Quest March 2017 by Bulldog Publishing

INCORPORATING COURSES 4 FORCES

March 2017

THE HIGH LIFE Is higher education for you? page 20

ELCS UNCOVERED Your funding fact-finder

PLUS

Access Diplomas

And get on course for these careers:

BEYOND THE BLUE LIGHT

EMT1 Neil Rankin opens the door on life in an ambulance crew page 54

Construction Security Sport and fitness

ROUTE PLANNING FOR ALL RANKS COURSES I FUNDING I CAREERSï&#x201A;&#x;I RESETTLEMENT

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EDITOR WELCOME TO THE SECOND EDITION OF ALL-NEW QUEST magazine, now incorporating COURSES 4 FORCES. If you missed February’s issue, we need to tell you that, whether you’re still in uniform or have already started preparing for life on civvy street, you’ll find it’s now a magazine of two halves – but still the only guide you’ll need to courses, funding, careers and resettlement. The first part of the magazine brings together all you need to know about claiming your ELC and how best to use it – whether you’re still serving or have already left but are still eligible to make a claim (find out all about that on page 8). As well as all the important ins and outs of the ELC application and claims process, we also delve into how distance learning can help you in your quest for qualifications – wherever in the world you might be – and home in on higher-level study options if that’s where your sights are set. We spotlight three career areas that we know are popular choices with both Service leavers and those still serving but already thinking ahead to their transition – when it comes. This month our focus falls on sport and fitness, construction and security. Find out about the sort of courses that will help you further your skills in these areas, whether to boost your Service career prospects or to smooth your resettlement with relevant qualifications that will make you a more desirable employee on leaving. The section winds up with our one-stop education and funding planner (page 46), which sums up your personal development and education opportunities, ideas to improve you career prospects and the funding sources available help you do it. In part two, there’s the usual QUEST mix of inspiration and practical guidance on resettlement

issues. First, we hear from former Naval Seaman Neil Rankin, who swapped the ocean blue for the blue light to become an Emergency Medical Technician in the ambulance service. Find out how he did it, what his day job is really like and what advice he has for you. Putting a roof over your head is something you may well not have had to think about at all while in uniform, so turn to page 58 for our beginners’ guide to house buying. Beyond the workplace, regular contributor Ryan Mansfield – our man ‘on the outside’ – has some sage advice (page 62) to help make sure you’re civvy savvy. To aid your resettlement prep, you’ll find full CTP course and events listings on page 64, followed by our ‘Transition Factfile’, pulling together in one place useful info from a range of sources. All this is held together by ‘The Hub’, where you’ll find pivotal information on courses and training options, transition news and reader reports. Gathering together essential course and career information in one handy guide, we hope you enjoy this second issue of ‘new’ QUEST with its focus on supporting you throughout your Service career and beyond. Lynn Brown Editor

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

Quest and the Quest logo are registered trade marks of

Bulldog Publishing Limited Unit B4, Beech House, Melbourn Science Park, Melbourn, Herts SG8 6HB 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 Brian Tolworthy DISTRIBUTION Martin Sells DESIGN AND PRODUCTION CB Creative Limited Tel: 01223 750566 www.cb2creative.com DIRECTORS Peter Threlfall (Chairman) Bruce Hodge (Managing) Roger Dalzell 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

CONNECT WITH US questonline.co.uk questmagazine

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March 2017

MARCH 2017 >>

Contents YOUR ELC

06 ELC 101: the basics 08 Are you eligible for ELC? 10 How to use your ELC funding

12 How to claim if you are still serving 14 How to claim after leaving 16 Avoiding queries or rejection 18 ELC dos and don’ts 20 Higher-level study 22 Access Diplomas: your second shot at HE 26 Qualifications to further your Service career 28 Distance learning 30 On course: Construction 38 On course: Sport and fitness 42 On course: Security 46 Education and funding planner 48 Useful contacts

THE HUB 50 Course and training options, transition news and reader reports

YOUR RESETTLEMENT

54 Success story: inspiration from those who’ve already made the transition. This time, Emergency Medical Technician Neil Rankin 58 Resettlement matters: practical advice on housing 62 Civvy savvy: advice from the ‘other side’ 64 CTP courses and events 66 Transition factfile

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR ELC ELC BASICS

ELC 101 The basics

ubject to certain eligibility

which is a single payment of up to

criteria (see page 8), the ELC

£3,000 for those with six or more

− – Service training

scheme offers currently serving

years of qualifying service, which will

− – civilian accredited Service training

or former Service personnel access to a

count as all three awards.

(unless at least 30 hours extra work

The PF FE/HE scheme provides

is involved, together with a separate

equivalent) or a first higher education (HE)

Service leavers and Service personnel

exam, assessment or assignment)

qualification (e.g. a foundation degree or a

in their qualifying resettlement phase

− – membership fees

first undergraduate degree or equivalent)

with access to a first full level 3 or a

− – books and materials

free from tuition fees. Here’s the basic

first HE qualification (a foundation

− – normal Service sport and

information you need to know …

degree or a first undergraduate

The ELC lower tier offers up to three

degree or equivalent) with support

payments of up to £1,000 in three

towards tuition fees.

made due to foreseeable postings/

Only one ELC claim can be made in

Service activities will usually meant

any one financial year (April to March).

that no further claims will be allowed.

first full level 3 (GCE A-level or vocational

separate financial years; the higher

tier offers up to three payments of up to £2,000 in three separate financial l

If unexpected Service or compassionate reasons cause your

(the ELC element includes VAT but

withdrawal, you should seek advice

to run consecutively, and may be a

excludes travel, accommodation, food,

from your Education Staff or Learning

books and materials).

Adviser.Q

You must discuss your plans with

ELC may be claimed for the same

your line manager and education

learning course if it continues for more

adviser before making any financial ELC are available for full- or part-time

ELC SCHEME: LATEST STATS

If one course combines with others for

study for a qualification at level 3 or

From its inception until the end of

a single learning purpose these can be

above, as defined on the NQF or SCQF,

September 2016, 374,111 people had

combined to claim ELC.

with an organisation on the approved

registered with the ELC scheme and

A new ELC award was created in 2016.

providers list maintained by ELCAS.

121,635 claims had been made, to the

purpose each year.

Withdrawal once payment has been

The three separate years do not have

than a year, or for a different learning l

learning of at least 20% of the cost

levels. l

You must make a contribution to your

adventurous training.

years.

combination of both higher and lower

It’s an aggregated lower-tier award,

You may not claim ELC for:

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

commitment. l

value of £184.7 million.

cti

personal development/ resettlement

training

compliance

training instructor course

Value:

£2000+ £2,400 products

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Qualifying trainers, managers and health and safety specialists for the future Train2Train is the leading provider of compliance training and instructor-based courses within the UK. Our Compliance Training Instructor course (CTI) has been specifically developed for individuals who wish to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills to deliver a range of first aid, health and safety, food safety and fire safety qualifications. It is recommended to those who are looking to deliver both accredited and non-accredited qualifications, either for their own company or on behalf of a training organisation. The course is delivered over 10 consecutive working days. To provide flexibility, learners can also choose to complete modules of the course over a period of time at a venue or venues of their choice. All learners will receive a comprehensive instructor’s pack valued at over £2,500, including training presentations that can be downloaded on to an iPad Mini, which is also included as part of the course, as well as materials, handouts and learner thumbnails. On completion of the course, should you wish to apply for tutor and/or centre status to deliver regulated qualifications, you must meet the prescribed quality assurance standards as set out by a regulated awarding organisation. This unique course will allow you to teach either through your own company or on behalf of a training organisation. It is also a fantastic addition to any CV and will look great to a prospective employer.

Training venues include: Doncaster Catterick Cyprus

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Further details on this and other courses available, including: NEBOSH, Health and Safety, Food Safety and Teaching qualifications,please contact us at: e: info@train2train.org t: +44 (0)1302 363136 w: www.train2train.org

Partner

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Disclaimer: Any learner wishing to apply for tutor and/or centre status in order to deliver regulated qualifications must meet the prescribed quality assurance standards as set by a regulated awarding organisation, for example, HABC. Learners should note that the successful completion of the course does not guarantee approval by a regulated awarding organisation.

©Train2Train 2016

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

qualify for full state subsidy.

The qualifying service required

Special eligibility criteria apply if you were

What about if you are medically

for both ELC lower-tier and FEHE

medically discharged from service before

discharged?

awards will increase from four to six

achieving the required number of years’

You are eligible to claim ELC at the

years from 1 April 2017. If you will

service. If this is the case, please seek

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

already have accumulated four years’

advice from your unit education staffs.

depending on your length of service on

qualifying service before 1 April 2017,

In detail …

lower-tier award and FEHE.

When can you start claiming ELC?

completing six years of service, you may

If you left – or are due to leave –

You can start claiming when you have

be eligible to make claims at the lower-

service on or after 1 April 2016, you

accumulated the necessary qualifying

tier rate if the injury or illness was caused

are entitled to post-service access to

years of service. For example, if you

or significantly worsened, wholly or

ELC and FEHE for five years.

registered on the ELC scheme and have

predominantly by service, as defined by

If you left between 1 April 2011 and 31

been serving since 1 April 2000, you will

the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme

March 2016 inclusive, you will have

have been entitled to start claiming at the

(JSP765).

until 31 March 2021 to use your ELC or

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

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

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

What if you are no longer serving?

If you left before 1 April 2011, you

above, from 1 April 2017, the qualifying

If you have already left the Service or are

will retain ten years of post-Service

service for lower-tier awards will increase

in your resettlement phase, you may be

access.

from four to six years. However, if you will

eligible to claim under the terms of the

have accumulated four years’ qualifying

Publicly Funded Further Education/Higher

service before 1 April 2017, you will still be

Education (PF FE/HE) scheme. Take a

able to claim your lower-tier awards.

look at the feature on page 14 to find out

In brief … To take advantage of ELC support, you must: l

the date of discharge. Additionally, if

you keep your entitlement to use ELC

you are medically discharged prior to

more – or, for full details and to check the

have completed four years of full-time

What happens if you are made redundant?

detailed eligibility rules, visit

service or, from 1 April 2017, six years

Irrespective of whether or not you applied

www.enhancedlearningcredits.com

have joined – or since April 2016

to be made redundant, you will cease

been automatically enrolled – on the

to accrue service for ELC eligibility on

Find out more

scheme and completed four years’ or,

the day you leave service. If you have

Much more detailed information is

from 1 April 2017, six years’ qualifying

accrued six or more years’ service since

available in JSP822, which can be

scheme membership

registering on the scheme by your last day

downloaded from the ELCAS website at

apply only for a first eligible FE/HE

of service, you will still be eligible to claim

www.enhancedlearningcredits.com Q

qualification at the level for which you

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

are academically qualified to enter

accrued eight or more years’ service since

learning on leaving the Service

registering on the scheme by your last

March 2017 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

O S T E O PAT H S

www.collegeofosteopaths.ac.uk

Ever thought of becoming an Osteopath?

“I recently graduated from the College of Osteopaths and I would thoroughly recommend the course to Service Leavers. There is a real sense of camaraderie amongst the students.”

Major Phil Waddell, Royal Signals .

The College of Osteopaths offers courses which allow you to develop your career whilst carrying on with your current life: • Change your future • Train part-time • Be part of a supportive learning community Quest March 2016 Final_2016 07/03/2016 09:26 Page 11 a valuable profession. • Gain

Smart kids Smart parents Choose a state boarding school and save more than 50% State boarding is less than half the cost of independent boarding because government pays for the education. Offering comfortable and homely boarding, top-class facilities and great academic results, state boarding schools offer a range of attractive, affordable boarding options. Take a closer look and see how state boarding could work for you and your family.

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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-time study for a

accreditation of prior learning

qualification at level 3 or above, as defined on the

vocational training

National Qualifications Framework/Regulated

registration and accreditation fees

Qualifications Framework (NQF/RQF),* with an organisation

sports qualifications

on the approved providers list held by ELCAS and viewable at

overseas qualifications

www.enhancedlearningcredits.com It could be an A-level, or

resettlement training (during last two years of service only).

an NVQ 3 or equivalent award. You may also use ELC to fund

To find out more about accessing higher-level study in particular,

anything above that, too, like university modules or nationally

take a look at our feature on page 20.

recognised diplomas. This might include:

CHOOSING A COURSE Before deciding on a course, you should consider:

its relevance to your personal development plan

your ability to undertake it

foundation

likely disruptions to Service requirements

degrees

the flexibility of the study method.

postgraduate qualifications

other academic qualifications

* The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is replacing the Qualifications

professional self-development

and Credit Framework (QCF) from 1 October 2015 onwards. Ofqual expects the QCF to expire on 31 December 2017.

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

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

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Course notes

YOUR ELC HOW TO CLAIM YOUR ELC

Engineering your way to the top

Accredited Competence in General Locksmithing level 3 course

echanical engineer Metal door lock bodies 1 Safe & Secure’s level 3 course is Alexander Bill completed Knob sets conducted over a three‐week period, his MBA part‐time at Aston Pad locks comprising two weeks in the technical Business School and, three Locker locks workshop and one week’s field training. months after graduating, Lever rim locks (Field training can be arranged at a later landed a senior role with global Bullet warded mortice locks 2/3 lever date for convenience.) The aim of the transport business Alstom. Sash and dead locks 2/3/5 lever workshop training is for you to gain in‐ Alex began his career at 5 lever British Standard mortice locks depth technical knowledge of the Alstom more than a decade APG door locks locksmith trade, allowing you to ago as a commissioning Digital locks understand the workings of the majority engineer. He rose to the Lock fitting of locks you will come across in The Aston Business School position of sales manager and MBA helped Alex Bill progress Key cutting customers premises be they domestic or his career then operations manager, but Safes commercial. found the commercial and Car opening You will be taught to strip and business side of selling and delivering advanced industrial Specialist non‐destructive lock opening assemble locks, make keys for them by services exciting. Says Alex, ‘Following a really successful techniques hand and machine, and pick them open. project, the station director of a client was talking to me You will also be taught other opening about the MBA he had done at Aston – it sounded very One‐week field training methods using specialist equipment. You interesting and appealing. He actively encouraged me to do Week three of your course will be spent will be trained on locking systems that one for myself. And I’m glad that I did! out with a locksmith doing daily work on are found on wooden, aluminium and ‘It has had a number of benefits, not just for myself, but a hands‐on basis. You will not just be an UPVC doors, as well as in what to expect also directly for Alstom Power. For example, it has enabled observer, you will be doing the work as when coming across steel doors found on me to impact the profitability of our service operations. At well. This is designed to give you commercial premises, such as final‐exit the same time, the improvements to my skills when invaluable experience in situations that doors and grill‐type gates. presenting and communicating to a wide range of audiences may arise, especially dealing with the Along with all of the above you will – from the shop floor to very senior managers – have been public if you have never done this be given sound advice from professionals very noticeable.’ before. Please note that we can arrange with regard to the financial side of your Alex adds, ‘It was challenging to find a balance between for you to complete this week separately business. You will be given guidance on 1. Readout Joint Service Publication JSP822 7. the If you wish to use a provider that is not 9. Providers are expected to waive any carrying my day job, going to lectures, studying at at a later date if this is more suitable. what stock to put in your vehicle, how – Defence Direction and Guidance ensure they arebe eligible toand initial fee, so don’t pay any weekends and my family. However, Aston for was great, andon the list, Classregistration hours are 9 am–4 pm. your vehicle should laid out veryTraining flexible. When, towards the my equipped, and even(they what must type of vehicle of your own money towards the cost of and Education . end of my second year, participate in the scheme daughter was born I was able to rearrange my exams. Thistuition is without thedo, bestitlocksmith to use. We will also help and you to acquire their 2. Think about what fits your personal deliver publicly funded FE/HE) ask feesdoubt – if you will not Likewise, for my MBA dissertation, Aston was just as training course available anywhere in the accounts at the major locksmith supply development plan and your future. them to apply for scheme membership be refunded. flexible. UK today and, on successful completion, companies in the country. These 3. ‘One Discuss this with your line manager and using theaccounts information on the must submit a separate of the most valuable things I learned was how to you will be awarded your levelclaim 3 NCFE will allow youELC to purchase, at10. You analyse and understand a wide National Accredited education/learning staff.range of complex and often website. trade price, stock for your van, tools and form for each year ofCertificate a course in – if you incomplete sources of information, and then synthesise Locksmithing. any specialist requirements that you may don’t, 4. Get the necessary approval to enrol. 8. Do not leave everything until the last it could result in support being them into a coherent and compelling argument and short If you have any questions or would have. You will also receive a full set of 5. Go to the ELCAS websitetoat minute. Allow time for any new publicly withdrawn. presentation that gets straight the point. like to book a course, please call 01432 course notes. All of this is backed‐up by www.enhancedlearningcredits.com funded providers to behelpline accepted on to 11. Start learning, and make the most of ‘The MBA definitely gave me the knowledge and skills to 341257. a free 24‐hour should you have progress my career, the helping to be promoted and complete ELCme application form to general the scheme, as thewhile registration your life! problems trading. process manager.’ online. can take several weeks. Once they ELCAS has produced a useful flow diagram

Making an application Your step-by-step guide

6. the ELCAS database of approved GetCheck in touch to see if the course you wish Tel: providers 0121 204 3099 email: to mba@aston.ac.uk enrol on is allowable under the rules. Web: www.aston.ac.uk See the advertisement on page 2

Two‐week technical workshop Subjects covered application study locks with them. Pinto tumbler Disc locks Radial locks Pin‐tumbler locks bodies UPVC lock bodies

have been accepted, you can submit an

to sum claims process. You can find Get up in the touch 341257at the end of JSP822, thisTel: in 01432 the Annex

email: saslocksandtraining@gmail.com which can be downloaded from the ELCAS Web: www.safeandsecurelocksmithcourses.co.uk

website at www.enhancedlearningcredits. comSee Qthe advertisement on page 39

Safe departures take more than pilots; train to become an

6WLYH[PVUZ 6MÄ JLY VY -SPNO[ +PZWH[JOLY

Open Learning Courses with ELCAS funding

Airline Operations and Dispatch Airport Operations APPROVED BY MoD IN SUPPORT OF THE ELC SCHEME

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01892 770250 www.courses4forces.co.uk

Phoenix Health & Safety are the Premier Providers of NEBOSH Courses Phoenix Health & Safety are an approved Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) provider of NEBOSH training courses.

Courses available include:

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Courses are on offer at venues around the UK and beyond, or via distance learning. Innovative support methods include course materials in audiobook format, online revision modules and social media

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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

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).

lthough the main purpose of ELC

claim form to them at the relevant address

Royal Navy

is to encourage serving personnel

(again, see box), along with:

ELC Manager, Mailpoint 3.3, Leach Building,

to pursue higher-level learning

evidence of your last day of Service,

Whale Island, HMS Excellent, Portsmouth

that benefits both the learner and the

which could be a copy of your

PO2 8BY

Armed Forces, it also allows level 3-plus

discharge document, a copy of your

02392 625954

learning to be pursued during resettlement

P45 terminating employment or a

NAVYTRGHQ-EL3RRESETSO3C@mod.uk

or for up to five years after leaving the

document stamped by your regiment

Services.* The majority of this learning

confirming your leaving date**

Army

a copy of a utility bill showing your

Learning Credit Scheme (LCS) Manager,

home address

Education Branch Zone 4, Floor 2, Army

full information about the course

Personnel Services Group, Home Command,

future employer and, nationally, adding to

you wish to undertake and including

Ramillies Building, Army HQ

the UK’s skills base.

details of your registration date where

Monxton Road, Andover SP11 8HJ

is likely to be vocational (learning new

skills or enhancing existing ones), with the qualification benefiting the learner and a

First of all, refer to the eligibility

applicable. Q

criteria listed on page 8. To make a

01264 381580 elc@detsa.co.uk

claim, download the appropriate form

The Army Single Service telephone helpline

from the ELCAS website and complete

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

it fully, except for Parts 4 and 5 – your

refer to JSP822 at www.enhancedlearningcredits.

Single Service Representative (SSR) will

com for the expiration date of your claims.

Royal Air Force

complete these elements (you will find

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

Learning Credits Administrator,

their contact details in the accompanying

your discharge document from the RAF Disclosures

Accreditation and Education Wing, RAF

box). Send your otherwise fully completed

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

Central Training School, HQ 22 TrgGp, Room

personnel can request details of discharge dates

IMPORTANT!

221B, Trenchard Hall, RAF College, Cranwell

from the Army Personnel Centre by calling 0845

NG34 8HB

All applications must be submitted to

6009663.

SSRs for approval at least 25 clear working days prior to the start of the course you wish to take. They will then submit approved applications to ELCAS. You should not submit your claim form direct to ELCAS.

WHERE TO SEND CLAIMS IF YOU ARE NO LONGER SERVING

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

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Spring 2015

YOUR ELC HOW YOU CAN HELP

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

LCAS deals with many claims that

necessary minimum criteria (level 3

with your line manager and Service

have to be queried or rejected:

or above on the NQF or RQF) or the

education or learning adviser. This also

almost 20% of claims received fail

learning provider is not on the ELCAS

applies if you are a qualifying ex-Service

approved providers list

person using your ELC. The 25-working-

failure to follow the correct procedure

day margin is in place for good reason. If

for authorising the claim

you don’t plan far ahead enough you could

the course not commencing in the

find yourself significantly out of pocket as

qualifying financial year

retrospective claims are not allowed under

incorrect financial data, such as the

any circumstances.

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

learner’s contribution being less

learners failing to allow sufficient

than 20% or the MoD’s contribution

offered by an approved provider are

time between submitting a claim and

calculated as exceeding the ELC award

automatically admissible under the ELC

incomplete details or errors in course

scheme. This is a common mistake: one

five weeks, so any claim submitted

title or course level (these account for

provider may supply many courses, but

within 25 working days of the start

25% of all rejected/queried claims)

only those approved courses at NQF/RQF

applicants not registered on the ELCAS

level 3 or above (and equivalent) listed on

system

the ELCAS website may be considered for

more than one active claim being

ELC purposes.

starting a course – this takes at least

of the course will automatically be

rejected l

Also, do not assume that all courses

authorisation note (CAN) from ELCAS

a second or third ELC claim being

submitted before the course evaluation

processed for an individual in the same

form for the previous claim has been

financial year.

So: l

plan ahead and get it right first time

completed – such claims are also

To help avoid rejection on grounds such as

don’t buck the system or pay upfront

automatically rejected

those listed above, you should plan ahead,

complete your claim with care! Q

the course does not meet the

and research and discuss your learning

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

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YOUR ELC 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

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

make sure you understand the regulations – see Joint Service

consult your education/learning staff

training and/or resettlement adviser if

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

(CAN) l

automatically assume that approved

needing to book a course

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

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

(NQF) or Qualifications and Credit

commit any payment contributions

and line managers to discuss your

between submitting a claim and l

inform your Education Staff,

the level 3 requirement l

enrol on a course or commit yourself

CAN from ELCAS l

enrol on a course with a new provider

Framework (QCF),* and that it directly

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

two years of serving)

stated

the ELCAS website for an alternative

complete and return the evaluation

provider. Q

ensure the course provider has approved provider status by checking

questionnaire when you’ve finished

* The QCF is being replaced by the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) from 1 October 2015 onwards. Ofqual expects the QCF to expire on 31 December 2017.

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

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

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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.

qualifications such as a Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND) or a foundation degree. In general, such courses will be shorter than a degree course, more vocationally orientated and will have lower entry requirements. Some will be linked to degree courses, though, giving you the option of progressing to a degree if you perform well enough on the early parts of the course. With many qualifications being earned

f you’re thinking of embarking on a

if it turns out you’re not that struck with it

through students completing a number

higher education (HE) qualification

after all!

of modules, the distinction between HE

that’s great – you can use your ELC

You are also likely to do better at a

(generally academic) and further education

to fund anything above level 3, and that

course if you already have an aptitude for

(FE) (often vocational) can be unclear.

includes university modules and nationally

the subject. It might be a really fascinating

Credits from a selection of courses can

recognised diplomas. Other HE courses

course, which promises to lead to a host of

often be added together to gain degrees

open to you for consideration include

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

and other HE qualifications.

diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, foundation

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

degrees and postgraduate qualifications.

good qualification at the end of it – and may

distance learning. The difference between

The only problem you are likely to have is in

even fail altogether.

these is not always clear-cut, though, and

deciding exactly what and how to study!

Choosing an HE course

It’s a good idea to start by thinking

Both HE and FE courses can be taken via

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

about the qualifications you already have

both types are involved. Many qualifications

and the subjects/areas you have a flair for.

are modular; this means that you complete

You may already have a pretty good idea

Other things you might want to think about

them in sections (modules), often of your

of what you’d like to study at a higher

include the course provider’s academic

own choosing, and credits gained from a

level but, if you’re unsure, our advice is to

reputation (you can find university league

selection of such courses can be gathered

make sure you understand the nature of

tables and subject ranking tables online),

together to ‘add up’ to degrees and other

the subject you are considering, especially

its graduate employment rates, and links

HE qualifications.

if it’s something new to you. So do your

between the university or college and

research, and ensure you know exactly what

employers.

a course is offering you – topic areas, what

Having decided what you want to study,

Please note that Service leavers cannot access support under the FEHE scheme to

the modules will cover, etc. Whatever else

you will be faced with a variety of ways of

TO HELP YOU CHOOSE …

you take in to consideration, it goes without

studying it.

Which? University is a free and

saying that you must have a strong interest

lead to a degree, some lead to sub-degree

independent website packed with

in the subject and the course content, as

How do HE courses differ?

you will be spending three years or more

The most basic difference is between the

university course for you. See http://

occupied with it, which won’t be much fun

levels of courses. While most HE courses

university.which.co.uk

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

everything you need to find the right

commence studies at master’s level but

years to complete full-time (some degrees,

they can utilise their ELC for study at this

such as medicine, can take five or six years).

level.

SOURCES OF ADVICE Your line manager should be your

Postgraduate qualifications

first point of contact. Each unit has

popular higher-level course options you

Postgraduate qualifications are HE

an education/learning specialist, and

could choose from …

qualifications that require learners to have

each Service also has a network of

already completed a bachelor’s degree.

educational and learning centres

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

Most types of postgraduate qualification will

where advice can be sought and ideas

include taught and research elements. They

explored.

HNCs and HNDs are work-related

postgraduate certificate or postgraduate

learning generally catering for students

(vocational) HE qualifications. While

diploma.

who are so far away that they study almost

Here’s a rundown of some of the other

bachelor’s degrees (see below) tend to

generally fall into one of two categories:

entirely by themselves.

HNDs are designed to give you the skills

Think you’re missing the necessary basics?

to put that knowledge to effective use in a

If you aren’t already in possession of

ELC funding for higher education

particular job. Highly valued by employers,

the lower-level qualifications you would

The good news is that your ELC provides

both in the UK and overseas, they can also

normally need to build on in order to

you with access to a first full level 3 or

count towards membership of professional

secure your place on an HE course, the

a first HE qualification (e.g. foundation

bodies and other employer organisations.

Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma

degree, first undergraduate degree or

HNCs can take one year to complete full-

– often referred to by its shorthand form,

equivalent) free from tuition fees. This

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

Access Diploma – could be for you. It’s a

commitment means that Service leavers

distance learning). HNDs take two years

qualification that prepares people for study

who have joined at level 2, say, and have

full-time and can also be taken part-time

at university, and is designed for those who

taken the opportunity to gain a qualification

(which takes longer). (The award of an HND

would like to study in HE but who left school

such as an advanced apprenticeship, or

requires more units to be passed than for

without the usual qualifications, such as

other accredited learning at level 3 or

an HNC.) They equate to approximately

A-levels. It is widely accepted by universities

equivalent, may now be able to access their

halfway between an A-level and a degree,

and colleges, having been developed with

first higher-level qualification.

although they are, as mentioned above,

their support, and is designed to provide a

more practically based than the latter.

good grounding in the knowledge and study

– Defence Direction and Guidance for

skills needed to succeed in HE. Although

Training and Education, which can be

Foundation degrees

equivalent to A-levels, Access Diploma

accessed and downloaded at www.

Foundation degrees combine learning with

courses are put together with people who

enhancedlearningcredits.com Q

work experience if you decide you want

haven’t studied for a while in mind – and

to ‘earn while you learn’. The equivalent

most don’t require prior qualifications.

of two-thirds of a full honours degree,

Many are suitable for study part-time or in

COURSE FINDERS Full- and part-time courses

this is a fully flexible qualification that

the evenings, which adds to their flexibility.

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

allows you to study full- or part-time to

Most FE colleges in England and Wales

Compare official course data from

fit your lifestyle. On passing, you will gain

offer such Access courses, and a number

universities and colleges, including

240 ‘points’ towards a full degree course,

are available through distance learning,

student satisfaction and jobs after

and full account will be taken of any prior

so you should be able to find a course that

study (you have to apply to the college

learning and experience you have accrued,

is convenient for you, and that caters for

too. Recent developments, including

your interests or career ambitions. You can

UCAS: http://search.ucas.com

university partnerships and funding, make

find out more about Access to HE courses,

Search and apply for full-time courses

these qualifications increasingly available to

browse courses and read success stories on

people in the Services.

the Access to Higher Education homepage

focus on gaining knowledge, HNCs and

at www.accesstohe.ac.uk

Degree courses

Full details can be found in JSP822

or university direct)

by course name, provider name or location l

National Careers Service: https:// nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/

A bachelor’s degree is a course of HE

How to learn

academic study leading to a qualification

Qualifications can be earned through

such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor

full-time courses, part-time courses, day

of Science (BSc). They are sometimes

release, night school, open and distance

Postgraduate study

known as ‘ordinary’ or ‘first’ degrees.

learning (see the feature on page 28 of this

A bachelor’s degree is designed to give

issue). There will usually be more times

learners a thorough understanding of a

when students get together for joint study

subject, and usually takes three or four

periods in open learning, with distance

advice/courses/Pages/default.aspx

Search for full- and part-time courses

Prospects: www.prospects.ac.uk/ postgraduate-courses

Postgraduate Search: www. postgraduatesearch.com

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR ELC HIGHER-LEVEL STUDY

It’s never too late for a second chance! … thanks to the Access to Higher Education Diploma. Even if you left school without the necessary qualifications, it could still be your ticket to HE

he Access to Higher Education (HE)

course, particularly if they haven’t been

became a teacher, as well as a role model

Diploma is a nationally recognised

in a classroom for some time – Access to

to her students and her own children.

qualification designed for people

HE tutors are aware of this and take it into account, so you won’t be ‘thrown in at the

course part-time while working full-time as

education, but left school without the

deep end’. The course is challenging, but

a Chief Petty Officer in the Royal Navy.

qualifications needed. The Diploma is taken

the purpose of the Diploma is to help you

by people of all ages and backgrounds,

succeed.

‘There are probably a lot of

although it is designed for adults who have

people who, like me, didn’t have

few, or no, qualifications. Many Access to

‘The tutors were so enthusiastic

a wholly positive experience of

HE students are looking to transition to a

and understood our learning needs

school, and as a result spent

new career.

really well. When your confidence

years assuming that academic

was beginning to wobble, they’d

study wasn’t for them. For me,

step in with the right advice.’

taking an Access to HE course

‘If you are thinking about Access to HE, don’t let what might be stop

Sue Nelson

you – let what could be drive you!

changed that view. With the help of supportive, good-humoured

The course will provide all the skills

More than 330,000 of the mature students

and patient tutors, it provided me

you need to engage and be who you

who have gained an Access to HE Diploma

with the tools and, above all, the

really want to be.’

have gone on to university, changed their

self-belief to undertake a higher

career or moved up the career ladder.

education course. If you have

Sue Nelson was 43 when she started her

a sense of curiosity, and you’re

The Diploma is designed to offer academic

Access to HE course. Her early education

willing to commit time to study, an

preparation for higher education study in a

had been disrupted by regular moves

Access to HE course is a fantastic

supportive and encouraging environment.

with her Army family. She left school

opportunity. It gave me renewed

It delivers subject knowledge and study

at 15 and started work as a clerk. When

confidence in my ability to learn.’

skills to make sure students are ready to

circumstances meant she was not able to

start their HE journey. Many people are

work, she saw an advertisement that led

nervous when they start an Access to HE

her to take an Access to HE course. She

Alan Searle

Dr Mark Field did his Access to HE

who would like to go on to higher

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

Dr Mark Field

Dr Erik Johansson Cox was 31 years old, unemployed and living at home with his parents. He wanted a job, but decided to try an Access to HE course first. He became a research scientist, a job that has taken him around the world. He says the Access to HE course gave him a second chance. ‘Access to HE gave me the opportunity to start afresh, build a career and improve my self-worth.’ Dr Erik Johansson Cox A desire to push herself to achieve something while her four children were young pushed Gabrielle Holmes to enrol on an Access to HE course. At first she worried she wasn’t clever enough to cope with education, especially having been away from it for 20 years. Having completed her degree and become a midwife, she has this advice for anyone thinking about taking an

a higher education course each year

can search by subject, college or location.

Access to HE Diploma: ‘You can achieve so

and continue their transition to new

Most Diplomas are taught in further

much if you have faith in yourself, and an

challenges

education colleges. However, they are also

recognised by HE providers across the

available from private training providers,

UK, so you are not tied to a particular

some of which offer distance learning

place for your next course of study

study options.

Access to HE course can kick-start that self-

belief.’ ‘The Access to HE

at level 3, which is the same academic

course introduced

level as A-levels; universities make offers

me to the concept of

to A-level and Access to HE students

organised study.’

through UCAS.

Gabrielle Holmes You will be taught subject knowledge,

The Access to HE Diploma is a qualification … l

and learn the academic skills needed to succeed in higher education, in a

designed to prepare adults without

The Diploma is also designed for you to

the qualifications they need for study

use your life skills to help you with your

at university

studies, and to develop strong links with

that provides support and

your class, helping each other to succeed.

Access to HE Diploma 60 credits Grades - 45 credits at level 3 graded academic subject content - Pass, Merit or Distinction - unit grade profile achieved (no overall grade)

Credits - value given to units - based on the time of study required - 1 credit equates to about 10 hours of study - units sizes: 3, 6 or 9 credits

‘The other students were all of the

transition to a new career

same mind-set: they were there

designed to give you the skills, subject

to change their career pathways.

knowledge and confidence you need to

There was a good atmosphere of

succeed in higher education

mutual support, and to this day I

The Diploma is made up of blocks of

available at more than 300 providers;

am still in contact with many of my

study called units. Units are usually

you can search for a course near you

classmates.’

based around a particular topic. Each Richard Deacon

individual Diploma is governed by Rules of Combination, which explain which units

(see below, under ‘Find an Access to HE

Rules of combination - list of all units approved for a named Diploma - list units that must be done, mandatory - list units where there is choice, optional

other students, many of whom are in

using the Access to HE Diploma search

Units - blocks of study - usually based around subject topic - no national curriculum

supportive and encouraging environment.

encouragement, through tutors and

How is the Access to HE Diploma made up?

Diploma‘)

Access to HE Diplomas are available in a

need to be completed in order to complete

designed specifically for adults; around

wide range of subjects, from engineering to

the qualification. Each unit is allocated

50% of Access to HE students are over

nursing. More than 1,000 QAA-recognised

credits, and you must successfully

25 years of age

Access to HE Diplomas are listed on the

complete 60 credits, which meet the

that helps around 25,000 adults start

database on the Access to HE website. You

Rules of Combination, to achieve the

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR ELC HIGHER-LEVEL STUDY up to an Access to HE Diploma, and find out more about what you will learn on the course. There is no national curriculum for Access to HE Diplomas so not all subjects will be the same at every college.

Take advice on funding Your education officer and college staff should also be able to give you advice about other funding opportunities that may available to help with living or childcare Diploma. Each unit is graded Pass, Merit or

costs.

Distinction, and you will receive a profile of grades, to a maximum of 45 credits at level 3. Universities will make offers for

Access to HE (1 or 2 years)

particular grade profiles.

Funding your studies Fees for Access to HE Diplomas vary and, if you’re eligible for the publicly funded FE/HE scheme, you will have options to pay for your Access to HE and university studies. Some Access to HE providers are listed on the ELCAS website at

• Self-belief • Speak to the education officer • Get GCSEs in English and maths • Find a Diploma • Funding option: publicly funded FE/HE scheme or Advanced Learner Loan

• Learn new skills • Study with support • Build a new network of friends • Accept HE offer

Enrol

After graduation

• HE studies • Use Access to HE skills • Advanced Learner Loan cancelled on completion

• Further study? • Graduate profession? • e.g. engineer, lawyer, medic, teacher – a world of choices!

Graduation (3 years in HE)

www.enhancedlearningcredits.com Tuition fees for all QAA-recognised Access to HE Diplomas (those listed on our database)

What next?

can also be paid for using an Advanced

First, check your qualifications

Visit our website

Learner Loan. Information about these can

Do you have GCSEs in English and maths?

… at www.accesstohe.ac.uk and take your

be found on the relevant section of the

If you don’t have them already, it is a good

first step to find out more about Access to

gov.uk website: www.gov.uk/advanced-

idea to do them before you start your

HE Diplomas. It’s never too late!

learner-loan

Access to HE Diploma. Your education

Access to HE Diplomas cost around

officer should be able to help you find a

Find out more

£3,350 if they’re paid for with an Advanced

GCSE course, and you may be able to do

Learner Loan. However, when you complete

them before you leave the Service.

Service personnel, their families and

your university studies, the balance of your Advanced Learner Loan will be cancelled.

Marie Karadia, Access Officer, QAA, at

You can do this by searching the QAA’s

a.karadia@qaa.ac.uk

Diploma database at https://goo.

Example repayment amounts Annual income Monthly income before tax

advisers. To do so, please email Ann-

Find an Access to HE Diploma

Monthly repayment

gl/0XUJ4N It is also a good idea to look help you get the career you want. There

THE ACCESS TO HE DIPLOMA

are lots of websites to help you find out

The qualification was established in the

about higher education and the courses

1970s and continues to be designed

on offer. There are hundreds of courses to

to increase participation in higher

choose from, so allow some time for this.

education by individuals who are

The names of most Access to HE Diplomas

underrepresented. More than 250,000

start when you earn more than £21,000

describe the HE course they are designed

Access to HE students have started

per year, which means you may be

to prepare you for – for example Access

university since 1999.

paying the loan back while you study.

to HE Diploma (Law). Reading about the

So it is important to look in to your

successes of Access to HE students might

funding options carefully to ensure you

also help. For real-life stories, visit

make the best choice for you. Access to

https://goo.gl/qgKL9h

Up to £21,000 £1,750 £0 £22,000 £1,833 £7 £25,000 £2,083 £30 £30,000 £2,500 £67 £35,000 £2,916 £105 £40,000 £3,333 £142

Advanced Learner Loan repayments

at HE courses that interest you and will

View this feature online at

HE providers, your education officer or

transition staff should be able to help you

Contact the college

www.questonline.co.uk for full access

choose the best route.

Speak to college staff about how to sign

to all the live web links. Q

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

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 March 2017

YOUR ELC QUALIFICATIONS TO FURTHER YOUR SERVICE CAREER

Boost your prospects while serving

How your ELC can benefit both you and your Service publication, the main purpose

that your Service role might require,

Similar work has taken place with Summit

of ELC is to encourage serving

but that are also highly likely to prove

Skills with regard to building services

personnel to pursue higher-level learning

useful once you leave the Forces, could

engineering-related courses. A great many

that benefits both the learner and the

include accountancy and management

other areas are likely to serve you well in

Armed Forces. This is to comply with

qualifications, or courses related to

future, too – not forgetting the benefit to

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) rules,

health and safety, and facilities or project

your Service branch now, of course! Q

which state that any money provided for

management. Depending on your Service

your personal development has to be of

role, you could find yourself in a position to

immediate benefit to both the Armed

embark on a range of studies that will turn

Forces and the individual – if not, the

out to have a very useful crossover into

MoD would be liable for tax! (See the

the civilian workplace when the time comes

accompanying box for more tax-related

for you to make the transition.

s noted elsewhere in this

information.) The best of both worlds is offered by

Some of the areas of education

For example, thinking of IT training

as they are while you remain in Service.

TAX EXEMPTION MEASURES FOR THOSE WHO ARE NO LONGER SERVING Under the ELC scheme, most courses

as an example, the Tech Partnership (a

of study undertaken by individuals still

those courses that will benefit your own

network of employers working to creating

serving are exempt from taxation, either

career and promotion prospects in the

skills for the UK’s digital economy) has

as income or as a benefit in kind, if they

Services – and ultimately help you find

been involved in putting together a

can be justified as ‘work related’. In

employment on leaving – as well as offering

matrix of eligible higher-level vendor IT

order for Service leavers to benefit fully,

a benefit to the Service while you remain

qualifications, which in these high-tech

too, HMRC and MoD worked together to

in uniform.

times will prove as useful to you on leaving

reach an agreement on tax exemption. This means that the Service leaver (or their surviving spouse, civil partner or eligible partner, where appropriate) will not be required to pay income tax on payments received under the ELC and FEHE schemes. This allows them to draw maximum benefit from the schemes.at least for a limited period.)

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

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

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YOUR ELC DISTANCE LEARNING

Remote control

Let the classroom come to you!

hanks to distance learning, you

Thanks to the wide availability of useful technology these days, learning materials

work at your own pace – there are no term

want. There’s no need to be

and support may be provided by either one

times to be rigidly stuck to (although you

physically on-campus to study or take

or a combination of the following means:

(some) training courses. And that, of

books, phone, DVD, CD-ROM, email, the

course, is a considerable benefit to those

internet, podcasts and via mobile learning;

ASK YOURSELF …

of you posted to far-flung locations,

the latter is where the student accesses

meaning that you can continue your

course content stored on a mobile device

studies wherever in the world you may be.

or through a wireless server. Some

Nothing need come between you and your

providers offer course elements via the

preparations for life in the civilian world.

iTunes Store, which can be downloaded

As well as ‘distance learning’, you may

free of charge. Many courses make

come across other, related, terms such as

extensive use of the internet. Others

‘open learning’ and ‘distance supported

involve tutor groups, which may meet

Can I chat to previous learners?

learning’. In truth, all of these types of

regularly, or ‘summer camps’ of a few

Do I have to pass an entry test?

learning are likely to overlap, but, as

weeks’ duration to provide classroom

How much support is available? And in

a rough guide, open learning includes

education that complements regular,

more face-to-face classes than distance

directed coursework at a distance.

learning, while the word ‘supported’ usually indicates that there are tutors and physical material available to help

The great thing about distance learning

What’s involved? Courses delivered through distance learning range from those taking as little as a few hours, to degrees

employer)? l

several years’ study. So-called ‘short courses’ typically last days or weeks as opposed to months or years. Even those

Can I view the training materials first, before committing?

what form? l

Can the whole course be done at a distance, or is it necessary to attend training sessions at specific times?

How much time will I need to set aside for study?

in the Armed Forces – is that

How much does the course cost?

it puts you in control of

Will there be an exam at the end?

Is the provider inspected or accredited

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.

your education. Once you have chosen and enrolled on your course

by an independent body? l

(see below), you are free to study when, where – and, these days,

years? l

how – you choose, so

around your current work and/ or family commitments. It’s entirely up to you. And, of course, in these days of laptops,

If I choose to study for a degree, do I have to complete it within three Will I receive any special consideration for study problems as a result of

you can fit your education

qualifications that may involve

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

– especially for those, like you,

and postgraduate

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

At your convenience

students.

while travelling. Importantly, too, you can

can study when and where you

operational duties? l

Is the course available via learning tools that I will be able to access? (For example, if you are in an environment where IT availability is limited, you

subjects with a strong practical element

notebooks, tablets and mobile learning,

should select a course where it is

often have modules that are suited to

you can set up and study at a location of

possible to use paper and telephone,

distance learning.

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

at least for a limited period.)

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

may have to sit exams, which may take

own choosing, and credits gained from a

from learndirect (see ‘Key contacts’). It,

place only at specific times).

selection of such courses can be added

too, runs its own courses and learning

together to ‘add up’ to degrees and other

centres with tutor support, where students

take responsibility for your own learning.

To sum up, distance study enables you

HE qualifications. It is not always necessary

can undertake online learning, and that

However, although you will be in control,

to have an undergraduate degree to gain

use ICT systems to enable users to access

a good provider will offer support – so you

a master’s; neither is it necessary to have

learning.

will certainly not be alone, left completely

one in order to achieve many professional

to your own devices, but will have back-up

qualifications.

and assistance as and when you require it.

Other information sources include direct from the ‘horse’s mouth’ (somebody

Increasingly, Service people like you

who has first-hand experience of a

There are also likely to be self-checks and

are taking distance learning modules

course or a training provider), written

interim tests to help ensure that you are

as part of the training that contributes

prospectuses and, of course, the internet.

on target, and tutor-marked assessments

to career progression. So, you could

The website of the Open and Distance

to provide valuable feedback, as well as a

be studying with a view to gaining

Learning Quality Council (ODL QC) is

telephone helpline to call or someone to

qualifications that will help you while in

particularly helpful (again see ‘Key

email for advice if you get stuck.

the Forces or when you leave, or just for

contacts’).

How do I choose a course and provider?

personal interest – out of enthusiasm for a But how do you know who is a good

Who are the learning providers?

Although necessarily influenced by demand

provider and who is not? And exactly

Many learning providers are neither HE nor

from learners, there are loads of courses

which course do you need? All this choice

FE institutions, although they may have

available in distance learning form. And

can prove confusing! In the accompanying

links of varying strengths with one or more

because the choice of provider is huge,

‘Ask yourself …’ panel, there is a checklist

colleges or universities. Many companies

too, you are more than likely to be able

that should help you.

run large training departments, and there

to track down the course you are looking

particular subject.

are also many commercial organisations

for. This may be something that will give

Finding out more

you a general grounding or background in

Service education and training staff, both

Much of the training such providers

a particular subject or area (that you may

within your unit and specialists, can often

deliver is of excellent quality and targeted

go on to study in more depth later), or you

provide the best advice about what you

carefully at the needs of civilian employers

might be looking to focus on something

might want and what it is actually possible

in a specific market sector. Many

very specific – such as the entrance

for you to achieve. They can also provide

commercial businesses offering training

examinations of a particular professional

you with information about the funding

use the premises of academic institutions

body.

available to support your studies, and

to deliver courses, and may have contracts

recommend the subjects that you should

with employment agencies to help their

education (FE) courses can be taken via

be encouraged to pursue – particularly

students find work.

distance learning. The difference between

with a view to a second career when

these is not always clear-cut though, and in

leaving the Services. Increasing numbers

the bigger distance learning organisations,

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

of Forces learning and education centres

however – as mentioned above – there are

types are involved. Many qualifications are

and personal learning advisers also have

many other providers out there too, also

modular; this means that you complete

access to e-learning opportunities.

offering a wide range of courses, some

them in sections (modules), often of your

Information about courses is also available

with discounts for Service people (ask your

Both higher education (HE) and further

that provide training to paying clients.

You are likely to have heard of some of

education and training adviser for further information). Q

KEY CONTACTS

learndirect 0800 101 901 www.learndirect.co.uk @learndirect

Open and Distance Learning Quality Council (ODL QC) 020 8658 8337 www.odlqc.org.uk

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

Firm foun YOUR ELC ON COURSE: CONSTRUCTION

Build yourself a secure future in one of the variety of practical career options offered by the construction industry What’s involved?

Who are the employers?

membership of a civilian institution. If so,

onstruction is the UK’s biggest

Most employees in this sector work within

your experience of managing engineering

industry. Private housing,

medium-sized companies (those with

projects is likely to be particularly

and especially industrial and

10–250 employees). However, in reality

attractive to any future employer.

commercial requirements, are expected

most companies are on the smaller side,

to continue to be the main drivers for

with the vast majority employing fewer

in the non-commissioned ranks, you may

the sector over the next few years. The

than ten people. On top of that, many

have completed anything from NVQs at

Home Builders Federation (HBF) recently

of those working within the sector are

level 2 in basic training and level 3 after

reported that thousands of jobs were

self-employed, representing more than

higher training, to an apprenticeship.

created in England alone last year as a

one-third of the available labour in the

result of a surge in house-building activity.

contracting sector.

This building boom has supported the

Get qualified!

Technical careers

creation of in excess of 100,000 jobs,

Skill up while serving

either in construction firms themselves or

Apart from a handful of people employed

by combining theory with practice.

in the wider supply chain.

in units to carry out minor carpentry and

They can be qualified in any of the

repair jobs, and Army pioneers who have

areas appropriate for professional and

in this field covers a huge variety of roles

basic building skills, all three Services rely

management careers, or in roles such as:

– from plant operator to surveyor, and

on the Royal Engineers for construction,

from draughtsman to bricklayer. If you

including airfield and port repair and

are a practical person, someone who is

maintenance.

Related trades vary widely and work

interested in how things work and are put

If you are an officer you may have a

together, why not consider construction

first degree in an engineering discipline,

as a possible way to build your ideal next

on-the-job training and experience,

career?

postgraduate qualifications and/or

‘Construction employees enjoyed a 6% rise in earnings last year, compared to average wage increases of just 2%.’ Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

Alternatively, if you’re among those

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

Technicians generally make things happen

dations l

architectural technician

– floor layer

buyer

– glazier

CAD operative

– painter and decorator

estimator

– partitioner

planner

– plasterer

plant technical support

– plumber

roofing technician

– renderer

site engineer

site inspector

site technical support.

– wall and floor tiler l

To start training and/or do a college

– plant mechanic

course requires four GCSEs, or equivalent, at grade C or above, with maths, English

– plant operator (see the accompanying box on the CPCS)

and the sciences the preferred subjects. However, some people start training with

plant – plant hire controller

– plant sales person l

roofing

A-levels and others qualify through craft

– built-up felt roofer

skills (see below), often attending an FE

– lead sheeter

college to gain, say, national qualifications.

– liquid waterproofing systems

Still others enter with national certificates

operative

(NCs)/national diplomas (NDs) or

– mastic asphalter

vocational qualifications.

– roof sheeter and cladder – roof slater and tiler

Craft careers Craftsmen and women are the people who

– single ply roofer l

trowel

actually make things. Some major jobs for

– bricklayer

which they are trained include:

– construction operative

demolition – demolition operative

– stonemason l

wood

– scaffolder

– bench joiner

– steel erector

– carpenter and joiner

– steeplejack

– formworker

interiors

– shop fitter

– ceiling fixer

– wood machinist.

– dry liner

‘The house building industry has increased its output at the steepest rate for decades. It is recruiting and training tens of thousands of new people to ensure it can provide the high-quality homes the country needs.’ Stewart Baseley, Chairman, Home Builders Federation

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR ELC ON COURSE: CONSTRUCTION

Many of these trades are learned on the

qualifications in construction-related

up over time to develop expertise in a

job, but the construction industry also has

subjects such as building studies or

particular area. While one person might

training schemes that combine working

construction and the built environment,

start by learning the basics of a trade, and

and education to produce qualifications

which roughly equate to A-level

go on to become an expert in a particular

higher national certificate (HNC) or

part of it, another might build a portfolio

to develop expertise in a particular area.

higher national diploma (HND) –college

in a number of skills to qualify them for

For example, a plasterer might start by

or university qualifications; HNCs are

supervisory and then general management.

learning the basics of plastering walls, and

usually taken part-time and HNDs

go on to become an expert in ornate ceiling

full-time; both can take two or three

is a network of colleges training and

and wall decoration in expensive houses.

years to complete; people qualified

assessing construction skills throughout

Other people might build a portfolio in

at this level usually start as advanced

the UK. As noted above, it is increasingly

a number of skills to qualify them for

technicians or trainee managers

becoming necessary to hold registration or

supervisory and then general management

and work towards professional

certification of competence and/or training

roles.

qualifications such as Incorporated

in particular aspects of building skills to

Engineer

obtain employment in the industry.

that the individual can build up over time

There are also job roles in the area of building services, which covers the

foundation degree – takes two years

CITB’s National Construction College

The industry has its own vocational

essential services that allow buildings to

to complete full-time or three to four

qualifications, apprenticeships and

operate, while the heritage sector requires

years part-time; provides entry to the

advanced apprenticeships, and a

third year of an honours degree

construction apprentice scheme for

honours degree (BA, BSc, BEng or

younger entrants. If you’re ambitious,

MEng) – usually in subjects like civil and

you can start by gaining vocational

structural engineering or construction

qualifications in any of the trades while

is the Construction Plant Competence

management – takes three to four

working as a craftsman or woman, develop

Scheme (CPCS) – a card scheme introduced

years to complete full-time, and five

your skills through technical training,

to prove the skills of plant operators.

or more years part-time; graduates

perhaps gaining certificates or diplomas,

For further information, visit www.citb.

coming into the industry usually join

eventually becoming fully professionally

co.uk/cards-testing/construction-plant-

a specially tailored training scheme

qualified, perhaps with a degree.

competence-scheme-cpcs

leading to professional qualifications

a wide range of traditional craft skills that have to be kept alive for the future by those who work on its historic structures. One example of current certification

Professional and management careers

Whether you will be looking for

such as Chartered Engineer or

something practical and hands-on (e.g.

Chartered Surveyor.

plasterer, joiner, decorator, surveyor) or would prefer to use your knowledge in a

Entry to the industry at this level generally

Training options

requires academic qualifications. These

Many of the trades discussed above are

could include:

learned on the job, but the construction

national certificate (NC), national

industry also has training schemes that

qualifications are essential in order to work

diploma (ND), Scottish vocational

combine working and education to produce

on commercial building sites. However,

qualification level 3 – college

qualifications that the individual can build

they are relatively uncomplicated to attain,

managerial role, we offer some general information below. For painting and decorating, NVQ

Jamie Hayward at work on Persimmon’s Combat to Construction programme. To find out how you could get involved, turn to page 36

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

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

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March 2016 / www.questonline.co.uk

13 33

YOUR ELC ON COURSE: CONSTRUCTION

THE CONSTRUCTION SKILLS CERTIFICATION SCHEME (CSCS) The CSCS was set up to help the construction industry improve quality and reduce accidents. CSCS cards are increasingly demanded as proof of occupational competence by contractors, public and private clients, and others. They cover hundreds of construction-related occupations so there is a card suitable for all roles (for example, ‘Craft and Operative’ cards include those for bricklayers, carpenters and joiners, formworkers and plasterers). To find out more, visit: www.cscs.uk.com

l level

3 NVQ in Roofing Occupations

communication, numeracy and logistics

(Construction) – Thatching, or Roof

skills in all areas, as well as bring you up to

Slater and Tiler

date with health and safety legislation and

l level

3 NVQ Diploma in Heritage

risk assessment regulations. A foundation

Skills (Construction) – Dry Stone, or

degree in construction management

Plastering Occupations (Solid).

could cost around £7,500 and take two

Do check what your local college offers (although practical courses such as

years full-time or four years part-time to complete.

these do necessitate attendance,

Finally, if you love architecture but

so you are unlikely to find distance

don’t have the seven years full-time that

learning options). The good news

it takes to train as an architect, then you

about training for these trades is that,

might like to consider an office manager

generally speaking:

role within a practice. An Office Manager

l no

prior experience or qualifications

are required l the

Diploma could help you brush up on a full and varied range of administrative skills,

trades are particularly well suited

such as payroll, book-keeping, keyboard

to self-employment or starting a small

skills, HR and business law. The diploma

business

could be achieved in seven weeks full-time,

l it

would be possible to widen your

or by distance learning for approximately

portfolio by training in two or three of

120 hours, and is likely to range in price

these trades in a relatively short period

from £250 to £1,000.

– allowing you to market yourself as a

Using your ELC

‘handyman/woman’. If you are considering a major change-

Under the ELC scheme, a wide range

of-career route, then a Carpentry and

of learning can be taken, provided it

Joinery Diploma, level 3, will give you an

is offered by an approved provider

excellent all-round opportunity within the

listed on the ELCAS website at www.

construction arena. It will take one year,

enhancedlearningcredits.co.uk and is at

full-time, to achieve (and cost around

level 3 or above. For full details of how to

£3,000), and you will need to progress

make the most of your ELC, refer to our

through, or already hold, level 1 and level 2 in order to attain this (which can Source: www.cscs.uk.com

take up to another year for each level part-time, and cost similar amounts).

taking about eight weeks full time and 35

career in an area related to construction

around £600+.

could be to train as a technical surveyor

New builds and rebuilds, both domestic

(the person who supports chartered

and commercial, generally need the expert

surveyors, architects and engineers) or a

help of tilers – be it for basic wall and

land surveyor (supporting civil engineers

floor covering to something much more

in the field). Such courses require study

decorative (e.g. mosaics). Five-day courses

at HNC and HND level, respectively, which

lead to foundation skills and knowledge;

could take two years full-time and cost

full-time courses lasting four weeks

in excess of £4,000. Additionally, it may

lead you through the entire process of

require you to have maths and science

learning the skills to setting up your own

qualifications.

business (including how to price for a job,

Managerial roles within the

communication skills, personal safety,

construction industry are ideally suited

workplace security and handling materials).

to those who already have a proven track

Be sure to pick courses that lead to an

record of leadership (and, as we saw

NVQ/QCF/C&G accreditation, and expect to

earlier, there is currently a shortage of

pay up to £1,700 for a four-week full-time

people to fill such roles). Opportunities

course with accreditations.

are likely to include managing trades,

It is possible to find a number of

Another committed change of

weeks part-time to reach level 3. Costs are

contracts, procurement or even whole

accredited courses for other building

projects. A building/construction

trades, such as the:

management course will help to hone your

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

in-depth features on pages 6–29. Q

KEY CONTACTS

CITB 0344 994 4400 www.citb.co.uk @CITB_UK City & Guilds 0844 543 0033 learnersupport@cityandguilds.com www.cityandguilds.com @cityandguilds CSCS Ltd 0344 994 4777 customerservice@cscs.gb.com www.cscs.uk.com @CSCS Joint Industry Board 03333 218230 administration@jib.org.uk www.jib.org.uk @JIBelectrical

Call us now on 01

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questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR ELC ON COURSE: CONSTRUCTION

Start building for your future

Thanks to Persimmon’s Combat to Construction programme, former Serviceman Adam Ross says he has the perfect job after leaving the Army. Could it suit you too?

I DID IT! Adam Ross, Combat to Construction employee A former Serviceman turned joiner has praised Combat to Construction, and encourages other ex-Forces personnel to sign up.   It is nearly two years since Adam Ross began working Left to right: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Michael Torrode, Ryan Hall, Jason Evans, Richard Latham, James Smith, Jamie Hayward and Scott Garrod.

says it is the perfect job

he UK’s leading house

many benefits to Persimmon. In our

after leaving the Army.

builder Persimmon Homes

experience they are well motivated,

The company trains

has appointed Gateshead

Adam Ross signed up for Combat to Construction and hasn’t looked back!

keen to learn a new trade and used

ex-military personnel,

College to support its programme

to being in a learning environment.

employs them and commits to paying them a living

to retrain ex-military personnel

We have already seen some of our

wage during their training.

for a career in the construction

successful Combat to Construction

The 29 year old had been a sergeant in the 1st

industry. The college will train

trainees move beyond the building

Battalion Scots Guards, serving in Iraq and Afghanistan

all of Persimmon’s Combat to

site and into site management.’

before signing up for Combat to Construction in 2014.

Construction employees, as well

Michael Torrode joined the

On leaving the Army, Adam sought a new challenge,

as supporting Persimmon with

programme having served for six

saying: ‘I wanted to go into a job where I was able to

its new programme, ‘Up-skill to

years in the Royal Signals, where

put the skills I learned from my career into practice.   I

Construction’, which aims to offer a

he trained as a communication and

passed an assessment in 2014 and was delighted to be

route into the construction industry

electronic warfare technician.   The

offered a three-year contract in February 2015.  I had

for those looking to change career

29 year old says: ‘I saw Combat to

great help along the way from Stevie Carrick, who was

or enhance the building skills they

Construction before I ended my

a joiner and is now a site foreman for the north-east

already have.

time in the military and thought it

region. He was always taking the time to guide me.

Persimmon has been at the

was unique to have an opportunity

It was incredible; I went from never having picked up

forefront of the movement to

beyond the age of school leavers

a saw to a job as a joiner in 18 months, and was paid

use the skills of ex-Forces men

to learn a new trade. I have friends

along the way to do it!’

and women.   Its new starters will

who work in the building industry

train in bricklaying and joinery

and they speak highly of it so I

development in Ashington, Northumberland, says he

while being paid throughout their

knew it would be something I’d be

has been contacted by former comrades asking him

training period. The Service leavers

interested in.   My aim is to master

about the scheme and speaks highly of it: ‘I keep telling

and up-skill trainees will work on

the skills I’ll acquire and get out

them they should do it. The Army teaches you to adapt

live housing developments across

onto the Persimmon sites where I

to different situations and to get on with the job in

the UK, eventually obtaining an

can show people what I can do.’

hand and this job is similar. There’s great camaraderie

Watch a video about the

on-site and it’s a tight-knit group where we all help one

NVQ level 2 qualification at the end of their studies.   Says Richard Latham, group

for Persimmon and he

Adam, who is currently working on the Portland

scheme here: www.youtube.com/

another out, which reminds me of my Service days. I

watch?v=cibQiY0LZ8I and, to find

really enjoy the job and, if anyone is looking to move

HR director at Persimmon Homes,

out more, www.persimmonjobs.

from the military into a new profession, they should

‘Ex-Forces personnel are bringing

com/construction-ex-military

look at Combat to Construction.’ Q

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

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

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YOUR ELC ON COURSE: SPORT AND FITNESS

Does your

future lie in fitness? What’s involved?

ogether, sport and fitness make up

relevant Service training and

one of the UK’s largest employment

experience, but you must be prepared

sectors, as well as one of the

to take additional courses or undergo

fastest-growing sectors in the UK economy,

assessment to reach official standards.

focusing on the leading and supervision of

Indeed, when many people think of

sport, exercise and physical activity. The UK

ex-Services personnel going into the

has thousands of sport and fitness clubs,

fitness business, military PT-based

leisure centres and gyms for public use,

organisations (e.g. ‘boot camps’) are

and there is increasing demand for skilled

the first to spring to mind, with their

exercise professionals to fill the growing

outdoor fitness classes run by serving

number of employment vacancies.

or former members of the Armed

Skill up while serving

Forces. With this in mind, there are courses available that are specially

Each Service has its PT instructors – you

tailored to Service leavers wishing to

might be one? Military PTI class 1, 2 and 3,

take up such roles.

and the All Arms PTI certificates qualify

The sector will generally accept

The situation is similar in outdoor

holders to join the Register of Exercise

education and development. The

Professionals (REPS – see box), and there

various regulatory bodies accept

is growing formal recognition for military

only civilian qualifications, so if you’re an

qualifications by civilian authorities

adventurous training instructor, you will

(courses on coaching and officiating, for

have to ensure you meet civilian standards

example, can lead to recognised civilian

if you wish to continue in this area on

qualifications).

leaving the Services.

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

If you’re considering swapping your uniform for a tracksuit – or maybe even something in Lycra – there’s a variety of careers to choose from. From personal trainer to Pilates instructor, boot camp leader to basketball coach, the sport and fitness industry could offer the next step you’re seeking

THERE IS INCREASING DEMAND FOR SKILLED EXERCISE PROFESSIONALS TO FILL THE GROWING NUMBER OF EMPLOYMENT VACANCIES

Get qualified!

with most qualifications requiring six

Many different qualifications help with

mandatory units and four optional ones. To

a career in sport and fitness. Technical

gain them, individuals will need a portfolio

ability is critical, as are skills like effective

of skills and responsibilities. Many people

communication, customer care, teamwork

start by gaining a qualification like an NGB

and interpersonal flair.

coaching or fitness instruction award, and then work to gain the necessary experience.

Example courses: sport

Many sport and recreation-related

Some FE colleges offer specialist

foundation, graduate and postgraduate

qualifications, and sports coach UK works

degrees allow people to teach PE in schools.

with the various sport NGBs to provide

Some are part-time or taken through

personal development programmes for all

distance learning, so they are suitable

sports coaches.

for those already in employment. Higher

There are sport National and Scottish

national diplomas (HNDs) and certificates

Vocational Qualifications (N/SVQs) at levels

(HNCs) also prepare people for management

1–3. For the most up-to-date information on

jobs, although expertise in a particular sport

these, contact SkillsActive direct (see ‘Key

or area of fitness is also required.

contacts’). Individuals are assessed in a number of competencies in the workplace,

Other opportunities in this work area are massively wide ranging for those with

READ ABOUT REPS … If you are serious about finding work in the fitness industry, you should be affiliated to the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs). This is an independent public register that recognises the qualifications and expertise of health-enhancing exercise instructors in the UK. One of its key functions is to provide a system of regulation for instructors and trainers, to ensure they meet the health and fitness industry’s agreed national occupational standards (NOS). Members are acknowledged for their: l professionalism l adherence to the industry’s nationally recognised standards l ongoing education. They are bound by a Code of Ethical Conduct and hold appropriate public liability insurance. In order to remain on the Register, members must continue to meet the standards set for their profession through continuing professional development (CPD). Membership, which costs £40 a year, is open to exercise and fitness professionals in a wide variety of roles. It also allows for the transferability of skills throughout the UK, across participating countries in Europe and around the world. To find out more, visit www.exerciseregister.org

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR ELC ON COURSE: SPORT AND FITNESS

a keen interest, so we focus on just a tiny

via flexible part-time study over a six-

www.enhancedlearningcredits.co.uk and is

sample of the courses available here.

year period and is likely to cost around

at level 3 or above. For full details of how

£2,500.

to make the most of your ELC, refer to our

Becoming a sports masseur (particularly if you come from a

in-depth features on pages 6–29.

background of competitive sport) is

Example courses: fitness

an attractive and flexible option for

The aforementioned REPs is a system of

freelance working and/or developing

self-regulation for everyone involved with

Fitness instructing

into another side of the sport business.

exercise and fitness (again, see box). And,

A common way to enter the health and

A sports massage qualification for

as with sport, courses available within the

fitness sector is as a fitness instructor.

someone with absolutely no experience

fitness industry are incredibly diverse.

Although there are no formal academic

can be achieved by taking a combined

Again, we offer just a brief glimpse here.

requirements for this, a recognised

course in holistic and sports massage,

For those looking for a relatively quick

fitness instructor qualification is usually

which will incorporate the anatomy and

entry point into work in this sector,

required and the minimum age to practise

physiology tuition you require. Such

fitness instructor training (there

unsupervised is 18 years. Applicants to

a course can be taken as a fast-track

are three accredited levels in total)

instructing courses require no formal

option over 14 weekends plus part-time

can be completed in a handful of days

qualifications although it can be an

study during a 12-month period, as well

or two/three weekends, and costs

advantage to hold a first aid certificate.

as achieving 220 hours of massage

approximately £650. This qualification

If you think you might like to enter the

practice outside of the classroom.

will allow you to, for instance, work

industry in future, it is – as mentioned

Prices can be in excess of £3,500,

one-to-one with clients in a gym setting,

above – an advantage to register with

and will result in a BTEC Professional

including planning an appropriate

the Register of Exercise Professionals

Diploma (level 5) in, for example, Sports

programme of training and supervising

(REPs – see box). Fitness instructor work

client progress.

can cover a wide range of activities at a

If you already have some teaching

variety of levels, meaning there is also

a valuable practitioner string to your

experience within the fitness sector,

a range of opportunities available; in

freelance bow, allowing you to combine

and are qualified as a level 2 Fitness

addition, entry to roles at an older age is

it with, say, coaching and massage.

Instructor or level 3 Yoga or Pilates

not uncommon, which will be good news

There are plenty of self-paced home

Instructor, an exercise and disability

for some of our readers! A host of industry-

study courses in this field (typically

qualification (e.g. level 3 Programming

endorsed courses, vocational qualifications,

you could complete one part-time in

and Supervising Exercise with Disabled

apprenticeships and training schemes are

four to six months), costing from £350

Clients) could widen your employability

available.

upwards, and resulting in externally

by helping you to understand different

validated and recognised national

fitness markets and the different

awards.

barriers that some people need help

Sports coaching, teaching and instructing

At degree level, a BSc in Sport,

to overcome in order to maintain an

Coaching may form part of a full-time

Fitness and Coaching is a useful

appropriate level of fitness. Courses

job role in the industry, like a sports

training avenue if you wish to take on

generally run over a three-day period,

development officer or outdoor instructor.

leadership roles within the sector or

with extra theoretical work away from

Coaches need an appropriate qualification

eventually further your career towards

the classroom, and can cost about

from a sport NGB, and many of the

management or sports development

£450.

personal qualities of the coach are ‘people

GP exercise referral schemes continue

skills’. There is a growing trend within

to grow in the UK. Training to work

coaching towards part-time or freelance

with medically referred clients can be

employment. Work is available as a

undertaken in roughly five days, face to

voluntary coach within sports clubs or as a

face, for those already holding a level

part-time session coach in leisure centres.

2 qualification and will cost around

Many coaches work freelance for a number

£600. As part of the qualification, you

of organisations, and most have other jobs

must also attain the level 3 Anatomy

as well.

Massage and Sports Treatments. l

A course in sports nutrition could add

roles. Such a course can even be taken

SKILLS SHORTAGES IN THE INDUSTRY Research has identified particular recruitment difficulties and skills issues facing employers in the sports, fitness and outdoors sectors. The most common skills highlighted as in need of improvement among existing staff were: l sport-specific technical skills l communication l management l child protection.

Source: SkillsActive

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

Finding employment

and Physiology theory paper, which can cost around £100 and can be studied as

The outdoors

an e-learning option.

There are many organisations providing all age groups with a range of sporting,

Using your ELC

physical and development activities, like

Under the ELC scheme, a wide range

walking, climbing, kayaking and caving, or

of learning can be taken, provided it is

just enjoying their surroundings. Instructors

offered by an approved provider listed on

must hold a recognised award from the

the ELCAS website at

relevant NGB. Expedition companies usually

have a small head office staff who organise

an outreach basis, taking it into rural

and market the activities, and a number of

and urban communities. Experience

freelance leaders and guides who manage

in voluntary sports coaching and

things in the field. Service experience is

administration or strategic leisure

relevant in this area, and it is common to

management is relevant. Specific sports

start as a contracted expedition manager

development qualifications and courses

before joining a company in a regular

exist at certificate and diploma levels;

020 7211 6000

capacity.

however, coaching awards are usually

enquiries@culture.gov.uk

sufficient.

KEY CONTACTS

Department for Culture Media & Sport

www.gov.uk/government/organisations/

Sport, recreation and leisure centres

What can you earn?

Sport, recreation and leisure centres

The sport and fitness sector is not

catering for a wide range of indoor and

particularly well paid, starting with the

outdoor sports exist throughout the UK.

minimum wage. According to the latest

0330 004 0004

Employment varies from receptionists,

available edition of SkillsActive’s Working in

www.exerciseregister.org

lifeguards, coaches/instructors,

Fitness Survey, the average basic salary is

@REPsUK

supervisors, booking managers and plant

£22,700 across all occupations working in

technicians to centre managers. Most

full-time employment. However, this varies

people start in this area by obtaining

widely according to factors such as location

0330 004 0005

coaching or lifeguard awards, and

and type of work. Some examples are:

www.skillsactive.com

gain experience before moving into

full-time gym instructor £15,100

@SkillsActive

management.

full-time personal trainer £22,500

part-time sports coach £16,700

part-time exercise referral £18,100. Q

Sports development

department-for-culture-media-sport @DCMS Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs)

SkillsActive

sports coach UK 0113 274 4802

Most local authorities and governing

www.sportscoachuk.org

bodies have sports development teams

@sportscoachUK

that provide sport and recreation on

BECOME A LEVEL 4 MASTER PERSONAL TRAINER

FULL TIME/ PART TIME

FREE COURSE TRANSFERS

YMCA ACCREDITED QUALIFICATIONS

NATIONWIDE VENUES EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT

THE TIME IS NOW

Discovery Learning offers a range of Level 2, 3 + 4 fitness qualifications that can be funded through ELC credits. info@discovery.uk.com 0208 543 1017

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR ELC ON COURSE: SECURITY

Secure your future What’s involved?

any people protect themselves, their families, their businesses

… with a career in an industry to which many Service leavers find themselves very well suited. Planning ahead with relevant qualifications now could see you sitting pretty in a civvy security role when the time comes

and their property by employing

security companies to safeguard them against criminal and terrorist threats. Security is currently high on the UK agenda

occupations across an array of specialities,

(at home and abroad) and, as a result, the

and almost all of the survey respondents

leavers within the industry, David Duffy,

market is strong and expanding, and offers

believed that ex-Forces personnel make

Managing Director of the CTP, comments:

a host of roles – as outlined in this feature

suitable candidates for these roles. When

‘Careers within the security industry are

– if you are looking to work in this diverse

asked what qualities make them so ideal for

suitable for Service leavers who wish to

sector. The various areas of the security

the industry, more than half of respondents

industry offer a wide range of employment

felt that the discipline gained from being

opportunities. Examples include static

in the Forces made them most suitable,

and mobile security guards, store security

while others thought an astute awareness

officers, security alarm fitters, locksmiths

of security threats would also be beneficial.

and specialist dog handlers, as well as

Motivation, alertness and an understanding

security management roles perhaps suited

of the array of security specifications

to graduates or postgraduates.

across clients were also considered positive

Skill up while serving

attributes. Discussing the career paths that would

A survey of British Security Industry

be most fitting, all respondents felt that a

Association (BSIA) members revealed that

role as a CP operative or security officer

the private security industry can offer an

would be most suitable. Interestingly,

ideal career path for ex-Forces personnel,

everyone also agreed that candidates

with 88.2% of respondents confirming that

would transition well into a supervisory

they already have, or have had, ex-Forces

role. Other suitable roles included research

personnel working within their organisation.

and development, CCTV operator and

Private security is an exciting and growing

security installer – highlighting just how

industry, boasting a variety of different

varied the industry is.

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

Focusing on opportunities for Service

TRANSLATE YOUR SKILLS The personal qualities employers look for when selecting people to work in security, and which are then developed during training, are highly relevant, and you may well possess many of them already. You will need to be: l physically fit, and l able to patrol an area, take note of what you see and write a report. The following skills are also vital: l the ability to work as part of a team l common sense l integrity l courage l ability to react to the unexpected l self-reliance, and l self-confidence.

their military careers and move to a sector

Static and mobile security guards

that offers opportunities that match

Most security is carried out by

their transferable skills and employment

static guards who patrol premises,

aspirations.’

and use CCTV and surveillance

build on the experience gained throughout

The major security organisations

equipment. They will probably have radios, and may combine security with gate

The main UK security organisations are

control and reception

the Security Industry Authority (SIA), the

duties. Some will

British Security Industry Association (BSIA)

use dogs. Mobile

(the trade association for the professional

guards use vans

security industry) and, working alongside

to patrol a number

the BSIA, Skills for Security, the skills and

of establishments,

standards-setting body for the sector. If you

while cash-in-transit

are thinking of ultimately working in one of

guards protect money

the following sectors you will need an SIA

and other valuables.

‘We aim to process a minimum of 80% of all correctly completed applications within 25 working days’ SIA

Manned Guarding, including

Store security officers

Specialist dog handling

Cash and Valuables in Transit

Store security officers usually work more

As well as the dogs used to patrol premises

Close Protection

than 40 hours a week, Monday to Saturday,

alongside ‘static’ security guards, another

Door Supervision

sometimes operating in plain clothes as

facet of security work that can offer a

Public Space Surveillance (CCTV)

store detectives. They check for shoplifting,

range of opportunities is specialist dog

Security Guarding

that delivery contents are correct, and

handling – e.g. working with a ‘sniffer’ dog.

licence (see below). l

Key Holding

deal with general emergencies such as sick

In partnership with a correctly trained

Immobilisation, Restriction and Removal

customers and lost children. To work in this

dog, this kind of employment can include

of Vehicles.

field, you would need good interpersonal

explosive device and narcotic detection,

The SIA is currently developing its approach

skills, and the ability to produce written

and searching for cash, bodies, firearms,

to the licensing of private investigation

reports and give evidence in any case of

oil leaks and even SIM cards. Work with

activities (find out more on its website – see

theft where you have made a citizen’s

a search and rescue dog might range

‘Key contacts’).

arrest.

from earthquake zones at one end of the

You can find full details of licence types,

scale to searching for lost hill walkers at

and licensable roles and activities on the

Security alarm fitters

the other. Sniffer dog handlers can work

SIA website: www.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk

Security alarm fitters install and maintain

worldwide. For example, in recent years

This is the best source of in-depth and

systems that have ideally been planned

private-sector search teams have routinely

up-to-date information on the qualifications,

by a trained surveyor. They have to make

been used in conflict areas such as Iraq and

licensing and training required to work in this industry.

good any damage, and could be working anywhere from a small private house to a modern office

SIA licensing The SIA’s current licence application fee is £220 for a three-year licence, except for front-line vehicle immobiliser

SIA Licence applications: www.sia.homeoffice. gov.uk/Pages/licensingapplying.aspx

licences, where the fee is £220 for a one-year licence. If you need more than

block. They work normal weekday hours with some requirement for overtime,

Job roles in the security industry

to help with private companies rebuilding damaged infrastructure. The nature of this work relies on the handler being flexible, confident, dedicated and willing to learn, as well as having core skills such as being able

jobs at weekends and response to emergency call-outs. Much of their work involves cramped

conditions and working at heights.

one licence, the second licence will be discounted by 50%.

Afghanistan to support the military and

Locksmiths Locksmiths install and maintain security

KEY ATTRIBUTES AND SKILLS FOR A SECURITY OFFICER l Honesty l l l l

devices, including locks and safes, in

commercial and private premises. They

If you’re thinking of a job in security when

cut keys and can often work closely with

the time comes for you to leave the Forces,

security alarm specialists. They often

here are some of the roles you might like to

provide a 24-hour call-out service.

consider …

Communication skills Ability to deal with people Supervisory management Reception duties Looking after visitors First aid Mail handling Fire duties Driving (useful in some, but not all, jobs)

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR ELC ON COURSE: SECURITY equipment to learn on and professionally qualified tutors with real-world experience of the industry. As mentioned above, Skills for Security develops standards and training for the industry. A list of the national occupational standards that have been approved to date can be accessed via its website (see ‘Key contacts’). As well as vocational qualifications, it has also co-developed industry-led apprenticeship and advanced apprenticeship programmes.

Example course options l

to work safely using their own initiative,

Short (one day to two weeks) courses in, say, health and safety, fire risk

but being able to work as part of a team,

of intruder alarm and security systems

assessment, fire safety, search training,

too – all skills that are well-established for

installation courses are available. Modules

physical intervention, substance

ex-Service people. Working hours vary

start at the most basic level, moving

awareness, handcuffing, survival

from a basic 35-hour week to several

through intruder alarms to access control

training, hostile environment awareness

consecutive days when overseas, depending

and CCTV, and should provide sufficient

training, defence techniques, detecting

on what each client needs. Rates of pay

knowledge to allow you to visit premises

deceit, and understanding stewarding

can differ according to location, duration

and quote for contracts. For the manned

at spectator events, will give you good

and complexity of work. An appropriate SIA

guarding sector, there are also specialised

background knowledge before you

course (see above) is a requirement to work

programmes to prepare Service leavers for

progress to more in-depth, specific

in the civilian sector.

all sectors of this field. In addition, there

training. Some courses, such as health

are security management courses available

and safety, can be undertaken online,

if you wish to convert your security and

and may require just a few hours of

management expertise into a recognised

study (including an assessment of your

qualification.

understanding). Costs can vary, as many

Security management roles

Graduates and postgraduates Security managers need to have

For specialist dog work, ex-military dog

of the courses are privately run, but can

organisational and management skills,

handlers/trainers will find it easier to gain

a knowledge of law and criminology, an

a route into this sector, but it is possible,

acquaintance with risk theory and the ability

with the right aptitude and training, for

part-time further education courses,

to conduct a risk analysis. They should also

people from other Service roles to succeed

giving you a recognised qualification,

know the principles of physical security

in this area, too.

which would then allow you to progress

and information security; they need to

start from about £50. l

As noted above, the SIA offers licence-

Next comes a range of relatively short

to a higher level of study. One example

be familiar with computer security and

linked qualifications, bringing training

is an NVQ level 3 in providing security,

contingency planning, and must be able to

up to date and implementing a modular

emergency and alarm systems, which

communicate their ideas professionally.

structure. To find out more, visit www.sia.

could take between six months and

Many employers look for a postgraduate

homeoffice.gov.uk/Pages/training.aspx The

two years to complete. Many of these

qualification. Security industry-specific

specifications reflect current industry best

courses have flexible study options,

qualifications, up to master’s level,

practice so that those working, or wishing

so you could, if you prefer, study them

demonstrate knowledge of the relevant

to work, in security undergo good basic

intensively, full-time, over a period of

aspects of security and management, and

training for their specific role. Again, see

four or five weeks. For some courses at

give the individual personal and professional

the SIA website for detailed information.

this level, you may be expected to have

confidence.

Get qualified!

When it comes to resettlement a range

Members of the Training Providers

undertaken a First Aid at Work course

Section of the BSIA have extensive

and/or have an SIA licence (see above).

knowledge of the basic training

Costs typically start at around £250.

If you are considering a role in security,

requirements for those wishing to work

there are many courses that will give

in security, and can be a great source of

education, BTEC level 4 courses begin

you directly applicable training; others

advice for those researching training for

to encompass some of the management

offer invaluable background/supporting

their roles. Courses can be taken in areas

roles within the sector. For example,

information and skills, which will be viewed

such as CCTV, alarms, access control,

a BTEC in Security Management is

by potential employers as worthwhile

door supervision, control room operations

likely to provide a comprehensive

additional knowledge in this area (see ‘How

and management training, offering a

insight into topics such as the role of

to stand out from the crowd’, below).

comprehensive range of state-of-the-art

the manager, current/key legislation,

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

Moving further towards higher

Q l

security technology, crime management

publications written, and participation

have invested in yourself and developed

and prevention, and instigating crime

in projects and work outside direct

beyond the general baseline of industry

reduction initiatives. A course like this

employment.

requirements.

would typically cost around £2,000 and

Look around and compare what different

could be undertaken intensively over

courses have to offer. Most importantly,

Using your ELC

several days of full-time study.

seek advice from anyone you know who

Under the ELC scheme, a wide range of

A foundation degree within a related

is already working in the sector and find

learning can be taken, provided it is

security topic (e.g. security risk

out who are the most respected training

offered by an approved provider

management) may count towards a

providers. It is important to consider course

listed on the ELCAS website at

BA or master’s. That said, if you can

content carefully before spending hard-

www.enhancedlearningcredits.co.uk and is

prove that you have gained relevant

earned money, and to seek advice on the

at level 3 or above. For full details of how

experience while in uniform, you

training that will suit your background

to make the most of your ELC, refer to our

may be able to move straight on to

and expectations. Finally, try to attend

in-depth features on pages 6–29.

study at master’s level. It’s always

security seminars and briefings where you

worth checking and making

can meet others already working in

What can you earn?

the sector, and the companies

Because of the wide range of job

your Service experience explicit when you are researching courses. l

Security practitioners in management positions need their abilities to be understood clearly by

who are likely to employ

EAR TO THE GROUND For SIA Security News follow: @siaSecurityNews

employers, who have

or subcontract to you in

difficult to offer specific information about

future.

rates of pay – although it is generally true to say that larger organisations tend to offer

How to stand out from the crowd Gaining additional

broader benefits but with lower basic pay, while smaller firms compete by offering higher pay but fewer benefits. Starting

qualifications in health and

inevitably been confused by the mix of qualifications,

opportunities available in this industry it is

safety, or enhanced medical

salaries may be comparatively low, but increase with training and experience, and

qualifications such as Medicine in

there are opportunities to earn considerably

experience and professional affiliations

Remote Areas (MiRA), which is endorsed

more for operating advanced equipment

available. For this reason, the

by the Royal College of Surgeons, or

and working in high-risk situations.

Security Institute (SyI) has developed

Responding to Emergency Medical

a programme to assess security

Incidents and Trauma (REMIT), will

management experience, academic

make you more attractive to both

qualifications, vocational qualifications

employers and clients.

and contributions to the security

The First Person on Scene

Overtime is likely to increase the overall value of any package. Q

KEY CONTACTS

profession through an independent

(FPOS) qualification is particularly

professional validation board, which

useful, too. The qualification would give

can award three grades of membership

you the skills and knowledge you need

(Associate, Member and Fellow). The

to be able to provide immediate care in

criteria considered are:

the first few minutes of an emergency

01905 342020 info@bsia.co.uk www.bsia.co.uk

- work experience, including roles and

or life-threatening situation. It is valid

@thebsia

areas of responsibility

for three years and periodic retraining is

- qualifications, including academic

recommended in order to keep skills up to

security-related and non security-

date. The course is usually delivered over

five days.

- training, including non-examination

Away from medicine and first aid,

vocational and non-vocational courses

consider enhancing your skills and

- other contributions, such as

knowledge in other areas too, such as project management (PRINCE2 or equivalent) or risk management.

TOP TIPS FOR TRAINING Knowing just how important it is to choose a provider wisely, the BSIA’s Training Providers Section offers some top tips on this topic – see www.bsia.co.uk/sections/ training-providers.aspx For more general information about the BSIA, visit: www.bsia.co.uk

Being a holder of additional qualifications such as those discussed above will help enormously in promoting you as a highly skilled, diverse and employable security professional, enabling you to demonstrate to potential employers that you have more than an SIA licence,

British Security Industry Association

Security Industry Authority 0844 892 1025 www.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk @SIAuk Security Institute 0845 370 7717 info@security-institute.org www.security-institute.org @SyInstitute Skills for Security 01905 744000 info@skillsforsecurity.org.uk www.skillsforsecurity.org.uk @Skills4Security

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

Q Plan ahead!

YOUR ELC EDUCATION AND FUNDING PLANNER

Your one-stop guide to personal development and education opportunities, improving your career prospects and the funding sources available help you do it

Personal development and education opportunities What is Personal Development (PD)?

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 won’t just happen. You must take steps to find out what’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 PD 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 – 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 MOD’s central distance learning resource, providing ‘one stop’ 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 ‘Sources of advice and finance’ 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.

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

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

Tel: 01908 587665 www.gastectraining.co.uk

Sponsored by

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 Cost (IRTC)

The IRTC grant exists to help towards the cost of resettlement training through the CTP or external training providers. The IRTC grant may not be used for Civilian Work Attachments but may be used in concert with a Learning Credit – Standard (SLC) or Enhanced (ELC) – for any course that is completed prior to the Service Leaver leaving the Service and subject to the relevant criteria of either scheme.

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 Professional and Career Development Loans

Finding a job

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.

The Individual Resettlement Training Costs (IRTC) 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 training). These courses are pre-paid by the MoD and only ‘cost’ the Service leaver time and a portion of the £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 up to 20 days of CF training. Any exam or registration fees are extra and payable by the students, but other allowances may be available to help with those.

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 March 2017

YOUR ELC HELP AND ADVICE

Useful contacts

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

s noted For general enquiries

Education and Resettlement Staff

RetResSO2or Civ: elc@detsa.co.uk

about the scheme, eligibility and

seeking further clarification of sS

(

qualifications, seek advice from

instructions should contact SO3 EL3R,

Mil: 94391 7580 Civ: 01264

381580)

at DII: ‘NAVY TRG HQ-EL3R RESET

resettlement staff in the first instance,

SO3C’ (

not ELCAS. ELCAS’s role is to administer

625954)

Education Coordinators (REC) at RAF

Mil: 93832 5954 Civ: 02392

RAF: Personal Learning Advisors

the following single-Service education and

(PLAs), and Resettlement and

Army: Individual Education and

Learning Centres. Education and

guidance on eligibility or education/

Resettlement Officers (IERO), at Army

Resettlement Staff seeking further

learning or resettlement needs. Policy

Education Centres, which must be used

clarification of sS instructions should

helpline details are as follows.

by Service leavers on resettlement.

contact SO2 Accreditation at DII:

applications, not provide advice and

l RN: RN/RM Education and Quest February 2016 Final_2016 05/02/2016 16:50 Page 48

Education and Resettlement Staff

’22TrgGp-CTS-AndEWg-SO2’ (

Resettlement Officers (EROs), Naval

seeking further clarification of sS

95751 6888 Civ: 01400 266888)

Education and Training Support

instructions should contact the relevant

Officers (NETSOs) and Naval

SO2 Retention and Resettlement in

Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing courses Resettlement Information Officers Regional Command (RC)to – DII: RC-PersWhen responding to advertisements please mention Quest (NRIOs) at RN/RM Learning Centres. ETS-N-RetResSO2 or RC-Pers-ETS-S-

Courses 4 Forces Spring final 2016_C4F 29/03/2016 15:55 Page 39

SA S

A1 Safe & Secure Ltd 15 Days Professional Locksmithing Course

Mil:

In addition, advice on any aspect of the ELC and FEHE schemes is available from: People-TESRR-ResetOffice@mod.uk Q

15 £2 da ,99 ys 5 tra for in in g

Our Level 3 Locksmith training course is the most intensive and comprehensive course available anywhere in the UK. We are passionate about training. Our course is staffed by ex forces personnel, Chief Instructor Ex 22 (SAS) Regt. We know what you need and how you need it. It is delivered with E.D.I.P. You will receive 10 days technical workshop training, and on completion, 5 days Field Training with our professional Field Trainers who are all qualified locksmiths who started their careers training with us. These locksmiths are all ex-forces. Our aim is to give you the best possible start in your new career. You cannot learn these skills in 5-7 days. It is just not realistic.

Free 24 hour helpline for life, supporting you.

Tel: 01432 341257

www.safeandsecurelocksmithcourses.co.uk martyn@downlandcycles.co.uk

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

facebook.com/downland twitter.com/downlandcycles

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

Flexible study routes - work-based, taught, mixed-mode programme or Supported Distance Learning.

commencing May 2017 at our training centre in Doncaster

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

HUB THE

THE HUB

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

Planning to work in pre-hospital care? Respond here …

First Line Response received ELC Provider status in 2010 and, since then, has continued to enhance the individual skills of ex-military personnel to create new career pathways within the pre-hospital care sector. We provide a broad range of clinical and driver education programmes, delivered by a team of tutors who have significant training experience in both the Acute NHS Trusts and NHS Ambulance Services – ensuring we meet the nationally recognised clinical standards for employment opportunities within the NHS and private sectors. The level 4 Associate Ambulance Practitioner and level 5 First Response Emergency and Urgent Care Diplomas offer the skills, knowledge and experience through apprenticeship-style learning, to allow for career progression towards paramedic education. On successful completion of our training packages, to include the level 4 Emergency Response Ambulance Driving course, candidates will have the experience and opportunity to gain employment within multiple pre-hospital environments, including the ambulance service, security industry and offshore and remote sectors. Courses are offered in a range of locations within the UK and Cyprus, with full industry recognition. First Line Response has provided education to support the prehospital sector to the highest standards for the past 13 years, and continues to develop training programmes and opportunities globally. Many of our past students have successfully gone on to gain employment directly with the NHS Ambulance Service or enhance their education by completing paramedic programs and/or offshore medic courses to take their skills overseas. Start your new career today – enrol on one of our clinical and emergency driving packages, all approved for funding. Get in touch 0345 5200 999 enquiries@firstlineresponse.co.uk firstlineresponse.co.uk See the advertisement on page 15

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

>> HOUSING BENEFITS

Plymouth heroes offered discount on new homes

Armed Forces personnel are being offered significant discounts at a new housing development in Plymouth. Leading house builder Persimmon Homes is acknowledging the city’s military background by giving Service men and women the chance to save thousands of pounds when they buy a new-build home at Palmerston Heights in William Prance Road, Derriford. For every £25,000 spent, Persimmon is offering a discount of £500 to members of the Forces. For a house priced at £225,000 that would mean a saving of £4,500. Persimmon has also agreed to supply carpets and vinyl flooring free of charge. The development is in an excellent city location and there is something for everyone, from first-time buyers to growing families and professionals. Says Jane Cartwright, field sales manager at Persimmon Homes Cornwall, ‘We wanted to give something back to the heroes of the city by offering this discount. Significant savings are available and we hope it makes a different to the purchasers and their families. The offer is open to all serving members of the Armed Forces. Our on-site team would be delighted to show them the range of properties available.’ For more information, visit www.persimmonhomes.com or call 01752 967 879. And, to find out more about buying your own home, read our practical guide starting on page 58.

Is complex care your calling? Here at VP Forensic our reputation for providing high-quality staffing and care throughout the UK is second to none. For more than 16 years we have been providing specialist nationwide support for clients in forensic mental health units, prisons and within their own homes, who have an acquired brain injury, mental health needs, learning disabilities and autism. Through effective rehabilitation, we succeed in working with people whose needs have proven too specialised and complex for others to work with. We aim to help our clients live a life that is as functional and fulfilling as possible, according to their own values and aspirations, while ensuring their health and well-being. We value committed staff, and promote this with excellent rates of pay and working conditions. As a result, we have team members who have worked with us since we formed in 2001, who are

valued by services and individual clients for their knowledge, experience and reliability. We are actively recruiting ex-Service personnel, who we have found can make a successful transition into the complex care sector due to their communication skills, self discipline, strong work ethic, ability to represent an organisation in a highly professional fashion, and desire to make a difference. If you are interested in using your specialist skills to continue to make a real difference to people’s lives, please get in touch. Get in touch 0870 850 4265 vp@vpfn.co.uk www.vpfn.co.uk See the advertisement on page 70

New NEBOSH training provision at Catterick Woodward delivered the first NEBOSH National General Certificate resettlement course at Catterick Garrison in March 1993, and we’ve been delivering NEBOSH resettlement training to Service leavers ever since – with excellent results! However, we’ve noticed over the past few years that MoD budgetary constraints, especially around hotel accommodation, have led to fewer and fewer Service leavers being able to get permission to attend our open courses in Carlisle and Edinburgh … So we’ve decided to take our NEBOSH training courses home to Catterick! This summer we’ll be launching our first 27day NEBOSH training course package in Catterick, so you can get excellent value for your ELC claim and Graduated Resettlement Time (GRT), with the added convenience of being able to choose stay on base at Catterick Garrison during the course. 27-day resettlement package • NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health • NEBOSH National Certificate in Construction Safety and Health • NEBOSH National Certificate in Fire Safety and Risk Management • NEBOSH Certificate in Environmental Management Funding – course fees • NEBOSH General, Construction, Fire and Environmental Certificate resettlement course package = £2,504.00 • ELC claim £2000 (higher-tier ELC) • Personal contribution £504 (IRTC grant) Funding – subsistence costs • Food costs £12 (per day) for 27 days, which totals £324 (GRT allowance) This first course package is limited to 20 delegates, so if you are interested don’t hesitate to get in touch. Contact Sharon to book your place now. Get in touch 01228 592614 info@woodwardgroup.co.uk www.woodward-group.co.uk/military-resettlement

>> BUSINESS START-UP

Preparing for business with ICAEW and X-Forces Part 7: Financing exports By Clive Lewis, ICAEW, in conjunction with X-Forces For exporters, the longer lead times between providing goods or services and getting paid can present particular financial problems. A range of alternative methods of trade finance can help exporters finance export transactions. These include: • cash in advance – whereby the exporter receives payment in advance of the shipment of goods or receipt of the relevant services • letters of credit – here a bank specifies the terms under which it will pay the exporter, usually specifying the documents it must receive before making payment • collection (term and sight) – the exporter ships the goods before payment but retains control of them until payment (or a legal promise to pay) is received from the importer. However, most exporting is on ‘open account’, whereby the exporter despatches goods to the importer and sends an invoice for the goods for payment on an agreed date or after an agreed period. Because of the additional risks in exporting it is important to insure against non-payment or some action outside the importer’s control, e.g. political risks. A specialist broker or insurance company can advise on the insurances required. Exporters should consider accessing the usual bank loans and overdrafts, or invoice factoring and discounting. ‘One handy cash flow solution is trade finance for businesses that are engaged in exports. This can take several forms, including advances of funds from a finance provider (like a bank). This provides a cash guarantee that can be used to cover the costs of your export operations.’ Anthony, X-Forces senior business consultant UK Export Finance (UKEF) is a government agency that offers help to exporters to raise finance, such as: • Export Working Capital Scheme – UKEF provides partial guarantees to lenders to cover the credit risks associated with export working capital • Bond Support Scheme – if an exporter secures an advance payment, the export customer may ask for a guarantee, or the exporter may be asked for a tender, performance or warranty bond; UKEF provides a guarantee to the exporter’s bank so that it will provide the guarantee to the importer • Letter of Credit Guarantee Scheme – UKEF provides a guarantee to the exporter’s bank so that it can confirm a letter of credit. UKEF also provides help to overseas buyers purchasing goods from UK exporters. For further information, visit www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/uk-export-finance

Ready to go? Register for X-Forces’ start-up and business planning support today at www.x-forces.com Help for businesses can be obtained from ICAEW’s Business Advice Service, in the form of a free, straightforward discussion with an ICAEW Chartered Accountant. Find out more at www.businessadviceservice.com

See the advertisement on page 11

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

THE HUB

I DID IT!

Accredited level 2, 3 and 5 courses designed and priced to work for Service personnel

Name: Bob Skivington, Captain, Royal Tank Regiment Courses: VRQ level 3 Cycle Mechanic and Frame Building Provider: Downland Cycles

‘Leaving the Army and starting a new job or business is a difficult After 28 great years in the Services, I am task. Gaining the correct up-to-date determined to give something back by running qualifications for your new job or business venture is just sensible courses that, as well as being enjoyable and thinking. My venture was in bicycles informative, develop an individual’s motivation and Downland Cycles made gaining and prospects. I am passionate about those qualifications easy. I completed delivering courses that are interactive and the Frame Building course and Bike fully engage clients, using a flexible approach Mechanic level 3 (Professional). Finding the courses I wanted was to teaching that ensures each student can easy using the ELCAS website, and enjoy learning and benefit from courses booking each module was no hassle that increase employment and promotion whatsoever. prospects, both in and out of the Services. ‘The training was mature, As an ILM training centre, we offer the easy-going and catered for all levels of experience, with a well-stocked opportunity to achieve an internationally workshop and plenty of room for recognised level 2, 3 or 5 award in Leadership six students. The majority of the Mechanic course was taught by one and Management, a level 2, 3 or 5 award in instructor, with the odd lesson taken by another, maintaining continuity. Coaching and Mentoring, and certification as The accommodation slept six students and was on-site, which is ideal, an NLP practitioner, priced to match SLC for allowing for late-night revision. It was warm, with a TV, fridge as well as plenty of reading material. There was enough space not to be in one the level 2 courses, and ELC rates for the levels another’s pockets. Three meals per day are provided, all of which are very 3 and 5 courses. good. Refreshments are also provided throughout the day, and all food is The levels 2, 3 and 5 courses provide the included in the accommodation cost. opportunity to: ‘Support after the course is just a phone call away, with the option • develop skills towards career progression to attend refresher courses whenever needed in the future. The only additional charge for this is accommodation if you would like it. As a leaving gift you are awarded a CD with all the information and links you will need, as well as a Downland Cycles T-shirt, not to mention some new friends. ‘Downland Cycles is exactly what a Service leaver needs to prepare. The staff have a wealth of experience and give advice over and above what you would expect; an offer to assist you with setting up in business with trade accounts is also given. Resettlement poses many challenges, not least ‘I can highly recommend, and commend, Bryan, Julie and in making sure it doesn’t disrupt your children’s team for the service and support they provide to our Service education. While boarding is an attractive leavers.’

•

take stock and prepare for career prospects beyond Service life • gain recognised qualifications in a safe, enjoyable learning environment • reflect and develop personal effectiveness towards motivation and self-fulfilment in life. Employers are now looking for leaders who can manage and develop people, making the combination of management and coaching courses perfect for enhancing future prospects. We currently offer courses at three locations across the country and are happy to deliver courses wherever there are four clients or more. Get in touch 01522 501886 or 07941 881515 info@inspired2be.com See the advertisement on page 15

Will I still be able to afford boarding?

Check out some of Downland’s other success stories … • Mark now works as a sales and mechanic professional at Bike Park Wales • Terry works at West End Cycles in Conwy • Steve Drewery works at Carbon Bike Solutions in Derbyshire • Steve Anderson works at Halfords • Tony Arnell has set up his own business, including sport science and bike fitting • Joe Joseph has set up a successful and expanding business at www.onyoucycle.co.uk • Congratulations also go to Craig McClelleand, who has set up a business – Spokey Cycle Maintenance – following level 3 Cycle Mechanics training with Downland • Andy Setchfield trained with Downland and now has a successful cycle business, Setchfield Cycles, which includes MTB leader training • David Torbitt who completed Downland’s training in 2012 and now works in Blöte bike shop in Germany • Steve Gaze owns a mobile cycle mechanic business in the Forest of Dean, Road 2 Trail. Get in touch 01227 709706 julie@downlandcycles.co.uk www.downlandcycles.co.uk See the advertisement on page 48

Value doesn’t, however, come at the cost of quality as state boarding facilities are now indistinguishable from those in the independent option, promising high educational standards sector following a £20 million programme of as well as some very welcome stability at a time investment in boarding accommodation. Fully of great upheaval, many equipped health centres Service leavers find the and modern home comforts ongoing cost of boarding have replaced the outmoded in the independent sector concepts of a ‘visit to prohibitive. matron’ and the school dorm. This is where state Top-quality sports and arts boarding, with its fees of facilities underpin a packed around £4,000 per term programme of evening (less than half the cost of and weekend activities, comparable independent and many also offer schools) is an attractive comprehensive Combined option for many Service Cadet Force programmes, leavers, or even those with Science at Gordon’s School, a state boarding school particularly popular with in Woking half a mind to resettling military families. Following before their children are due the national curriculum, to leave full-time education. Fees are kept at this academic performance exceeds that of many more manageable level because the education is other schools, and state boarding schools paid for by the state and parents are only asked to regularly top league tables of results. cover the cost of the boarding. To find out more about the high-quality Already a popular choice with Forces families, education, state-of-the-art facilities and military children make up around 10 per cent of exceptional pastoral care offered in the state children in the state boarding system’s 30-plus boarding system, visit www.stateboarding.org.uk schools and, while most offer boarding from age 11, some can also accommodate primary-age See the advertisement on page 9 children.

>> JOB FAIRS CTP Employment Fair 16 March 2017, Salford CTP Employment Fair 27 April 2017, Edinburgh These CTP employment fairs offer: l a fantastic networking opportunity, whether you’re ready to apply for live jobs or simply researching the market l the chance to meet employers who already recognise the skills and experience Service leavers can offer l presentations from key employers about their recruitment processes and vacancies

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

a wide range of companies, from small regional organisations to large multinationals, across a host of industry sectors l the opportunity to chat with Service support organisations, CTP staff and other Service leavers who are also going through the resettlement process. They are open only to serving and ex-military personnel who have pre-registered to attend through the CTP. This is a great networking l

opportunity. Don’t miss out on the chance to meet employers with current and future job vacancies! Book your place today. Call the Central Bookings Team on 0203 162 4410 or visit www.ctp.org.uk/events to find out more.

Interested in osteopathy? If you are a member of the Armed Forces, the College of Osteopaths understands where you are coming from … We know that you already possess many of the skills and attributes that make a good osteopath: high standards of professional conduct, competent at problem solving, organising and communicating, calm under pressure, hands on, self-reliant but also a strong team player, interested in keeping healthy, good with people, used to a high level of responsibility … It’s a very promising start. We also have an idea about where you might want to be heading next … Osteopathy is an ideal profession to enter as a second career. It allows you the independence to work for yourself and to do the hours that suit your personal circumstances. Osteopaths are autonomous practitioners who can work for professional sports clubs, in GP practices, in multidisciplinary health centres, in higher education and within industry. You could even work from home. It is a career that offers enormous flexibility and job satisfaction. There is virtually zero unemployment among osteopaths.

The College of Osteopaths’ five-year M.Ost/B.Ost degree programmes in London and Staffordshire are part-time, and particularly appealing to those with existing work and family commitments. Teaching takes place over 18 weekends each year plus home study and attendance at the College’s teaching clinic, which brings the added interest of contact with genuine patients right from the start. We use a wide variety of lively and challenging learning methods geared to mature students. The College of Osteopaths has considerable experience of training former members of the Armed Forces. We would welcome your application. A short foundation course (two weekends) is available for those without science-based qualifications. For latest news, follow us on @COLofOSTEOPATHS Get in touch 01782 294596 osteopathy@staffs.ac.uk www.collegeofosteopaths.ac.uk See the advertisement on page 9

>> COURSE NEWS

Free media course for Service leavers and veterans The Forces Media Academy has launched a unique media course for Service leavers and veterans, which will be taught in a live media environment. Students on the free one-year Higher National Certificate (HNC) Media Production course will also receive a bursary of £18,000 to help with living costs. Says Forces Media Academy Director, Alistair Halliday, ‘We are delighted to offer this bespoke course to Service leavers and veterans who are interested in pursuing a second career in the media. This includes those who have suffered injuries or sickness while in service.’ Work experience and practical skills feature heavily in the course, which has modules such as Development and Techniques of Film and Video Editing, Promotional Video Production and Production of Multi-platform Radio Programmes. ‘The Forces Media Academy is part of the Services Sound and Vision Corporation (SSVC), which has a proven history of media production with long-established and close links with the media, digital and broadcast industries. We’ll harness these to set up high-quality work experience, which will enhance the ability of students to get a good job afterwards,’ adds Halliday. ‘We are grateful for the support of charities and companies, in particular The Royal British Legion, which has most generously provided the bursary. This course is a perfect fit for Service leavers and veterans with an interest in, and aptitude for, the media. It will equip them with skills for a range of roles such as producer, multimedia journalist and content creator.’ The first course starts on 25 September and will run until July 2018 at SSVC’s headquarters in Buckinghamshire, so students will have the opportunity to work with award-winning media teams alongside the programme of lectures. Applications are now being accepted, so for more information about how to apply, entry requirements and for full details of course modules, visit www.forcesacademy.com The closing date is Friday 31 March.

I DID IT! Name: Jamie Fanneran Final rank: Sergeant Years served: 15 Course: Open I.T (various courses)

Jamie Fanneran, 31, served in the Royal Signals, specialising as a Communications Systems Operator, before leaving the Services in January 2016 ‘to settle my family in a fixed location, to give my children stability and schooling. I also wanted to start early on a second career rather than playing catch-up later postmilitary.’ We asked Jamie to tell us about the training and experience gained during his Service career that he now finds useful in civilian life. Jamie says, ‘I have various IT and telecoms skills that I can apply to the commercial environment. Although most skills are transferable, the more technical elements are bespoke to the MoD, therefore recertifying through resettlement was vital for me.’ While serving, he also achieved civilian qualifications including various management NVQs as well as NVQs in engineering and telecoms (mainly through Foundation Modern Apprenticeships). During resettlement, as well as his CTW, he also undertook the ISO 27001 Lead Implementor and Lead Auditor course, which was completed using IT Governance. Jamie’s online-based training with Open I.T was, he says, ‘very useful’. ‘They provided me with some good certifiable attributes. That was the reason I was able to gain such fast and solid employment. I decided to move into the information/IT security space and Open I.T provided me with the training to get certified in a number of key areas that employers were screaming out for from their IT professionals. Through Open I.T I have managed to achieve the following certifications: CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, CCNA Routing and Switching, CCNA Security and CISSP, and I’m currently going through the process of certifying in Microsoft’s MCSE: Server Architecture. These are vital certifications for me that give my employer the confidence that I can work in a multitude of technical areas, and be able to provide the necessary support and guidance from a security perspective.’ He is now working for FIS Global in Birmingham as a Senior Information Security Officer for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Jamie says that the job involves ‘managing the information security compliance aspects for various business lines such as retail payments solutions and banking hosted services, as well as provisioning of key contracts, providing technical solutions to the financial and retail sector. I also ensure that corporate information systems are kept in a secure manner and are up to current regulatory standards. ‘Working in a small, close-knit team of professionals is fantastic – being given a task, and allowed the freedom to run it and provide periodic progress reports. Knowing that cyber-security is the next big thing, any competence in IT or security in general is a bonus when looking at future employment prospects. ‘The relaxed atmosphere of my new role makes it easier to integrate with different areas of the business, and engage with many external agencies and clients. Not wearing a uniform took some getting used to, although having the freedom to choose your own suit for work makes you feel more integrated with the local community. My salary is currently slightly higher than it was in the MoD, and is due to shoot up in line with the current commercial rate for my job role, which means it will surpass my MoD salary by a long way.’ Open I.T is a UK Learning Centre that helps thousands of working professionals, Service personnel and jobseekers into IT training programmes every year. Open I.T works with the MoD to provide resettlement training and accreditations on behalf of all major vendors such as Microsoft, Cisco and CompTIA, covering industry-recognised professional courses and certifications such as the MCSE, CCNA, CCIE, CompTIA A+, Security+, ITIL, Prince2, CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker). For full course listings, information and prices, please contact our resettlement training staff (see contact details below). Get in touch 0800 599 99 98 or 01279 621 750 resettlement@openittraining.com www.openittraining.com/elc See the advertisement on page 9

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR RESETTLEMENT SUCCESS STORY FACTFILE

Drive to succeed! Former Naval Seaman Neil Rankin may have swapped one uniform for another, but he’s still working hard to serve his fellow countrymen. Now an Emergency Medical Technician 1 with North West Ambulance Service, the vehicle may be different, but many of the skills required are very much the same. Could your future lie beneath the blue light too?

aving served for 12 years, ex-Royal

Getting qualified

Navy Seaman Specialist Neil

While serving, Neil secured qualifications as

Rankin, 41, left the Forces in late

an IOSH Workplace Risk Assessor and a TRiM

2014 and is now working as an Emergency

(Trauma Risk Management) Practitioner.

Medical Technician 1 (EMT1) with North West

These certifications – along with his other

Ambulance Service. Following his medical

skills, mentioned above – were

discharge due to a knee injury, Neil sought

complemented by his CTW at

to move into a career where he could put to

RNAS Culdrose, where he

good use his Naval experience of working

says, ‘It was great to get

in a small team, watch keeping, shift work,

feedback on CV writing

and comms and radio use, together with his

as well as putting me in

communication skills and ability to adapt

touch with the whole CTP

quickly to changing situations. With that

team, which helped me

background, it’s really not hard to see why

the most as interviews

he opted for a route into the emergency

approached and I needed to

services!

complete application forms.

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

WHO RUNS THE AMBULANCE SERVICE? Both NHS Ambulance Service Trusts and Private Ambulance Services (PAS) provide ambulances and staff to deal with medical emergencies

‘During resettlement, I also did a combined NEBOSH

THE EVERYDAY WORKING LIFE OF AN EMT1

Certificate – covering the NEBOSH National General

Shift 1400–0220, Greater Manchester

Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety and the

1345: Arrive at work and get a vehicle. We work as a two-man team: a

NEBOSH National Certificate in Fire Safety and Risk

paramedic as lead clinician and me as the technician supporting

Management – which together dealt with general, fire and

them. We take turns driving and attending in the back of the

environmental aspects of HSE. The course was run by

ambulance, unless it’s a complex or unstable patient and then the

OMS in Coalville. I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to

paramedic will always travel. Today there is no vehicle so we must

do but my last posting in the RN saw me take over H&S responsibilities for our department – I knew I wasn’t too bad at it so I thought it would be a good course to have as a “go to” and passed both parts with Credit. I also later attended in-house training for the North West Ambulance Service

wait for an off-going crew to finish before we can get started … 1430: Sign on with control, and complete drugs and red checks* of all essential equipment to deal with incidents such as a cardiac arrest or major trauma. 1455: First job – middle-aged male who has a history of irregular

(my current employer), which consisted of six weeks’

heartbeat. Once we assess him it’s clear he needs to be

clinical skills and a three-week advanced driving course.

transported to the nearest A&E for treatment. He has an

‘Most NHS ambulance trusts run their own training

unsustainably high heart rate. We radio control and pass on

courses so, although using your ELC for emergency driving

his details as he will be taken direct to Resus rather than being

or ambulance technician courses will help if you go on to

triaged. This allows us to travel with blue lights, and alerts hospital

work for a private company, you will still need to undergo

staff we are coming in.

training periods with the NHS. With this in mind, be sure to ask the service in your area for full details.’ Neil’s own employer NWAS, for example, is – like other trusts – now offering training along the lines of that described in the accompanying box-out (‘What form does the training take?’). This is largely to reflect the rollout of a new level 4 qualification, Associate Ambulance Practitioner (AAP), of which you can find full details at www.gov.uk/ government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/ file/455222/AMBULANCE_SERVICES_Associate_ Ambulance_Practitioner.pdf

1555: Clear at hospital after handing over the patient. Call control and head off to get fuel. 1620: Next job – an emergency transfer for a paediatric patient from our local A&E to the main children’s hospital. 1740: Hand over our patient and wait for our next job. Complete second equipment and drug checks. 1742: Next job is an assault – it’s graded a ‘Green 2’ (not life threatening). En route we are retasked to a ‘Red 2’, which requires an eight-minute response (see box-out: ‘999 call response times’). 1805: Arrive on scene and a bit of detective work is required – the gentleman is in his nineties and not sure why we have been

‘There are now programmes being put in place for

called. I speak to out-of-hours nurses and get a history while my

technicians to be supported through university to qualify

paramedic conducts some checks. Our patient is stable but the

as paramedics,’ Neil continues, ‘but places are limited.

nurses have told us that he has very abnormal blood tests and

Technician qualifications may also be Ambulance Service dependent and not nationally recognised, so be aware of this and check out all the details carefully.’

requires urgent admittance to hospital. 1900: Arrive at the closest A&E – it’s busy but we are seen in triage straight away. While waiting for a bed, our patient has his bloods taken and it’s decided we should move him to Resus. 1915: Meal break due. Head back to station and pick up a sandwich on the way. (We get one half-hour break on this shift.) 2000–2030: Meal break. 2045: Another call – a Red 2 for a what is being queried as a heart attack. 2054: Arrive on scene and met by the patient. A quick assessment reveals that thankfully it’s not a heart attack but our patient has complex mental health issues. After a full assessment, which reassures them, we decide to transport them to A&E so further tests can be conducted and they can be seen by the on-call mental health team. 2145: Arrive at A&E and hand over. 2200: The best message of the day from control: ‘Thanks for today RTB,

‘WHAT I HAVE FOUND HELPS MORE THAN ANYTHING IS THE ABILITY TO WORK UNDER PRESSURE IN TRICKY SITUATIONS’

and goodnight.’ 2210: Back at the station, we hand over our vehicle to the oncoming crew, file our paperwork and head home. *All ambulance crews are expected to perform checks on their vehicles; these are separated into the categories red, amber and green. At the start of a shift, they are required to perform a ‘red check’ on their vehicle; this includes checks of medical equipment, drug supplies and basic vehicle checks, including wheel pointer alignments. It is estimated that a red check should take no more than 10 minutes.

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

COURSE YOUR FACTFILE RESETTLEMENT CHOICES SUCCESS STORY SUCCESS STORY at a road traffic collision, followed by a job

NWAS NHS Trust is embarking on a new

We come back to the station for a half-hour

training programme for Emergency

meal break during the shift and, depending

Medical Technicians (EMTs). The

on the shift length, an extra 15- or 20-minute

training is for a 13-month period and

break later.’

commences with 18 weeks’ classroom-

covering mental health, then a cardiac arrest.

You can read an hour-by-hour

based clinical training. Successful

breakdown of Neil’s typical working day in

completion of the 13-month training

the panel on page 55, ‘The everyday working

programme means you will hold

life of an EMT1’.

nationally recognised qualifications. The first 18–20 weeks’ training will take place in one of its training facilities. This includes four weeks’ emergency ‘blue light’ training. After that, you will be deployed in an EMT role and work as part of a crew. As a trainee, you will work alongside other

NEIL’S QUALIFICATIONS IOSH Workplace Risk Assessor Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) Practitioner NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety NEBOSH National Certificate in Fire Safety and Risk Management

EMT staff and paramedics initiating

Pros and cons

lack of time for a brew’! And shift work, he

and delivering appropriate care and

Asked what he particularly likes about

says, ‘although similar to watch keeping, can

effective treatment to patients in both a

his current role, Neil responds: ‘the sense

be difficult to get into at first.’

hospital and pre-hospital environment.

of achievement, meeting people from all

Here you will be selecting and applying

walks of life and working under pressure

the fact that ‘initially, most staff end up on

appropriate skills and equipment safely

in a small team’. Otherwise, at the top of

a relief rota, so you will know your shifts

while working within the appropriate

his list of career-related positives comes a

only three weeks in advance, which can

level of training, competency and scope

better work–life balance. Other important

be difficult at first – especially if you have

of practice for the role.

factors that make this a desirable role for

young kids at home or want to plan a holiday.

ex-Forces personnel include the fact that

Holidays have to be requested and booked

Throughout your 13 months’ training

Other challenges Neil highlights include

you will benefit from dedicated clinical

it is a profession, says Neil, where you will

support from your trainers, managers

find a number of other Service leavers. Soft

TRAINING UPDATE!

and crew, to help you through your

skills are also recognised, ‘like working under

Please note that, since Neil completed

training programme and successfully

pressure, difficult situations, thinking on your

his training, FutureQual’s levels 2 and 3

complete your training.

feet and teamwork. These all help to make

‘blue light’ driving courses have replaced

the transition a lot easier.

the former IHCD D1 and D2 awards, which

Sources: North West Ambulance Service; NHS Jobs – www.jobs.nhs.uk

Neil’s new day job

‘Then there are drills, drills, drills – just

were phased out in 2015. FutureQual

like in the military – where we learn skills so

qualifications are recognised by all NHS

they become second nature to us – almost

Ambulance Services in the UK. They are

automatic. Things like working on ambulance

listed on the QCF, which means you can

skills, such as CPR, all follow a systematic

use your funding towards them. Developed in partnership with the

approach, and learning and then adopting

Having got the necessary training and

these drills is no different to stoppage drills

NHS Ambulance Service Driver Training

qualifications under his belt, Neil has now

on the range.

Advisory Group (DTAG), the qualifications

been in his current job for just over two years

‘As I said before – but I can’t emphasise

currently available are:

– and he’s keen to give QUEST readers a

it enough – every day is different and no one

level 2 Award in Ambulance Driving

taste of what it’s really like to work in what is

job is the same. And that means every day

level 2 Certificate in Non-emergency

perhaps the country’s most vitally important

you learn a new skill or get the opportunity

blue-light service. ‘Although no day is ever

to develop your clinical skills further.

level 3 Certificate in Emergency

level 4 Diploma in Emergency

the same,’ he says, ‘each shift starts with

Transport Services Response Ambulance Driving

‘More practically, the job brings access

checking the ambulance over with my crew

to NHS discount and car lease schemes

mate, to ensure that the vehicle, equipment

(depending on the Trust you work for), and

and drugs are stocked up and ready for the

continuing professional development (CPD)

road. We work as a two-man crew, with the

is actively encouraged.’

paramedic as the lead clinician and I am

‘Each job is different, so you could be

WHAT FORM DOES THE TRAINING TAKE?

Having been happy to tell us about the

Response Ambulance Driving Instruction. To find out more, visit www.futurequals. com/qualifications/sectors/regulated/

there to support them. Once we’ve signed on

positives he finds in his job, Neil does have

health-public-services-and-care/

to control we will be on the road responding

a few dislikes too, which may come as no

Ambulance%20Service%20-%20Driving/

to emergency calls.

surprise to most of us: ‘nightshift and the

index.html

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

999 CALL RESPONSE TIMES 999 calls to the Ambulance Service are prioritised into two categories to ensure lifethreatening cases receive the quickest response … about 12 months ahead (there is no standdown period like there is at most military establishments), and if you have children, you’ll find it can be difficult to get the school

1. Immediately life threatening l

breathing or do not have a pulse) to be responded to within 8 minutes. l

issues to consider. ‘As mentioned earlier, my employer’s training was made up of six weeks clinical

Red 2: 75% of Category A Red 2 calls (still serious, but less immediately time critical, like strokes or fits) to be responded to within 8 minutes. The clock starts

holidays off. So a certain amount of planning is required as there can often be childcare

Red 1: 75% of Category A Red 1 calls (the most time critical, where patients are not

ticking up to 60 seconds after the clock for Red 1. l

A19: 95% of Category A calls to be responded to within 19 minutes.

2. All other calls l

For conditions that are not life threatening, response targets are set locally.

and three weeks driving, but – having said that – there is nothing that can prepare you

There are ex-RAF, Army and Royal Marines

interview, I was relaxed and had my answers

for social and mental health calls: it’s a very

all working within my group, so there’s still

ready – and it paid off!’

steep, on-your-toes learning curve. And I

a healthy amount of banter to be had in the

quickly realised that it’s vital not to take the

crew room.’

job home with you. Some days you can see

Thinking of following in Neil’s footsteps?

take home. It’s important to be able to put

Sound advice to smooth your transition …

your hand up and say to your line managers

Neil has some useful advice to pass on

switch of uniform. Many of our Forces skills

or crew-mate, “I need a chat.”

to you, ‘things to consider’ for your own

– time-keeping, personal standards, courage,

transition to a career in the Ambulance

physical stamina, a can-do attitude and all

Service.

the other core military values – are essential

or treat things that you have to learn not to

‘Another challenge – particularly for ex-Forces personnel – is to forget all the three-letter acronyms you already know

‘I had no medical background,’ says Neil, ‘but have found the transition easy with a

‘In terms of finding a work placement,

in this job. It is highly rewarding, especially

and learn some new ones! A lot of new

I was very lucky. I contacted the RFEA in

when you get letters of thanks from a patient

ones … ‘Although there is a greater deal of

Manchester, which had a contact in the

or from management, thanking you for your

autonomy than I had in uniform, there is also

Ambulance Service. After an initial chat I

efforts and a positive outcome.

plenty of ongoing learning to be done.

was able to do four shifts on the road, which

‘Then there’s the paperwork: something that was either typed up or handled by someone else when you were in the military

‘To sum up, I would say, go for it!’

was eye opening and made me realise I could

To find out more about working in the UK’s

probably do the job.

emergency services, take a look at our

‘As for driving qualifications, you

now has to be done by you. When you

will need C1 on your licence as almost all

in-depth article at www.questonline.co.uk/

work on an ambulance, each patient has

ambulances are over 3.5t so a C1 is required.

careers/career/emergency-services Q

paperwork that must be filled in accurately

‘And don’t be put off if you’re from a

and neatly (a tough call in the back of a Fiat

non-medical background – the clinical

doing 60 mph). Paperwork was something I

skills are easily taught. This job is all

didn’t have to do a lot of in the Royal Navy,

about communication and teamwork.’

so it’s been a challenge for me to learn and adapt to that.’ Neil has also found the reduction in pay

In terms of your resettlement in general, Neil advises: ‘Use CTP and RFEA.

I found their advice on interview techniques

he’s had to accept a ‘challenge’ – well, let’s

and mock interviews to be invaluable. Also

face it, a negative. However, he does point

engage with your career consultant as

out that overtime is always available, and

soon as you can. RFEA in particular were

‘although my pay is lower, my work–life

excellent. I made contact and arranged a

balance is better and we can now plan as a

meeting for when I moved up to Manchester.

family. Plus I also get paid for late meals and

Things moved so quickly, though, that it

finishing work late.’

turned out I didn’t need the meeting as,

Transferable skills ‘There is a good cross-over between the Services and the Ambulance Service,’ says

after they had put me in contact with the Ambulance Service, I got a job offer about four weeks later. ‘My CTP adviser couldn’t help me

Neil. ‘What I have found helps more than

enough, from proofreading and helping

anything is the ability to work under pressure

with my application forms to, even more

in tricky situations, so while driving a RIB

importantly, getting me ready for interview.

in the Gulf at two in the morning in rough

I was most anxious about that stage but

weather is a million miles from attending

we arranged a mock interview over the

a traumatic cardiac arrest, the feeling of

phone (which left me sweating!), but the

confidence in drills and procedures makes

feedback and the structure is as good as it

situations like that far more manageable.

gets. It meant that, on the day of my actual

KEY CONTACTS

NHS l All NHS Ambulance Service Trusts in England and Wales recruit on an individual basis and advertise on the NHS Jobs website: www.jobs. nhs.uk l For Scottish jobs, see www.scottishambulance.com l For Northern Irish jobs, see www.niamb.co.uk l There is also a great deal of useful information in the ‘Ambulance’ section of the NHS Careers website: www.nhscareers.nhs.uk Private Ambulance Services PAS jobs are advertised on their own websites, and in publications such as Ambulance Life and Ambulance UK – see www.ambulance-life.co.uk/jobs and www.ambulanceukonline.com

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR RESETTLEMENT HOUSING FACTFILE

Get your house in order!

When it comes to buying a house, whether or not you’re a first timer it’s never too early to start planning where you’re going to live on leaving – and, more to the point, how you’re going to pay for it! Luckily there’s a lot of help available – financial and otherwise – to aid your preparations Home truths uying a house for the first time can

Step 2: Know your financial situation

be a bewildering process. If you’ve

Buying a house isn’t just about being able

never done it before – and, indeed,

to make mortgage repayments. The actual

Mortgages are available through building

if you have never had to cope with finding

process of buying can be quite expensive. So

societies, banks, specialist mortgage

any kind of housing in the private (civilian)

be very sure about: how much money you’ve

companies, insurance companies and even

sector – the best approach is to compile a ‘to

already got; finding a stable income on

building companies (especially where new-

do’ list in the order in which things need to be

leaving the Forces; how much you can access

done, and people, banks, organisations and/

from a mortgage company and how help-to-

or advisers need to be approached. This how-

buy schemes can help you (see below); and

BREAKING DOWN THE COSTS

to guide contains some suggestions to help

what your buying and moving expenses are

As a guide, these are the common

set you on course; advice is also available

likely to be (see ‘Breaking down the costs’).

financial outgoings for a house purchase:

from the Joint Service Housing Advice Office

If you are concerned, seek financial advice –

(JSHAO), which is there to provide you with

but make sure it is independent.

civilian housing information during your

the balance of debt at the end of your mortgage period).

an up-front deposit (often 10%+ of purchase price)

mortgage arrangement fee

survey fee

solicitor’s fees

Having found a property, or even before

stamp duty

that, you will need to sort out your mortgage.

search fees

Check all your options (preferably with an

removal/storage costs

Think about where you want to buy your

independent financial adviser). You may

occasionally, one-off fees to service

house. Does the area have all the amenities

come across:

providers to the property to install or

you need in terms of schools, public

update, for example, wi-fi or phone

resettlement. We’ll start with the basics …

Step 1: Start researching an area

Step 3: Put your mortgage in place

repayment mortgages (you pay back

transport, ability to travel easily to work,

what you owe, with interest, over an

shopping, proximity to friends and family?

agreed period of time)

building and home contents insurance

interest-only/endowment mortgages

monthly mortgage.

you can begin to build up a picture of the

(you pay interest on the loan to the

You should also be aware of Council Tax

availability and cost of property in any given

lender and, at the same time, into an

costs on your property and water rates in

area.

investment/savings plan, which – in

the area.

Using a website such as rightmove or Zoopla,

theory! – will grow enough to clear

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

lines

builds are concerned). You can approach

personnel during their Armed Forces career

these direct or use a broker who can act as

right up to the point of discharge (and

an agent.

occasionally beyond for those still occupying

CIVILIAN HOUSING BRIEFS COMING UP

service accommodation beyond their last day

Most mainstream mortgage providers

9 March, Edinburgh 09:30–12:30 –

are supporting Service personnel by offering

of service). Its aim is to help not only those

to register, email: edinburghhive@

mortgage products in conjunction with

who are about to leave the Services, but also

armymail.mod.uk

the Forces Help to Buy Scheme (FHTB).

those who are thinking about housing early

There are some exceptions, though, so it is

on in their career. Anyone is welcome to get

always best to check before you apply for a

in touch with the JSHAO: the Service person

mortgage. You can do this by looking on their

themselves, a spouse or a dependant, say.

websites, asking in their branches or phoning

‘Housing, the Options’ programme and

to use a mortgage broker, make sure you

‘Housing Solutions’ briefings, both with

disclose your use of FHTB at the outset and

slightly different remits. There are about

that they subsequently inform potential

60 Options briefings a year, in the UK and

mortgage providers.

overseas. These are mainly aimed at those of service, but are open to those even just

the kind of schemes currently available to

considering their civilian housing options

help you finance a property purchase.

prior to resettlement. These briefings

Step 4: Your new house

16 March, York 09:30–12:30 – to register, email: yorkhive@armymail. mod.uk

29 March, Paderborn, Germany 09:30–12:30 Register via CTP

5 April, Brize Norton 13:30– 16:30 – to register, email: bznpmscommunitysptgroup@mod.uk

Service personnel in their last two years

buy’ section below, for more information on

15 March, Catterick 09:30–12:30, register via CTP

Additionally, the JSHAO delivers the

them. Alternatively, if you are planning

In addition, check out our ‘Get help to

6 April, Benson 09:30–12:30 – to register, email: BEN-BSW-SCSO@ mod.uk

26 April, Episkopi, Cyprus 09:30–

include expert advice from independent

12:30 – to register, email: BFC-JETS-

financial advisers (on how to get mortgages),

55AEC-IERO@mod.uk l

27 April, Dhekelia, Cyprus 09:30–

A house is often the most expensive thing

solicitors (how to proceed on a house

we buy. Before you commit legally (the point

purchase) and government appointment

of exchanging a contract with the seller),

agents, to talk about Affordable Housing

make sure you are absolutely happy with all

schemes that are available to Service

The Housing Briefs are open to all

aspects. It is most important to know you

personnel in the UK (see below).

Service personnel and their families,

have a structurally sound building; this can

12:30 – to register, email: BFC-JETS55AEC-IERO@mod.uk

at any stage of their service career.

To find out more about the JSHAO, visit

be determined by a detailed survey – another

www.gov.uk/government/collections/joint-

To register via CTP, call the central

cost to add to your list.

service-housing-advice-office-jshao

booking line on 020 3162 4410. During

Step 5: Know the legal process

Housing Matters magazine

be made via JPA (Joint Personnel

The JSHAO produces a quarterly magazine

Administration) in the first instance.

You will need to engage the services of a

called Housing Matters. This aims to provide

A full briefing programme for

solicitor. Personal recommendations are a

relevant information to its readers, in as

2017 is available at www.gov.uk/

good starting point. Failing that, use a small

timely a fashion as possible. It focuses on

government/uploads/system/

independent firm that deals specifically

different regions of the UK, particularly in

uploads/attachment_data/

with house buying/selling. Your solicitor will

relation to local authority information, and

file/591120/20170209_-_JSHAO_2017_

liaise direct with the seller’s solicitor and

contains information and articles designed

Briefing_Prog_Dates_Calendar_LIST.

will obtain detailed information regarding

to help you when you are considering

pdf

searches in the local area. Your solicitor

your civilian housing options. For an index

will also deal with the exchange of money

of articles it has published to date, see

You are eligible if you:

from your mortgage lender to the seller

www.gov.uk/government/publications/

(including your deposit on the property), and

housing-matters-magazine-index-of-articles-

with HM Treasury regarding stamp duty – a

published

compulsory tax based on the purchase price of your property.

resettlement, applications should

Get help to buy

have completed the prerequisite length of service

have more than six months left to serve at the time of applying

fulfil the right medical categories.

Forces Help to Buy Scheme

There may be instances where exceptions

Now we’ve dealt with the foundations

The Forces Help to Buy Scheme was

to the standard rules may be justifiable,

of property buying, here is some more

launched in 2014 as a three-year pilot

especially where you have extenuating

substantial guidance that should help make

scheme, but has now been extended to 2018.

medical and personal circumstances.

your dream home a reality …

The scheme could enable you to borrow

How the JSHAO can help you

You can apply for the loan online through

up to 50% of your salary, to a maximum of

the JPA system and can seek advice on your

£25,000, interest free. This loan is towards

application through your chain of command

buying your first home or moving to another

and personnel agency. Full details of

The remit of the Joint Service Housing

property on assignment or as your family’s

eligibility and qualifying criteria can be found

Advice Office is to work with Service

needs change.

in JSP 464 Part 1 Chapter 12.

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR RESETTLEMENT HOUSING FACTFILE Other government-backed housing

The Help to Buy: ISA pays first-time

CLICKS FOR BRICKS

schemes (see below) can be used together

buyers a government bonus. For

Visit these links to find out more about

with Forces Help to Buy.

example, if you save £200 a month it will

current help-to-buy schemes and housing

To find out more about FHTB, visit

add £50, up to a maximum of £3,000,

options

the JSHAO or Army Families Federation

boosting your ISA savings of £12,000

Joint Service Housing Advice

websites (see ‘Clicks for bricks’), or download

to £15,000. Find out more at: www.

Office (JSHAO) – visit www.gov.uk/

full details at www.gov.uk/government/

helptobuy.gov.uk/help-to-buy-isa/how-

government/collections/joint-service-

uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/

does-it-work

housing-advice-office-jshao for useful

file/575676/JSHAO-03-FORCES_HELP_TO_

information, plus links to a number

BUY_Dec16.pdf

of key documents relating to civilian

Buying a house is a big financial and emotional investment. The anxiety can be

Find out all about the government’s

Government Help to Buy schemes

Own Your Home schemes here: www.

The government has created several Help to

can in advance using professional advice

ownyourhome.gov.uk/schemes-all

Buy schemes to assist people in buying their

sources such as the JSHAO, which is geared

… and its Help To Buy scheme in

own homes.

specifically to Service personnel needs. So

particular, here: www.helptobuy.gov.

With the Help to Buy: Shared Ownership

keep doing your homework, build up your

scheme you can buy as little as 25% or

information and knowledge, and – when the

The Army Families Federation has

as much as 75% of a home and pay rent

time comes – you’ll be ready to get moving!

additional info about the Forces Help

on the rest. Find full details here: www.

to Buy Scheme: www.aff.org.uk

helptobuy.gov.uk/shared-ownership

Full details of all upcoming Civilian Housing

housing options l

Finally … minimised by finding out as much as you

The Help to Buy: Equity Loan means you

Option Briefs can be found in our ‘Courses

search using rightmove: www.

can get a low-interest loan towards your

and events’ section on page 64, listed under

rightmove.co.uk

deposit on a new-build home. Read all

the subhead ‘Housing’ by location and date.

… and Zoopla: www.zoopla.co.uk

about it here: www.helptobuy.gov.uk/

Define your location and property

equity-loan/equity-loans Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses

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questonline.co.uk l March 2017

YOUR RESETTLEMENT CIVVY SAVVY

RYAN MANSFIELD

o you’ve left the Armed Forces. What do you do next? Which career will

suit you best? Will it be for me? Well, if ‘teaching’ is jotted down on that sticky-note list of jobs that tickle your fancy, then this article should help you decide whether you want to dismiss the class, or dismiss the idea of

enemy

The unexpected

teaching.

bit further before making your final decision. Your pragmatic suggestions at staff meetings may fall on deaf ears, that logical approach to dealing with a problem will probably be argued, and your common-sense ideas will be tossed aside. People don’t seem to like taking the quickest or simplest route – it’s not

Where do I start? Teaching

impressive enough and allows

can be such a rewarding and

them to procrastinate all day,

satisfying job, exactly as

look busy and make their job

it is perceived. Influencing

role more justifiable than it

people’s lives for the better and

actually is. To quote Bill Gates,

imparting your knowledge to

‘I choose a lazy person to do a

others. However, teaching also

hard job. Because a lazy person

has its fair share of skeletons in

will find an easy way to do it.’

the closet, which aren’t always

And he’s quite successful. Food

apparent until you’ve accepted

for thought.

the job and bought the tweed

I can’t imagine how hard

jacket.

it must be trying to settle

Every job you look at as

into an ordinary 9–5 having

a possible ‘next step’ will do

experienced some of the

its utmost to sound glam,

gruesome and dreadful sights

rewarding and the right move for you, so it can be tough to distinguish whether you are suited to a job or merely falling victim to a well-pitched job ad. That’s where I come in … I met Ralph [regular QUEST contributor Ralph Straw] when he accepted a lecturer post at a college I worked at. Like

QUEST ‘civvy’ contributor Ryan Mansfield reports from the resettlement frontline on an issue likely to be of concern to our readers: the unforeseen difficulties you may encounter with colleagues in the civilian workplace. While his focus here is on teaching, much of Ryan’s guidance has wider applications …

most people I go on to befriend

you probably have. Many Service leavers say they find it tough to settle, and often bounce from job to job in the hope that they’ll find one that sticks. Well, unfortunately, one big problem you will face is unavoidable: the people you’ll have to work with. Sure, most of them are nice enough; they think they are doing a good

and keep in touch with, my

of those people who nod, agree

be grateful), and who finds

job, but they’re not. Without

first impression of him was a

and pretend they are listening

you obnoxious, annoying and

a doubt the biggest challenge

slightly strange one. He was

to instructions, then go off and

frankly a bit weird. But you

I have faced is incompetent

here to pay the bills and wasn’t

do it exactly how they were

won’t care; they can’t take the

staff: colleagues flapping over

bothered what people thought

going to do it in the first place.

job off you now, right? I have

menial tasks, squabbling in

of him: a unique character who

So let’s do a little role play.

no doubt whatsoever that, if

staff meetings and inept line

spoke to everyone the same,

You’ve got that teaching job

this sounds familiar, you may

managers making kamikaze

whether it was our boss or the

you applied for. You’ve got

enjoy teaching. You are at the

decisions … that’s just the tip of

Nepalese cleaner who dusted

your own desk, taken your

front of the class, you are in

the iceberg, trust me.

our desks every morning.

briefcase out of the loft and

charge and you can put your

Ralph’s attitude was one of

been introduced to the office.

own spin on the proceedings.

close proximity to varied

likeable arrogance. Well, I liked

You will quickly calculate who

Sounds OK, doesn’t it? But

personalities, especially when

it, despite the fact that some

your friends are, realising

it’s all the bullshit behind the

you are probably at the other

didn’t. You see, he – like other

who admires your straight

scenes that may crack your

end of the scale to the rest of

Service leavers I have worked

talking, individualist attitude

spirit and make you wish you’d

the office, is sure to aggravate

alongside – is a maverick. One

(those for whom you must

scrolled down that sticky note a

you. Add to the mix naughty

March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

Working in such

UNFORTUNATELY, ONE BIG PROBLEM YOU WILL FACE IS UNAVOIDABLE: THE PEOPLE YOU’LL HAVE TO WORK WITH

kids that know how to push

6.30 last night finishing off

completely contradict

people’s buttons and it’s a

their work, and yet they never

your boss: a classic lose/

ticking time bomb. Some

figure it out. The type of person

lose situation. This is

staff will need no invitation or

that bends your ear all day

where that artificial nod

excuse to piss you off. Even

and asks, ‘How do you make it

and smile can come in

though, six months earlier,

look so easy?’ when the reality

handy.

you may well have been in

is how do they make it look

a dicey or life-threatening

so hard? Just remember, the

clipboard warriors tell you that

to ask them for advice as they

situation, you will have to

busiest person in the office

there wasn’t enough inclusion

ultimately have less experience

plaster on a fake sympathetic

isn’t the most productive but

of maths and English in your

than you.

face and listen to colleagues

the furthest behind.

lesson, that’s when your sides

Last year, a female

will really split. You see, maths

colleague taught a lad of 14

However, when the

genuinely worrying about the

By now you’ve probably

most insignificant things, like

noticed a trend. Break time

and literacy skills in England

who still couldn’t tell the time.

a daughter’s prom dress that

isn’t quite the exciting escape

are below average for Europe.

The colleague suggested

has a sequin missing, a fake

it probably should be. Nope,

In fact, in 2013, England was

sacrificing her TA to help him,

nail that has come off or a

the classroom is the place to

ranked 22nd for literacy and

along with some worksheets,

flight to the Costa Brava that

be. From the class appetiser

21st for numeracy out of 24

as she felt this would be more

was delayed three hours, while

to tucking in the chairs and

European countries. Therefore,

beneficial to the student than

expressing how stressful and

everything in between – the

some bright spark high up

Pythagoras’ theorem, which

traumatic it all was. Having said

success or failure of the lesson

in the education hierarchy

was the topic at the time. The

that, I imagine this applies to

rests on your shoulders, just

decided that English and maths

boss simply replied, ‘If we veer

most jobs that include human

the way you want it.

must be included in every

off the scheme of work he will

single lesson, no matter the

not pass his course, and we

Freedom, control, responsibility

topic. Every lesson? Don’t get

must always remember what

beings. Get a job with animals, I say – they don’t talk. Fortunately, there are

Sounds OK, doesn’t it? and a pretty pointless teaching

me wrong, having seen those

we are here for.’ This sadly

ways around this. In 1910, one

assistant (TA) … What could

statistics I understand that

begs the question, are we really

Nathaniel Baldwin invented

possibly go wrong? Well, enjoy

something needs to change,

giving the youth of today the

headphones. Little did he

the classroom environment

but I think I’ve got an improved

life lessons they need to go off

know that, 105 years later,

for now because you’re

suggestion: better maths and

into the world of work, or are

he would save the lives of my

never far away from a lesson

English teachers? No? OK. Well,

we just jumping through hoops

entire office, as his invention

observation. This could be

in that case, I’d like to point

to gain government funding?

has at times been the only

an Ofsted inspection (the

out that in 2014 just under

thing standing in the way of

governing body that ensure

35% of Year 6 students (10–11

under the right management,

me killing them all. I’d like to

teaching standards are being

years of age) were recorded

teaching can be a really

think that he once worked in an

upheld) or an in-house one.

as overweight or obese in

good reason to get up in the

the UK. So the only logical

morning. Just remember, if

office environment too. That’s right: forget your

The series of events that

All in all, in the right job and

will follow will well and truly

solution is that we should stop

you find someone in the office

iPod at your peril. You will

leave you scratching your head.

every lesson in the middle of

you get along with, escape the

come across that one individual

A 54-year-old former catering

algebra or Macbeth and do

turmoil of office life with them

who lives for their job. They

lecturer will stand there with

50 press-ups. It’s exactly the

where possible – make them

live for it so much they have a

a clipboard and deadly serious

same principle, surely, only not

coffee and don’t let them get

complete disregard for their job

face while telling you what

knowing how to head a letter

a new job before you do! Be

description. They try to do your

is wrong with your practical

won’t lead to coronary heart

warned about painful office

job for you, too, and everyone

sport lesson. Catering? Sport?

disease.

chit-chat, ignore virtually

else’s in the office as well, and

Failing to see the correlation?

then bore you in the morning

Me too! This person knows

you is that the majority of

and keep that iPod charged at

with how they were here until

absolutely nothing about sport,

my bosses have never taught

all times. If you think you are

and surely if they were any

for a day in their lives. They

capable of this, and have that

good at teaching, they’d still

tend to come from business

fake smile down to a fine art,

be doing it? Lessons are then

backgrounds, referring to

you might just survive.

graded 1–4 (1 being outstanding,

pupils as ‘clients’ rather than

4 being get your coat) and you

students, and suggest that the

remember, in times of real

are given a list of unrealistic

teaching staff are ‘providing a

hardship and self-doubt, it’s not

recommendations that

service’, leaving you reluctant

you, it’s those others! Q

REMEMBER, IN TIMES OF REAL HARDSHIP AND SELF-DOUBT, IT’S NOT YOU, IT’S THOSE OTHERS!

One thing that may surprise

everything your boss suggests

Good luck folks and

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

Q Courses and events YOUR RESETTLEMENT COURSES AND EVENTS FACTFILE

This guide includes the courses currently scheduled to run from April to June 2017

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 rrccatterick@ctp.org.uk

rrccottesmore@ctp.org.uk

resettlementinfo@ctp.org.uk

START DATE END DATE

CTW Mixed Class

CTW Junior Ranks

CTW Senior Officer

rcaldergrove@ctp.org.uk

10 April 2017 08 May 2017 05 June 2017

12 April 2017 10 May 2017 07 June 2017

Employment Support Programme Wksp 06 April 2017 16 May 2017 13 June 2017

06 April 2017 16 May 2017 13 June 2017

FAR All Ranks 27 June 2017

27 June 2017

RRC Aldershot rrcaldershot@ctp.org.uk

START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks 04 April 2017 16 May 2017 13 June 2017

06 April 2017 18 May 2017 15 June 2017

CTW Mixed Class 15 May 2017 17 May 2017 (Course location Brize Norton) 12 June 2017 14 June 2017 (Course location Brize Norton)

CTW Officer 09 May 2017

11 May 2017

CTW Officer/SNCO 20 June 2017

22 June 2017

23 May 2017

25 May 2017

CTW SNCO

Employment Support Programme Wksp 03 May 2017

03 May 2017

14 June 2017

Housing

05 April 2017 05 April 2017 (Course location The Bell, St Omer Barracks) 13 June 2017 13 June 2017 (Course location RRC Aldershot)

Self Employment Awareness 24 May 2017 20 June 2017

26 April 2017 04 May 2017 17 May 2017 18 May 2017 07 June 2017 15 June 2017 21 June 2017 29 June 2017

CTW Mixed Class 06 April 2017 08 April 2017 (Course location Gibraltar) 08 May 2017 10 May 2017 (Course location Cyprus) 09 May 2017 11 May 2017 (Course location Preston)

CTW Officer/SNCO 03 April 2017 25 April 2017 23 May 2017 20 June 2017

05 April 2017 27 April 2017 25 May 2017 22 June 2017

Employment Support Programme Wksp 27 April 2017 11 May 2017 25 May 2017 15 June 2017 29 June 2017

27 April 2017 11 May 2017 25 May 2017 15 June 2017 29 June 2017

06 June 2017

FAR All Ranks Self Employment Awareness 03 April 2017

03 April 2017

RRC Colchester rrcnortholt@ctp.org.uk

START DATE END DATE CTW Mixed Class

FAR All Ranks 14 June 2017

24 April 2017 02 May 2017 15 May 2017 16 May 2017 05 June 2017 13 June 2017 19 June 2017 27 June 2017

24 May 2017 20 June 2017

03 April 2017 24 April 2017 08 May 2017 22 May 2017 05 June 2017 19 June 2017

05 April 2017 26 April 2017 10 May 2017 24 May 2017 07 June 2017 21 June 2017

27 April 2017 18 May 2017 15 June 2017

28 April 2017 19 May 2017 16 June 2017

Employment Support Programme Wksp

Self Employment Awareness 12 June 2017

12 June 2017

RRC Cottesmore Central London

10 April 2017 08 May 2017 05 June 2017

12 April 2017 10 May 2017 07 June 2017

18 April 2017 24 April 2017 25 April 2017 09 May 2017 15 May 2017 16 May 2017 23 May 2017 06 June 2017 12 June 2017 19 June 2017 26 June 2017

20 April 2017 26 April 2017 27 April 2017 11 May 2017 17 May 2017 18 May 2017 25 May 2017 08 June 2017 14 June 2017 21 June 2017 28 June 2017

CTW Mixed Class

CTW Officer/SNCO 03 April 2017 05 April 2017 02 May 2017 04 May 2017 30 May 2017 01 June 2017

Employment Support Programme Wksp 08 May 2017 12 June 2017

08 May 2017 12 June 2017

FAR All Ranks 08 June 2017 08 June 2017 (Course location External Venue)

Interview Techniques (Snr Officer) 03 May 2017 20 June 2017

03 May 2017 20 June 2017

RC Northolt

rcnortholt@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Mixed Class 03 April 2017 08 May 2017 22 May 2017 12 June 2017 26 June 2017

05 April 2017 10 May 2017 24 May 2017 14 June 2017 28 June 2017

24 April 2017 15 May 2017 05 June 2017

26 April 2017 17 May 2017 07 June 2017

06 April 2017

CTW Officer

Employment Support Programme Workshop Self Employment Awareness

27 April 2017 29 June 2017

25 May 2017

27 April 2017 29 June 2017

RC Germany

rcgermany@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks 25 April 2017 06 June 2017 20 June 2017

27 April 2017 08 June 2017 22 June 2017

03 April 2017 16 May 2017

05 April 2017 18 May 2017

CTW Officer/SNCO

Employment Support Programme Wksp 24 April 2017 22 May 2017 26 June 2017

24 April 2017 22 May 2017 26 June 2017

06 April 2017

Self Employment Awareness

Visit www.ctp.org.uk for further details March 2017 l questonline.co.uk

06 April 2017 11 May 2017 15 June 2017

Self Employment Awareness

04 April 2017 09 May 2017 13 June 2017

25 May 2017

RC Plymouth

rcplymouth@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks 03 April 2017 12 June 2017

05 April 2017 14 June 2017

CTW Mixed Class 24 April 2017 26 April 2017 02 May 2017 04 May 2017 22 May 2017 24 May 2017 23 May 2017 25 May 2017 (Course location Culdrose) 05 June 2017 07 June 2017 26 June 2017 28 June 2017

CTW Officer/SNCO 15 May 2017 19 June 2017

17 May 2017 21 June 2017

Employment Support Programme Wksp 06 April 2017 08 June 2017

06 April 2017 08 June 2017

FAR All Ranks 10 May 2017

Interview Techniques 10 May 2017

Self Employment Awareness 18 May 2017

18 May 2017

RC Portsmouth rcportsmouth@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks 03 April 2017 08 May 2017 05 June 2017

05 April 2017 10 May 2017 07 June 2017

18 April 2017 30 May 2017 19 June 2017

20 April 2017 01 June 2017 21 June 2017

24 April 2017 22 May 2017 26 June 2017

26 April 2017 24 May 2017 28 June 2017

10 April 2017 15 May 2017 12 June 2017

12 April 2017 17 May 2017 14 June 2017

27 April 2017 25 May 2017 29 June 2017

11 May 2017

CTW Mixed Class

CTW Officer

CTW SNCO

Employment Support Programme Wksp

FAR All Ranks

06 April 2017

20 April 2017

Self Employment Awareness

RRC Rosyth

rrcrosyth@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Mixed Class 03 April 2017 05 April 2017 10 April 2017 12 April 2017 10 April 2017 12 April 2017 (Course location Kinloss) 18 April 2017 20 April 2017 (Course location Faslane) 08 May 2017 10 May 2017 16 May 2017 18 May 2017 (Course location Faslane) 22 May 2017 24 May 2017 05 June 2017 07 June 2017 19 June 2017 21 June 2017 (Course location Kinloss) 20 June 2017 22 June 2017 (Course location Faslane) 26 June 2017 28 June 2017

CTW Officer/SNCO 02 May 2017

04 May 2017

Employment Support Programme Wksp 20 April 2017 20 April 2017 09 May 2017 09 May 2017 (Course location Faslane) 18 May 2017 18 May 2017

23 May 2017 23 May 2017 (Course location Kinloss) 13 June 2017 13 June 2017 (Course location Faslane) 15 June 2017 15 June 2017

CTW SNCO

Self Employment Awareness

Employment Support Programme Wksp

01 June 2017

04 April 2017 03 May 2017 16 May 2017 06 June 2017

01 June 2017

04 April 2017 25 April 2017 09 May 2017 23 May 2017 06 June 2017 20 June 2017

RRC Tidworth rrctidworth@ctp.org.uk

START DATE END DATE 03 April 2017 05 April 2017 02 May 2017 04 May 2017 08 May 2017 10 May 2017 15 May 2017 17 May 2017 22 May 2017 24 May 2017 05 June 2017 07 June 2017 12 June 2017 14 June 2017 19 June 2017 21 June 2017

CTW Mixed Class

12 April 2017 26 April 2017 01 June 2017 28 June 2017

CTW Officer 25 April 2017 09 May 2017 23 May 2017 13 June 2017

04 April 2017 25 April 2017 09 May 2017 23 May 2017 06 June 2017 20 June 2017

FAR All Ranks

CTW Junior Ranks

10 April 2017 24 April 2017 30 May 2017 26 June 2017

06 April 2017 05 May 2017 18 May 2017 08 June 2017

04 April 2017 04 April 2017 (Course location 1 RHA Lecture Theatre) 01 June 2017 01 June 2017 (Course location 1 RHA Lecture Theatre)

Housing 07 June 2017 07 June 2017 (Course location 1 RHA Lecture Theatre)

New Horizons in Retirement 03 April 2017

03 April 2017

Self Employment Awareness 24 April 2017 30 May 2017 26 June 2017

24 April 2017 30 May 2017 26 June 2017

27 April 2017 11 May 2017 25 May 2017 15 June 2017

CTW Officer/SNCO 19 April 2017

21 April 2017

Visit www.ctp.org.uk for further details

questonline.co.uk l March 2017

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 020 7469 6661 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

March 2017 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 6063/6064 Resettlement Centre Plymouth Tel: 01752 557635 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