in the gender minority

business understanding and human

immediately on graduating, I joined the

for all of my career and was struck by

insight, leading on drones, I advise

RAF as an aircraft engineering officer and

how much of a positive impact working

clients on how to integrate this exciting

completed 20 years of service. It went in

in a more diverse environment had on

technology into their business to give

a flash. I had many diverse engineering

me. In the West and Wales region, I found

them a competitive edge. In addition, I am

roles, working on VC10, Hercules, Nimrods

myself in a Partner and Director meeting

a member of the PwC UK defence team

and TriStar aircraft, and travelled

that had more females than men – this

that works with clients to provide a wide

substantially – from the Falkland Islands

was in stark contrast to my previous

range of professional services.

to the Middle East to Australia. The RAF

working environments. That said, I had a

As for the future, I try not to look

prides itself on the quality of training

very positive experience of the working

too far forward or the next 20 years will

and education it offers, and I was

environment in the RAF, and was always

also go in a flash. I will continue to drive

fortunate enough to benefit from this in

treated with equality and respect.

the unique perspectives of drones and

both a technical and leadership nature.

My RAF experience has taught me the

seek ways to deliver advantage for our

As a result I qualified as a Chartered

value that operating in the air can give

clients through emerging technology.

Engineer with the IET in 2002 and have

you. I have drawn on this understanding

It is a privilege to be part of our

subsequently become a Fellow.

to help develop PwC’s UK drone business,

Intelligent Digital approach to working

focusing on how drone-captured data

with technology, helping our clients to

power of education and encourage all to

can be used by businesses to give them

reimagine the possible, and balance

search for ways to continually grow. A

a unique and powerful perspective. With

business understanding with technology

significant point of my career was when

accuracy down to a few centimetres,

innovation and human insight.

I did an MBA specialising in the defence

data analytics and machine learning can

sector. Being exposed to strategic

be applied to the raw data to provide

You can follow Elaine on Twitter:

challenges and developing an in-depth

comprehensive insights to such things

@ElaineWhyte100 Q

I am an enormous advocate of the

questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

YOUR ELC HELP AND ADVICE

Useful contacts

Need to know more? Here’s who can help …

or general enquiries about the scheme, eligibility and

leavers on resettlement. Education and Resettlement Staff

qualifications, seek advice from the following single-

seeking further clarification of sS instructions should contact

Service education and resettlement staff in the first

the relevant SO2 Retention and Resettlement in Regional

instance, not ELCAS. ELCAS’s role is to administer applications,

Command (RC) – DII: RC-Pers-ETS-N-RetResSO2 or RC-Pers-

not provide advice and guidance on eligibility or education/

ETS-S-RetResSO2 or Civ:

learning or resettlement needs. Policy helpline details are as

(

follows. l

RAF: Personal Learning Advisors (PLAs), and Resettlement

RN: RN/RM Education and Resettlement Officers (EROs), Naval

and Education Coordinators (REC) at RAF Learning Centres.

Education and Training Support Officers (NETSOs) and Naval

Education and Resettlement Staff seeking further clarification

Resettlement Information Officers (NRIOs) at RN/RM Learning

of sS instructions should contact SO2 Accreditation at DII:

Centres. Education and Resettlement Staff seeking further

’22TrgGp-CTS-AndEWg-SO2’ (

clarification of sS instructions should contact SO3 EL3R, at DII:

266888)

‘NAVY TRG HQ-EL3R RESET SO3C’ ( l

Army-ELC-Veterans@mod.gov.uk

Mil: 94391 7580 Civ: 01264 381580)

Mil: 95751 6888 Civ: 01400

Mil: 93832 5954

Civ: 02392 625954)

In addition, advice on any aspect of the ELC and FEHE schemes is

Army: Individual Education and Resettlement Officers (IERO),

available from:

at Army Education Centres, which must be used by Service

People-TESRR-ResetOffice@mod.uk Q

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BS1 (Basic Signalling 1)

Venue: 91 Dales Road, Ipswich, IP14JR RT Training Solutions is a trading name of RT Infrastructure Solutions Ltd – Company registration No: 06903399. Registered in England and Wales

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Q Plan ahead! Courses 4 Forces Spring final 2015_C4F 16/03/2015 11:25 Page 52

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What is Personal Development (PD)?

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PD is about self-improvement and satisfaction. It is open to everyone and can be done for one or many of the following reasons: >> to improve knowledge for personal interest >> to be introduced to new ideas or skills >> to broaden horizons

>> to enhance in-Service career prospects >> to gain qualifications >> to prepare for a second career

PD wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just happen. You must take steps to find out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available and decide what you want to do. Use the flow chart below as a guide

Other sources of information include:

Individual talks to line manager about developing a realistic plan and maintaining a PD record (PDR)

A PDâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6; Route Map

>> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>

Individual decides: >> subject to be studied and qualification (if any) >> level of study (basic/key skills, GCSE, S/NVQ, A-level, degree, postgraduate) >> mode of study (e.g. short courses, distance learning)

unit education or training officer in-Service publications in-Service education centre local library or civilian college the internet Quest magazine friends and family Quest website: questonline.co.uk

In-Service

Local colleges or training providers

Distance/ open learning

eLearning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Defence Learning Environment (DLE)

PD can mean anything from career courses to sports and adventurous training courses. See Q for other options for Service personnel

A range of further education (16+) and higher education (degree and above) courses are available. Ask your education/training officer or local college/library for a brochure

College attendance is not necessarily required. Flexible study can be undertaken by correspondence, or using the internet and tutorial support is usually available

There is now a huge amount of high-quality learning material freely available online to Armed Forces and Civil Service personnel, accessible either over the World Wide Web or via the Defence Intranet. The Defence Learning Environment (DLE) is the MODâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s central distance learning resource, providing â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;one stopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; access to a wide range of eLearning, courses, wikis, forums and other materials across a large number of key topics including: IT skills including ECDL, core competencies, health and safety, languages and business skills. Readily available via your Defence Gateway account. Visit http://www.da.mod.uk/ Courses/Online-E-Learning/DLE or www.defencegateway.mod.uk

Grants and funding are available for most forms of PD. See â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sources of advice and financeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for details. Course complete? Look for your next learning!

Distance Learning

Distance learning allows you to study at your own pace, no matter where you are. A range of schemes and courses are available but it requires discipline to organise your study time. Most colleges readily offer help and advice to their students. Standard Learning Credits (SLC) and Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) can be used for many of these courses but certain conditions may apply (see Sources of advice and finance).

To find out more, check out the article about distance learning on page 28.

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College Courses

You may prefer to attend a part-time class, or short course, at a local college. Your education officer may have this information to hand and most colleges publish a brochure. Some people prefer to study in this more structured environment. You must gain authority from your unit to attend and it is worth seeking unit guidance before making any financial commitment. You may also be able to claim the SLC and ELC. In addition, many in-Service education centres run classes specifically for Forces people and families, especially overseas. Some are free and most are discounted for families. Contact your education/training officer for details.

Personal Development Record (PDR)

Everyone should keep their own PDR in which they should record educational plus other PD achievements, appraisals and courses. It encourages people to assess and evaluate what they are doing, what they have learned, and where they are going in terms of career and personal development. Ask your education/training officer where you can get your copy.

Key: Q Service personnel

Sources of advice and finance Standard Learning Credits

The SLC scheme allows personnel to obtain financial assistance for learning costs. You are able to claim 80% of your course fees, up to a maximum of £175 per financial year. To qualify for SLC funding, the course of study must lead to a nationally recognised qualification, have substantial developmental value and directly benefit the Service.

Enhanced Learning Credits

The ELC scheme offers currently serving or former Service personnel access to a first full level 3 (GCE A-level or vocational equivalent) or a first higher education (HE) qualification (e.g. a foundation degree or a first undergraduate degree or equivalent) free from tuition fees. The ELC lower tier offers up to three payments of up to £1,000 in three separate financial years; the higher tier offers up to three payments of up to £2,000 in three separate financial years. A new Publicly Funded Further Education/Higher Education ELC was created in 2016. It’s an aggregated lower-tier award, which is a single payment of up to £3,000 for those with six or more years of qualifying service, which will count as all three awards. You must make a contribution to your learning of at least 20% of the cost, and must discuss your plans with your line manager and education adviser before making any financial commitment. Detailed information about ELC can be found in the first half of this magazine. For full details visit www.enhancedlearningcredits.com

Individual Resettlement Training Costs grant

The IRTC grant is available to Service leavers with six or more years’ service and all Medical Discharges. It is a contribution to training costs and can be used internally at the Resettlement Training Centre (RTC) Aldershot, or at a Regional Resettlement Centre (RRC) for vocational training courses. It can also be used externally for training with CTP Preferred Suppliers. IRTC is available for tuition fees up to a maximum of £534. A range of courses at the RTC Aldershot is delivered within the MoD contract, called Contract Funded (CF) training. These courses are pre-paid by the MoD and only ‘cost’ the Service leaver time and a portion of their £534 allowance. No money changes hands for the training but days and funding are deducted from the GRT allocation at a rate of £26.70 per day. The £534 gives access to up to 20 days of CF training. Any exam or registration fees are extra and payable by the student, but other allowances may be available to help with these. The CTP also offers a range of courses that are not within the MoD contract. These are known as Non-Contract Funded courses and you can use your IRTC grant or ELC to pay for these.

Professional and Career Development Loans These are designed to help people change direction or increase their skills by providing a deferred repayment loan of between £300 and £10,000 to cover up to 80% of tuition fees for a vocational course of up to two years, plus a further year’s work experience if appropriate. Courses can be full-time or part-time, or involve open or distance learning, and people who have been out of work for three months can apply to have all their course fees covered. The low-interest loan is arranged through one of four high-street banks, and certain conditions and criteria apply. Find out which banks offer the loan and order an application pack by calling the National Careers Service on Tel: 0800 100 900. You can also check online to see if you are eligible – visit www.gov.uk/career-development-loans

QUEST questonline.co.uk

Key: Q Service personnel

Armed Forces Compensation Scheme

The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) provides compensation for any injury, illness or death that is predominantly caused by service on or after 6 April 2005. The War Pension Scheme (WPS) compensates for any injury, illness or death that occurred up to this date. All current and former members of the UK Armed Forces, including Reservists, may submit a claim for compensation. For advice and guidance, call Veterans UK’s free helpline on 0808 1914218. Alternatively, you can visit: www.veterans-uk.info

Universities and Colleges Admissions Service UCAS deals with applications for first degree and similar standard courses at over 250 universities and colleges in the UK. Remember that you no longer need A-levels to go to university – vocational A-levels/NVQs and access courses now qualify students as well. If you are interested in entering higher education, call the UCAS hotline on Tel: 0371 468 0468 or visit www.ucas.com

University Short Courses

The University Short Course Programme (USCP) exists to enhance the general educational development of Service personnel through providing short courses at a range of universities in topics such as leadership and management, regional and strategic studies, and languages. Course fees and accommodation costs are funded by the Services. Further details are available from education/learning centres or search in DINs.

learndirect learndirect is a free government service via which qualified advisers provide information on all aspects of learning, from UK-wide learning opportunities, to career guidance and sources of finance, and other national and local organisations that can help. Advisers can answer questions on any aspect of learning. The website address is www.learndirect.com The freephone number is Tel: 0800 101901.

Jobcentre Plus Finding a job

Jobcentre Plus has one of Britain’s largest databases of job vacancies, which is updated constantly. The database also lets you search for training, career information, voluntary work and childcare providers across the UK. You can search the database via Universal Jobmatch (www.gov.uk – search for ‘jobs’) or by using the Job Point in your local Jobcentre. When you find a job you are interested in, either using the Jobcentre Plus job search or at the Job Point in your local Jobcentre, Jobcentre advisers will tell you how to apply, send you an application form and may even contact the employer (so have your address, National Insurance number, date of birth and the job reference number to hand).

Benefits

If you’re unsure which benefits you can get, you can check online using the Gov.uk ‘Benefits calculators’ pages (www.gov.uk – search for ‘benefits calculators’). To find out more about Jobseeker’s Allowance, who can get it and how to claim online, go to the Gov.uk ‘Jobseeker’s Allowance’ pages (www.gov.uk – search for ‘Jobseeker’s Allowance’). You can also claim by phone by calling Jobcentre Plus on 0800 055 6688. There’s a Welsh-language line on 0800 012 1888, and a textphone on 0800 023 4888 if you find it hard to speak or hear clearly. Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am–6pm.

Armed Forces Champions

Armed Forces Champions have been established in Jobcentre Plus districts throughout the country to ensure that the concerns of Service personnel and their families are addressed. Working with local bases and Families Federations, the role of the Champions is to raise awareness of the support available through Jobcentre Plus, such as information on the local labour market and how to claim benefits. (Any problems accessing Jobcentre Plus services can be fed through to local Champions via Unit Admin Offices.)

questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

HUB THE

THE HUB

>> Course and training options, transition news and reader reports

World-renowned programmes approved for ELC funding World-leading technical education provider, CNet Training, has announced ELCAS approval for its full range of programmes spanning the network cable installation and data centre sectors … CNet Training has been designing and delivering technical education programmes, included resettlement programmes, since 1996 and is the only industry dedicated technical education provider in the world to award both industry-recognised qualifications and official certifications. The company’s most popular resettlement programme, Certified Network Cable Installer (CNCI®), teaches everything needed to confidently and accurately prepare, install,

test and certify copper and fibre-optic cabling systems. It is specifically for those wishing to demonstrate the highest levels of knowledge, skills and expertise in network infrastructure. The ten-day programme is extended into 20 days for Service leavers to include a twoweek work placement with one of the top cable installation companies in the UK. This provides essential hands-on work experience, the ability to gain valuable contacts and, for some, an offer of employment. Successful completion of the programme provides official certification with a post-nominal title, two level 3 BTEC qualifications and ECS card eligibility (an ECS card is required to allow individuals to work on-site). CNCI® certification is recognised and endorsed by major companies throughout the network infrastructure sector across the UK and Ireland, and is proving popular in the US, too. It has become recognised as the musthave credential for cable installers, is stated as a requirement on many job specifications and is a must for teams within tender

documentation for many new builds and refurbishments. The Royal Corps of Signals has also adopted the certification. Recognising the importance of the having professionally certified teams, it has entered into a collaborative agreement with CNet to internally deliver the Certified Network Cable Installer (CNCI®) programme to its installation technicians. The content of the programme has been designed in close collaboration with the industry and is constantly being updated to reflect the very latest technical changes. This ensures that the material is of the highest standard and continues to be recognised as the essential certification needed to achieve high-quality cable installations. CNet is also the originator of the Global Digital Infrastructure Education Framework, which showcases a full suite of technical education programmes throughout the network cable infrastructure and data centre sectors, all of which have been approved by ELCAS. The Framework has been designed to provide the right skills and knowledge progression in line with industry career paths. Forces Leavers are able to use their ELC for programmes across the Framework, providing the perfect opportunity to further enhance knowledge, skills, credentials and help achieve career goals. For individuals who require guidance, the dedicated Forces Leavers team at CNet is able to help every step of the way. CNet Training’s ELC provider number is 1267. For more information see www.cnet-training.com/resettlement See the advertisement on page 15

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

>> HOUSING >> SOCIAL MEDIA TRAINING BFBS launches first free social media training programme for military spouses and partners

Forces Help to Buy available at The Spires Lovell Homes is encouraging Armed Forces personnel looking to take the first step on to the property ladder to enquire about the Forces Help to Buy scheme available on homes at The Spires in Branston, near Lincoln Launched in 2014, the popular government-backed scheme has been extended until the end of 2019, aiming to increase the rate of home ownership in the Armed Forces. The scheme is designed to help Service men and women buy their own property through borrowing up to 50% of their salary interest free. The Spires is a popular development offering a beautiful selection of 47 two, three and four-bedroom homes. Perfectly located in a lively rural community, it is close to RAF Waddington, RAF Scampton, RAF

Digby and RAF Coningsby. With homes available from £194,995, this development is already over 65% sold, with properties available to move in to now. Says Toni Boden, regional sales manager at Lovell Homes, ‘The Forces Help to Buy scheme is a great way for Services personnel to take the step on to the property ladder and be the lucky owner of a beautiful home in a friendly community.’ The Forces Help to Buy scheme is open to personnel in regular service who have completed the required length of service or have six months’ service left at the time of application. For further information on the homes available at The Spires, please visit www.lovell.co.uk/developments/thespires-branston/ or call 01522 844234.

BFBS recently announced the launch of Social Media Spouses, the UK’s first free online social media training programme for military spouses and partners. The course is funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust and applications open in May. Social Media Spouses addresses a real need among military spouses and partners to obtain the skills they need to find flexible and interesting work that fits around military and family life. It is also the first dedicated course to offer them detailed training on how to use social media to grow their business, or to find a career in social media. This 12-week course is designed by social media experts to offer military spouses the opportunity to build up professional skills, ultimately enabling them to become social media professionals. The online course will focus on the following areas of social media: l social media platforms – how each platform’s algorithms work, along with effective strategies to make content stand out l campaign planning – how plan, implement and evaluate social media campaigns l community management – how to grow and engage an audience, how to moderate comments and discussions, and how to deal with difficult situations l photography – learn how to take truly show-stopping images using a phone l videos – create professional social media videos using a smartphone l ads – using paid-for advertising on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram l analytics – using each of the major platforms’ built-in analytics tools. Those who secure a place on the course, which is part of the Forces Media Academy, will also become part of an exclusive social media community. Here they will receive advice on careers in social media, content or campaigns, plus ongoing support and feedback from experts on anything related to social media. The course will be completed through a learning platform, which can be accessed from anywhere around the world. Applications open in May, but military spouses and partners can register their interest now via http://bit.ly/2CnAVcn or by joining the Facebook group at http://bit.ly/2VWAGfy

questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

THE HUB

>> SUPPORTING VETERANS

Stoll teams up with partners to support Veterans into work Stoll, the leading provider of supported housing for Veterans, has been awarded £19,700 by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund to enable more Veterans to be independent. Forty Veterans will be supported this year with skills, training and qualifications to help them into work and volunteering roles. Good training and skills help people maximise income and re-enter the workplace after leaving the Armed Forces. They can also build their skills, confidence and self-esteem through volunteering. Stoll will partner with several different organisations to ensure Veterans receive bespoke support that meets their needs. Employment for Veterans is not always straightforward and working-age Veterans are nearly twice as likely to be unemployed as their civilian counterparts. The new initiative directly addresses the employability of Veterans, maximising opportunities by building strong links with potential employers, and increasing the confidence and skills of Veterans through workshops in CV writing, interview skills and job search. Stoll will be partnering with a range of expert providers, including The Poppy Factory, RFEA, Career Transition Partnership, SAGE, Fighting Chance, Warrior Programme and the Barclays AFTER Programme. Stoll will provide small grants to assist with the cost of work-related courses and materials. Veterans will be expected to part-fund any courses/ equipment to ensure their commitment. For more information please visit www.stoll.org.uk or contact the Stoll Communications team by emailing sarah.skinner@stoll.org.uk or calling 07802658145

>> ARMED FORCES DAY

SSAFA named official main charity sponsor of Armed Forces Day 2019 SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity has been announced as the official main charity sponsor of Armed Forces Day National Event 2019 being held in Salisbury on 29 June. Armed Forces Day is a chance to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community – from current serving troops to Service families, Veterans and Cadets. The SSAFA Armed Forces Day Hike, finishing at Hudson’s Field in Salisbury, will offer an additional opportunity to show support for the Armed Forces family. With a range of options available, there is something for everyone, from a family-friendly 7-mile route and a half marathon route to the ultimate challenge: a 26.2-mile marathon distance route. The hike is part of official Armed Forces Day national events and will help raise funds for SSAFA to support the more than 70,000 people who contact the charity for help each year. For more information or to sign up to the Armed Forces Day Hike, visit www.ssafa.org.uk/fundraise/trek/ armed-forces-day-hike-2019 To learn more about the work of SSAFA, visit www.ssafa.org.uk and, for more information about Armed Forces Day 2019, visit www.wiltshire.gov.uk/salisbury-afd

>> FUNDRAISING

L3 TRL technology announced as main sponsors of Tour de Troops Castles 2019

For the second year running, defence and cyber security company, L3 TRL Technology, has been announced as lead sponsor of the gruelling fundraising charity challenge for cyclists, Tour de Troops Castles 2019. Cyclists will start the mammoth 570-mile (900km) bike ride from Edinburgh on Wednesday 5 June and finish in Cardiff, cycling via Windsor, on Saturday 8 June, having taken in three of the

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

UK’s most significant castles. The Tour de Troops Castles challenge is part of the Captain James Wadsworth Challenge, which raises money for the charity, Felix Fund. ‘The Felix Fund helps bomb disposal and search personnel and their families. It is such an important charity, and one that is extremely close to my heart, having seen first-hand the amazing work that it does,’ says Captain Wadsworth. Adds Richard Flitton, vice president and general manager, L3 TRL: ‘We are proud to play our part in supporting the defence and security services by providing them with force protection systems. L3 TRL’s continued sponsorship of the Tour de Troops allows us to acknowledge the enormous sacrifices made, and risks taken, by bomb disposal and search personnel in order to keep us all safe from harm.’

Travel to and from the start and finish points each side of the four day-long stages, and accommodation, is included in the £150 entry fee. A support team will be also on hand and nutrition will be provided. There are still places available to take part in the ride. To register, visit: https://helmtickets. com/events/2635/tour-de-troops-thecastles-05-080619

Quest March 2015 Final_2015 06/03/2015 13:16 Page 15 March 2015 Final_2015 06/03/2015 13:16 Page 15 Quest

100% Guaranteed Work Placements Free EV charging seminars with Trade Skills 4U go live! Trade Skills 4U, the UK’s leader in electrical training courses, is hosting a range of free electric vehicle installer seminars. Throughout 2019 these seminars will be aimed at both existing installers and new entrants to the industry … Trade Skills 4U, in conjunction with Rolec EV, a division of Rolec Services that specialises in the design and manufacture of a range of electric vehicle charging solutions, has designed these seminars to explain the opportunities available for becoming an EV car charging point installer. They will cover relevant and helpful topics, such as how funding for EV charging point installation works, how to get registered in order to draw down funding, how to maximise the EV funding opportunity for installers and their customers, and the training required to become an EV charging point installer. The one-hour seminars will be run in the evening from Trade Skills 4U’s four main training facilities, in Gatwick, Warrington, Leeds and Coventry. As part of the partnership with Rolec, students who successfully pass an EV installer course with us are automatically registered on the Approved Rolec Installer’s Scheme, where their name will appear on a national database enabling them to work on jobs in the local area. Carl Bennett, executive chairman of Trade Skills 4U, says: ‘Following a rise in demand for electric vehicle points across the country, the collaboration between both companies seemed like the perfect match to ensure

that skilled electricians are ready to work in this growing sector. By combining experience in training and manufacturing we have created seminars specifically designed to deliver an opportunity to our students. We believe the government’s initiative to eliminate all petrol and diesel cars by 2040 will mean the need for installing electrical vehicle points will rise significantly in the coming years.’ Two dates are now live, with more to follow shortly. If you would like to register for these free seminars, please visit www. tradeskills4u.co.uk/pages/events Trade Skills 4U offers a wide range of electrical courses in the UK for new entrants and existing electricians. For more information, please visit www.tradeskills4u.co.uk or speak to a course adviser on 0800 856 4448, who will be happy to help. See the advertisement on page 27

THE GOVERNMENT’S INITIATIVE TO ELIMINATE ALL PETROL AND DIESEL CARS BY 2040 WILL

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MEAN THE NEED FOR INSTALLING ELECTRICAL VEHICLE POINTS WILL RISE SIGNIFICANTLY questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

COURSE CHOICES YOUR RESETTLEMENT BRITISH EX-FORCES IN BUSINESS AWARDS

AWARDS CELEBRATE BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENTS OF MILITARY VETERANS We are delighted to reveal the finalists for the second annual British Ex-Forces in Business Awards, the flagship celebration of military Veterans in second careers. More than 800 military and business leaders are set to attend the prestigious awards ceremony in London on 8 May, sponsored by QUEST

ach year, thousands of Service

to promote the significant value that

men and women leave the military,

ex-military add to the UK economy.

forming an attractive pool of talent

RAF officer Susannah Streeter, who will

in the civilian world. But despite their years

more than 400 nominations, with the

welcome keynote addresses from Sir Charlie

spent gaining skills and values that are

winners decided by a judging panel of

Mayfield, chairman of the John Lewis

transferable and valuable to businesses,

military Veterans headed up by Admiral Sir

Partnership and a former Army officer, and

transitioning and finding a place in the wider

George Zambellas, former First Sea Lord

Lt. Gen. Sir Andrew Gregory, chief executive

workforce can be challenging. While many

and now chairman of several companies.

of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity and a

hundreds of thousands have gone through

Other judges include the CEOs of aerospace

former Chief of Defence People, plus live

a similar transition, Service leavers lack

giant Lockheed Martin (UK), pathology

entertainment and guest award presenters.

visible role models in business.

service provider Viapath, governing

The British Ex-Forces in Business

Says Ben Rossi, CEO of Disruptive Media

body GB Snowsport and recruitment firm

Group and founder of the awards, ‘We have

Awards provides that visibility on a national

Staffline Group, as well as senior leaders

been blown away by the response to this

scale by celebrating the accomplishments

from EY, PwC, Credit Suisse, Goldman

programme. Supporting Veterans is not

of Veterans across the UK workforce. The

Sachs, Cisco and Royal Mail, among others.

only the right thing to do but there is a

awards highlight the military skills and

Says Admiral Zambellas, who was First

clear business case too, as demonstrated

values that have enabled business success,

Sea Lord between 2013 and 2016 and is

by the incredible talent in the 400-plus

and recognise organisations that support

head judge for the awards, ‘I congratulate all

nominations received for this year’s

the transition of Service men and women

those ex-Forces men and women who, after

awards. There is still much to do to educate

into second careers.

many years focused on military delivery,

employers on the importance and value

have turned their hands so successfully to

of supporting the transition of Service

take place on 8 May in the London Hilton

the business battlefield. Many of the skills

men and women, and we will continue to

on Park Lane’s Grand Ballroom, will bring

needed are identical: leadership, fortitude,

promote the crucial message that Veterans

together a record audience of more than

commitment and attention to detail. Some

are a huge asset to business. It’s vital that

800, making it the largest event of its kind

are new, especially in commerce and sales,

Service leavers have role models to look to

globally. The prestigious event gathers

but the ethos and values of ex-Forces

and we are privileged to host and showcase

business leaders, Veterans, top employers,

people always shine through, and I’m proud

them at this unique celebration.’

current serving officers, politicians,

to support them.’

This year’s awards ceremony, which will

journalists and other stakeholders

The finalists were whittled down from

This year’s awards ceremony will be hosted by BBC news anchor and former

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

THE FINALISTS Advocate of the Year

Innovator of the Year

Reservist of the Year

Christopher Livermore, Centrica Dominic Hill, The White Ensign Association Gillian Russell, Amazon James and Lindsey Copperwait, Focus Logistics Group Kelly Mullane, Northern Trust Michael Robb, Crest Nicholson Sarah Pylyp, Jaguar Land Rover Stephen Jolly, M&C Saatchi Steve Lowe, Project Nova Sue Bomphray, Barclays

Charles Joel, Gardner Denver Christoper Kenna, Brand Advance Dawn Childs, Merlin Entertainments Group Edward Janvrin, Spark Beyond James Lang, SNC-Lavalin Atkins James Lewis, Kuehne + Nagel Kevin Alderton, Blind Veterans UK Mick Doe, Clipper Logistics Peter Koch de Gooreyund, Centrica Business Solutions Steven Rumbold, EDF Energy

Alex Rennie, FDM Group David Freeman, Amazon Gordon McLellan, Barclays James Cox, SNC-Lavalin Atkins James Wootton, Agency Space Lindsay Stewart, Barclays Malcolm McFarlane, FDM Group Richard Perkins, Transport for London

Business Leader of the Year

Inspiration of the Year

Alex Lane, Jacobs Brian Chambers, Trident Pharmaceuticals Christopher Gunton, One Housing Group Louisa Clarke, Churchill Group Michael Fildes, Circles, a Sodexo Company Patrick Thomson, JP Morgan Peter Satchwell, Gardner Denver – Reavell Richard Charnock, Standard Life Aberdeen Stuart Goodman, Essential Site Skills Vern Davis, Sopra Steria

Craig Monaghan, Sale Sharks Community Trust Greg Staunton, PwC John Daley, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Louise Worrall, St James’s Place Neil Spencer, Kuehne + Nagel Paul Wood, Woodlands International Penny Melville-Brown, Disability Dynamics Rebecca Halliwell-Coutts, Foran Solutions Sheena Wilcox, Career Transition Partnership Tim Evers, Sapper Support

Champion of Women Award

Lifetime Achievement

Amanda Johnson, VACT Andrea Dunlop, Paysafe Daisy Coleman, Thales Danielle Sandy, FDM Group Julia Mathias, Lloyds Banking Group Justine Hogkinson, Advocacy Focus Louie-Mae Brisley-Gibson, Mainstay Group Mandy Hickson, Hickson-Experience from the Front Line

Brendan Hindle, Jaguar Land Rover Matt Wiles, Leidos UK Quentin Naylor, THG Ingenuity Richard Dorney, Strongmind Rod Brown, Opun Tim Harris, Wood Tony O’Connor, Marriott Hotels

Ayub Kinyanjui, Knight Frank Ben Edwards, Facebook Garron Clark-Darby, T-Systems Jeremy Cowell, FDM Group Jim Niven, Cloudian Rachel Webster, Barclays Rick Mounfield, The Security Institute Simon Hammerschmidt, Level Global Steven Brown, James Walker Group Travis Broad, IHS Markit

Employer of the Year

Military Virtues in Business

Service Leaver of the Year

Amazon Bloomberg LP Compass Group UK&I Jaguar Land Rover Microsoft Openreach Splunk Transport for London Yodel

Andrew Cons, Go Digital Transformations Craig Peckett, Chesterfield Special Cylinders Darren Evans, The Access Group Helen Knights, Barclays Johanna Covell-Ritchie, Bloomberg LP Mark Braham, The AA Matt Podmore Nicholas Brandram, HSBC Private Bank Rachael Stevenson, Serco Tom Kay, Kuehne + Nagel

Andrew Reeves, BNY Mellon David Ellis, SNC-Lavalin Atkins Dominic Conway, JP Morgan Mark Large, EY Matthew Cox, Newton Investment Management Nick Wadey, Hi-Line Contractors SW Phil Pettit, Cummins Generator Technologies Philip Worthington, Micross Components Robert Hemming, Equiniti Tony Wilkinson, Direct Line Group

Entrepreneur of the Year

New Service Leaver of the Year

Team Leader of the Year

Chris Gillan, Heroes Drinks Company Lee Robertson, Octo Members Group Lyndsey Marchant, Phoenix Occupational Health Mitch Turner, Drake International Nick Lilley, Upturn Richard H. Tucker MBE, AAA Caring Caretaker Steve Thornton, Forces Cars Direct Ted Jones, Northcott Global Solutions Vince Noyce and Giles Collighan, The Portsmouth Distillery Co.

Colin Murphy, Jaguar Land Rover Conor Harbison, Citi Graeme Park, The Hut Group Lee Brown, Impellam Group Malcolm Biggs Matt Chapman, JP Morgan Michele Crossman, SNC-Lavalin Atkins Mohammed Ahmed, Sopra Steria Peter Berridge, FDM Group

Carl Fewsdale, SNC-Lavalin Atkins Dee Appleton Cairns, Countess of Chester NHS FT John White, Assystem Group Neil Winchester, Dell Technologies Olly King, JP Morgan Paul Thomas, Morrisons Richard Camp, Bloomberg LP Stephen Butler, Chesterfield Special Cylinders Stephen Essam, University of Bedfordshire Tony Hanlon, HSBC

Ex-Forces Initiative of the Year

George Anderson, National Grid James Denny, Viddyoze James Dickaty, Sellafield James Howarth, RS Components Jamie Thomas, Sodexo John Chappell, United Utilities Mike Forshaw, Dentons Paul Embleton, Interserve Rob Martin, Anchor Hanover Group Toby Gutteridge, Bravery Organisation

Barclays Military Network Scotland BNY Mellon Insignia Crew JP Morgan Lloyd’s Military Network Quanta Services to Film Step into Health

Outstanding Achiever of the Year

Rising Star of the Year Alex Dickinson, JP Morgan Darryll Boden, Eurostar David Walker, James Walker Group Ewan Bray, WSP James Carpenter, Check Point Software Technologies James Fenwick-Smith, Alstom Transport Jonathon Robinson, Hastings Direct Roger Holt, SNC-Lavalin Atkins Rory Thompson, Canadian Pacific Rail

Role Model of the Year

Young Leader of the Year Adam Robinson, Exertis UK Adrian Hales Ben Emslie, Splunk Camilla Howard, Compass Group UK&I Chris Crowther, Equifax Dylan Williams, Aviva Finlay Curror, Morgan Stanley Lee Cartmell, Stagecoach Rory Browne, Bombardier Transportation

To find out more, visit http://exforcesinbusiness.co.uk

questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

Q I

YOUR RESETTLEMENT SELF-EMPLOYMENT

STEVE BULLEYMENT

’ve been round the block

as a plumber, locksmith or

and back again. At my

electrician, you’ll need to be

peak, I posted on five

creative. It can be a real effort

networks, seven days a week.

to find things to post. Also,

It was exhausting. It was

you can’t ‘link out’. Instagram

difficult to fit in the car keys!

doesn’t want you to leave. If

So, after that experience,

you want people to click a link

here’s my take on using social

to your website or shop, it’s

media in business.

not possible, unless you pay

Let’s look at the popular

for adverts.

networks …

So should you use it for business? Well, it can work,

Facebook

but it’s also great way to waste

Love it or hate it, Facebook

time when you should be

has done it right. I joined in

working.

2008 and created a business page in 2010. Eight years ago, I

had 1,000 followers. If I posted,

If you’re expecting to see

nearly everyone would see it.

professional posts from

It worked amazingly well.

experts in business you might

Then, once Facebook hooked us all in, they changed the algorithm. There was public outcry! As I write this, I have 5,500 followers, but if I post, only a handful see it. There’s only a tiny reach now, unless you pay for adverts.

Does Facebook advertising work? Yes, but only if the account is handled correctly. It’s possible to get great leads, and customers. However,

be disappointed. Although

Antisocial media ‘When you start a business, advisors will tell you to use your time to build up a presence on social media,’ says regular QUEST contributor, Steve Bulleyment, director of specialist auto locksmith company Car Key Man. ‘After all, it’s free advertising. But are you ready to waste all that time? And are you ready to become public property?’ This month, Steve examines the truth about social media in business …

if Facebook is part of your business plan, don’t think you’ll

connect, it’s turning into a professional Facebook – from moaning about Brexit to asking which photo to use on a profile picture. Then there are the get-rich-quick schemes: online ‘entrepreneurs’ in fast cars. LinkedIn is a good way to find people and then connect. If you can ignore all the ‘noise’, it’s a useful tool.

My tips for social media in business

get much free advertising –

Twitter gave us constant

Instagram

you’ll need deep pockets.

updates, much faster than any

This is my favourite platform,

news channel.

but should you use it for

‘Time is your most

business?

precious commodity.

So, what other platforms can you use?

Twitter

However, will Twitter help with your business? I believe it

If you are showing off what

Budget your time

You can make more

takes an enormous amount of

you do, it’s amazing. Coffee

money, but you can’t make more time.’

time to make an impact. If you

shops, vegan cafes and craft

We started on Twitter in 2012

have a local, ‘people’ business

sites like Etsy – if it’s eye

and I wasted many hours

like we do, you’re wasting your

catching it’s a good way to get

building up a following and

time.

yourself out there. However,

hoping for a mention. It’s great for hearing about breaking news. When the London Bridge terror attacks happened a few years ago, my family and I were two bridges away.

LinkedIn is a great way to

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

Jim Rohn To grow your business, you’ll have lots of boring jobs to do.

Visit the Car Key Man YouTube Channel at: www.youtube.com/c/TheCarKeyMan

Paperwork, quotes, tax and – sometimes – the actual work! Social media is always more interesting. Social networks are designed to be addictive, to keep you on a site. If you’re

posting or following just one

instantly. You are there for

hour a day, on three separate

them and them only!

platforms, that’s 21 hours a week.

In the early days, an enquiry is very exciting. At our

Think about that: nearly

peak, we were getting 20 a

KEY SKILLS Steve’s business, the Car Key Man, is a specialist auto locksmith company covering Lincolnshire. Launching in 2004, Steve spotted an opportunity to solve the problem of replacing lost and stolen car keys. The company now offers workshop facilities as well as a mobile service. Recognising the needs of concerned vehicle owners, it offers free consultations to find an affordable solution to the growing number of car key problems.

one day a week online, every

day, even on a Sunday. Every

week. That’s 45 days every

customer will probably ask five

year! What else can you do

questions. So, on your day off,

with that time to grow your

you could have 100 questions!

business? The more people

Is that what you want? I didn’t.

you follow, the more time

I also didn’t want to be a slave

you’ll need.

to my phone, reacting to

Are you ready?

every ping or buzz alert. To

It can be great to share

Be consistent

keep your sanity, you need to

who you are, and what your

Social networks reward

manage this. If your profile

business does, but hopefully

consistency. It’s no use posting

grows, the questions will

you’ll see there’s a price to

five times in one week then not

follow, so think about this at

pay, both in time and money.

touching it for a month. Plan

the beginning.

It’s easy to fool yourself that

out your time, schedule posts

Do you have time to get social?

you’re busy working, when you’re just hiding from all

you’re on holiday. Try not to

Trolls, reviews and abuse

start something you can’t keep

It’s going to happen – from

be done.

going.

posting stupid comments, to

if possible, cover the times

IF FACEBOOK IS PART OF YOUR BUSINESS PLAN, DON’T THINK YOU’LL GET MUCH FREE ADVERTISING

leaving bad reviews.

Are you always online?

on Google. In both, we’re

The worst thing about social

publicly shamed because we

media for business is how

didn’t call someone back. We

you handle the attention. If

didn’t meet the customer or

you give your customers a

see their car key. We didn’t

messaging service to use, they

sell them anything. And yet

will message you. Most likely

complete strangers trashed

it will be during social time,

us online. At the time, I was

evenings and weekends. Are

gutted – we’d never had a

you prepared to give up your

bad review. So be prepared

family time to message people

for when anonymous

back?

Fattypants87 leaves you a

those other jobs that need to

Get in touch

Good luck. I’ll look out for you online … Q

Lincolncarkeyman@gmail.com

We have two bad reviews

There’s nothing more

negative comment or trashes

annoying to a customer than

a post. It’s not personal, but it

a business that doesn’t reply

feels like it.

thecarkeyman.com

Military to mines. Since 2005, TDI has effec�vely provided mine ac�on services to humanitarian and commercial organisa�ons, offering landmine and unexploded ordnance clearance, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), risk educa�on, EOD and IEDD training, fleet maintenance, and remote logis�cs solu�ons in 18 countries across Africa and the Middle East.

Read Steve’s regularly updated blog at: http://steveoncivvystreet.co.uk/

PROS AND CONS Pros l Social media can raise your online profile – free of charge. l It’s quick and very easy to set up and start posting on all networks. l If you put in the time, it can lead to enquiries, and then to paid work.

Cons l It can take over your life. You’ll need to manage comments, reviews and questions. l You must be consistent in order to build up authority. l It can be expensive. Experts will be happy to help you – and take your money!

07832 147601 or 01522 514141

TDI have contract posi�ons available for Project Managers, EOD and IEDD Trainers and Mentors, Technical Field Managers, EOD qualiﬁed staﬀ, Mechanics, Engineers, Medics and all associated support personnel.

INTERESTED? Contact us at:

www.thedevelopmen�ni�a�ve.com info@thedevelopmen�ni�a�ve.com

questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

Q Courses and events YOUR RESETTLEMENT COURSES AND EVENTS FACTFILE

This guide includes the courses currently scheduled to run from May to July 2019

Additional courses may be scheduled by each Resettlement Centre according to demand. A list of all scheduled courses is available from your nearest Resettlement Centre. All the dates given should be confirmed with the relevant Resettlement Centres. Dates are correct at time of going to press.

To book onto any CTP courses, workshops or events, please call the central bookings team on 0203 162 4410 Visit www.ctp.org.uk for further details

RC Aldergrove

RRC Catterick

RRC Cottesmore RC Northolt rrccottesmore@ctp.org.uk

rcnortholt@ctp.org.uk

START DATE END DATE

CTW Mixed Class

CTW Junior Ranks

CTW Mixed Class

rcaldergrove@ctp.org.uk

07 May 2019 04 June 2019 08 July 2019

09 May 2019 06 June 2019 10 July 2019

ESP Job Skills Workshop 30 May 2019 20 June 2019 25 July 2019

30 May 2019 20 June 2019 25 July 2019

FAR All Ranks 27 June 2019

27 June 2019

RRC Aldershot rrcaldershot@ctp.org.uk

START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks 14 May 2019 16 May 2019 28 May 2019 30 May 2019 11 June 2019 13 June 2019 09 July 2019 11 July 2019

CTW Mixed Class

20 May 2019 22 May 2019 (Course location Brize Norton) 24 June 2019 26 June 2019 (Course location Brize Norton) 22 July 2019 24 July 2019 (Course location Brize Norton)

CTW Officer 02 July 2019

04 July 2019

07 May 2019 30 July 2019

09 May 2019 01 August 2019

CTW Officer/SNCO

CTW SNCO 21 May 2019 18 June 2019 16 July 2019

23 May 2019 20 June 2019 18 July 2019

ESP Job Skills Workshop 14 May 2019 18 June 2019 16 July 2019

14 May 2019 18 June 2019 16 July 2019

FAR All Ranks 13 June 2019

13 June 2019

Self Employment Awareness 07 June 2019 07 June 2019

rrccatterick@ctp.org.uk

13 May 2019 15 May 2019 14 May 2019 16 May 2019 03 June 2019 05 June 2019 17 June 2019 19 June 2019 01 July 2019 03 July 2019 02 July 2019 04 July 2019 15 July 2019 17 July 2019 CTW Mixed Class 13 May 2019 17 May 2019 (Course location Gibraltar) 21 May 2019 23 May 2019 (Course location Cyprus) 03 June 2019 06 June 2019 (Course location Preston) CTW Officer/SNCO 07 May 2019 09 May 2019 20 May 2019 22 May 2019 28 May 2019 30 May 2019 10 June 2019 12 June 2019 24 June 2019 26 June 2019 08 July 2019 10 July 2019 22 July 2019 24 July 2019

CTW Officer/SNCO 14 May 2019 28 May 2019 18 June 2019 09 July 2019

16 May 2019 30 May 2019 20 June 2019 11 July 2019

ESP Job Skills Workshop

20 May 2019 20 May 2019 (Course location Cyprus) 06 June 2019 06 June 2019

13 June 2019 13 June 2019

FAR All Ranks

05 June 2019 05 June 2019

New Horizons Moving towards Retirement 02 May 2019

02 May 2019

Self Employment Awareness 13 June 2019

13 June 2019

RRC Colchester

FAR All Ranks 06 June 2019 06 June 2019 (Course location External Venue) 25 July 2019 25 July 2019 (Course location Cosford)

New Horizons Moving Towards Retirement 10 June 2019 10 June 2019

Self Employment Awareness

rrcnortholt@ctp.org.uk

13 May 2019 17 June 2019 08 July 2019

START DATE END DATE

Central London

CTW Mixed Class 07 May 2019 09 May 2019 13 May 2019 15 May 2019 21 May 2019 23 May 2019 03 June 2019 05 June 2019 17 June 2019 19 June 2019 08 July 2019 10 July 2019 15 July 2019 17 July 2019 29 July 2019 31 July 2019

ESP Job Skills Workshop 02 May 2019 20 June 2019 25 July 2019

03 May 2019 21 June 2019 26 July 2019

FAR All Ranks

07 May 2019 09 May 2019 08 May 2019 10 May 2019 13 May 2019 15 May 2019 20 May 2019 22 May 2019 21 May 2019 23 May 2019 03 June 2019 05 June 2019 04 June 2019 06 June 2019 10 June 2019 12 June 2019 11 June 2019 13 June 2019 17 June 2019 19 June 2019 24 June 2019 26 June 2019 01 July 2019 03 July 2019 08 July 2019 10 July 2019 15 July 2019 17 July 2019 22 July 2019 24 July 2019 29 July 2019 31 July 2019 30 July 2019 01 August 2019

18 June 2019

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

18 June 2019

13 May 2019 17 June 2019 08 July 2019

13 May 2019 24 June 2019 22 July 2019 29 July 2019

15 May 2019 26 June 2019 24 July 2019 31 July 2019

CTW Officer 07 May 2019 09 May 2019 17 June 2019 19 June 2019 15 July 2019 17 July 2019

ESP Job Skills Workshop 28 May 2019

28 May 2019

Self Employment Awareness 23 May 2019 18 July 2019

23 May 2019 18 July 2019

RC Plymouth

rcplymouth@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks 20 May 2019 08 July 2019

22 May 2019 10 July 2019

CTW Mixed Class 13 May 2019 15 May 2019 03 June 2019 05 June 2019 11 June 2019 13 June 2019 (Course location Culdrose) 01 July 2019 03 July 2019 22 July 2019 24 July 2019

CTW Officer/SNCO

17 June 2019 19 June 2019 15 July 2019 17 July 2019

ESP Job Skills Workshop 06 June 2019 06 June 2019 25 July 2019 25 July 2019

FAR All Ranks

04 July 2019 04 July 2019

Self Employment Awareness

resettlementinfo@ctp.org.uk

16 May 2019 11 July 2019

START DATE END DATE

RC Portsmouth

CTW Senior Officer

rcportsmouth@ctp.org.uk

14 May 2019 04 June 2019 02 July 2019

START DATE END DATE

16 May 2019 06 June 2019 04 July 2019

FAR Senior officers 11 June 2019 11 June 2019

Interview Techniques (Snr Officer) 20 May 2019 22 July 2019

20 May 2019 22 July 2019

CTW Junior Ranks 03 June 2019 05 June 2019 29 July 2019 31 July 2019

CTW Mixed Class 07 May 2019 20 May 2019 10 June 2019 01 July 2019 08 July 2019

09 May 2019 22 May 2019 12 June 2019 03 July 2019 10 July 2019

CTW Officer 28 May 2019 30 May 2019 24 June 2019 26 June 2019 22 July 2019 24 July 2019

CTW SNCO 13 May 2019 17 June 2019 15 July 2019

15 May 2019 19 June 2019 17 July 2019

ESP Job Skills Workshop 23 May 2019 20 June 2019 25 July 2019

23 May 2019 20 June 2019 25 July 2019

FAR All Ranks 09 May 2019 09 July 2019

09 May 2019 09 July 2019

New Horizons Moving towards Retirement

17 June 2019 19 June 2019 (Course location Lossiemouth) 24 June 2019 26 June 2019 15 July 2019 17 July 2019 (Course location Kinloss) 16 July 2019 18 July 2019 (Course location Faslane) 22 July 2019 24 July 2019

CTW Officer/SNCO 08 July 2019

10 July 2019

ESP Job Skills Workshop

23 May 2019 23 May 2019 27 June 2019 27 June 2019 (Course location Faslane) 25 July 2019 25 July 2019

FAR All Ranks 26 June 2019 26 June 2019 (Course location Lossiemouth)

11 July 2019

New Horizons Moving towards Retirement

Self Employment Awareness

20 June 2019

04 July 2019

Self Employment Awareness

RRC Rosyth

12 June 2019 31 July 2019

rrcrosyth@ctp.org.uk

20 June 2019 12 June 2019 31 July 2019

START DATE END DATE

RRC Tidworth

ESP Job Skills Workshop

rrctidworth@ctp.org.uk

START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks 13 May 2019 15 May 2019 20 May 2019 22 May 2019 03 June 2019 05 June 2019 17 June 2019 19 June 2019 24 June 2019 26 June 2019 01 July 2019 03 July 2019 08 July 2019 10 July 2019 15 July 2019 17 July 2019 22 July 2019 24 July 2019 30 July 2019 01 August 2019

CTW Mixed Class

28 May 2019 30 May 2019 CTW Officer 07 May 2019 09 May 2019 21 May 2019 23 May 2019 25 June 2019 27 June 2019 16 July 2019 8 July 2019 CTW Officer/SNCO 10 June 2019 12 June 2019 29 July 2019 31 July 2019

09 May 2019 09 May 2019 30 May 2019 30 May 2019 10 June 2019 10 June 2019 27 June 2019 27 June 2019 11 July 2019 11 July 2019 25 July 2019 25 July 2019

FAR All Ranks

30 May 2019 30 May 2019 (Course location External Venue) 18 July 2019 18 July 2019 (Course location External Venue)

New Horizons Moving towards Retirement 03 June 2019 22 July 2019

03 June 2019 22 July 2019

Self Employment Awareness 22 May 2019 22 May 2019 25 June 2019 25 June 2019 29 July 2019 29 July 2019

CTW SNCO

CTW Mixed Class

14 May 2019 16 May 2019 04 June 2019 06 June 2019 18 June 2019 20 June 2019 02 July 2019 04 July 2019 09 July 2019 11 July 2019 23 July 2019 25 July 2019

13 May 2019 15 May 2019 13 May 2019 15 May 2019 (Course location Kinloss) 21 May 2019 23 May 2019 (Course location Faslane) 03 June 2019 05 June 2019 11 June 2019 13 June 2019

Visit www.ctp.org.uk for further details

Interested in a career in property investing? Ex forces members just like you are making life changing money whilst enjoying a career path which gives them time and freedom. Hi I’m Steven Green founder of the property investment academy an ex forces guy myself. I’ve built up a portfolio of 5.5 million pounds from scratch. Straight talking approach teaching tried tested and proven strategies for huge success. •No experience needed •You Can start with a small amount of money

Forces discount £2995+ vat to an amazing £1391+ vat 3 full days intense training teaching you:-

How to get started with no money How to set up your property business Step by step process Closed Facebook support group 10 steps required to succeed How to find below market value properties What type of properties to buy How to get finance

How to systemise your property business How to increase profits How to price up renovation works How to find the right tenants Connections to legal team accountant and mortgage broker Plus much more ...

Find out more:

call: 01642 475798 or email enquiries@sgpropertyinvestmentacademy.com

questonline.co.uk l April/May 2019

YOUR RESETTLEMENT TRANSITION FACTFILE FACTFILE

Transition factfile:

Preparation for leaving the Forces Advice from the CTP, official provider of career guidance, skills training and job-finding assistance to Service leavers CTP provision is delivered from ten Resettlement Centres in the UK and Germany, and the Resettlement Training Centre (RTC) in Aldershot. The CTP provides a number of workshops, seminars, one-to-one career advice, and a range of in-house resettlement training for entitled Service Leavers from up to two years before discharge. CTP RightJob is the CTP’s online job-finding service, listing thousands of live vacancies for Service Leavers from local, national and international employers.

Contact the CTP on 0203 162 4410 or visit the website at www.ctp.org.uk

A Service leaver’s route map Service leaver completed under 4 years’ Service: CTP Future Horizons – registration upon discharge

Employment Support Programme

>> Prepares PRP with Consultant >> Receives regional employment advice

No Service Leaver completed at least 4 years’ Service: registers with Career Transition Partnership (CTP)

Served more than 6 years – or medical discharge?

Yes

Attends Career Transition Workshop (CTW) or equivalent

Prepare Personal Resettlement Plan (PRP) with Career Consultant

Attends: • further CTP workshops • training at RTC/ Resettlement Centre • civilian training attachment • external training • Financial/Housing briefings

Receives advice on or notification of matched job opportunities

Makes job applications

Secures employment

Career Consultant led Wounded, Injured and Sick Service personnel: CTP Assist – registration upon discharge

ORANGE ELEMENTS ALSO AVAILABLE TO THOSE WITH 4–6 YEARS’ SERVICE

Develops, reviews and actions PRP: • further advice on: • career options • self-employment • job finding

• training • attachments • research activities • civilian work attachments Consultant supports and monitors progress

CTP support for up to 2 years after discharge; OA job finding support until retirement

Resettlement Services

Resettlement Centres

1st LINE The first stage in your resettlement process is with 1st Line, who offer information and administrative support. They are: >> RN – Education & Resettlement Officers (ERO) >> Army – Unit Resettlement Officers (URO) >> RAF – Resettlement & Education Co-ordinators (REC).

Career Transition Workshops (CTW), career counselling and other CTP workshops, briefings and events usually take place at one of the ten Resettlement Centres in the UK and Germany. Further information can be obtained from any of the Resettlement Centres listed below.

2nd LINE The principal task of 2nd Line is to provide advice and guidance on the resettlement package that will best suit the individual Service Leaver. For those entitled to CTP this will normally be a referral to a CTP consultant and/ or enrolment on a CTW, both of which will require the Service Leaver to be registered for CTP services. 2nd Line are: >> RN – Naval Resettlement Information Officers (NRIO), located at Base Learning Centres; for medical discharges the RN has a single 2nd Line point of contact referred to as NRIO (Medical) based in the Institute of Naval Medicine, Gosport >> Army – Individual Education and Resettlement Officers (IERO) and AGC(ETS) Officers are located at Army Education Centres (AEC) and Theatre Education Centres (TEC); AGC(ETS) Officers may deliver 2nd Line resettlement advice when deployed on operations and occasionally when IERO are unavailable >> RAF – Each Regional Resettlement Adviser (RRA) is allocated a group of RAF stations to visit on a regular programmed basis. 3rd LINE Resettlement support at 3rd Line is provided by the CTP as outlined at the top of this page and in more detail on its website at www.ctp.org.uk

April/May 2019 l questonline.co.uk

Resettlement Centre Aldergrove Tel: 02894 421639 Regional Resettlement Centre Aldershot Tel: 01252 348336/339 Regional Resettlement Centre Catterick Tel: 01748 872949/2922 Regional Resettlement Centre Cottesmore Tel: 01572 812241 (ext 7716) Resettlement Centre Germany Tel: 0049 5254 982 x 5448 Resettlement Centre Northolt Tel: 020 8842 6065 Resettlement Centre Plymouth Tel: 01752 555834 Resettlement Centre Portsmouth Tel: 02392 724130 Regional Resettlement Centre Rosyth Tel: 01383 858230 Regional Resettlement Centre Tidworth Tel: 01980 650689

For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.ctp.org.uk

Courses 4 Forces Spring final 2015_C4F 16/03/2015 11:25 Page 52