THE HOME OF EVERYTHING ELC March 2018
THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT Carl Marsh’s metamorphosis to swim coach and celebrity interviewer
PLUS Access Diplomas Civvy savvy Self-employment Transition support
And get on course for these careers: Close protection Sport and fitness
INCORPORATING COURSES 4 FORCES COURSES I FUNDING I CAREERS I RESETTLEMENT
£250 PRIZE WINNER It could be you! page 40
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T
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EDITOR SPRING INTO THE MARCH ISSUE OF QUEST. If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know it’s the
only guide you need to funding, courses, careers and resettlement. And, if you’re a newcomer to these pages – whether you’re still serving or have already begun your transition – you’ll find that QUEST is on hand to help you in your resettlement and education planning. This issue has something of a sporting flavour and in the first section of the magazine, which focuses on your resettlement, we hope you’ll find inspiration in our latest fitness-focused success story. Carl Marsh decided to take the plunge and leave the Forces, and now he’s enjoying not one but two new careers! Read about his twin successes as both celebrity interviewer and swim trainer on page 6. Also poolside, you’ll find our usual mix of practical advice and inspiration. We have tips on smoothing your transition, while regular contributor Steve Bulleyment is here with more self-employment savvy. We’re also delighted to hear once again from Veterans’ charity and housing association Stoll, on how it has helped another vulnerable Service leaver into independent living. To aid your own resettlement prep, you’ll find full CTP course and events listings on page 16, followed by our ‘Transition Factfile’, drawing together useful information from a range of sources. Part two presents all you need to know about claiming your ELC and how to make the most of it – whether you’re still serving or have already left but are still eligible to make a claim. We also spotlight how distance learning can help you in your quest for qualifications, whatever your location, and home in on higher-level study choices, if that’s where your sights are set. Talking of high achievements, the subject of our HE success story this month – technical project manager, Mark Stanbury – tells us how careful course choices
helped him fashion his future on civvy street. He’s also our latest £250 prize winner! Want to be next? Turn to page 60 to find out how. Next, we check out a couple of career areas we know are popular with both Service leavers and those still serving but already thinking ahead to their transition: close protection and sport and fitness. Staying with the latter, we find out how, thanks to the support of Veterans’ Gateway, Jel Bearder found the future he wanted in fitness. The Access to HE Diploma offers another way to broaden your horizons, even if – like Jel – you thought higher education was out of reach. Get the gen on that on page 58. The section winds up with our one-stop education and funding planner, summarising your education and personal development opportunities, with ideas to improve your career prospects and pointers to the funding sources available. This is all held together by ‘The Hub’ with its focus on courses and training options alongside charity highlights and transition news. Gathering together essential course and career information in one handy guide, we hope you enjoy your latest QUEST, with its focus on supporting you throughout your Service career and beyond.
For all the latest information, visit our website: questonline.co.uk
Lynn Brown Editor
Quest and the Quest logo are registered trade marks of
Bulldog Publishing Limited 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 MANAGING DIRECTOR Bruce Hodge Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of information at the time of going to press. The Publishers can take no responsibility for inaccuracies due to changes after that date, nor can they accept responsibility for loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in this publication. Whilst every care is taken with artwork or film supplies, the Publishers cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage. The opinions expressed are those of the individual authors and not necessarily of the Publishers. All advertisements are accepted only on the grounds that they comply with the terms of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968 and all other relevant legislation. Inclusion of an advertisement cannot be construed as an endorsement for the advertiser or the product by the Publishers, their employees or agents. The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for any transaction between readers and advertisers. © All rights reserved. Not to be resold, lent, hired-out or otherwise reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the Publisher. Quest and Bulldog Publishing Limited are registered under the Data Protection Act (1984) registration number PX4096798
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March 2018
3
MARCH 2018 >>
Contents YOUR RESETTLEMENT
06 Success story: inspiration from the civilian workplace. This month, ex-soldier Carl Marsh 10 Transition support: how Stoll is helping vulnerable Veterans 12 Practical advice: making a successful transition 14 Civvy savvy: advice from the ‘other side’ 16 CTP courses and events 18 Transition factfile
THE HUB 22 Course and training options, transition news and reader reports
YOUR ELC 26 ELC 101: the basics 28 Are you eligible for ELC? 30 How to use your ELC funding 32 How to claim if you are still serving 34 How to claim after leaving 36 Avoiding queries or rejection 37 ELC dos and don’ts 38 Higher-level study 40 HE success story: Mark Stanbury, our latest £250 prize winner! 42 Distance learning 46 Qualifications to further your Service career 48 On course: Close protection 52 On course: Sport and fitness 58 The Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma 60 Useful contacts 62 Education and funding planner
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March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
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12
06 14
52
48
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
5
Q
YOUR RESETTLEMENT SUCCESS STORY FACTFILE
I GUESS I GOT MY DRIVE FROM THE MILITARY ETHOS
Freestyling into the future
With not one, but two, new – and very different – businesses already up and running, ex-soldier Carl Marsh is finding that life as an entrepreneur is going swimmingly
C
arl left the British Army in 2010
Canadian, French and German soldiers all
the military, he realised that this career
after 12 years of service and one
at once.’
wouldn’t work for him long term. The NHS
tour in Northern Ireland before he
did not provide the supportive framework
suffered a spinal injury and seven other
on offer, completing scuba diving, skiing,
he had been afforded while in the Army
health-related issues, which led to him
sailing and swimming courses in his
so – to develop and learn new skills – he
being medically discharged. During his
spare time. ‘I am very thankful for the
realised he would need to look for an
time in the Army he spent two years on
Army and what I was able to do there,’ he
alternative career.
deployment with HQ 1 Signal Brigade, a
acknowledges.
NATO branch in Germany. Carl has fond
6
He also took advantage of the training
When Carl left the Army in 2010, he
‘The only option I had in the NHS was to work reduced hours. This proved to
memories of meeting soldiers from across
first of all worked in financial accounts
be a barrier to any future development
the world during his time there: ‘It was
in the NHS. However, due to the medical
and I felt demoralised. Ultimately, I knew
very interesting to be with American,
conditions that resulted from his time in
things needed to change. Developing my
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
Celebrity squares: Carl has worked with a host of famous faces for his interview website, In The Words Of
own ideas and interests has been really
tours; the interview will be featured in
needs no introduction, and J.K. Rowling,
rewarding – being self-employed is the
Welsh lifestyle magazine Buzz this month.
as she started from home like me.’
best thing I have ever done.’
Recently, Carl also interviewed David
In 2012 Carl set up In The Words Of
Recently, Carl attended a Help for
Morrissey and Mackenzie Crook (these
Heroes and X-Forces Enterprise six-day
(inthewordsof.com), a celebrity interview
interviews were published in January
Business Experience self-employment
website. He created this initially because
2018), and also attended a press-only
course. He was the 100th wounded,
of his love for books and the resulting
event with Sky about getting involved with
injured or sick entrepreneur to complete
connections he had already made with
some of its shows that are due to air next
it. He says he learned a great deal on the
authors. Despite having mild dyslexia, Carl
year and beyond.
course, as well as gaining the support
finds that reading provides an escape.
‘Ultimately I want this to be my full-
he needed to expand and develop his
The blog often asked the authors to share
time career and to secure sponsorship for
blog, and kick-starting his brand new
their own favourite books, to encourage
the website,’ says Carl. ‘I’m slowly building
endeavour: SwimHeroes.
fans to read more. ‘I enjoyed doing the
my network and gaining more followers
interviews and was determined to make a
so I now get to interview some really
Heroes have given me the motivation and,
success of the blog. I guess I got my drive
interesting people. My dream interviews
crucially, information on how to take my
from the military ethos!’
would be with Quentin Tarantino, who
ideas to the next level. They provide an
‘X-Forces Enterprise and Help for
Initially, In The Words Of focused on interviewing authors but it has now expanded into a platform where a variety
IN THE WORDS OF …
of celebrities talk about their lives and
Among the high-profile celebrities Carl has interviewed are: Bill Bailey, Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, QI, etc. Mackenzie Crook, The Office, Pirates of the Caribbean, Britannia David Morrissey, The Walking Dead, Britannia Amanda Mealing, Strike Back, Casualty Ed Byrne, Mock the Week, etc. Andy McNab, Veteran and author of Crisis Four and Bravo Two Zero Luke Goss, of pop group Bros and actor in 50+ films Nicholas Pinnock, Fortitude Robert Davi, The Goonies, Die Hard Heida Reed, Poldark John Boyne, author of The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas S.J. Watson, author of Before I Go To Sleep Jessie Burton, author of The Miniaturist
work, and other general chatter. Carl also writes freelance for a Welsh lifestyle magazine and website to generate further publicity for what he does. People from the world of art, as well as writers, directors, musicians and many more, are all happy to talk to him and, as he has built his brand, he has interviewed more high-profile celebrities (see box). Carl’s most recent interview was with comedian and actor, Bill Bailey, who has featured in many TV shows and comedy
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
7
Q
COURSE YOUR FACTFILE RESETTLEMENT CHOICES SUCCESS STORY
excellent support network and encourage a belief in yourself, that you really can achieve your goals. My wife said she has never seen me so motivated! ‘At Help for Heroes they understand what a discharged soldier has been through, with medical conditions that are not always visible. There are no questions about who you are, what you’ve been through or “What’s wrong with you?”.
BEING SELFEMPLOYED IS THE BEST THING I HAVE EVER DONE
Everyone is treated the same and there is no stigma. It’s the same at X-Forces Enterprise, which is there to help the whole Armed Forces family.’ Carl launched his other venture, SwimHeroes, in January. It’s a product of Carl’s swim instruction training, acquired while serving in the Army. He has always had a passion for swimming and teaching others, and also found swimming a really good way to help with his spinal injury recovery. To start with, Carl worked for
Carl is the 100th X-Forces Enterprise and Help for Heroes wounded, injured or sick entrepreneur, with not only one but two enterprises: In The Words Of and Kapur MBE and COO, SwimHeroes
other swim schools and taught at local schools, but he recently secured sessions at a local pool close to where he lives in South Wales. His plan is to teach all
like Help for Heroes and X-Forces
and Chairman Martin Wing,
Enterprise, there is so much support and
where he discussed a more
advice there for you. They won’t hand it to
specific one-year plan for his blog.
you on a plate – they expect you to do the
Says Martin, ‘It has been a delight
legwork to make it a reality – but they are
ages and all levels, in group and individual
working with Carl on his business ideas.
there every step of the way. All I can say is
lessons, as well as teaching children with
He is open and receptive to comments and
a big thank you to both organisations for
learning disabilities.
ideas, yet he brings the determination and
the opportunity. It’s amazing to see your
He is working alongside X-Forces
desire to make things work. He is already
Enterprise to develop his ideas and
making a great success of his passion
is receiving mentorship from that
for teaching people to swim. I have
organisation’s experts. Following the
every confidence he will do the same
initial Business Experience programme,
as a celebrity blogger.’
he attended an X-Forces Enterprise Masterclass with CEO and founder Ren
Carl is a man with a lot on his plate
Q
already, but he is certain that the move to self-employment is right for him. Although
THE X-FORCES FACTOR As Carl says, ‘X-Forces Enterprise is there to help the whole Armed Forces family’, and since its launch, the leading organisation for enterprise in the Armed Forces community has nurtured and guided more than 1,200 new businesses, and facilitated £10.4 million in seed funding. X-Forces Enterprise supports Service leavers, Veterans, spouses, reservists, cadets and dependants. Want to follow in Carl’s footsteps? Find out more about running your own business and the support available at www.x-forces.com
8
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
he currently works around childcare and school hours (he lives with his wife, daughter, four cats and a bulldog puppy!),
hobby finally turning into your own business.’ Q
FIND OUT MORE
In The Words Of carl@inthewordsof.com www.inthewordsof.com @InTheWordsOf_ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ InTheWordsOf
he finds being an entrepreneur incredibly rewarding. On top of that, and also thanks to X-Forces Enterprise and Help for Heroes, says Carl, ‘I have motivated myself to train and hope to be selected for the Invictus Games in Sydney this year. I have
SwimHeroes 07730 587285 carl@swimheroes.co.uk www.swimheroes.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/SwimHeroes
been on one training camp and there’s another this month. Trials are in April. ‘In terms of self-employment advice, I’d say just do it. It’s hard and you’ve got to battle with some demons, but it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. With organisations
X-Forces Enterprise 0800 368 9533 info@x-forces.com www.x-forces.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/XForces https://twitter.com/OfficialXforces
When responding to advertisements please mention Quest Quest March 2015 Final_2015 06/03/2015 13:16 Page 15 March 2015 Final_2015 06/03/2015 13:16 Page 15 Quest
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questonline.co.uk l March 2018
9
Q
FACTFILE YOUR RESETTLEMENT TRANSITION SUPPORT
There’s no base like home Stoll is the leading provider of supported housing for Veterans. Most people who leave the Armed Forces transition effectively back into civilian life, but not everyone does. Stoll supports the most vulnerable Service leavers – like Alex – by providing them with an affordable home to rent and the support they need to lead independent lives. eight months homeless, couch surfing from
a base is something to stand on. The rest
friend to friend.
is a work in progress. I am very aware of
‘I was angry for a long time. I was aware that the likelihood of me getting social
Although the last couple of years have been
housing was low, very low, even as a born
acutely testing, seeing the results of the help
Londoner. Initially I tried to seek help on
I received from Stoll has pushed me to help
my own. I went to Wandsworth Council and
other Veterans in their journey and I now
it came to nothing. Asking for help is hard
spend my free time working with Horseback
for Veterans. I was struggling – mentally,
UK, helping wounded Veterans on a ranch
financially, emotionally – and I remember
up in Scotland using Western horses. When
clearly, on my birthday, in the middle of the
you’ve received help yourself, there is no
street, I just … broke. That was the first time
better feeling than knowing you can help
A
I asked for help. Admitting you need help
others too.
served with the Queen’s Royal Hussars and 2 Rifles, leaving the Army as a Captain.
lex joined the Army in 2008 when
is the hardest thing to do, but once you’ve
he was 21, serving for six years,
acknowledged that and realised that you
to the one I faced, just reach out. Don’t break
including two operational tours. He
can’t just grind through it, there are people
yourself in the process. Soldiers tend to get
and organisations out there who want to
their heads down and crack on; we aren’t
help Veterans when they need it.
trained to ask for help, we’re trained to be
‘I grew up watching a lot of films and
‘Any Veteran who is in a similar situation
‘I came across Stoll when I was
resilient. Regardless of your rank, just reach
had always been inspired by the thought
researching theatre companies and found
out. To charities, friends, family … anyone.
of leading men in combat. I wondered if I
out about the Soldier’s Arts Academy
Just remember: you’re not on your own.’
had what it took, so I went to Sandhurst. It
(founded by Stoll). At this point I was on
turned out I did. No one really knows what
my third couch, living out of a couple of
Find out more
they’re letting themselves in for when they
grip bags. I had nothing to lose so I sent
Stoll has been providing support to the
sign on the dotted line – imagination, even
an email, jumped on the tube and headed
Veteran community for more than 100 years
with training, is no substitute for reality. Of
off to a meeting. Stoll looked at a range of
and is here to support the next generation
course, there were some incredibly tough
housing options for me. As soon as I was put
of Veterans. For more information about
moments – life-changing moments – but the
in touch with Stoll’s outreach team, I had an
finding a home with Stoll or accessing
overall experience, getting to do that thing
advocate. Developing relationships with
I’d always dreamed about, is something I
local authorities is vital and, having
am incredibly proud of. I enjoyed my time in
been referred by Stoll, I got a lot
service.
further on in the process of being
‘When I left the Army, I had to deal with
housed by the council. I was actually
Q
support, please visit www.stoll.org.uk or call the Outreach Team on 020 7385 2110. Q
KEY CONTACT
some drastic changes: how I lived my life,
found a house by Stoll itself in January
no longer being surrounded by my Army
2017 and, after such a long time of not
family. I chose to pursue a career as an actor,
having my own space, it feels amazing to
a left-of-arc choice from what I would have
have my own flat. Ironically I was standing in
ever considered as a younger man. I went
the kitchen of my new home when I got a call
from a well-paid career to really struggling
from Wandsworth Council telling me there
020 7385 2110 outreach@stoll.org.uk
financially. I struggled with a lot of anger,
was now a vacancy with them!
www.stoll.org.uk
impatience. I couldn’t control elements of
10
just how lucky I am to have been housed.
446 Fulham Road London SW6 1DT
‘Having my own home has meant that I
my life the same way I’d been able to as
can pursue my career in the arts, in peace,
a soldier. I had to accept that things had
from a stable base, something I’ve not had
fundamentally changed for me. I lived in
since leaving the Forces. I work in film now
shared accommodation in south London and
– acting, directing and writing. Having a
eventually ended up getting evicted. I spent
home is just one piece of the puzzle. Having
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
Stoll
Drop-in Stoll’s drop-in runs every second Wednesday of the month at its Fulham site (see above), in the Community Hall
Readers mustWhen consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses responding to advertisements please mention Quest When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
Veterans’
Every second Wednesday of each month 4pm - 7pm
Drop-In Come along for information, advice & support
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Hot food and refreshments will be available Stoll Mansions, 446 Fulham Road, London SW6 1DT
Tel: 020 7385 2110 www.stoll.org.uk Organisations working together to support you
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11
Q Get on course to a smoother transition YOUR RESETTLEMENT MAKING A SUCCESSFUL TRANSITION
Your time in the Forces is likely to have been an all-consuming career experience. Despite that, you may yet have many years ahead of you in the workplace, which means it’s important to make the most of the resettlement options open to you. This five-step guide will help you to plan …
I
t’s likely that your last
and entry requirements
(see box for full details);
that help to update your skills
few weeks in the Forces
online. Talk to your Career
an Individual Resettlement
and aptitudes, or take training
will be frantic, and in all
or Employment Consultant
Training Costs (IRTC) grant;
that results in qualifications
the changes you may overlook
about what’s available in your
and travel and subsistence
for a specific job. Many
planning for a smooth
area. The CTP runs three-day
support. Depending on how
skills, such as computing and
transition into a civilian career
(or shorter) workshops at its
long you have been in the
driving, are now an everyday
and the rest of your life. But
Resettlement Centres. The
Forces, you may be entitled
part of working life. If you are
setting aside time before you
Career Transition Workshop
to between four and seven
thinking about becoming self-
leave and looking at all your
(CTW), for example, leads you
weeks’ resettlement time.
employed, there are courses
resettlement options will
through civilian employment
Your Service Resettlement
and loans to help you do this,
provide the solid foundation
and teaches all-important
Adviser can help here.
too.
you need to build your new
skills such as writing a
career.
CV, applying for jobs, and
Step 1: Plan, research and seek advice
Step 3: Consider course options
also offers one-to-one career
Ideally (using SLC and ELC),
counselling.
undertake any major learning that leads to employment
(SLC) and Enhanced Learning
Step 2: Find out about financial support
Credits (ELC) to build skills
Check whether you are
finish qualifications that will
well in advance. Then research
eligible for: Graduated
attract civilian employers. You
your career opportunities
Resettlement Time (GRT)
should also consider courses
Ensure that you use your Standard Learning Credits
12
interview techniques. The CTP
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
before your resettlement time starts. Then use your last few weeks to take courses or
UNDERTAKE ANY MAJOR LEARNING THAT LEADS TO EMPLOYMENT BEFORE YOUR RESETTLEMENT TIME STARTS
Employment and Training
your first level 3 qualification,
GRT OPTIONS
Manager (RETM; RETMs are
foundation degree or
Training at the CTP’s Resettlement Training Centre, Aldershot, and at some Resettlement Centres: the CTP offers two types of training – contract-funded courses, provided by the MoD, and non-contract-funded courses. Contract-funded courses effectively cost 5% of your IRTC grant for each day you attend, so this will ‘buy’ you 20 days. (You could also attend other contract-funded courses on a standby basis.) The cost of non-contractfunded training is paid from grants available to you. This can be taken any time in the last two years before discharge, but is usually taken in the final nine months. All CTP services (including training) are available for two years after discharge (training on a standby basis). l Civilian training attachment: this is formal training at a civilian college, company or training establishment. It is eligible for IRTC funding and usually takes place in the last nine months of service. l Civilian work attachment: this is attachment to a company for on-the-job training and work experience, and can take place any time in the last two years of service. It is not eligible for IRTC funding, but travel and subsistence may be payable. l Individual resettlement preparation: this time can be used for your own resettlement activities, although it isn’t IRTC funded. It can be taken any time in the last two years of service and GRT travel warrants will be given.
located at Resettlement
undergraduate degree for
Centres). These people work
five years after you leave the
closely with employers and
Forces.
l
training providers in your region and will know exactly
Finally … relax!
what’s available. The Course
Having been in the Forces,
Booking & Information Centre
you will be used to planning,
(CBIC) can give general advice
seeking the advice of others,
on course content, along with
researching, analysing data,
making bookings and taking
strategising, seeing the whole
payments. Further information
picture, understanding the
and contact details can be
minutiae, then using a calm
found at www.ctp.org.uk
and focused approach to carry out the task. Resettlement is
Step 5: Think about costs
no different. Use these skills as you approach this transition,
You may need to invest your
and carry them through into
own money in, or towards,
your training, learning and,
these courses or qualifications,
ultimately, new career. Q
so when considering the cost it may be helpful to remember that this investment isn’t just about the course – it’s about your future in a civilian environment. Be aware that
Step 4: Do a selfaudit l
l
l
your learning style? How
exam or certification fees may
much time do you have
be additional to course fees, so
available for study? What
if you are budgeting you will
Look at the qualifications,
access do you have to the
need to take account of this.
skills and experience you
internet or other learning
Other financial implications
already have and those
tools? If you are staying
include the following.
required for any course
in accommodation while
l
you might consider. Can
attending this course, is
you build on them to
there evening access to
overcome any skills gaps?
study rooms? Is there
You may already have a
a requirement for out-
level of learning and/or
of-hours work? Is this
experience that will count
training or qualification
you need to buy course
towards a qualification. But
really going to help you
materials or books?
do you need a pre-course
become employed in the
Ensure that you use your
course? Do employers
sector and at the level you
SLC entitlement in the years
in the area in which you
want? How do you get the
leading up to resettlement,
wish to resettle value your
course signed off by your
and ELC while serving, during
chosen qualification? Are
resettlement officer? What
resettlement and in the
there other qualifications
paperwork is required?
five years after you leave,
Accommodation: is the cost of this included in the course?
l
Location: what are the travelling costs?
l
Study materials: will
that will equip you for the
Researching and considering
as well as your IRTC grant,
same job? Check this out
the answers to these questions
accommodation and travel
before you commit.
will help you to make the most
entitlements. Be aware that
Consider all the details
of the resettlement training
you can now use either
of the course. Does the
opportunities available to
SLC or ELC under certain
method of delivery –
you. Additionally, you can
circumstances (your SRA
classes, private study,
seek advice through the CTP,
will be able to advise), and
distance or supported open
so do contact your Career
remember that you may
learning, the internet – suit
Consultant or local Regional
receive free tuition fees for
CHECKLIST: CHOOSING YOUR TRAINING PROVIDER l
Does the training provider have a good reputation? Does your consultant know of them? What’s the opinion of former students? Do any relevant institutes and associations have advice and information? l Are formal qualifications or membership to institutions available from the provider, and are these valued? Who accredits these qualifications? l Is there an introductory seminar? What can you find out about the quality of instruction? What are the class sizes? What’s the quality of the equipment and facilities? l How long is the course? How much study is classbased and how much is self-study? Is there any pre-course self-study?
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
13
Q
YOUR RESETTLEMENT SELF-EMPLOYMENT
STEVE BULLEYMENT
The key difference I
t’s an interesting
WE’RE LUCKY WE’VE LEARNED TO FOLLOW THE RULES, BECAUSE THIS IS A CORE SKILL IN STARTING A BUSINESS
question because the two environments seem poles
apart: the Forces provide a framework so that rules and procedures can be followed, to achieve a common goal. From the outside, selfemployment gives the impression there are few rules, no constraints and you can be a free spirit. The truth is that we’re lucky that we’ve learned to follow the rules, do
‘Look mate, I’m really in
what we say we’ll do and be
it and if I don’t have my car
accountable, because these
running in the morning my life
are core skills in starting a
is over … please.’
business and surviving the
He pleaded with me and,
first year.
although I didn’t want to, I
Self-employment gives
loaded the van and headed
us the opportunity to make a difference. I regularly write about the pressure of money, the poor survival rates and the stress I’ve been through. However, every day something happens that makes it all worthwhile. The following is one of my favourite self-employment experiences … It was October half term in 2016. I’d had a long, hard week. Normally there
out more than 45 minutes
‘When I bump in to friends still in the Forces, or talk to customers still serving,’ says regular QUEST contributor, Steve Bulleyment, director of Lincolnshire-based specialist auto locksmith company Car Key Man, ‘I’m often asked how self-employment compares with being in the Forces.’ In this, the first of a new series that aims to offer a flavour of what can happen when you’re self-employed, you might find a few answers to that question …
And I’d really had enough, to be honest. I cursed myself for answering the phone, but when I arrived I was so glad I had. He hugged me as I got out of the van. This isn’t normal. Now, he was in the pub car park, but was stone sober. By all accounts, he’d been celebrating the news the night before that, for the first time in two years, he’d got access
are two of us to share
to have his two young kids
the work, however my
for a week during half term. It colleague Simon was away, so I’d doubled up all week and
Visit the Car Key Man YouTube Channel at: www.youtube.com/c/ TheCarKeyMan
was looking to stop at a
‘Hello, Car Key Man, Steve speaking.’ really need your help. I’ve lost
I’d put the van to bed and was
my keys.’
about to switch on the answer
‘I’m really sorry but
service when the phone rang.
the soonest we can help is
Do I answer it? It was already
Monday.’
week and I was expected home.
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
had taken him so much effort to arrange time with them.
‘Hello mate, please mate, I
reasonable time on Saturday.
late, I’d had a good money
14
away. It was dark. I was tired.
SELF-EMPLOYMENT GIVES US THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Unbelievably, the day before,
He’d been frantically
dark! I would never be making
on his big night of celebration,
searching all day in the pub
keys in this situation normally,
he’d lost his car
and its surroundings,
keys. ‘I’ve been an idiot in the past, never took any interest
but to no avail.
Read Steve’s regularly updated blog at: http://steveoncivvystreet. co.uk/
in the ex, or I’ve sorted myself out mate and this was my chance to show I can take care of my two princesses.’
judgement, and different
‘You’re my last
rules. An hour later, drawing
hope mate. If
on every ounce of knowledge,
I don’t have
experience and determination,
park was still, the celebrations
my car, and
I finally had a key that started
had moved back inside the
I don’t show
his car. When it fired up, he
pub and I was exhausted.
started to dance, ran into the
Self-employed people are in
pub and his mates came out.
a very privileged position. We
He was obviously a regular
deal with vulnerable people,
and they all came over,
and this story is one of my
dragged me out of the car
favourite memories, about
and they hugged me, shook
how people rely on us to make
my hand and paid me drunken
a difference. It called on all
compliments.
my skills learned in the Forces
up tomorrow,
my girls, but
but this called for different
IT CALLED ON ALL MY SKILLS LEARNED IN THE FORCES TO MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE IN CIVVY STREET
I’ll lose access to the girls all over again.’ No pressure then. It wasn’t an easy job – especially in the
KEY SKILLS Steve’s business, the Car Key Man, is a specialist auto locksmith company covering Lincolnshire. Launching in 2004, Steve spotted an opportunity to solve the problem of replacing lost and stolen car keys. The company now offers workshop facilities as well as a mobile service. Recognising the needs of concerned vehicle owners, it offers free consultations to find an affordable solution to the growing number of car key problems.
My customer cried. It
to make a big difference
doesn’t happen much, but this
outside in civvy street.
sober gent, who had searched all day, could finally take his girls away. He paid me, hugged me, tipped me, hugged
Get in touch
me, and then his mates
07832 147601 or 01522 514141
cheered him off as he drove
Lincolncarkeyman@gmail.com
away to pack his bags. The car
thecarkeyman.com Q
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
15
Q Courses and events YOUR RESETTLEMENT COURSES AND EVENTS FACTFILE
This guide includes the courses currently scheduled to run from April 2018 to May 2018
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
START DATE END DATE
START DATE END DATE
START DATE END DATE
CTW Mixed Class
CTW Junior Ranks
CTW Junior Ranks
CTW Senior Officer
16 April 2018
18 April 2018
16 April 2018
18 April 2018
16 April 2018
10 April 2018
12 April 2018
15 May 2018
17 May 2018
08 May 2018
10 May 2018
08 May 2018
10 May 2018
14 May 2018
16 May 2018
rcaldergrove@ctp.org.uk
RRC Aldershot rrcaldershot@ctp.org.uk
RRC Cottesmore Central London
18 April 2018
CTW Mixed Class
10 April 2018
12 April 2018
CTW Mixed Class
23 April 2018
25 April 2018
30 April 2018
01 May 2018
03 May 2018
03 May 2018
RC Northolt
rcnortholt@ctp.org.uk
START DATE END DATE
(Course location Preston)
08 May 2018
10 May 2018
14 May 2018
16 May 2018
CTW Junior Ranks
CTW Officer/SNCO
15 May 2018
17 May 2018
10 April 2018
12 April 2018
09 April 2018
11 April 2018
21 May 2018
23 May 2018
08 May 2018
10 May 2018
23 April 2018
25 April 2018
09 April 2018
11 April 2018
21 May 2018
23 May 2018
CTW Officer/SNCO
01 May 2018
03 May 2018
CTW Mixed Class
09 April 2018
11 April 2018
14 May 2018
16 May 2018
30 April 2018
02 May 2018
(Course location Brize Norton)
Employment Support Programme Wksp
21 May 2018
22 May 2018
Employment Support Programme Wksp
09 April 2018
11 April 2018 23 May 2018
(Course location Brize Norton)
CTW Officer 01 May 2018
22 May 2018
RRC Colchester
09 April 2018
rrcnortholt@ctp.org.uk
START DATE END DATE
18 April 2018
03 May 2018
CTW SNCO
09 April 2018
FAR All Ranks 18 April 2018
(Course location Cosford)
17 April 2018
19 April 2018
CTW Mixed Class
15 May 2018
17 May 2018
09 April 2018
11 April 2018
Self Employment Awareness
23 April 2018
25 April 2018
17 April 2018
17 April 2018
Employment Support Programme Wksp
14 May 2018
16 May 2018
14 May 2018
14 May 2018
21 May 2018
23 May 2018
15 May 2018
RC Germany
15 May 2018
Self Employment Awareness
Employment Support Programme Wksp
13 April 2018
26 April 2018
27 April 2018
24 May 2018
25 May 2018
13 April 2018
Self Employment Awareness 16 April 2018
16 April 2018
rcgermany@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE
START DATE END DATE CTW Mixed Class
CTW Officer 16 April 2018
18 April 2018
29 May 2018
31 May 2018
Employment Support Programme Workshop 19 April 2018
19 April 2018
Self Employment Awareness 24 May 2018
24 May 2018
Employment Support Programme Wksp 21 May 2018
21 May 2018
RC Plymouth
rcplymouth@ctp.org.uk
CTW Junior Ranks
START DATE END DATE
24 April 2018 26 April 2018
CTW Mixed Class
15 May 2018 17 May 2018
CTW Officer/SNCO 17 April 2018
19 April 2018
Employment Support Programme Wksp 16 April 2018
16 April 2018
14 May 2018
14 May 2018
09 April 2018
11 April 2018
23 April 2018
25 April 2018
14 May 2018
16 May 2018
22 May 2018
24 May 2018
(Course location Culdrose)
CTW Officer/SNCO 16 April 2018
18 April 2018
21 May 2018
23 May 2018
Employment Support Programme Wksp 12 April 2018
12 April 2018
FAR All Ranks 26 April 2018
26 April 2018
Self Employment Awareness 17 May 2018
16
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
17 May 2018
RC Portsmouth rcportsmouth@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE
RRC Rosyth
rrcrosyth@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE
RRC Tidworth rrctidworth@ctp.org.uk
START DATE END DATE
CTW Junior Ranks
CTW Mixed Class
CTW Junior Ranks
23 April 2018
09 April 2018
11 April 2018
09 April 2018
11 April 2018
16 April 2018
18 April 2018
25 April 2018
16 April 2018
18 April 2018
CTW Mixed Class
(Course location Kinloss)
23 April 2018
25 April 2018
16 April 2018
18 April 2018
17 April 2018
30 April 2018
02 May 2018
21 May 2018
23 May 2018
(Course location Faslane)
21 May 2018
23 May 2018
14 May 2018
CTW Officer
19 April 2018
Employment Support Programme Wksp
(Course location Lossiemouth)
CTW Mixed Class
11 April 2018
15 May 2018
08 May 2018
14 May 2018
16 May 2018
(Course location Faslane)
(Course location Chepstow)
21 May 2018
14 May 2018
17 May 2018 23 May 2018
02 May 2018
05 April 2018
Employment Support Programme Wksp
CTW Officer 17 April 2018
19 April 2018
15 May 2018
17 May 2018
02 May 2018
12 April 2018
12 April 2018
Employment Support Programme Wksp
24 May 2018
24 May 2018
12 April 2018
12 April 2018
03 April 2018
05 April 2018
17 May 2018
17 May 2018
29 May 2018
31 May 2018
24 May 2018
24 May 2018
FAR All Ranks 10 May 2018
CTW Officer/SNCO
24 May 2018
05 April 2018
(Course location 1 RHA Lecture Theatre) 31 May 2018
31 May 2018
(Course location 1 RHA Lecture Theatre)
Self Employment Awareness
16 May 2018
30 April 2018
10 May 2018
FAR All Ranks
10 May 2018
CTW Officer/SNCO
26 April 2018
10 May 2018 24 May 2018
CTW SNCO 30 April 2018
12 April 2018
26 April 2018
(Course location Chepstow)
16 May 2018
09 April 2018
12 April 2018
23 April 2018
23 April 2018
23 May 2018
23 May 2018
CTW SNCO
10 May 2018
Self Employment Awareness 19 April2016 2018 Final_2016 19 April 07/03/2016 2018 Quest March 09:26 Page 11
Visit
10 April 2018
12 April 2018
24 April 2018
26 April 2018
01 May 2018
03 May 2018
22 May 2018
24 May 2018
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest www.ctp.org.uk for further details
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
17
Q
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
18
March 2018 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 555834 Resettlement Centre Portsmouth Tel: 02392 724130 Regional Resettlement Centre Rosyth Tel: 01383 858230 Regional Resettlement Centre Tidworth Tel: 01980 650689
For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.ctp.org.uk
Courses 4 Forces Spring final 2015_C4F 16/03/2015 11:25 Page 52
Sponsored by
www.gastectraining.co.uk
01908 587665 l enquiries@gastectraining.co.uk l www.gastectraining.co.uk
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OUR W ORK PLACE MENT FREE IS - GUA AND G RANTEED ENUI NE
Graduated Resettlement Time (GRT) * XPVME MJLF UP FYQSFTT NZ HSBUJUVEF UP BMM BU (BTUFD 5IF GBDJMJUJFT BOE DPVSTF TUSVDUVSF SJHIU UISPVHI UP UIF EFMJWFSZ XFSF DU QFSGFDU BOE B SFBM FZF PQFOFS Q FSGFDU B .Z UIBOLT UP BMM . Z UIBOL
VIEWING OF OUR FACILITY IS ALWAYS WELCOME. CALL NOW TO ARRANGE YOUR VISIT.
GRT is the length of time that a Service Leaver is eligible to spend on resettlement activities, including workshops, training Gastec Training has for many years worked courses, civilian work attachments or individual resettlement closely with Britain’s armed forces as 4VF ,JOH .#& they prepare for civilian life. At Gastec we provision. recognise the commitment you have made
Transition services and entitlements
while serving and welcome the opportunity to ensure you have a prosperous future as
you leave the armed forces. The Gastec New COURSE CARRIES LEVEL 3 ACCREDITATION Entitlement Entrant Gas Course will prepare you for an EFS GPS )BWJOH DIPTFO (BTUFD BT UIF QSPWJEFS GPS discharged All Service Leavers, other than those asinteresting Earlyand lucrative career in the gas NZ SFTFUUMFNFOU USBJOJOH BGUFS ZFBST ZFBST utility sector. Call now for a special reduced E XJUIresettlement TFSWJDF * XBT DPNQMFUMZ JNQSFTTFE XJUI UIF to receive UIF pricing offer on this course. Service Leavers, are entitled the support QSPGFTTJPOBMJTN BOE IFMQ BGGPSEFE NF CZ CZ BMM UIF JOTUSVDUPST BOE TUBGG detailed in the table below. 4HU + . .PSHBO 3FUE
Principle COURSE CARRIES LEVEL 3 ACCREDITATION 0VS QBTT SBUF FYDFFET BOE PVS %VSJOH NZ UJNF JO UIF BSNZ J IBWF BUUFOEFE NBOZ EFE NBOZ Longer service is rewarded with entitlement to increased DPVSTFT BOE TFFO NBOZ JOTUSVDUPST CVU UIF MFWFMT PG IF MFWFMT PG &-$"4 FWBMVBUJPO SBUJOH JT TFDPOE UP JOTUSVDUJPO BU (BTUFD XBT FYDFMMFOU * BN OPX B WFSZ OPX B WFSZ OPOF 1MFBTF UBLF UJNF UP WJFX UIF resettlement time. All Medically Discharged ServiceTVDDFTTGVM TFMG FNQMPZFE HBT TBGF FOHJOFFS BOE SFNBJO Leavers BOE SF &-$"4 XFCTJUF UP DIFDL PVU PVS JO DPOUBDU XJUI (BTUFD XIP XJMM BMXBZ PGGFS BEWJDF automatically qualify for the maximum DVSSFOU FWBMVBUJPO SBUJOH entitlement. Entitlement 8BZOF $IBOU &Y 3PZBM "SUJMMFSZ
includes grants, allowances, travel warrants, resettlement leave, consultancy, transition workshops and subsidised training.
Yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Service 1. <1 2. 1+ 3. 4+ 4. 6+ 5. 8+ 6. 12+ 7. 16+
Normal Discharge
Medical Discharge(2)
Outflow
<4 Yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; service or administratively discharged
CALL +44(0)1908 587665
CTP GRT(1) IRTC CTP GRT(1) IRTC Gastec Training & Assessment Centres Ltd. 6 Newmarket Court, Kingston, Milton Keynes, Bucks MK10 0AQ No 0 No FRP 10 Yes enquiries@gastectraining.co.uk www.gastectraining.co.uk No 0 No FRP 30 Yes ESP 0 No FRP 30 Yes FRP 20 Yes FRP 30 Yes FRP 25 Yes FRP 30 Yes FRP 30 Yes FRP 30 Yes FRP 35 Yes FRP 35 Yes
Notes 1. Amount of GRT is in working days. 2. This includes Reservists who are Medically Discharged due to injuries sustained during operational commitments. ESP: Employment Support Programme FRP: Full Resettlement Programme
Duty Allowances for Resettlement Activities Individual entitlements to allowances are found in JSP 752 and other single-Service regulations. If in doubt, Service Leavers should ask their resettlement advisers or Unit HR for advice. As with other duty entitlements, payments made in the pursuance of resettlement are made only for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;actualsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and administered through Joint Personnel Administration (JPA) self-service menus. At all times, receipts must be retained and produced in the event that a Service Leaver is selected for audit. Service Leaversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; entitlement will depend upon the nature of their discharge and the length of their Service. When selecting a training provider to deliver resettlement services, Service Leavers should be aware that the MOD operates a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Local Training Firstâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; policy. Wherever possible, resettlement training should be undertaken local to (i.e. within 50 miles by road or 90 minutes by public transport) Service or home accommodation. Notwithstanding this, external training, including training undertaken overseas, that will incur subsistence costs may be arranged through any training provider in the event that there is no available CTP in-house training or training providers that can deliver an equivalent training outcome locally. All overseas training (see overleaf) must survive HQ scrutiny; and all accommodation, UK or otherwise, other than that offered under exceptional residential arrangements, must be booked through the Defence Hotel Reservation Service (DHRS). All residential accommodation offered by training providers must be pre-authorised by the Unit.
â&#x20AC;¢ Vulnerability Assessment â&#x20AC;¢ Resettlement Brief â&#x20AC;¢ Resettlement Interview â&#x20AC;¢ Gateway to 3rd Sector: â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Housing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Finance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Social Benefits â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Employment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Pensions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Health
Employment Support Programme >4<6 Yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Service
â&#x20AC;¢ Job-Finding Service â&#x20AC;¢ â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;RightJobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Access â&#x20AC;¢ Consultant Interview â&#x20AC;¢ Housing Brief â&#x20AC;¢ Financial Aspects of Resettlement Brief â&#x20AC;¢ Access (on a standby basis) to 50 Various Resettlement Training Centre Courses â&#x20AC;¢ Post Discharge Consultant Support (up to 2 years) â&#x20AC;¢ Employment Fairs and Events
Full Resettlement Programme >6 Yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Service
â&#x20AC;¢ IRTC Grant (£534) â&#x20AC;¢ Resettlement Leave (up to 35 days) â&#x20AC;¢ Career Transition Workshop (3 days) â&#x20AC;¢ Other Workshops â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Self-Employment Awareness â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Small Business Start-Up â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CV Writing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Interview Skills â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Networking â&#x20AC;¢ Career Consultancy â&#x20AC;¢ Travel Warrants (up to 7) â&#x20AC;¢ â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;RightJobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Access â&#x20AC;¢ Financial Aspects of Resettlement Brief â&#x20AC;¢ Housing Brief â&#x20AC;¢ Access to 50 Various Resettlement Training Centre Courses â&#x20AC;¢ Post Discharge Consultant Support (up to 2 years) â&#x20AC;¢ Employment Fairs and Events
Standard Learning Credits Enhanced Learning Credits Access to first FE/HE qualification Resettlement Grant Officers with 9 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; service up to £15,505 Other Ranks with 12 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; service who are AFPS 75 up to £10,596 Officers and Other Ranks who are AFPS 05 up to £10,883 Officers and Other Ranks who are AFPS 15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no rate currently available
For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.ctp.org.uk
Please always contact the Forces Pension Society for the most up-to-date information Tel: 020 7820 9988 Web: www.forcespensionsociety.org
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YOUR RESETTLEMENT TRANSITION FACTFILE FACTFILE
Resettlement Training
Service Leaver Support Teams (SLSTs)
Training provided by the CTP
Can be found at Army UK divisional and district HQs and at some regional brigades. They provide Service leavers with information and help on a wide variety of subjects, including employment, housing, schooling, finance and other resettlement issues. They work in close cooperation with other agencies, including the RFEA, single-Service specialists and the CTP.
Skills training takes place at the Resettlement Training Centre (RTC) in Aldershot and at a selection of Resettlement Centres. The RTC has bespoke workshops within its Building and Engineering Departments, and also offers Management and IT courses. Many of those on offer result in civilian-recognised qualifications. To find out more about the wide range of courses available, and to search for dates and locations, visit our website at www.ctp.org.uk For all other enquiries, to check availability, or to make a booking or payment, contact our Course Booking & Information Centre (CBIC): Civilian: Tel: 02894 456 200 Military: Tel: 9491 56 200 Email: coursebookings@ctp.org.uk
Training provided by Preferred Suppliers ThePreferred Suppliers List (PSL) identifies a range of local training providers offering some of the most common vocational training that Service leavers undertake. In order to qualify for the PSL, the training organisation is obliged to demonstrate financial reliability, appropriate insurance cover, past performance, future plans, training facilities, accreditation levels and quality standards. The PSL is published at www.ctp.org.uk and is also held in each of the Resettlement Centres. Preferred Supplier status is subject to continuous evaluation, on each course by the Service Leaver, by the CTP and by annual review.
Overseas Resettlement Training Resettlement training should, wherever possible, be undertaken either in-house (given the value for money and quality assurance available on those courses) or locally in recognition of the local training first policy. Authorisation for overseas resettlement training can only be made by HQ SDE staff on a case-by-case basis and through the intelligent application of the following conditions. >> The training outcome is not available under the local training first policy, either within the UK for those serving in UK or within their normal theatre of operations for those serving overseas. >> The total costs of the training overseas to the MOD, including eligible subsistence allowances and travel costs, which will be claimed under current regulations, are less than those that would be incurred if undertaking the training in the UK, i.e. the value for money consideration. >> SDE staff have reasonable assurance of the quality of the training and its recognition by UK employers. Any request for overseas training must arrive with SDE HQ staff at least eight weeks in advance of the intended departure date, to enable the necessary political clearances for successful applications to be made.
CTP RightJob CTP RightJob is the CTP’s online job-finding service, listing thousands of live vacancies for Service leavers from local, national and international employers. The CTP works with hundreds of organisations that recognise the benefits of recruiting from the ex-military talent pool, and value the experience and strong working ethos Service leavers bring with them. The site is accessed via the CTP website and the login required is issued during CTWs. Call the Central Employment Team for more information, on 0121 236 0058.
Useful CTP Contacts TO BOOK A CTP WORKSHOP OR BRIEFING…
Call 0203 162 4410 For booking your Career Transition Workshop (CTW) or any other workshop or briefing. (This is a not a premium rate number and you should only be charged at the normal national rate, dependent on the phone provider) Alternatively, if you are calling from a military line, contact the Resettlement Centre running the workshop which is normally the Resettlement Centre that you are registered with for your resettlement. Contact details can be found in the list of Resettlement Centres provided earlier in Factfile. CALL OUR COURSE BOOKING & INFORMATION CENTRE (CBIC) Civilian: Tel: 02894 456 200 Military: Tel: 9491 56 200 or Email: coursebookings@ctp.org.uk
FOR RIGHTJOB ASSISTANCE…
CALL OUR CENTRAL EMPLOYMENT TEAM (CET) Tel: 0121 236 0058 If you have forgotten your RightJob password, have been locked out of your account or require support using RightJob.
CTP Employment Events
CTP Future Horizons
Our events can be of great benefit and provide an excellent opportunity to network with potential employers and discuss the job market in general, as well as within specific industry sectors. The main types that we hold are: >> Employment Fairs – attended by a wide range of national and local employers, seeking the skills, quality and experience that Service leavers have >> Live Online Chat Events – enable Service leavers to chat one-to-one with employers during dedicated time slots, about their company, current vacancies and any training needs >> Company Presentations – these focus on one particular company, which is normally actively recruiting for a number of vacancies. >> Search for upcoming CTP events on our website at www.ctp.org.uk
CTP Future Horizons understands that leaving the Armed Forces is a key point in the lives of all Service leavers, and believes that everyone who has served, even for a short period of time, is entitled to support in transitioning from the military into civilian life. The programme will provide support and assistance to enable you to find suitable employment upon leaving the Armed Forces. Through its network of partners, it will link you in to the most appropriate level of support you need to help with the transition. CTP Future Horizons has been developed in response to the recognition and commitment from the MoD to improve resettlement provision to Early Service Leavers (ESLs). It is open to ESLs across all Services, regardless of how long you have served or the reasons you have for leaving. The programme has been designed and is delivered by the RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity. To discuss any aspect of CTP Future Horizons, please call Richard Jones, Programme Manager, on 07428 705 770 or meet with a CTP Future Horizons assessor at the following locations: >> ITC Catterick, Hook Company: 01748 872949/2922 >> ATC Pirbright, Sword Company: 01483 798614 >> Resettlement Centre Plymouth: 01752 557635 Follow Future Horizons on Facebook, and receive the latest news and updates from the programme.
RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity We exist to provide life-long, life-changing support, jobs and training opportunities to Service leavers and Veterans, irrespective of circumstances, rank, length of service or reason for leaving. Founded in 1885 and operating across the UK, we have the specialist knowledge and understanding to bridge the gap between military life and civilian employment. We work in partnership with other organisations and employers who, like us, respect and value the unique qualities and abilities of all those who have served. We are the leading provider of job opportunities and employment advice for ex-Forces men and women. We have thousands of job opportunities with employers who value military experience. We advise you on careers suited to you and we know which employers are recruiting in your area. We work with you so that you have a good CV, and support you through the application and interview process. To register with us … Tel: 0121 2360 058 Website: www.rfea.org.uk
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CTP Assist CTP Assist aims to help wounded, injured and sick Service personnel who have the greatest need to find a new, fulfilling career that meets their individual needs, and to assist them in moving on with their lives. The support given will help to pinpoint a rewarding and realistic change of career. Service leavers who are likely to be medically discharged and are ready to engage in resettlement will be referred to the programme by their Chain of Command. To find out more about how CTP Assist can support you, visit www.ctpassist.ctp.org.uk
Courses 4 Forces Spring final 2015_C4F 16/03/2015 11:25 Page 52
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Prepare self-marketing literature Your CV should include: >> a personal profile â&#x20AC;&#x201C; your USP >> major achievements â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the benefits you brought to current and previous jobs >> a focus on your transferable skills Your CV should avoid mentioning: >> details of salary >> references >> any negative aspects of your career to date >> clichĂŠs, jargon, abbreviations and untruths
Understand the world of work >> >> >> >> >> >>
What has changed since you joined the Services? How do those changes affect you? How do you effectively manage your own career? What are the different patterns of work? What do you want from a company? How do you negotiate a salary package?
Identify your interests and skills >> >> >> >> >>
What are your interests? What transferable skills do you have? What training or qualifications have you done? Can you identify what you have achieved so far? Does all this help you decide what to do next?
Proactive networking >> >> >> >>
How do you establish a useful network? How do you use networks to help you research? How can networks help you into a job? How can networks help with career development?
Research the market
Networking advice
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
Decide on sectors, geographical areas etc. Use directories, databases, internet etc. Ask for information Use your personal network Use industry associations, chambers of commerce etc. Attend jobfairs and conferences
Implement a marketing campaign Use a variety of approaches, including: >> responding to advertisements >> direct approaches by phone and letter >> networking >> employment agencies >> develop a system and keep records of all activities >> follow up approaches systematically >> learn from your mistakes
Start early Create mutually supportive relationships Use these at all stages of career development, not just at time of job change Networks are useful information sources Successful people develop networks Use them to market yourself and your organisation
The CTP can help you find the answers to these questions through attending workshops and one-to-one sessions with your Career Consultant. If you are not yet registered with the CTP, speak to your local Resettlement Officer or Service Resettlement Advisor for further advice.
Sell yourself on a face-to-face basis >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
Research the employer Prepare interview responses Dress appropriately Arrive early; impress everybody you meet Smile Avoid crossing arms and legs when sitting Maintain eye contact Answer questions honestly, but focus on the positive Manage the interview to match your benefits to the employerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs Prepare questions that you can ask the interviewer Seek feedback and learn from mistakes
For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.ctp.org.uk questonline.co.uk l March 2018
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THE HUB
>> Course and training options, transition news and reader reports
Valuable training package awarded to first ‘deserving delegate’
Corporate Risk Systems Limited had a programme of donating an MoD Full House training package, valued at £2,600, to a deserving delegate at all remaining BFRS events in 2017. The first of these was Kimberley Edmunds-Jones, who was nominated by the charity Armed Forces Bikers. The reason behind her nomination was that she has not found things easy since leaving the military – she has PTSD, but has worked hard to overcome barriers due to this. At present she is having difficulty securing full-time employment, but does pick up some part-time work. The training package is of particular interest to Kimberley due to the path she wants to take, and the charity knows it will be the sort of training she can ‘really get her teeth into’. Kimberly was presented with the certificate that will allow her to claim her future training at the recent BFRS Catterick Jobs and Careers Fair, by David Hancock-Dexter, Sales Manager for Corporate Risk Systems Limited, and Amanda Wood-Woolley from Armed Forces Bikers. David and Kimberley initially thought that the combination of the Nebosh National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety, Nebosh Certificate in Environmental Management and Nebosh Fire Safety and Risk Management Certificate would be ideal for future job applications. Get in touch 01332 527107 advice@crsrisk.com www.crsrisk.com See the advertisement on page 29
>> EVENTS FINDER
Thinking of a career in the security industry? Find out key information about events that may be of interest to you by visiting the All Security Events website at www.allsecurityevents.com
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>> JOB FINDING
Could Veterans’ Gateway help you find a new career path?
Jel Bearder: just one Veterans’ Gateway success story
Veterans seeking employment on civvy street can take advantage of a new service: Veterans’ Gateway. It aims to provide a first point of contact for Veterans and their families who need support in areas such as employment, housing, finance and mental health. Veterans’ Gateway works with specialist employment referral partners that can not only help Service leavers transition out of the Armed Forces, but also those who are looking to change careers and even start up their own businesses. On page 56 you can read all about how the Veterans’ Gateway helped former soldier Jel Bearder fulfil his dream of working for British Military Fitness. He says: ‘Leaving the Forces and then having to choose and find a new career can be a really challenging time. You need support around you and having experts on hand is vital. The service offered by Veterans’ Gateway invaluable for those beginning or already on their journey to a new career. Having done it myself I’d say to any Veteran to use what help is out there. It’s given me a direction and purpose and, if 2018 is your year for finding a new path, contact the service to see if there’s support available.’ Says assistant director of Veterans’ Gateway, Mark Collins, ‘Leaving the Armed Forces can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. We aim to assist Veterans in identifying what support is available to them or their circumstances, and who’s best to give it. No matter what stage they are at, there are experts on hand to help with a range of employment services.’ Veterans’ Gateway is a consortium project delivered by The Royal British Legion, Combat Stress, SSAFA – the Armed Forces charity, Poppyscotland and Connect Assist. To get in touch, call: 0808 802 1212 or visit www.veteransgateway.org.uk
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, selfreliant 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
Driving force! Phil Coleman served in the Army (Infantry) for nine years and joined LDC in March 2017 to train as a driving instructor. ‘After leaving the Army in 2009 I found myself working as an airconditioning engineer for a couple of years before going on to the close protection scene in Iraq. After doing that for five years I wanted to return to working in the UK – I also, however, wanted to enjoy the freedom of being my own boss and working hours that fitted in nicely with family life. ‘Following plenty of research into becoming a driving instructor, I chose to train with LDC. This decision was helped due to the fact that I could take advantage of my Enhanced Learning Credits to help with the cost – however, that was not the sole reason. The level of support, training and opportunities that I felt were on offer from LDC were also key factors in my decision. ‘I proved to have made the right choice. The support was there from first point of contact and continues to this day (I have now been qualified for nine months). The training was second to none. All the learning materials were provided from the start to enable you to learn at your own pace and the practical training was all done locally. The level of training was top-notch, giving me all the information and tools to not just qualify as an ADI but to have the confidence to get out there and teach learners a life skill, in some cases changing their lives in a big way. With all the great support and training from LDC I was able to pass my Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 exams first time! ‘Now nine months into my new career, business is going great. My diary was full by week three. This was done with the help of LDCgenerated learners, along with self-generated learners. The latter were gained with the advice and knowledge passed on by not only the LDC office staff, but also the larger LDC ADI community across the country, via a closed group on social media, constantly offering help, advice and tips. I am left to run my own business without being micromanaged, however all the advice and help is there on the other end of the phone, drop of an email or through regular training days if you wish to attend – not just for the teaching side of the job but for advice on running the business too. ‘So if this is your chosen path, then I wouldn’t hesitate to call LDC and get the ball rolling. In fact I recommended them recently to a good friend at the end of his 24 years’ service – something I wouldn’t do lightly.’
osteopathy@staffs.ac.uk www.collegeofosteopaths.ac.uk See the advertisement on page 29
Get in touch 0800 197 0010 01977 691800 www.LDCForces.co.uk
>> CHARITY SUPPORT
Lee to shoulder 40lb backpack to support children’s charity Ex-soldier Lee Wines is aiming to raise thousands of pounds for a children’s charity by taking part in the 2018 Hastings Half Marathon – with 40lb strapped to his back! Now an assistant site manager with Bovis Homes, he will haul the equivalent in weight of a five-gallon office water-cooler bottle filled up to the brim, around the testing 13.1-mile course on Sunday 18 March.
The former Lance Corporal, who fought for Queen and country on three tours of Iraq during eight years in the Armed Forces, is looking to attract £5,000 in sponsorship for the Starlight Children’s Foundation, which is dedicated to brightening the lives of children and teenagers suffering from a serious or terminal illness. ‘It will be a little bit like some of the exercises I used to do in the Army, but while I’m reasonably fit, I’ve not done anything quite like this for ten years!’ says Lee. ‘The first seven miles are uphill so it’s not going to be easy, but I’m determined to finish, even if I
have to power-walk and jog some of the way.’ ‘Becoming a dad last year brought home to me how I’d feel if my child was sick and underlined the importance of the Starlight Children’s Foundation in giving support to children and their families,’ says Lee. ‘It performs a vital role in providing entertainment to children in hospital and making their dreams come true by taking them on special days out.’ If you would like to sponsor Lee, please visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lee-wines
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>> CUMBRIAN CHALLENGE
The perfect wedding gift!
Support Prince Harry’s charity by climbing the fells for our wounded soldiers Military charity Walking With The Wounded will be celebrating the Royal Wedding from the Lakes as the legendary Cumbrian Challenge returns to Grasmere on 19 May. You can support WWTW Expedition Patron Prince Harry on his wedding day by taking to the fells alongside men and women who have been supported by the charity. The walking event will see participants tackling the fells and experiencing a memorable and uplifting weekend together while meeting some of the incredible men and women who WWTW has been able to support during their career transition from the military. WWTW is urging all serving and ex-serving military personnel to join the challenge and support the more than 250 ex-Service men and women who are currently homeless, unemployed or struggling with their mental health, to get their lives back on track and back to full health. The event, now in its sixth year, expects to achieve its target of £200,000, which means that, altogether, it will have raised more than £1 million to support the ex-Service community. Each team that takes part in the Cumbrian Challenge enables WWTW to support a wounded ex-Service man or woman back into independence through one of its programmes. Individuals like Mark who suffered in silence from PTSD for 28 years before ‘finding’ Walking With The Wounded and receiving support for his mental health. He says, ‘They organised the best help and clinical therapy for me, and were with me every step of the way through some very dark times. Two years on and I’m extremely happy. Facing life with a purpose, a realisation that I am actually worthy and I do have a future.’ To find out more, visit wwtw.org.uk/Cumbria View the Cumbrian Challenge 2017 official highlights video at https://youtu.be/oShKLfrd2M?list=PLsxLG-sIZulxigQ_4rL60_z2qENrcnHhU
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>> BOOKSHELF
Strategy for startup success Thinking of starting your own business? Help is at hand in the form of an accessible new guide, Strategy Plain and Simple: 3 Steps to Building a Successful Strategy for Your Startup or Growing Business. Unlike most books on strategy, which are written by academics for business school students, this one is tailored to meet the needs of time-pressured entrepreneurs, so they can digest all they need to know in double-quick time. With vivid real-life examples (from Italian ice cream and Spanish beer, to American Christmas trees and a Canadian adultery website), practical solutions and a jargon-free approach, Strategy Plain and Simple cuts to the very essence of what the budding entrepreneur needs to know about strategy. It guides them towards business success with a simple, threestep process: 1. understand the market 2. gain competitive advantage 3. balance risk and opportunity.
Author Vaughan Evans is an independent strategy consultant who has specialised in strategy and business planning for businesses large and small.
Strategy Plain and Simple: 3 Steps to Building a Successful Strategy for Your Startup or Growing Business is published by FT Publishing, price £14.99.
>> RESEARCH
68% aren’t doing their childhood dream job New research from revision provider Justin Craig reveals that most of us aren’t in the jobs we thought we wanted to do when we were 16 years old. l 68% of people said that the job they wanted to do at 16 is not what they’re doing now l 15% of people didn’t know what they wanted to do when they finished GCSEs l However, over-half (51%) of people feel they are on their way to their dream job … The survey, conducted by revision provider Justin Craig, shows that deciding what we want to do for the rest of our lives after taking our
GCSEs is not set in stone, although good exam results do give options and flexibility for what we want to do later. And higher education often leads to changing career decisions, due to students gaining exposure to different career options. It’s not all bad news, though, as many people stated they are actually on their way to their desired dream job. Of those polled, just over half (51%) said they agreed with this. Paul Stevens at Justin Craig says, ‘The results show that there is plenty of flexibility for career changes at any stage.’ That’s something we here at QUEST would agree with, of course!
>> TEACHER/TRAINER RETRAINING
>> SECURITY LICENSING
Your licence application: your responsibility Further Forces to retrain Service leavers as FE teachers and trainers The Education and Training Foundation (ETF), in partnership with the Gatsby Charitable Foundation, has launched the Further Forces programme, a scheme to retrain Service leavers to teach technical subjects, including science, engineering and technology, in the further education (FE) and training sector. As well as offering Service leavers the chance of a rewarding career, the scheme will help to meet the country’s need to creating a world-class technical education system. It is recognised that the economy is facing a skills shortage in these subject areas, for which an increase in highly skilled teaching staff will be needed. The University of Portsmouth and the University of Brighton have been awarded the national contracts to train (Portsmouth) and mentor (Brighton) Service leavers to work as FE teachers and trainers based in colleges and training providers across England. The project will be rolled out through two national hubs – one in the north of England and one in the south. It will run for two years, and aims to recruit and train 110 new teachers in the sector. Says David Russell, Chief Executive of the Education and Training Foundation: ‘This is a powerful opportunity for Armed Forces Service leavers to pass on their valuable life skills and thrive in a second career, and we look forward to being instrumental in ensuring this programme is a success.’ Register your interest now at www.port.ac.uk/school-ofeducation-and-childhood-studies/further-forces
Applying for a security industry licence from the SIA? Use your online account to check the status of your application or licence details, and to update your personal information, including your address. While your application is being processed, the SIA will contact you only if further information is required, so please look out for SIA messages or notifications and reply to them with the information sought. These are important and may include specific instructions that the SIA needs you to complete to enable it to process your application quickly. Ensure your contact details are up to date so that the messages reach you. If you do need to contact the SIA because you have a problem that neither you nor your employer can resolve, you can do this by using the ‘Contact the SIA’ tab in your SIA online account. If you cannot access your online account, please use the ‘Contact us’ section of the SIA website. For more support, visit the SIA help and guidance page at www.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk/ Pages/changes-hints.aspx
>> JOB FAIRS CTP Employment Fair 22 March 2018, Newbury CTP Employment Fair 19 April 2018, Newark 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 l 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 opportunity. Don’t miss out on the chance to meet employers with current and future job vacancies! In addition, the full list of Employment Fair dates for 2018 are now available and ready to book (see right). If you wish to book on to any of these dates, call the CTP Central Bookings Team on 0203 162 4410, email CTPEvents@ctp.org.uk or visit https://www.ctp.org.uk/events to find out more.
Event Date South Central Employment Fair
22 March 2018
East Midlands/East Employment Fair
19 April 2018
Scotland Employment Fair
10 May 2018
South West Employment Fair
6 June 2018
South East/East Employment Fair
5 July 2018
North East Employment Fair
27 September 2018
South Coast Employment Fair
11 October 2018
West Midlands Employment Fair
29 November 2018
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
25
Q
YOUR ELC ELC BASICS
ELC 101 The basics
S
ubject to certain eligibility criteria (see page 28), the ELC scheme offers currently serving
or former Service personnel access to a first full level 3 (GCE A-level or vocational equivalent) or a first higher education (HE) qualification (e.g. a foundation degree or a first undergraduate degree or equivalent) free from tuition fees. Here’s the basic information you need to know … l
The ELC lower tier offers up to three payments of up to £1,000 in three separate financial years; the higher tier offers up to three payments of up to £2,000 in three separate financial years.
l
Service activities will usually meant
combination of both higher and lower
learning of at least 20% of the cost
that no further claims will be allowed.
levels.
(the ELC element includes VAT but
ELC may be claimed for the same
excludes travel, accommodation, food,
compassionate reasons cause your
learning course if it continues for more
books and materials).
withdrawal, you should seek advice
You must discuss your plans with
from your Education Staff or Learning
purpose each year.
your line manager and education
Adviser.Q
If one course combines with others for
adviser before making any financial
combined to claim ELC.
l
l
l
If unexpected Service or
commitment. l
ELC are available for full- or part-time
A new ELC award was created in 2016.
study for a qualification at level 3 or
It’s an aggregated lower-tier award,
above, as defined on the NQF or SCQF,
which is a single payment of up to
with an organisation on the approved
£3,000 for those with six or more
providers list maintained by ELCAS.
years of qualifying service, which will
l
count as all three awards.
− – Service training
The PF FE/HE scheme provides
You may not claim ELC for:
− – civilian accredited Service training
Service leavers and Service personnel
(unless at least 30 hours extra work
in their qualifying resettlement phase
is involved, together with a separate
ELC SCHEME: LATEST STATS
exam, assessment or assignment)
From its inception until the end of
with access to a first full level 3 or a first HE qualification (a foundation
− – membership fees
January 2018, 383,292 people had
degree or a first undergraduate
− – books and materials
registered with the ELC scheme and
degree or equivalent) with support
− – normal Service sport and
136,237 claims had been made, to the
towards tuition fees.
26
Withdrawal once payment has been made due to foreseeable postings/
l
a single learning purpose these can be l
l
You must make a contribution to your
than a year, or for a different learning l
Only one ELC claim can be made in any one financial year (April to March).
to run consecutively, and may be a
l
l
The three separate years do not have
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
adventurous training.
value of £216.4 million.
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 2018
27
Q
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
l
What about if you are medically
both ELC lower-tier and FEHE awards
medically discharged from service before
discharged?
increased from four to six years as
achieving the required number of years’
You are eligible to claim ELC at the lower
of 1 April 2017. If you had already
service. If this is the case, please seek
(£1,000) or higher (£2,000) tier depending
accumulated four years’ qualifying
advice from your unit education staffs.
on your length of service on the date of
In detail …
award and FEHE.
When can you start claiming ELC?
of service, you may be eligible to make
If you left service on or after 1 April
You can start claiming when you have
claims at the lower-tier rate if the injury
2016, you are entitled to post-service
accumulated the necessary qualifying
or illness was caused or significantly
access to ELC and FEHE for five years.
years of service. For example, if you
worsened, wholly or predominantly by
If you left between 1 April 2011 and 31
registered on the ELC scheme and have
service, as defined by the Armed Forces
March 2016 inclusive, you will have
been serving since 1 April 2000, you will
Compensation Scheme (JSP765).
until 31 March 2021 to use your ELC or
have been entitled to start claiming at the
FEHE (i.e. five years from March 2016).
£1,000 level from 1 April 2004 and at the
What if you are no longer serving?
If you left before 1 April 2011, you
£2,000 level from 1 April 2008. As noted
If you have already left the Service or are
will retain ten years of post-Service
above, from 1 April 2017, the qualifying
in your resettlement phase, you may be
access.
service for lower-tier awards increased
eligible to claim under the terms of the
from four to six years. However, if you
Publicly Funded Further Education/Higher
accumulated four years’ qualifying service
Education (PF FE/HE) scheme. Take a
before 1 April 2017, you will still be able to
look at the feature on page 34 to find out
claim your lower-tier awards.
more – or, for full details and to check the
must:
l
have completed four years of full-time
discharged prior to completing six years
detailed eligibility rules, visit
service or, since 1 April 2017, six years
What happens if you are made redundant?
have joined – or since April 2016
Irrespective of whether or not you applied
been automatically enrolled – on the
to be made redundant, you will cease
Find out more
scheme and completed four years’ or,
to accrue service for ELC eligibility on
Much more detailed information is
from 1 April 2017, six years’ qualifying
the day you leave service. If you have
available in JSP822, which can be
scheme membership
accrued six or more years’ service since
downloaded from the ELCAS website at
apply only for a first eligible FE/HE
registering on the scheme by your last day
www.enhancedlearningcredits.com Q
qualification at the level for which you
of service, you will still be eligible to claim
are academically qualified to enter
ELC at the lower tier (£1,000). If you have
learning on leaving the Service
accrued eight or more years’ service since registering on the scheme by your last
28
discharge. Additionally, if you are medically
your entitlement to use ELC lower-tier
To take advantage of ELC support, you
l
qualify for full state subsidy. Special eligibility criteria apply if you were
In brief … l
l
The qualifying service required for
service before 1 April 2017, you keep
l
l
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
www.enhancedlearningcredits.com
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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To find out more E. ask@solent.ac.uk T. +44 (0)23 8201 3039 www.solent.ac.uk
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 • Gain a valuable profession. Contact us today for help and advice:
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020 8905 1937 01782 294 596 questonline.co.uk l March 2018
29
Q
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
E
LC are available for full- or part-
l
other academic qualifications
time study for a qualification at
l
professional self-development
level 3 or above, as defined on the
l
accreditation of prior learning
National Qualifications Framework/
l
vocational training
Regulated Qualifications Framework (NQF/
l
registration and accreditation fees
RQF),* with an organisation
l
sports qualifications
on the approved providers list held by
l
overseas qualifications
ELCAS and viewable at
l
resettlement training (during last two
www.enhancedlearningcredits.com
Before deciding on a course, you should consider: l its relevance to your personal development plan l your ability to undertake it l likely disruptions to Service requirements l the flexibility of the study method.
It could be an A-level, or an NVQ 3 or
To find out more about accessing higher-
equivalent award. You may also use ELC
level study in particular, take a look at our
* The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is
to fund anything above that, too, like
feature on page 38.
replacing the Qualifications and Credit Framework
university modules or nationally recognised diplomas. This might include:
30
years of service only).
CHOOSING A COURSE
l
foundation degrees
l
postgraduate qualifications
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
(QCF) from 1 October 2015 onwards.
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
Quest January 2016_2015 22/12/2015 09:27 Page 11
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
31
Q
YOUR ELC HOW TO CLAIM YOUR ELC
Making an application Your step-by-step guide
1. Read Joint Service Publication JSP822 – Defence Direction
and Guidance for Training and Education.
8. Do not leave everything until the last minute. Allow time for any new publicly funded providers to be accepted on to the
2. Think about what fits your personal development plan and your future.
scheme, as the registration process can take several weeks. Once they have been accepted, you can submit an application
3. Discuss this with your line manager and education/learning
to study with them. 9. Providers are expected to waive any initial registration fee,
staff. 4. Get the necessary approval to enrol.
so don’t pay any of your own money towards the cost of their
5. Go to the ELCAS website at
tuition fees – if you do, it will not be refunded.
www.enhancedlearningcredits.com and complete the ELC application form online.
10. You must submit a separate claim form for each year of a course – if you don’t, it could result in support being
6. Check the ELCAS database of approved providers to see if the course you wish to enrol on is allowable under the rules. 7. If you wish to use a provider that is not on the list, ensure they
withdrawn. 11. Start learning, and make the most of your life! ELCAS has produced a useful flow diagram to sum up the claims
are eligible to participate in the scheme (they must deliver
process. You can find this in the Annex at the end of JSP822,
publicly funded FE/HE) and ask them to apply for scheme
which can be downloaded from the ELCAS website at
membership using the information on the ELC website.
www.enhancedlearningcredits.com Q
Safe departures take more than pilots; train to become an
Operations Officer or Flight Dispatcher
Open Learning Courses with ELCAS funding
Airline Operations and Dispatch Airport Operations APPROVED BY MoD IN SUPPORT OF THE ELC SCHEME
E LC
PROVIDER NUMBER
1009
32
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
www.avtech2000.co.uk
01452 883249
Assistant Rail Signalling Installer Training program Based in Ipswich (Suffolk), our training services have been fundamentally recognised as being pro-active, effective and, above all, technically competent. This program gives the candidate the required competencies to become a railway Signalling Installer. The training is an intensive 6 week course, filled with all the safety critical, signalling, technical and electrical knowledge needed to pursue a career within the rail industry. All attendees of this program will be given employment interviews. Consisting of 9 qualifications, this program is delivered in accordance with the IRSE (Institute of Rail Signal Engineers) licensing scheme conditions. As such, the program satisfies the knowledge requirements that enable delegates to apply for licensing after the appropriate experience criteria has been met. This program is mapped towards achieving IRSE category 1.2.110 (Installation). It is also mapped towards category 1.4.100 and includes the competences required for registration with the Engineering council at the grade of EngTech. (The Engineering Council stipulates a minimum education requirement Equivalent to BTEC L3 or NVQ L3).
For further info please call (01473)242344 or email: info@rttsolutions.co.uk RT Training solutions Ltd registered in England and Wales: 8171597
Q
YOUR ELC HOW TO CLAIM AFTER LEAVING
No longer serving? Here’s how to claim your ELC if you have left the Services
A
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
evidence of your last day of Service,
Royal Navy
is to encourage serving personnel
which could be a copy of your discharge
ELC Manager, Mailpoint 3.3, Leach Building,
to pursue higher-level learning that
document, a copy of your P45
Whale Island, HMS Excellent, Portsmouth
benefits both the learner and the Armed
terminating employment or a document
PO2 8BY
Forces, it also allows level 3-plus learning
stamped by your regiment confirming
02392 625954
to be pursued during resettlement or for
your leaving date**
NAVYTRGHQ-EL3RRESETSO3C@mod.uk
up to five years after leaving the Services.*
l
The majority of this learning is likely to be vocational (learning new skills or enhancing
address
Army
full information about the course you
Learning Credit Scheme (LCS) Manager,
wish to undertake and including details of
Education Branch Zone 4, Floor 2, Army
benefiting the learner and a future employer
your registration date where applicable.
Personnel Services Group, Home Command,
First of all, refer to the eligibility
l
a copy of a utility bill showing your home
existing ones), with the qualification and, nationally, adding to the UK’s skills base.
On receipt of the CAN, you can proceed
Ramillies Building, Army HQ
with payment by sending it, along with your
Monxton Road, Andover SP11 8HJ
criteria listed on page 28. To make a claim,
20% minimum contribution, to the training
Tel: The Army ELC helpline is currently
download the appropriate form from the
provider.
closed until further notice; during this time
ELCAS website and complete it fully, except
When you have completed your course,
all enquiries are to be made by email elc@detsa.co.uk
for Parts 4 and 5 – your Single Service
you must also complete the evaluation form
Representative (SSR) will complete these
and return it to ELCAS. If you do not do this it
elements (you will find their contact details in
could jeopardise your next claim. If you have
Royal Air Force
the accompanying box). Send your otherwise
any doubts about any aspect of this process,
Learning Credits Administrator,
fully completed claim form to them at the
contact your single-Service education/
Accreditation and Education Wing, RAF
relevant address (again, see box), along with:
learning representative for advice before
Central Training School, HQ 22 TrgGp, Room
submitting a claim. Q
221B, Trenchard Hall, RAF College, Cranwell
IMPORTANT!
34
WHERE TO SEND CLAIMS IF YOU ARE NO LONGER SERVING
NG34 8HB
All applications must be submitted to
*If you left the Service before 31 March 2016, please
01400 268 183
SSRs for approval at least 25 clear
refer to JSP822 at www.enhancedlearningcredits.com
Michael.Quainton100@mod.gov.uk
working days prior to the start of the
for the expiration date of your claims.
course you wish to take. They will
** If you were in the RAF, you can request a copy of
then submit approved applications to
your discharge document from the RAF Disclosures
ELCAS. You should not submit your
team at www.raf.mod.uk/links/contacts.cfm Army
claim form direct to ELCAS.
personnel can request details of discharge dates from the Army Personnel Centre by calling 0845 6009663.
l
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
Tel: 01380 609313 Email: barrie@inspired2learn.co.uk
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questonline.co.uk l March 2018
35
Q
YOUR ELC HOW YOU CAN HELP
Avoiding queries or rejection How you can help things to run smoothly
E
LCAS deals with many claims that
minimum criteria (level 3 or above on the
and research and discuss your learning with
have to be queried or rejected: almost
NQF or RQF) or the learning provider is
your line manager and Service education or
not on the ELCAS approved providers list
learning adviser. This also applies if you are
failure to follow the correct procedure for
a qualifying ex-Service person using your
authorising the claim
ELC. The 25-working-day margin is in place
the course not commencing in the
for good reason. If you don’t plan far ahead
qualifying financial year
enough you could find yourself significantly
incorrect financial data, such as the
out of pocket as retrospective claims are not
authorisation note (CAN) from ELCAS
learner’s contribution being less than
allowed under any circumstances.
learners failing to allow sufficient time
20% or the MoD’s contribution calculated
20% of claims received fail to comply
with the correct procedures. Some of the
l
main reasons for rejection include: l
applicants enrolling on a course – and
l
sometimes paying a fee – without first obtaining the necessary claims l
l
as exceeding the ELC award
offered by an approved provider are
incomplete details or errors in course title
automatically admissible under the ELC
so any claim submitted within 25 working
or course level (these account for 25% of
scheme. This is a common mistake: one
days of the start of the course will
all rejected/queried claims)
provider may supply many courses, but only
applicants not registered on the ELCAS
those approved courses at NQF/RQF level 3
system
or above (and equivalent) listed on the ELCAS
more than one active claim being
website may be considered for ELC purposes.
between submitting a claim and starting a course – this takes at least five weeks,
automatically be rejected l
form for the previous claim has been completed – such claims are also
36
l
l
a second or third ELC claim being submitted before the course evaluation
l
Also, do not assume that all courses
l
processed for an individual in the same l
plan ahead and get it right first time
automatically rejected
To help avoid rejection on grounds such as
l
don’t buck the system or pay upfront
the course does not meet the necessary
those listed above, you should plan ahead,
l
complete your claim with care! Q
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
financial year.
So:
Q
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
l
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
l
make sure you understand the regulations – see Joint Service
l
enhancedlearningcredits.com l
l
consult your education/learning staff
to course providers until you have
consult your education, learning,
received a claim authorisation note
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 l
(CAN) l
automatically assume that approved
funding for your resettlement training
provider status means that the entire
remember that the scheme operates a
portfolio of a provider’s courses meets
needing to book a course
strict ‘three hits and you’re out’ policy;
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
l
level 3 or above
and line managers to discuss your
between submitting a claim and l
l
commit any payment contributions
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
l
questionnaire when you’ve finished
* The QCF is being replaced by the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) from 1 October 2015 onwards.
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
37
Q
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.
I
f you’re thinking of embarking on a
the subject. It might be a really fascinating
the option of progressing to a degree if you
higher education (HE) qualification
course, which promises to lead to a host of
perform well enough on the early parts of
that’s great – you can use your ELC
career openings, but if it turns out you’re no
the course.
to fund anything above level 3, and that
good at it, you’re unlikely to end up with a
includes university modules and nationally
good qualification at the end of it – and may
through students completing a number
recognised diplomas. Other HE courses open
even fail altogether.
of modules, the distinction between HE
to you for consideration include diplomas,
(generally academic) and further education
bachelor’s degrees, foundation degrees
the qualifications you already have and the
(FE) (often vocational) can be unclear.
and postgraduate qualifications. The only
subjects/areas you have a flair for. Other
Credits from a selection of courses can often
problem you are likely to have is in deciding
things you might want to think about include
be added together to gain degrees and other
exactly what and how to study!
the course provider’s academic reputation
HE qualifications.
Choosing an HE course
(you can find university league tables and
Both HE and FE courses can be taken via
subject ranking tables online), its graduate
distance learning. The difference between
You may already have a pretty good idea of
employment rates, and links between the
these is not always clear-cut, though, and
what you’d like to study at a higher level but,
university or college and employers.
in some cases (e.g. foundation degrees),
if you’re unsure, our advice is to make sure
Having decided what you want to study,
both types are involved. Many qualifications
you understand the nature of the subject you
you will be faced with a variety of ways of
are modular; this means that you complete
are considering, especially if it’s something
studying it.
them in sections (modules), often of your
new to you. So do your research, and ensure
38
It’s a good idea to start by thinking about
With many qualifications being earned
own choosing, and credits gained from a
you know exactly what a course is offering
How do HE courses differ?
you – topic areas, what the modules will
The most basic difference is between the
together to ‘add up’ to degrees and other HE
cover, etc. Whatever else you take in to
levels of courses. While most HE courses
qualifications.
consideration, it goes without saying that
lead to a degree, some lead to sub-degree
you must have a strong interest in the
qualifications such as a Higher National
subject and the course content, as you will be
Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma
TO HELP YOU CHOOSE …
spending three years or more occupied with
(HND) or a foundation degree. In general,
Which? University is a free and
it, which won’t be much fun if it turns out
such courses will be shorter than a degree
independent website packed with
you’re not that struck with it after all!
selection of such courses can be gathered
course, more vocationally orientated and will
everything you need to find the right
You are also likely to do better at a
have lower entry requirements. Some will be
university course for you. See
course if you already have an aptitude for
linked to degree courses, though, giving you
http://university.which.co.uk
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
usually takes three or four years to complete
SOURCES OF ADVICE
access support under the FEHE scheme to
full-time (some degrees, such as medicine,
Your line manager should be your
commence studies at master’s level but they
can take five or six years).
first point of contact. Each unit has an
Please note that Service leavers cannot
can utilise their ELC for study at this level.
education/learning specialist, and each
Postgraduate qualifications
Service also has a network of educational
popular higher-level course options you
Postgraduate qualifications are HE
and learning centres where advice can be
could choose from …
qualifications that require learners to have
sought and ideas explored.
Here’s a rundown of some of the other
already completed a bachelor’s degree. Most
Higher national certificates (HNCs) and higher national diplomas (HNDs)
types of postgraduate qualification will include
students get together for joint study periods
taught and research elements. They generally
in open learning, with distance learning
fall into one of two categories: postgraduate
generally catering for students who are so
HNCs and HNDs are work-related
certificate or postgraduate diploma.
far away that they study almost entirely by
(vocational) HE qualifications. While
themselves.
on gaining knowledge, HNCs and HNDs are
Think you’re missing the necessary basics?
designed to give you the skills to put that
If you aren’t already in possession of the
ELC funding for higher education
knowledge to effective use in a particular
lower-level qualifications you would normally
The good news is that your ELC provides you
job. Highly valued by employers, both in
need to build on in order to secure your
with access to a first full level 3 or a first HE
the UK and overseas, they can also count
place on an HE course, the Access to Higher
qualification (e.g. foundation degree, first
towards membership of professional bodies
Education (HE) Diploma – often referred
undergraduate degree or equivalent) free
and other employer organisations. HNCs
to by its shorthand form, Access Diploma
from tuition fees. This commitment means
can take one year to complete full-time and
– could be for you. You can find out all
that Service leavers who have joined at level
two years part-time (or via, say, distance
you need to know about Access Diplomas
2, say, and have taken the opportunity to
learning). HNDs take two years full-time and
in our feature starting on page 58. It’s a
gain a qualification such as an advanced
can also be taken part-time (which takes
qualification that prepares people for study
apprenticeship, or other accredited learning
longer). (The award of an HND requires more
at university, and is designed for those who
at level 3 or equivalent, may now be able to
units to be passed than for an HNC.) They
would like to study in HE but who left school
access their first higher-level qualification.
equate to approximately halfway between
without the usual qualifications, such as
an A-level and a degree, although they are,
A-levels. It is widely accepted by universities
– Defence Direction and Guidance for
as mentioned above, more practically based
and colleges, having been developed with
Training and Education, which can be
than the latter.
their support, and is designed to provide a
accessed and downloaded at www.
good grounding in the knowledge and study
enhancedlearningcredits.com Q
bachelor’s degrees (see below) tend to focus
Full details can be found in JSP822
Foundation degrees
skills needed to succeed in HE. Although
Foundation degrees combine learning with
equivalent to A-levels, Access Diploma
work experience if you decide you want
courses are put together with people who
COURSE FINDERS Full- and part-time courses
to ‘earn while you learn’. The equivalent
haven’t studied for a while in mind – and
l
Unistats: http://unistats.direct.gov.uk/
of two-thirds of a full honours degree, this
most don’t require prior qualifications. Many
Compare official course data from
is a fully flexible qualification that allows
are suitable for study part-time or in the
universities and colleges, including
you to study full- or part-time to fit your
evenings, which adds to their flexibility. Most
student satisfaction and jobs after
lifestyle. On passing, you will gain 240
FE colleges in England and Wales offer such
study (you have to apply to the college
‘points’ towards a full degree course, and full
Access courses, and a number are available
or university direct)
account will be taken of any prior learning
through distance learning, so you should
l
UCAS: http://search.ucas.com
and experience you have accrued, too.
be able to find a course that is convenient
Search and apply for full-time courses
Recent developments, including university
for you, and that caters for your interests
by course name, provider name or
partnerships and funding, make these
or career ambitions. You can find out more
location
qualifications increasingly available to people
about Access to HE courses, browse courses
in the Services.
and read success stories on the Access to
l
nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/ advice/courses/Pages/default.aspx
Higher Education homepage at
Degree courses A bachelor’s degree is a course of HE
www.accesstohe.ac.uk
National Careers Service: https://
Search for full- and part-time courses
academic study leading to a qualification
How to learn
such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor
Qualifications can be earned through full-
Postgraduate study
of Science (BSc). They are sometimes known
time courses, part-time courses, day release,
l
as ‘ordinary’ or ‘first’ degrees. A bachelor’s
night school, open and distance learning
degree is designed to give learners a
(see the feature on page 42 of this issue).
thorough understanding of a subject, and
There will usually be more times when
Prospects: www.prospects.ac.uk/ postgraduate-courses
l
Postgraduate Search: www.postgraduatesearch.com
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
39
Q
YOUR ELC HIGHER-LEVEL STUDY
Master of his
own destiny
£250 PRIZE WINNER!
Keeping an eye to his future civilian career helped former Royal Signals Captain Mark Stanbury make some wise course choices. ‘I have two master’s degrees thanks to ELC and Army Education Services,’ he says. And he can now add another achievement to his list: he’s this quarter’s QUEST £250 prize winner!
F
ormer Captain, Mark Stanbury,
PRINCE2 Project Management. In addition,
41, served for 22 years (‘plus two
he attended his CTW at Tidworth, which
years’ boy service’) in the Royal
he says he ‘found extremely useful. I did
Signals, leaving in August 2016. Of his
every single “free” course or workshop
time in uniform, he says: ‘I loved my
that I could. Every one of them, no matter
military career – it was fantastic and I
how small, gave me something.’
had opportunities to do things that I am
did Advanced Managing Successful
I’d reached my 22 years, I simply wanted
Programmes and a CCNA (Cisco Certified
a new challenge and decided to pursue
Network Associate) course: ‘I did that at
a second career as a civilian. Joining the
Aldershot. The courses were done with
Army was the best decision I have ever
a view to gaining civilian accreditation
made; leaving at the time I did was the
for my future career. I also did setting
and I didn’t pursue an in-service degree
second best decision. My military career
up a business, interview techniques,
until I started to think about leaving
has given me a managerial skill set that
social media, housing briefs – all of which
the military.’ However, thanks to ELC,
is highly sought after in the civilian job
were really useful. Each course gave me
Mark achieved his MSc in Leadership
market and I found transition relatively
something more to think about and helped
and Management through Portsmouth
easy.’
me to decide what I wanted to do, as I
University while still serving. And, since
During his Service career, Mark
really didn’t know when I signed off.’
leaving, he’s also got an MBA under his
secured an impressive batch of civilian
When asked when and why he
belt, from Northampton University. ‘I
qualifications, very much geared to the
registered for ELC, Mark says, ‘I registered
found the Portsmouth University MSc
career he moved into post-Forces: an
when they were first introduced as I
extremely well run and I really got a lot
MSc in Leadership and Management,
knew what a fantastic opportunity it
out of it, both in terms of education and
Diploma in Business and Management,
was to have £6k towards my education
confidence. The qualifying criteria for
level 5 in Coaching and Mentoring and
and preparation for a second career. I
both courses were experience based: I had
spoke to the education officer about the
to have been a WO1 for two years to start
options open to me and was also given
the MSc and a Late Entry Officer to do my
presentations while on my Late Entry
MBA. I had to really commit to both of my
Officers Course. I sought out the advice
master’s degrees, but got unbelievable
I needed, but all of the education centre
development from them.
MY MILITARY CAREER HAS GIVEN ME A MANAGERIAL SKILL SET THAT IS HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER IN THE CIVILIAN JOB MARKET
40
During resettlement, Mark also
unbelievably grateful for. For me, once
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
staff were fantastic. ‘I didn’t already have a degree, because I had joined the Army at 16,
‘ELC offer an incredible opportunity to develop yourself and gain civilian accreditation. It takes a lot of effort to
I LOVE THE CHALLENGES OF MANAGING CIVILIANS – THEY ARE VERY DIFFERENT TO SOLDIERS
to have the same levels of commitment
intense as your job is at stake if you don’t
or motivation (and they definitely don’t
deliver.’
have the banter!). I find that I use all of
motivate yourself to do it and, once you
Asked what advice he would like
the management skills I gained in the
to give to those of you currently going
military on a daily basis, so would say
through resettlement and career
that management skills are directly
transition, Mark says, ‘Make the most of
transferable.
the CTP and the opportunities open to
‘I honestly never thought I would say
you. Use every one of your ELC – they
start it can be hard to find the time, but
this, but the biggest surprise I have had
are an unbelievable benefit, especially
when you finish and gain the qualifications
is how aggressive civilian life can be. I’ve
when used with the education courses
it will all be worthwhile!’
seen people get a lot more aggressively
that the military has set up to recognise
interrogated during meetings/
your military experience. I have two
was offered a job with Amazon and BT,
presentations etc. than I ever did in the
master’s degrees thanks to ELC and Army
both as operations managers. I found both
Army. When speaking to my peers who left
Education Services.’ Q
roles through the CTP website, but I ended
at the same time as me, their experience
up taking a job that an ex-military contact
has been the same – there are a lot of
set me up with.’
Alan Sugars out there!’
On leaving the Forces, Mark says: ‘I
Now working as a technical project
Pay is another aspect of the civilian
manager, a job he has been doing for
workplace Mark highlights: ‘I get paid
20 months now, Mark tells us: ‘I manage
around 20% more now, but I have to
end-to-end project delivery of complex IT
work hard for it. The pressure feels more
projects – completely unrelated to what
USE EVERY ONE OF YOUR ELC – THEY ARE AN UNBELIEVABLE BENEFIT
I did in the Army. I love the challenge
IT COULD BE YOU!
of having to learn the technologies I
Could you be our next quarterly £250 prize winner? To find out how to follow in Mark’s footsteps, turn to page 60 or visit www.questonline.co.uk/pages/the-questquestionnaire where you can find out more and download a copy of the QUEST Questionnaire. We look forward to hearing from you …
am responsible for delivering, and the challenges of managing civilians – they are very different to soldiers and don’t seem
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41
Q
YOUR ELC DISTANCE LEARNING
Keep your distance! ... and let the classroom come to you
ASK YOURSELF … l
Does the course lead to the qualification I want/need?
l
Will the course train me to the level required (by me or a potential
T
What’s involved?
can study when and where you
Courses delivered through distance
want. There’s no need to be
learning range from those taking as
l
Can I chat to previous learners?
physically on-campus to study or take
little as a few hours, to degrees and
l
Do I have to pass an entry test?
(some) training courses. And that, of
postgraduate qualifications that may
l
How much support is available? And in
course, is a considerable benefit to those
involve several years’ study. So-called
of you posted to far-flung locations,
‘short courses’ typically last days or
meaning that you can continue your
weeks as opposed to months or years.
distance, or is it necessary to attend
studies wherever in the world you may
Even those subjects with a strong
training sessions at specific times?
be. Nothing need come between you and your preparations for life in the civilian world. As well as ‘distance learning’, you may come across other, related, terms such as ‘open learning’ and ‘distance supported learning’.
practical element often have modules
To see a list of ODL QC-accredited learning providers, go to www.odlqc.org.uk and click on ‘Find an accredited provider’, bottom left.
Can I view the training materials first, before committing?
what form? l
l
Can the whole course be done at a
How much time will I need to set aside for study?
l
How much does the course cost?
Thanks to the
l
Will there be an exam at the end?
wide availability of
l
Is the provider inspected or accredited
useful technology
by an independent body? l
If I choose to study for a degree, do I have to complete it within three years?
these days, learning
In truth, all of these
materials and support
types of learning are
may be provided by either
rough guide, open learning includes
l
that are suited to distance learning.
likely to overlap, but, as a
42
employer)?
hanks to distance learning, you
one or a combination of the following means: books, phone, DVD,
l
Will I receive any special consideration for study problems as a result of operational duties?
l
Is the course available via learning tools that I will be able to access? (For
more face-to-face classes than distance
CD-ROM, email, the internet, podcasts
example, if you are in an environment
learning, while the word ‘supported’
and via mobile learning; the latter is
where IT availability is limited, you
usually indicates that there are tutors
where the student accesses course
should select a course where it is
and physical material available to help
content stored on a mobile device or
possible to use paper and telephone,
students.
through a wireless server. Some providers
at least for a limited period.)
March 2018 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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Use your Standard Learning Credits (SLC), Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) Individual Resettlement Training Cost (IRTC) Courses are delivered at our South West Academy located just 10 minutes from RNAS Yeovilton on the A303 and 25 mins from Junction 23 of the M5
Our most popular 5 Week City & Guilds Level 3 ELCAS funded course in Sustainable Property Maintenance/Renovation: This course offers you an array of practical skills in Bricklaying, Carpentry, Plastering, Plumbing and Tiling. You will learn how to maintain and convert properties, the environmental impact of buildings and the range of different methods used in sustainable construction. This course is fantastic for those looking to maintain or renovate domestic dwellings. We recommend that you book at least 10 weeks before to secure your course place, however do enquire for late availability. L3 Block Release - Use your ELC and IRTC to enrol on a City & Guilds L3 Diploma in Brick or Carpentry
L3/4 Flexible NVQs - already know what you are doing, obtain an NVQ to enable you to work on site as a qualified trades person or supervisor Short Skills Courses - Use your IRTC/SLC’s to gain skills in Bricklaying, Carpentry, Plastering, Plumbing, Tiling, or Level 1 Health & Safety/CSCS training, CITB SSSTS or SMSTS qualifications
“Fantastic 5 weeks, don’t look anywhere else for skills training. I’m ready to tackle my house renovation ” Army - Jan 2018 For advice and guidance speak to our dedicated Resettlement Co-ordinator Rache Allen Call: 01458 274043 or Email: forces@train4all.co.uk or visit Web: www.train4all.co.uk
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
43
Q
YOUR ELC DISTANCE LEARNING
offer course elements via the iTunes
depth later), or you might be looking to
and learning centres with tutor support,
Store, which can be downloaded free of
focus on something very specific – such as
where students can undertake online
charge. Many courses make extensive
the entrance examinations of a particular
learning, and that use ICT systems to
use of the internet. Others involve tutor
professional body.
enable users to access learning.
groups, which may meet regularly,
Both higher education (HE) and
or ‘summer camps’ of a few weeks’
further education (FE) courses can
direct from the ‘horse’s mouth’
duration to provide classroom education
be taken via distance learning. The
(somebody who has first-hand experience
that complements regular, directed
difference between these is not always
of a course or a training provider),
coursework at a distance.
clear-cut though, and in some cases
written prospectuses and, of course, the
(e.g. foundation degrees), both types
internet. The website of the Open and
are involved. Many qualifications are
Distance Learning Quality Council (ODL
The great thing about distance learning –
modular; this means that you complete
QC) is particularly helpful (again see ‘Key
especially for those, like you, in the Armed
them in sections (modules), often of
contacts’).
Forces – is that it puts you in control of
your own choosing, and credits gained
your education. Once you have chosen
from a selection of such courses can be
and enrolled on your course (see below),
added together to ‘add up’ to degrees and
Who are the learning providers?
you are free to study when, where – and,
other HE qualifications. It is not always
Many learning providers are neither HE
these days, how – you choose, so you can
necessary to have an undergraduate
nor FE institutions, although they may
fit your education around your current
degree to gain a master’s; neither is it
have links of varying strengths with
work and/or family commitments. It’s
necessary to have one in order to achieve
one or more colleges or universities.
entirely up to you.
many professional qualifications.
Many companies run large training
At your convenience
And, of course, in these days of laptops,
Increasingly, Service people like you
departments, and there are also many
notebooks, tablets and mobile learning,
are taking distance learning modules
commercial organisations that provide
you can set up and study at a location of
as part of the training that contributes
training to paying clients. Much of the
your choice – home or work, at a cafe, even
to career progression. So, you could
training such providers deliver is of
while travelling. Importantly, too, you can
be studying with a view to gaining
excellent quality and targeted carefully
work at your own pace – there are no term
qualifications that will help you while in
at the needs of civilian employers in a
times to be rigidly stuck to (although you
the Forces or when you leave, or just for
specific market sector. Many commercial
may have to sit exams, which may take
personal interest – out of enthusiasm for a
businesses offering training use the
place only at specific times).
particular subject.
premises of academic institutions to
To sum up, distance study enables you
But how do you know who is a good
deliver courses, and may have contracts
take responsibility for your own learning.
provider and who is not? And exactly
with employment agencies to help their
However, although you will be in control,
which course do you need? All this choice
students find work.
a good provider will offer support – so you
can prove confusing! In the accompanying
will certainly not be alone, left completely
‘Ask yourself …’ panel, there is a checklist
some of the bigger distance learning
to your own devices, but will have back-up
that should help you.
organisations, however – as mentioned
and assistance as and when you require it.
You are likely to have heard of
above – there are many other providers
There are also likely to be self-checks and
Finding out more
interim tests to help ensure that you are
Service education and training staff,
of courses, some with discounts for
on target, and tutor-marked assessments
both within your unit and specialists, can
Service people (ask your education
to provide valuable feedback, as well as a
often provide the best advice about
telephone helpline to call or someone to
what you might want and what
email for advice if you get stuck.
it is actually possible for you to
How do I choose a course and provider?
achieve. They can also provide you with information about the funding available to support your studies, and
out there too, also offering a wide range
Q
and training adviser for further information). Q
KEY CONTACTS
Although necessarily influenced by
recommend the subjects that you should
demand from learners, there are loads
be encouraged to pursue – particularly
0800 101 901
of courses available in distance learning
with a view to a second career when
www.learndirect.co.uk
form. And because the choice of provider
leaving the Services. Increasing numbers
@learndirect
is huge, too, you are more than likely to
of Forces learning and education centres
be able to track down the course you
and personal learning advisers also have
Open and Distance Learning Quality
are looking for. This may be something
access to e-learning opportunities.
Council (ODL QC)
that will give you a general grounding
44
Other information sources include
Information about courses is also
or background in a particular subject or
available from learndirect (see ‘Key
area (that you may go on to study in more
contacts’). It, too, runs its own courses
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
learndirect
020 8658 8337 www.odlqc.org.uk
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
In a property or construction-related role in the Armed Forces? Why not study a Built Environment degree programme with UCEM? UCEM is a leading, supported online provider of accessible, flexible and cost-effective education producing leading talent for a better Built Environment.
“Flexibility and support was key for me as being in the Army I get deployed regularly… During these deployments I could not have wished for better support from the tutors and support staff.”
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19/12/2017 16:39
Flexible programmes for busy military personnel Build on your existing knowledge and skills to help you perform at higher management levels in the Service or help improve your employment prospects when joining civilian life. We offer the following courses: • BA (Hons) Organisational Capability Development • BA (Hons) Security Consultancy • MSc Organisational Resilience Course entry requirements vary for each course and we offer a flexible learning programme to fit around your professional commitments. For more details on each course, please visit bucks.ac.uk or contact advice@bucks.ac.uk, 0330 123 2023.
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
45
Q
YOUR ELC QUALIFICATIONS TO FURTHER YOUR SERVICE CAREER
Boost your prospects while serving How your ELC can benefit both you and your Service
A
s noted elsewhere in this
include accountancy and management
publication, the main purpose
qualifications, or courses related to
of ELC is to encourage serving
health and safety, and facilities or project
personnel to pursue higher-level learning
management. Depending on your Service
that benefits both the learner and the
role, you could find yourself in a position to
Armed Forces. This is to comply with
embark on a range of studies that will turn
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) rules,
out to have a very useful crossover into
which state that any money provided for
the civilian workplace when the time comes
your personal development has to be of
for you to make the transition.
immediate benefit to both the Armed
For example, thinking of IT training
Forces and the individual – if not, the
as an example, the Tech Partnership (a
TAX EXEMPTION MEASURES FOR THOSE WHO ARE NO LONGER SERVING
MoD would be liable for tax! (See the
network of employers working to creating
Under the ELC scheme, most courses
accompanying box for more tax-related
skills for the UK’s digital economy) has
of study undertaken by individuals still
information.)
been involved in putting together a
serving are exempt from taxation, either
The best of both worlds is offered by
matrix of eligible higher-level vendor IT
as income or as a benefit in kind, if they
those courses that will benefit your own
qualifications, which in these high-tech
can be justified as ‘work related’. In
career and promotion prospects in the
times will prove as useful to you on leaving
order for Service leavers to benefit fully,
Services – and ultimately help you find
as they are while you remain in Service.
too, HMRC and MoD worked together to
employment on leaving – as well as offering
Similar work has taken place with Summit
reach an agreement on tax exemption.
a benefit to the Service while you remain
Skills with regard to building services
This means that the Service leaver (or
in uniform.
engineering-related courses. A great many
their surviving spouse, civil partner or
other areas are likely to serve you well in
eligible partner, where appropriate) will
that your Service role might require,
future, too – not forgetting the benefit to
not be required to pay income tax on
but that are also highly likely to prove
your Service branch now, of course! Q
payments received under the ELC and
Some of the areas of education
useful once you leave the Forces, could
FEHE schemes. This allows them to draw maximum benefit from the schemes.at least for a limited period.
46
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
Insight into the UK Surveillance Industry As the leading provider of covert surveillance and investigations, The Surveillance Group would like to offer military personnel the opportunity to attend a free Insight Day, to discover more about the surveillance industry. Upcoming Dates in 2018:
23rd March, 20th April, 25th May
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questonline.co.uk l March 2018
47
Q
YOUR ELC ON COURSE: CLOSE PROTECTION
Close call! The various sectors of the security industry offer a huge range of employment opportunities – none more so than close protection. Could CP be your calling?
W
item needs to ensure that it is secure and returned safely afterwards. This type of role can range from half a day to several consecutive days’ work.
hile close protection (CP) work
Roles and requirements
Lifestyle management
has traditionally been associated
Bodyguarding, private security detail (PSD),
Lifestyle management companies offer busy
with reducing risk to an individual
executive protection, residence security
people a service that meets their individual
or family who are considered to be under
team and personal protection officers are
needs: from people who may just need an
threat of attack or kidnap, the CP role
just some of the terms associated with
extra pair of hands in their daily business
can also extend to many other tasks, as
the CP role, but the range of different
activities, to more permanent lifestyle
discussed in detail in this feature.
opportunities available go way beyond
support, security and concierge services.
Depending on the level of risk, a CP team
these. We take a look at just some of the
Some business people travel extensively in
can vary in size from one or two members
many and varied options here …
their work and personal lives, and have little
to a fully equipped team who can provide
48
is on loan. The company that owns the
time themselves. Well-trained CPOs with
residential/hotel security, security advance
Asset protection
good organisational and negotiation skills
parties (SAP) and protection during moves
An asset could be anything from a high-
can alleviate many minor burdens, leaving
by vehicle or on foot. It is important that
value necklace to an aircraft, or even a
business people to concentrate on the
the team leader or operator can assess the
horse! Close protection operatives (CPOs)
important things.
risk and be able to recommend the required
are often used to protect high-value items
level of security, commensurate with the
such as jewellery, or the person wearing
professionals with good communication
perceived threat.
the jewellery – for example, in the case of
and interpersonal skills who are
a photo shoot where a piece of jewellery
presentable and used to solving everyday
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
Opportunities exist for well-trained
problems. For some clients, personal
management and/or supervisory roles,
months based on a six-day week, which
security and safety when travelling abroad
additional qualifications, such as project
provides excellent income and stability, not
is often their last thought, as their primary
management, may enhance an individual’s
to mention excellent experience to add to
concern is the management of the travel
employability. Some with a CP background
their CV.
and transport arrangements.
have gone on to work for overseas government agencies managing teams
Surveillance
trained CP personnel, and go hand in hand
of court security officers, and to provide
While being a qualified and/or experienced
with personal security needs. In short,
realistic training in legislation and conflict
CPO does not mean you are a trained
many people are not looking for a CPO,
management, acting as technical advisers
surveillance operator, many companies
but a concierge or personal assistant.
to individuals working with CCTV and access
will look to trained CP individuals to
However, it is highly advantageous if this
systems, and running practical exercises
provide aspects of or join surveillance
person can also take care of their security
in threat and surveillance awareness.
teams. Although these roles often go to
and safety needs at the same time without
Furthermore, CPOs have also been involved
those with specific training and experience
them appearing to have a protection
as advisers in the security design of
working in surveillance, opportunities to
officer. Remember, you might not be
buildings, structure and strategy.
work in surveillance and investigative roles
These matters are second nature to
employed as a security operator, but you
cannot be ruled out. By gaining additional
may be expected to take on the role of
Expedition security/safety
qualifications in surveillance and/or
one as well as that of a PA, concierge,
There are various reasons for expeditions,
professional investigations, an individual
chauffeur, etc. Being a qualified CPO can
ranging from media crews and television
will be able to look at other employment
give that extra added value to someone
companies through to oil expeditionary
openings.
who initially may not have given personal
search teams. Some multinational retail
security a second thought.
organisations travel around the world
Management
looking for exclusive products for their
Some CPOs go on to more managerial
Household management
outlets, which can take representatives
roles within security, their qualification in
Many companies offer complete household
to more remote, hostile and hazardous
CP proving attractive to employers who,
management services, providing everything
environments as part of their work
although not specifically looking for a CPO,
from chauffeurs and gardeners to security
activities, prompting a need for a certain
recognise that the skills and knowledge
and butler services. Approaching these
level of security. Not all roles will involve
that come with this level of training are
companies with a good, diverse CV, showing
large-scale teams and, depending on risk
invaluable.
a range of skills, can open up a range of
level, the job could be undertaken by either
different opportunities for CP trained
an individual or small team.
personnel. It may lead to a position as
Other roles Other more unusual roles include working
personal safety and security manager,
Media protection
for the NHS providing protective security to
or even as a member of a permanent or
Media crews often have a level of security
those with mental health-related disorders or
temporary residential security team.
both for their own protection and the
learning difficulties, whereby operators act
protection of the high-value equipment
as a protection officer in a discreet manner
Security chauffeuring
they carry, which can be worth tens of
in order to safeguard individuals from harm
Chauffeuring companies, like many other
thousands of pounds. Ranging from fly-on-
while going about their daily business.
businesses, have recognised a need to
the-wall documentaries and news crews to
expand their services. In a growing market,
major sporting events, these roles can see
Skill up while serving
many now offer security chauffeuring
operators employed on short- or long-term
The CPOs most in demand are generally
coupled with a personal protection service,
contracts around the UK and the world
those from a Special Forces or military
sometimes referred to as the individual
in a multitude of potentially hazardous
background where experience has been
bodyguard (IBG). Gaining advanced
environments. In addition, operators may
gained over a number of years. As well as
driving qualifications, such as RoSPA’s
also (depending on their level of training
those contracts that require operators to
Occupational Advanced Driving and
and skill) be required to provide an element
carry firearms, overseas contracts in the
Security and Protective Advanced Driving,
of medical support and liaison.
more high-risk countries generally require
can open another route to employment for CPOs in both hostile and executive markets.
operators to have local knowledge and the
Residential security
ability to operate on their own. It is possible
Many companies employ security guards to
for someone without this background to
Venue-based security
protect property and premises if they are
progress to this level, but they will need
Because of the diverse environments
vacant, however those individuals with a CP
to establish their reputation as part of a
CPOs need to be capable of working in,
licence are more attractive to employers.
team in the UK, often on a more mundane
opportunities can open up within sporting
Some roles have seen newly trained CPOs
contract, but where they can prove their
venues, large hotels and even national
earn upwards of £150–£200 per day. Some
skills, reliability and professionalism. It is
infrastructure. Linked with security
have retained a long-term contract for 18
generally during such contracts that the
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
49
Q
YOUR ELC ON COURSE: CLOSE PROTECTION
opportunity to network can lead to more interesting tasks.
Get qualified! An SIA CP licence is required for those ‘guarding one or more individuals against assault or against injuries that might be suffered in consequence of the unlawful conduct of others. This applies if your services are supplied for the purposes of or in connection with any contract to a consumer.’ Licensing will include a criminal records check; operating without the correct licence is a criminal offence. You can find full details of licence types, and licensable roles and activities (including CP) on the SIA website: www.sia. homeoffice.gov.uk This is the best source
and Certificate for Deliverers of Conflict
relatively low-risk tasks in the UK or
of in-depth and up-to-date information on
Management. All of these will go towards
in more benign environments. It is
the qualifications, licensing and training
promoting you as a highly skilled, diverse
therefore important to consider course
required to work in this industry.
and employable security professional,
content carefully before spending hard-
enabling you to demonstrate to potential
earned money, and to seek advice on the
past the perceived impression of simply
employers that you have more than an
training that will suit your background
providing protection from attackers, with
SIA licence, have invested in yourself and
and expectations. There are also online
many roles now looking for a range of
developed beyond the general baseline of
networking and forum sites available via
additional qualifications and experience
industry requirements.
which you can seek advice from others
These days, the role of CPO extends
a close protection grounding can bring.
Choosing a course
World: www.closeprotectionworld.com
and safety, enhanced medical qualifications
For anyone wishing to enter the industry,
There are many courses on offer that will
such as the Medicine in Remote Areas
the quality of the instructors and the
give you directly applicable training; there
(MiRA), which is endorsed by the Royal
training they deliver is important.
are also courses that give you invaluable
College of Surgeons, and the Responding to
Reputation is everything in the CP industry
background/supporting information and
Emergency Medical Incidents and Trauma
and being trained by a recognised expert
skills, which will be viewed by potential
(REMIT) will make you more attractive to
helps students. However, the downside
employers as worthy knowledge in this area.
employers and the client.
of this is that reputable trainers will not
l
Consider enhancing your skills and
Short (one day to two weeks) courses
automatically pass everyone who attends
in, e.g., health and safety, fire risk
knowledge in other areas too, such
a course – something that should be
assessment, fire safety, search training,
as project management (PRINCE2 or
considered before paying for expensive
physical intervention, substance
equivalent), risk management or even
courses.
awareness, handcuffing, survival
training qualifications, such as the new level 3 Award in Education & Training
TRANSLATE YOUR SKILLS Threat assessment, forward planning and anticipation of the unexpected are important aspects of all planning, and administration and logistics are among the most critical aspects of the task once the aim has been established. The principles of prior preparation and planning practised in the military provide a sound background for all CP tasks. The ability to communicate easily with the client, sound general knowledge and an awareness of current affairs are invaluable assets, as is a quiet sense of humour.
50
in the sector, an example of which is CP
Gaining additional qualifications in health
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
It is also important to consider the
training, hostile environment awareness
course content. A good example of this is
training, travel awareness and defence
whether firearms training is necessary or
techniques, detecting deceit, and
not. In the majority of CP tasks, firearms
understanding stewarding at spectator
will not be carried and there are very
events, will give you a good background
few countries that allow the carriage of
knowledge before you progress to
firearms by non-military/police personnel.
more in-depth and specific training.
Generally, only men and women with
Alternatively, these courses can be
operational experience of weapon handling
seen as professional development
will be engaged on a contract where the
for an employment role you already
use of a weapon might be necessary to
hold. Some courses, such as health
protect a client. If the carriage of firearms
and safety, can be undertaken online,
is necessary, even the more experienced
and may require just a few hours of
operators will require refresher training
study (including an assessment of your
with the weapon they’ll carry before an
understanding). Costs can vary, as many
operational deployment.
of the courses are privately run, but can
The majority of work that a newly qualified CP operator can expect is
start from about £50. l
Next comes a range of relatively short
part-time further education courses,
Look around and compare what the
application, can open many doors. Many
giving you a recognised qualification,
different courses have to offer. Most
CPOs will openly state that having this
which would then allow you to progress
importantly, seek advice from anyone you
background has developed them personally,
to a higher level of study. FE courses
know who is already working in the sector
and the qualities and varied opportunities
include, for example, an NVQ level 2
and find out who are the most respected
that come with it have made them more
in Spectator Safety, which would take
training providers. Try to attend security
employable. It has led to employment with
between 8 and 12 months to complete,
seminars and briefings where you can meet
government departments, commercial
or an NVQ level 3 in providing security,
others already working in the sector and
companies and individuals in a variety of
emergency and alarm systems, which
the companies who are likely to employ or
roles, such as risk management, threat
could take between six months and
subcontract to you when you have qualified.
awareness, crisis management, design
two years. Many of these courses have
l
Use your ELC
you prefer, study them intensively, full-
Under the ELC scheme, a wide range of
and teams providing security, to name but
time, over a period of four or five weeks.
training can be taken, provided it is offered
a few.
For some courses at this level, you may
by an approved provider listed on the ELC
be expected to have undertaken a First
website at www.enhancedlearningcredits.
it provides self-confidence, diplomacy
Aid at Work course and/or have an SIA
com and is at level 3 or above. For full
and interpersonal skills, improves
licence (see earlier). Costs typically start
details of how to make the most of your
organisational and planning abilities, and
at around £250.
ELC, refer to our in-depth features on pages
instils an ability to see the bigger picture
Apprenticeships are growing in
26–46.
and understand strategic viewpoints. In
this sector and may typically cover
l
management and oversight of individuals
Furthermore, on a personal level
addition, experienced CPOs will openly state
areas such as static guarding, patrol
Finding employment
guarding, reception duties, retail
Most CP operators are self-employed and
with people on different levels, from those
security and operating/studying CCTV.
contracted to security and risk management
lower down in the security industry to the
Apprenticeships are also likely to
companies. Commercial contracts can
movers, shakers and decision-makers high
incorporate how to handle key data,
run from days to months, and are agreed
up, not afraid to offer well-thought-out and
such as hard-copy documents, and
between the client and the security
structured answers or acting as that ‘voice
how to keep accurate records. As a
company. The CP operator will sign his own
of reason’ and sense at all levels. Finally,
workplace apprentice, you are likely
contract with the company. Networking
CPOs are some of the few who are able to
to find it easier to progress to a much
is vital, and an individual’s reputation for
fill the gap between the operational aspects
higher (perhaps managerial) role within
reliability and experience are critical to
the company.
his or her chance of getting further
Moving further towards higher
work and progressing to the more
education, BTEC level 4 courses begin
lucrative, longer-term contracts.
to encompass some of the management
Local knowledge, both for tasks in the
roles within the sector. For example,
UK and overseas, is essential for many
a BTEC in Security Management is
contracts, where orientation and familiarity
likely to provide a comprehensive
is necessary.
insight into topics such as the role of
l
consultancy, project management,
flexible study options, so you could, if
that they are able to relate to and liaise
Q
Very few training providers can
the manager, current/key legislation,
guarantee work in the CP sector because
security technology, crime management
the industry simply isn’t geared to
and prevention, and instigating crime
permanent payroll employment, and even
reduction initiatives. A course like this
subcontract work can be ‘feast or famine’.
would typically cost around £2,000 and
It is also difficult to assess the ability of an
could be undertaken intensively over
individual until they have been seen and
several days of full-time study.
tested on a course. So beware of companies
A foundation degree within a related
that promise too much and be wary of
security/close protection topic (e.g.
those that offer too little. There is currently
Security Risk Management) may count
a shortage of female CP operatives, who
towards a BA or master’s. That said, if
are in particular demand for guarding
you can prove that you gained relevant
female principals, family members and
experience in the military, you may be
children, especially in some cultures and
able to move straight on to studying
environments.
at master’s level. It’s always worth checking and making your Service
In conclusion …
experience explicit when you are
A CP qualification, and subsequent good
seeking courses.
practice and valuable experience in its
of the industry and the theoretical professionals. Q
KEY CONTACTS
British Security Industry Association 0845 389 3889 info@bsia.co.uk www.bsia.co.uk @thebsia 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 2018
51
Q
YOUR ELC ON COURSE: SPORT AND FITNESS
Get to grips with fitness! What’s involved? Together, sport and fitness make up one
relevant Service training and
of the UK’s largest employment sectors, as
experience, but you must be prepared
well as one of the fastest-growing sectors
to take additional courses or undergo
in the UK economy, focusing on the leading
assessment to reach official standards.
and supervision of sport, exercise and
Indeed, when many people think of
physical activity. The UK has thousands of
ex-Services personnel going into the
sport and fitness clubs, leisure centres and
fitness business, military PT-based
gyms for public use, and there is increasing
organisations (e.g. ‘boot camps’) are
demand for skilled exercise professionals
the first to spring to mind, with their
to fill the growing number of employment
outdoor fitness classes run by serving
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
52
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 only
is growing formal recognition for military
civilian qualifications, so if you’re an
qualifications by civilian authorities
adventurous training instructor, you
(courses on coaching and officiating, for
will have to ensure you meet civilian
example, can lead to recognised civilian
standards if you wish to continue in this
qualifications).
area on leaving the Services.
March 2018 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!
distance learning, so they are suitable for
Many different qualifications help with
those already in employment. Higher national
a career in sport and fitness. Technical
diplomas (HNDs) and certificates (HNCs)
ability is critical, as are skills like effective
also prepare people for management jobs,
communication, customer care, teamwork
although expertise in a particular sport or
and interpersonal flair.
area of fitness is also required.
Example courses: sport
massively wide ranging for those with a keen
Some FE colleges offer specialist
interest, so we focus on just a tiny sample of
qualifications, and sports coach UK works
the courses available here.
with the various sport NGBs to provide
l
Other opportunities in this work area are
if you come from a background of
sports coaches.
competitive sport) is an attractive and
There are sport National and Scottish
flexible option for freelance working
Vocational Qualifications (N/SVQs) at levels
and/or developing into another side of
1–3. For the most up-to-date information on
the sport business. A sports massage
these, contact SkillsActive direct (see ‘Key
qualification for someone with absolutely
contacts’). Individuals are assessed in a
no experience can be achieved by taking
number of competencies in the workplace,
a combined course in holistic and sports
with most qualifications requiring six
massage, which will incorporate the
mandatory units and four optional ones. To
anatomy and physiology tuition you
gain them, individuals will need a portfolio
require. Such a course can be taken as a
of skills and responsibilities. Many people
fast-track option over 14 weekends plus
start by gaining a qualification like an NGB
part-time study during a 12-month period,
coaching or fitness instruction award, and
as well as achieving 220 hours of massage
then work to gain the necessary experience.
practice outside of the classroom. Prices
Many sport and recreation-related Thanks to Veterans' Gateway, ex-soldier Jel Bearder is now enjoying a new career with BMF – read his story on page 56
Becoming a sports masseur (particularly
personal development programmes for all
can be in excess of £3,500, and will result
foundation, graduate and postgraduate
in a BTEC Professional Diploma (level
degrees allow people to teach PE in schools.
5) in, for example, Sports Massage and
Some are part-time or taken through
Sports Treatments.
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 2018
53
Q
YOUR ELC ON COURSE: SPORT AND FITNESS YOU MUST BE PREPARED TO TAKE ADDITIONAL COURSES OR UNDERGO ASSESSMENT TO REACH OFFICIAL STANDARDS
Finding employment Fitness instructing
A common way to enter the health and fitness sector is as a fitness instructor. Although there are no formal academic requirements for this, a recognised fitness instructor qualification is usually required and the minimum age to practise l
l
A course in sports nutrition could add
If you already have some teaching
unsupervised is 18 years. Applicants to
a valuable practitioner string to your
experience within the fitness sector,
instructing courses require no formal
freelance bow, allowing you to combine
and are qualified as a level 2 Fitness
qualifications although it can be an
it with, say, coaching and massage.
Instructor or level 3 Yoga or Pilates
advantage to hold a first aid certificate.
There are plenty of self-paced home
Instructor, an exercise and disability
If you think you might like to enter the
study courses in this field (typically
qualification (e.g. level 3 Programming
industry in future, it is – as mentioned
you could complete one part-time in
and Supervising Exercise with Disabled
above – an advantage to register with
four to six months), costing from £350
Clients) could widen your employability
the Register of Exercise Professionals
upwards, and resulting in externally
by helping you to understand different
(REPs – see box). Fitness instructor work
validated and recognised national
fitness markets and the different
can cover a wide range of activities at a
awards.
barriers that some people need help
variety of levels, meaning there is also
At degree level, a BSc in Sport, Fitness
to overcome in order to maintain an
a range of opportunities available; in
and Coaching is a useful training avenue
appropriate level of fitness. Courses
addition, entry to roles at an older age is
if you wish to take on leadership roles
generally run over a three-day period,
not uncommon, which will be good news
within the sector or eventually further
with extra theoretical work away from
for some of our readers! A host of industry-
your career towards management or
the classroom, and can cost about
endorsed courses, vocational qualifications,
sports development roles. Such a course
£450.
apprenticeships and training schemes are
GP exercise referral schemes continue
available.
can even be taken via flexible part-time
l
study over a six-year period and is likely
to grow in the UK. Training to work
to cost around £2,500.
with medically referred clients can be undertaken in roughly five days, face to
Example courses: fitness
Sports coaching, teaching and instructing
face, for those already holding a level 2
Coaching may form part of a full-time
The aforementioned REPs is a system of
qualification and will cost around £600.
job role in the industry, like a sports
self-regulation for everyone involved with
As part of the qualification, you must
development officer or outdoor instructor.
exercise and fitness (again, see box). And,
also attain the level 3 Anatomy and
Coaches need an appropriate qualification
as with sport, courses available within the
Physiology theory paper, which can cost
from a sport NGB, and many of the personal
fitness industry are incredibly diverse.
around £100 and can be studied as an
qualities of the coach are ‘people skills’.
Again, we offer just a brief glimpse here.
e-learning option.
There is a growing trend within coaching
l
54
l
For those looking for a relatively quick
towards part-time or freelance employment.
entry point into work in this sector,
Use your ELC
fitness instructor training (there
Under the ELC scheme, a wide range of
within sports clubs or as a part-time session
are three accredited levels in total)
training can be taken, provided it is offered
coach in leisure centres. Many coaches work
can be completed in a handful of days
by an approved provider listed on the ELC
freelance for a number of organisations,
or two/three weekends, and costs
website at www.enhancedlearningcredits.
and most have other jobs as well.
approximately £650. This qualification
com and is at level 3 or above. For full
will allow you to, for instance, work
details of how to make the most of your
The outdoors
one-to-one with clients in a gym setting,
ELC, refer to our in-depth features on pages
There are many organisations providing
including planning an appropriate
26–46.
all age groups with a range of sporting,
Work is available as a voluntary coach
programme of training and supervising
physical and development activities, like
client progress.
walking, climbing, kayaking and caving, or
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
Q
just enjoying their surroundings. Instructors
bodies have sports development teams
must hold a recognised award from the
that provide sport and recreation on
relevant NGB. Expedition companies usually
an outreach basis, taking it into rural
have a small head office staff who organise
and urban communities. Experience
and market the activities, and a number of
in voluntary sports coaching and
freelance leaders and guides who manage
administration or strategic leisure
things in the field. Service experience is
management is relevant. Specific sports
020 7211 6000
relevant in this area, and it is common to
development qualifications and courses
enquiries@culture.gov.uk
start as a contracted expedition manager
exist at certificate and diploma levels;
www.gov.uk/government/organisations/
before joining a company in a regular
however, coaching awards are usually
department-for-culture-media-sport
capacity.
sufficient.
@DCMS
Sport, recreation and leisure centres
The sport and fitness sector is not
0330 004 0004
Sport, recreation and leisure centres
particularly well paid, starting with the
www.exerciseregister.org
catering for a wide range of indoor and
minimum wage. According to the latest
@REPsUK
outdoor sports exist throughout the UK.
available edition of SkillsActive’s Working
Employment varies from receptionists,
in Fitness Survey, the average basic salary
lifeguards, coaches/instructors, supervisors,
is £22,700 across all occupations working
0330 004 0005
booking managers and plant technicians
in full-time employment. However, this
www.skillsactive.com
to centre managers. Most people start in
varies widely according to factors such as
@SkillsActive
this area by obtaining coaching or lifeguard
location and type of work. Some examples
awards, and gain experience before moving
are:
into management.
l
full-time gym instructor £15,100
0113 274 4802
l
full-time personal trainer £22,500
Sports development
www.sportscoachuk.org
l
part-time sports coach £16,700
l
part-time exercise referral £18,100. Q
@sportscoachUK
Most local authorities and governing
KEY CONTACTS
Department for Culture Media & Sport
What can you earn?
Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs)
SkillsActive
sports coach UK
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 2018
55
Q Sporting chance YOUR ELC ON COURSE: SPORT AND FITNESS
How ex-soldier Jel Bearder made the leap to a new career in fitness – with the help of Veterans’ Gateway
They quickly put him in touch with Civvy Street, the RBL’s employment service, which helps ex-Service personnel make the transition to civilian life. Within a couple of weeks, Civvy Street confirmed that not only would it cover the costs of the level 1 NVQ but also the level 2. Fast forward to after he’d passed the NVQ and Jel found himself shadowing various BMF sessions in parks around London. He quickly went on to lead his first session in Finsbury Park and says: ‘I felt alive being outside after what had been a pretty rough time for me. I was starting to get my life back into some kind of reality thanks to The Royal British Legion and its fantastic Civvy Street service.’ Jel has been working for BMF for more than nine years now and is currently the park manager at four London events
F
as well as representing BMF at events ormer soldier Jel (Jeremy)
Cyprus and Canada. He had always loved
across the country and abroad. He says:
Bearder served in the Royal
sport, and represented his regiment
‘Leaving the Forces and then having to
Regiment of Artillery from 1986–
at football, rugby, tennis, cricket and
choose and find a new career can be a
athletics (junior Army discus champion
really challenging time. You need support
1990), and competed at swimming
around you and having experts on hand
(butterfly) within his unit. When he left
is vital. I can’t thank the RBL enough for
the Army he missed the comradeship he’d
its assistance in providing me with a new
enjoyed with his fellow soldiers.
career and helping me to build a new life.
91, in locations including the UK, Germany,
About Veterans’ Gateway Veterans’ Gateway is a first point of contact for Veterans, their families and carers who are in need of support. The service is delivered by a consortium comprising The Royal British Legion, Poppyscotland, Combat Stress, Connect Assist, the Ministry of Defence and SSAFA, the Armed Forces Charity. Veterans’ Gateway represents a pathway to a full list of services, from housing and recovery to mental health services, financial and employment advice. It aims to reduce confusion for Veterans seeking support within the military charity sector and to ensure it can signpost to the right service for any need a Veteran may present with. For more information, or if you are in need of support, call 0808 802 1212, text 81212 or visit www.veteransgateway. org.uk
56
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
Added to this, Jel’s relationship broke down in 2008. He left the family home and his two boys behind, and became
It’s given me a new direction and purpose, and I will be forever grateful.’ The Royal British Legion is just one
quite low. He realised he needed a decent
of the specialist employment referral
career and, as sport and competing had
partners that is working with the
been such a big part of his life, a friend
Veterans’ Gateway initiative not only to
suggested British Military Fitness (BMF).
help Service leavers transition out of the
On learning more about this
Armed Forces, but also those who are
organisation, he became very excited
looking to change careers and even start
about the potential to work for BMF, but
their own business. ‘The service Veterans’
found he would need to complete an
Gateway offers is invaluable for those
NVQ level 1 course before he could be
beginning or already on their journey to
considered as a trainer. Not in regular
a new career,’ says Jel. ‘Having done it
work at the time, the course fees were out
myself I’d say to any Veteran to use what
of his reach.
help is out there. It’s given me a direction
Shortly afterwards, and just by chance,
and purpose and, if 2018 is your year for
Jel was passing his local Royal British
finding a new path, get in touch to see if
Legion office, so he popped in for a chat.
there’s support available.’ Q
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YOUR ELC HIGHER-LEVEL STUDY: ACCESS DIPLOMAS
Get ahead … get AHED The Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma is designed for adults and is taken by people of all ages and backgrounds – it’s a nationally recognised qualification for people who left school with few qualifications and now want to go to higher education, with many looking to transition to a new career ‘The other students were all of
And almost all don’t think they’ll be able to
search by postcode or study mode (for
the same mind-set; they were
succeed, despite having successful careers.
example, distance learning or evenings).
there to change their career
Think about what you’d like to do next:
If you can, speak to staff at the course
pathways. There
l
Are you passionate about what you do
provider to find out more about the course.
now and want to progress further?
l
was a good atmosphere of
l
no national curriculum for the Diploma
mutual support,
expertise and passion through higher-
so there may be differences between
and to this day
level study?
courses in terms of what is taught –
I am still in
l
Are you bored with your current role
even courses with the same name.)
contact with
and want to do something completely
many of my
different?
(Online, in a classroom, a blend of
Do you have any hobbies or interests
online and classroom learning?)
classmates.’
l
Richard Deacon
you’d like to pursue, and use in a new
l
l
career?
How will you be expected to study?
What universities have their Access to HE graduates gone to?
Students learn the skills they need to help
Ian was a manager in a fast-food
them in their higher-level studies as well
restaurant. He also coached a junior
as getting subject knowledge to prepare
basketball team. He had always wanted to
l
When are the classes?
them for their chosen degree. Most people
go on to further study but life somehow
l
What help is available? (Study support,
are nervous when they start an Access to
got in his way. It was his hobby – coaching –
childcare, financial support …)
HE course, particularly if they haven’t been
that helped him recognise his real passion.
Once you have this information, think
in a classroom for some time. Access to
He left his job and enrolled on an Access
carefully about how you like to work.
HE tutors are aware of this and take it into
to HE course. After graduating in Physical
account, so you won’t be ‘thrown in at the
Education and Community Studies from the
deep end’. The course is challenging, but
University of Birmingham he fulfilled his
the purpose of the Diploma is to help you
dream to become a primary school teacher.
succeed. More than 330,000 of the mature
‘Once you’ve got
students who gained an Access to HE
through the Access
Diploma have gone on to university,
to HE course, you
changed their career or moved up the
find you can achieve
career ladder, and 93% of higher education
anything.’
leavers with an Access to HE Diploma were
Ian Webber
in employment or further study six months after they completed the course.
Your route to higher success
58
What topics will you study? (There is
Do you need to demonstrate your
Once you’ve decided what subject you’d like to study, find out where you can do it. Most students need to study close to where they live or work; others can travel
While some people are very clear about
to a course. You can search for Access to
what they want to do, others are unsure.
HE courses on our database, filtering your
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
l
What types of courses do their Access to HE graduates go on study?
Classroom based
Online or distance learning
like working in a team?
happy working alone?
prefer a support network?
self-motivated?
need to study close to home?
need to study odd hours?
Are you happiest working as part of a
An average QAA-recognised Access
Student loan details aren’t included on
team? If so, perhaps learning that involves
to HE Diploma costs around £3,350 (if
credit files. This means that, unless a bank,
some classroom activity is best for you. If
it is paid for with an Advanced Learner
credit card, loan or mortgage company asks,
you prefer to work alone, online learning
Loan). However, when you complete your
the loan isn’t included in the information on
could be better, although nowadays most
university studies the balance of your
your credit reference. It’s not like a loan, it’s
courses have some parts that are completed
Advanced Learner Loan will be cancelled.
more like a ‘graduate contribution contract’.
online.
(If you’re earning while you’re studying you
Because it’s paid through the income tax
will need to pay back the loan but, from
system, it doesn’t go on credit files and
want to do, look on the university and UCAS
April 2018, the amount you can earn before
you repay only when you earn more than
websites to help you work out what Access
payments start rises to £25,000.) For more
£25,000.
to HE Diploma would prepare you best.
information about Advanced Learner Loans
Once you have some information about the
visit the gov.uk website.
If you’re clear about the degree you
Access to HE Diploma, speak to someone
It is important to look carefully at your
Once you’ve got your funding in place you’re ready for that new start, you’re ready to enrol. (You might be interviewed to make
in the admissions department to check if it
funding options to ensure you make the best
would be accepted. If you don’t have GCSEs
choice for you. Access to HE providers, your
you should also check to see if they would
education officer or transition staff should
‘If you are thinking about Access
accept a functional skills qualification. You
be able to help you choose the best route.
to HE, don’t let what might be stop
might need to get GCSEs in maths and
sure the course is right for you.)
Martin Lewis (founder and chair of
you – let what could be drive you!
English before you start your Access to HE
Money Saving Expert) says don’t confuse
The course will provide all the skills
studies.
the cost with the price tag. You might have
you need to engage and be who you
to take out a student loan for your Access
really want to be.’
But doesn’t this all come at a cost?
to HE Diploma, and another for your higher education course, but you might not have
Alan Searle
Many people worry that they won’t be able
to repay it all. The balance of the Access
Find out more
to afford university. But you don’t need to
to HE part of your loan will be cancelled
For more information, sign up here for our
pay money before you start your course,
when you complete your HE studies. (And
email newsletter for Service Personnel, their
and tuition and living cost loans are not like
student loans are written off 30 years after
families and advisers: http://qaa.us3.list-
commercial loans.
graduation.)
manage.com/subscribe?u=005201c8e9f59d
If you live in England, you may also
ec787dc820f&id=de268c74ae
receive a childcare allowance grant that doesn’t need to be repaid. You can see if you
You may also find these websites helpful:
get help for childcare using the calculator on the gov.uk website. Many universities also offer funds to help with the cost of going to
Enrol
university.
• • • •
Believe in yourself Speak to the education officer Get GCSEs in English and maths Find a Diploma via the database – https://goo.gl/AKFfw8 • Funding option: PF-FE/HE or Advanced Learner Loan?
Many Service leavers are eligible for
l
ac.uk/Pages l
and degree, as long as the Diploma is in a subject leading to a degree and is done
immediately before your degree studies.
Access to HE (1 or 2 years)
search.aspx • • • •
Learn new skills Study with support Build a new network of friends Accept HE offer
? oan er L
After graduation
?
eme
sch
earn
• HE studies • Use Access to HE skills • Advanced Learner Loan cancelled on completion
Access
HE FE/
ed L
Graduation (3 years in HE)
to Higher Education
PF-
Adv anc
Advanced Learner Loans: www.gov.uk/ advanced-learner-loan
l
ELCAS: www.enhancedlearningcredits.
History of Access to HE and the role of QAA
credits (ELC or SLC) to pay for your course.
£
l
com Q
information. You may prefer to use learning
on the ELCAS website.
Diploma database: https://ava. accesstohe.ac.uk/SubSites/PublicSearch/
Your education officer will have more
Many Access to HE providers can be found
Real life stories: www.accesstohe.ac.uk/ Access/RealLife/Pages
l
the publicly funded FE and HE scheme. This would pay for your Access to HE Diploma
Access to HE website: www.accesstohe.
• Further study? • Graduate profession? • e.g. engineer, lawyer, medic, teacher – a world of choices
QAA regulates the Access to HE Diploma by licensing Access Validating Agencies (AVAs) to award the Access to HE Diploma. QAA manages the Diploma specification, which governs the structure of the qualification, and the licensing criteria that detail how AVAs must manage the qualification. The qualification was established in the 1970s and continues to be designed to increase participation in higher education by individuals who are under-represented. More than 250,000 Access to HE students have started university since 1999.
questonline.co.uk l March 2018
59
Q
YOUR ELC HELP AND ADVICE
Useful contacts
Need to know more? Here’s who can help …
F
or general enquiries about
Education and Resettlement Staff
RetResSO2or Civ: elc@detsa.co.uk
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
l
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:
RN: RN/RM Education and
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
In addition, advice on any aspect of the
Resettlement Information Officers
Regional Command (RC) – DII: RC-Pers-
ELC and FEHE schemes is available from:
(NRIOs) at RN/RM Learning Centres.
ETS-N-RetResSO2 or RC-Pers-ETS-S-
applications, not provide advice and
l
l
Mil:
People-TESRR-ResetOffice@mod.uk Q
WANT TO WIN £250?
Tell us your story. Feature in QUEST and be in with a chance of winning our quarterly cash prize! Here at QUEST we’re always keen to hear from our readers. Whether you’re still serving and have already amassed an impressive array of qualifications (and are perhaps still working on others), or you’ve already negotiated the resettlement process and are well into your new life – and work – in civvy street, why not be an inspiration to other QUEST readers and let us know about your experiences? Your own personal learning or resettlement story could feature in a future edition, helping others see just where their own skills and qualifications could take them.
60
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
And that’s not all – aside from the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping and inspiring those who are following in your footsteps, you could also get your hands on our quarterly £250 prize! Every three months we’ll select one reader’s success story as our lucky winner. So, help others and potentially help yourself! What are you waiting for? Visit www.questonline.co.uk/ pages/the-quest-questionnaire where you can find out more and download a copy of the QUEST QUESTIONNAIRE. We look forward to hearing from you …
Is technology your next career move? Find out with AWS re:Start training and job placements in the UK
It’s so embedded in our lives that we hardly even notice it’s there half the time
What’s more, specialist recruitment firm Experis recently joined the programme
but the booming technology sector offers great job opportunities as well as great
to provide employability advice for AWS re:Start military participants. Experis is
gadgets. And it’s never been easier to give it a try, thanks to AWS re:Start, a free
also helping graduates to get experience working at prominent UK organisations,
IT training, mentoring and job placement programme aimed at UK armed forces
on the way to a long-term career as an Experis Employed Consultant. Graduates
services leavers, veterans, reservists and their spouses.
working as Experis Employed Consultants receive a further two years of digital training, tailored to the individual’s specific careers goals.
Launched last January, the programme aims to equip participants with fundamental knowledge and skills to design, develop and implement cloud
Since the launch of AWS re:Start last year, numerous participants have completed
technologies. These skills are in increasing demand as more and more companies
the training programme, successfully transitioning into a career in technology.
move their applications, data centres and even entire IT operations to the cloud.
Stephen Davies, one of AWS re:Start’s most recent recruits is currently on a three-
Working closely with the Ministry of Defence, QA Consulting, Experis and Sage,
month placement as a cloud administrator with leading cloud provider Rackspace.
the training and job placement programme aims to prepare people for these roles.
Stephen served in the Royal Air Force for 18 years as a Logistics Driver before an injury led to a medical discharge. After discovering AWS re:Start at the Newark
The AWS re:Start programme is a full-time four-week bespoke training course
Career Fair, Stephen signed up for the four-week course, where he was first put in
designed to accommodate all levels of experience, so even those with no
contact with Rackspace during a morning of employment presentations.
previous technical knowledge can sign up. The modules are curated by AWS in collaboration with IT training firm and AWS Authorised Training Partner (ATP) QA
AWS re:Start is the ideal way to jumpstart a career in tech. Not only does it offer
Consulting, which delivers the training course.
an introduction to the world of IT and cloud computing, but it also enables trainees to learn much sought after AWS skills that can help them secure full-time roles or
Technical hands-on training classes include an introduction to Enterprise
even build their own start-up company. And most importantly, the programme is
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open to people from any background, no matter what their level of education or
Students will then learn about vital concepts including relational databases,
technical experience is. For those considering signing up for the programme, AWS
DevOps technologies and application programming interfaces (APIs), as well
is running a taster day on March 28 at its head office in Shoreditch, East London.
as getting an introduction to the inner workings of the JavaScript programming
For more information and to register visit, www.ctp.org.uk
language. “I think the AWS re:Start programme is an unparalleled opportunity for service Participants will also gain an in-depth knowledge of cloud computing and AWS
leavers,” says Ross Boyd MBE, Head of Partnerships at Virgin Money. “When I
core services, learning how to navigate the AWS console and securely set up
left the military I didn’t know what I wanted to do, nor did I understand what an
new cloud infrastructures. Finally, the students create and deploy a JavaScript
exciting, challenging and rewarding industry the digital space was. The military
application to AWS at the end of this four-week course. This project will be
equips you with a huge array of transferable skills and AWS re:Start is the perfect
available for employers to view via GitHub and will encompass all the technologies
introduction to this industry. I can say with all honesty that I wish I had this
the participants learn on the programme.
education as I kicked off my career at Virgin Money. Of all my friends and contacts I have that have made the transition in to a civilian work environment, none of
At the end of the four-week course, participants will have the opportunity to
them have received such a comprehensive and empowering education, for such a
apply for work placements and go through a formal interview process with AWS
‘hot’ market.”
customers and APN partners including major firms such as KPMG, Centrica,
AWS RE:START TASTER DAY
Rackspace and Virgin Money. Those who complete the programme will be eligible
For more information and details on
for a variety of technical roles with these companies, including everything from first
how to apply, visit:
line helpdesk support to cloud engineer.
aws-restart.com
AWS re:Start partner Sage provides a military mentor training programme for these employers to actively support the graduates that have been matched to a work placement, through their transition into the workplace.
Q Plan ahead! Courses 4 Forces Spring final 2015_C4F 16/03/2015 11:25 Page 52
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What is Personal Development (PD)?
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PD is about self-improvement and satisfaction. It is open to everyone and can be done for one or many of the following reasons: >> to improve knowledge for personal interest >> to be introduced to new ideas or skills >> to broaden horizons
>> to enhance in-Service career prospects >> to gain qualifications >> to prepare for a second career
PD wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just happen. You must take steps to find out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available and decide what you want to do. Use the flow chart below as a guide
Other sources of information include:
Individual talks to line manager about developing a realistic plan and maintaining a PD record (PDR)
A PDâ&#x20AC;&#x2C6; Route Map
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
Individual decides: >> subject to be studied and qualification (if any) >> level of study (basic/key skills, GCSE, S/NVQ, A-level, degree, postgraduate) >> mode of study (e.g. short courses, distance learning)
unit education or training officer in-Service publications in-Service education centre local library or civilian college the internet Quest magazine friends and family Quest website: questonline.co.uk
Q
In-Service
Local colleges or training providers
Distance/ open learning
eLearning â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Defence Learning Environment (DLE)
PD can mean anything from career courses to sports and adventurous training courses. See Q for other options for Service personnel
A range of further education (16+) and higher education (degree and above) courses are available. Ask your education/training officer or local college/library for a brochure
College attendance is not necessarily required. Flexible study can be undertaken by correspondence, or using the internet and tutorial support is usually available
There is now a huge amount of high-quality learning material freely available online to Armed Forces and Civil Service personnel, accessible either over the World Wide Web or via the Defence Intranet. The Defence Learning Environment (DLE) is the MODâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s central distance learning resource, providing â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;one stopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; access to a wide range of eLearning, courses, wikis, forums and other materials across a large number of key topics including: IT skills including ECDL, core competencies, health and safety, languages and business skills. Readily available via your Defence Gateway account. Visit http://www.da.mod.uk/ Courses/Online-E-Learning/DLE or www.defencegateway.mod.uk
Grants and funding are available for most forms of PD. See â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Sources of advice and financeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for details. Course complete? Look for your next learning!
Distance Learning
Q
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 42.
62
March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
College Courses
Q
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)
Q
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
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We know that your attitude and behaviours will be perfect for our business in addition we need you:• To be in possession of a Full UK Driving License. • Be physically fit and good with your hands as these roles can be physically demanding, involve bending, lifting and manual handling so a basic level of fitness is important to be able to conduct the job efficiently. • To respect the rules laid down for the safe operation of works ensuring you can follow process and comply with elements of work, including the wearing of PPE and breathing apparatus if required (this will require wearers to be clean shaven). • Be prepared for outdoor working conditions which may be wet and dirty, • To understand that working hours and travel are not always predictable as sometimes things can go wrong, therefore you need to be adaptable and flexible, with the understanding that overtime working will be required. Our Application process In order to assess suitability for this programme we need you to send your CV to resourcing@morrisonus.com quoting reference number MUS/V/219/NCO1. Once we receive your application we will shortlist candidates for our assessment centre programs to be held across the regions. The assessment centre will involve a short interview and maybe a practical assessment. The first of our programmes is due to commence late April 2018 in Romford and Hitchin. If you think that you have the drive and enthusiasm to join our teams and support our UK clients we look forward to receiving your application. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Q
Courses 4 Forces Spring final 2015_C4F 16/03/2015 11:25 Page 52
Sponsored by
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OUR W ORK YOUR ELC EDUCATION AND FUNDINGFRPLANNER PLACE MENT Gastec has more than 1 years experience in the resettlement training of MoD Service Leavers, with over successfully trained students now working within the industry. Other providers promise - we deliver!
EE - G IS UA AND G RANTEED ENUIN E
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Gastec Training has for many years worked closely with Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s armed forces as they prepare for civilian life. At Gastec we recognise the commitment you have made while serving and welcome the opportunity to ensure you have a prosperous future as you leave the armed forces. The Gastec New Entrant Gas Course will prepare you for an interesting and lucrative career in the gas utility sector. Call now for a special reduced pricing offer on this course.
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Armed Forces Compensation Scheme
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The SLC scheme allows personnel to obtain financial assistance for learning The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) provides compensation for costs. You are able to claim 80% of your course fees, up to a maximum of ÂŁ175 any injury, illness or death that is predominantly caused by service on or after 6 4HU + . .PSHBO 3FUE
per financial year. To qualify for SLC funding, the course of study must lead to April 2005. The War Pension Scheme (WPS) compensates for any injury, illness COURSE CARRIES LEVEL 3 ACCREDITATION 0VS QBTT SBUF FYDFFET BOE PVS %VSJOH NZ UJNF JO UIF BSNZ J IBWF BUUFOEFE NBOZ EFE NBOZ or death that occurred up to this date. All current and former members of the UK a nationally recognised qualification, have substantial developmental value and DPVSTFT BOE TFFO NBOZ JOTUSVDUPST CVU UIF MFWFMT PG IF MFWFMT PG &-$"4 FWBMVBUJPO SBUJOH JT TFDPOE UP JOTUSVDUJPO BU (BTUFD XBT FYDFMMFOU * BN OPX B WFSZ OPX B WFSZ OPOF 1MFBTF UBLF UJNF UP WJFX UIF Forces, including Reservists, may submit a claim for compensation. TVDDFTTGVM TFMG FNQMPZFE HBT TBGF FOHJOFFS BOE SFNBJO BOE SF Armed directly benefit the Service. &-$"4 XFCTJUF UP DIFDL PVU PVS JO DPOUBDU XJUI (BTUFD XIP XJMM BMXBZ PGGFS BEWJDF DVSSFOU FWBMVBUJPO SBUJOH For advice and guidance, call Veterans UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free helpline on 8BZOF $IBOU &Y 3PZBM "SUJMMFSZ
0808 1914218. Alternatively, you can visit: www.veterans-uk.info
Enhanced Learning Credits
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CALL +44(0)1908 587665Universities and Colleges Admissions Service The ELC scheme offers currently serving or former Service personnel access to a Gastec Training & Assessment Centres Ltd. 6 Newmarket Court, Kingston, Milton Keynes, Bucks MK10 0AQ first full level 3 (GCE A-level or vocational equivalent) or a first higher education UCAS deals with applications for first degree and similar standard courses at enquiries@gastectraining.co.uk www.gastectraining.co.uk (HE) qualification (e.g. a foundation degree or a first undergraduate degree or over 250 universities and colleges in the UK. Remember that you no longer need equivalent) free from tuition fees. A-levels to go to university â&#x20AC;&#x201C; vocational A-levels/NVQs and access courses now The ELC lower tier offers up to three payments of up to ÂŁ1,000 in three qualify students as well. separate financial years; the higher tier offers up to three payments of up to If you are interested in entering higher education, call the UCAS hotline on ÂŁ2,000 in three separate financial years. Tel: 0371 468 0468 or visit www.ucas.com A new Publicly Funded Further Education/Higher Education ELC was created in 2016. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an aggregated lower-tier award, which is a single payment of up to ÂŁ3,000 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 The University Short Course Programme (USCP) exists to enhance the general making any financial commitment. educational development of Service personnel through providing short courses at Detailed information about ELC can be found in the first half of this magazine. a range of universities in topics such as leadership and management, regional and strategic studies, and languages. Course fees and accommodation costs are funded For full details visit www.enhancedlearningcredits.com by the Services. Further details are available from education/learning centres or search in DINs.
University Short Courses
Individual Resettlement Training Costs grant
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The IRTC grant is available to Service leavers with six or more yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 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 ÂŁ534. A range of courses at the RTC Aldershot is delivered within the MoD contract, called Contract Funded (CF) training. These courses are pre-paid by the MoD and only â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;costâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; the Service leaver time and a portion of their ÂŁ534 allowance. No money changes hands for the training but days and funding are deducted from the GRT allocation at a rate of ÂŁ26.70 per day. The ÂŁ534 gives access to up to 20 days of CF training. Any exam or registration fees are extra and payable by the student, but other allowances may be available to help with these. The CTP also offers a range of courses that are not within the MoD contract. These are known as Non-Contract Funded courses and you can use your IRTC grant or ELC to pay for these.
Professional and Career Development Loans These are designed to help people change direction or increase their skills by providing a deferred repayment loan of between ÂŁ300 and ÂŁ10,000 to cover up to 80% of tuition fees for a vocational course of up to two years, plus a further yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work experience if appropriate. Courses can be full-time or part-time, or involve open or distance learning, and people who have been out of work for three months can apply to have all their course fees covered. The low-interest loan is arranged through one of four high-street banks, and certain conditions and criteria apply. Find out which banks offer the loan and order an application pack by calling the National Careers Service on Tel: 0800 100 900. You can also check online to see if you are eligible â&#x20AC;&#x201C; visit www.gov.uk/career-development-loans
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questonline.co.uk March 2018 l questonline.co.uk
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learndirect learndirect is a free government service via which qualified advisers provide information on all aspects of learning, from UK-wide learning opportunities, to career guidance and sources of finance, and other national and local organisations that can help. Advisers can answer questions on any aspect of learning. The website address is www.learndirect.com The freephone number is Tel: 0800 101901.
Jobcentre Plus Finding a job
Jobcentre Plus has one of Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; search for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;jobsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;) 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 youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re unsure which benefits you can get, you can check online using the Gov.uk â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Benefits calculatorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pages (www.gov.uk â&#x20AC;&#x201C; search for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;benefits calculatorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;). To find out more about Jobseekerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Allowance, who can get it and how to claim online, go to the Gov.uk â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jobseekerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Allowanceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pages (www.gov.uk â&#x20AC;&#x201C; search for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jobseekerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Allowanceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;). You can also claim by phone by calling Jobcentre Plus on 0800 055 6688. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 8amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;6pm.
Armed Forces Champions
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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.)
Key: Q Service personnel
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APPROVED BY MoD IN SUPPORT OF THE ELC SCHEME
E LC 4436
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We provide a lifetime of support to soldiers, veterans and their immediate families. Each year, we support a wide range of front line charities and specialist organisations, such as SSAFA, Combat Stress, Royal Star & Garter and the NSPCC, which deliver help on our behalf. We also make direct grants to thousands of individuals, ranging in age from 9 months to 105 years old. Through our network of support, our work touches the lives of around 75,000 people worldwide, every year. It is because of the generosity of people like you that we are able to do this vital work – today and in the future.
Donate online or get involved in fundraising at
www.soldierscharity.org
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is a registered charity in England and Wales (1146420) and Scotland (039189) Registered Office: Mountbarrow House, 12 Elizabeth Street, London SW1W 9RB Tel: 020 7901 8900, Email: fundraising@soldierscharity.org
Left to right: Siobhan Weller, Les Fryatt, Kenneth Kwogyenga – Charity beneficiaries
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