RESETTLEMENT FOR ALL RANKS
May 2016
FROM FORCES
TO FORKS The family cutlery start-up aiming to make mealtimes child’s play
CAREERS IN THIS ISSUE: Health and safety Leisure, therapy and well-being Locksmithing Rail
Plus:
Factfile – resettlement rules and regs made easy!
Fit for purpose Earn money helping others lose pounds
School rules! Register your interest in a non-teaching role
Traditional, social, digital … Is a marketing career for you?
The only monthly resettlement magazine distributed to all MoD units by BFPO under contract
questonline.co.uk
www.gastectraining.co.uk 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!
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Gastec Training has for many years worked closely with Britain’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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CALL +44(0)1908 587665 Gastec Training & Assessment Centres Ltd. 6 Newmarket Court, Kingston, Milton Keynes, Bucks MK10 0AQ
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EDITOR THIS MONTH SEES THE SECOND INVICTUS GAMES
take place in Orlando, Florida. The games – which see more than 500 competitors from countries including the UK, Italy, Germany, Australia and Afghanistan compete in events such as powerlifting, road cycling, swimming, athletics, rugby and tennis – aim to embody the fighting spirit of wounded, injured and sick Service personnel, demonstrating the incredible feats that can be achieved postinjury. ‘Inspirational’ seems an inadequate word to describe the skill and courage on display. In its own small way, this issue of QUEST aims as usual to make its own contribution to post-military futures. Still on a sporting theme, civvy contributor Ryan Mansfield has the inside track on how fitness can shape your future finances. Our cover story reveals what it’s like to bring a product to market as part of a manufacturing start-up: Doddl, co-owned by ex-RAF officer Rosie Phelps, is a new toddlers’ cutlery brand that has benefited from the business support available to ex-Forces and their families, and has big plans for the future. If you think you might enjoy working in an education environment, but not as a teacher,
our new feature on school support staff roles is aimed at everyone from budding bursars to aspiring ICT technicians. We also check out careers in locksmithing, health and safety, marketing and the rail industry, and there’s a brief look at the wealth of opportunities offered by the world of well-being. Whatever your next career move, we sincerely hope that – like those competing in Florida this month – your own future sees you, too, remain invictus (unconquered).
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
Lynn Brown Editor
Account Managers Alec Burns Tony Heathfield Kate Horner Brian Tolworthy
Read more about the Invictus Games: https://invictusgamesfoundation.org
DISTRIBUTION Martin Sells DESIGN AND PRODUCTION CB Creative Limited Tel: 01223 750566 www.cb2creative.com DIRECTORS Peter Threlfall (Chairman) Bruce Hodge (Managing) Roger Dalzell
In-depth articles on all the career areas covered by Quest throughout the year are always available on our website: visit questonline.co.uk and click on ‘Careers A–Z’ for the full list. Keep up to date on all devices
>>
Download the Quest Resettlement App for iPhone, iPad and Android devices
Quest and the Quest logo are registered trade marks of
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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May 2016
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Contents COVER STORY
14 A FAMILY AFFAIR >> How two sisters with Forces connections are bringing an innovative kids’ cutlery brand to market
RESETTLEMENT MATTERS 18 Work it! >> A future in fitness could see you make money by helping others drop pounds, says regular contributor Ryan Mansfield
CAREERS 20 Rail 24 Health and safety 32 Marketing 34 Schools support staff 38 Leisure, therapy and well-being 40 Locksmithing
REGULARS
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06 The Hub >> News, course options and first-hand reports to support your transition 42 Factfile >> Complicated rules and regs made easy 54 Career Transition Partnership courses and events 57 Job opportunities
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>> News, course options and first-hand reports to support your transition
I DID IT!
Name: Michael Cooper Years served: 15 Training course: SQA ROV Piloting Skills
The smart choice for
professional drone pilot training Becoming involved and qualified in the
Bdr Michael Cooper has served in the Army for 15 years: 13 in world of commercial drones, the UK’s the Royal Armoured Core, The Queens Royal Hussars, operating fastest-growing industry, delivers exciting Challenger 2, and for two years as an Unmanned Air Vehicle opportunities to Service leavers, whether Commander piloting Hermes 450. Asked to tell us about any employed or self-employed. civilian qualifications he has obtained during his Service career, UAV8 Ltd is an authorised National he lists: Qualified Entity, certified by the Civil l BTEC level 3 – RAPD (Aviation Operations on the Ground) Aviation Authority (CAA). It provides l ECDL – BCS (European Computer Driving Licence) training and qualifications to support an l Functional Skills, City & Guilds – English and Maths level 2 application for permission to use drones l Modern Apprenticeship – EMTA (Engineering Foundation) for the purpose of aerial work. Those l NVQ – City & Guilds (Engineering Maintenance) operating without such permission face a l NVQ – EAL (Health and Safety) heavy fine or even imprisonment. l NVQ – EAL (Basic Engineering Drawing Measuring Marking Owned and operated by three former Out) Servicemen, who are all highly qualified manual. The training package includes l NVQ – EAL (Basic Engineering Materials). helicopter instructors and graduates of the everything you need to gain the permissions to He tells us that he registered for ELCs, ‘a few years ago while world’s most renowned flying establishments work in this exciting and evolving industry. with the QRH, to allow for further education’. Having highlighted – the Central Flying School and UK Attack UAV8 Ltd is a member of the Armed Forces his preferred career path in the ROV industry, he has so far Helicopter Force – UAV8 Ltd is the leading Corporate Covenant, and dedicated to assisting undertaken an impressive array of courses, including SQA ROV provider of first-class aviation instruction: members and veterans in their transition to Piloting Skills, taken at The Underwater Centre, Fort William. The second to none. employment. To this end, it offers a 13.5% course was, he says, ‘very well run’ and offered a good academic/ Now is the ideal opportunity for Service discounted rate on all training to serving vocational mix, as well as, importantly, the base leavers like you, as many of the skills you members and veterans. training required for an ROV pilot/tech in possess are key to success in this industry For further information or to book a course the ROV industry. – namely planning, preparation, discipline, please contact UAV8 direct … ‘The classroom-based learning was communication and drive. The rewards can be intense and hard going at first due to incredible, with daily rates for self-employed Get in touch my having little or no understanding operators ranging from £250 for a single 07713 740229 of the subject matter but, with photographic task to £2,000 per day for a enquiries@uav8.co some revision and a lot of home media filming assignment or aerial inspection. www.uav8.co study in the evening, it soon came UAV8’s two-day residential course, held together and made sense. It was in Suffolk, culminates in a practical flight See the advertisement on page 9 a seven-week intensive ROV Pilot/ assessment and creation of an operations Technician course, consisting of four weeks’ electronic classroom-based learning (so those without an electrical background could gain the base skills required) followed by a more ROV-oriented three weeks, consisting of basic hydraulic and associated systems, while also gaining invaluable hands-on piloting and maintenance skills with the Saab Seaeye observation ROV.’ Having taken this course, he is pleased to report that, ‘I now have the skills required of potential employees, and subsequently have found employment in my preferred position.’ Asked if he has any advice for other Service people registering for or using ELCs, he responds, ‘Make sure you research in-depth your chosen career path and ensure its future viability; also ensure that you submit A Swansea-based social enterprise business that provides training and qualifications to ex-Forces personnel the correct paperwork in good time to allow for any has hired two new members of staff as it continues to grow. Aartic Training Group and The British Training potential costly errors to be rectified. Board – partner companies set up by brothers Antony and Adrian Rabey, who each served for more than 20 ‘Knowing that I have three lots of £2,000 to use in the next ten years to gain further qualifications is nice!’ years in the Army – have hired an administrator and regional sales manager to support the growth of the
>> TRANSITION SUPPORT
Veteran support business
expands team
Get in touch 01397 703786, fortwilliam@theunderwatercentre.com www.theunderwatercentre.com See the advertisement on page 55
companies. Says Adrian, CEO of The British Training Board, ‘Because of the rise in interest in what we can do for those who are leaving or have already left the Forces, as well as others who are seeking employment, there was a need for additional support in the sales management team.’ To find out more, see www.britishtrainingboard.org.uk or www.anytraining.co.uk Adrian (left) and Antony Rabey (right) with new recruits Jade Pike and Matteo Neilson
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train to connect… Specialists in pro providing viding engineering and training ser services vices to the telecommunications industr industryy Includes an Includes introduction to 5G
Telecoms investment is still growing and the industry needs skilled trained engineers, project engineers and project managers for on going roll out programmes. ō Wireless & radio engineering
Scotland d 9,166
North rth East 3,960
Northern Ireland 2,785
North West 10,178
Yorkshire & Y The H Humber 6,542
ō Advanced wireless technologies ō Design & implementation of 4th generation network ō 3 Week course ō 2G, 3G & 4G Networks ō Bespoke CV service
East Midlands l 7,9466 West e Midlands 10,071
East 13,914
W Wales 4,612 London 18,831 South East 27,669 South West 0,932 10,932
ō Excellent success connecting people to new careers ō Strong links with industry partners
Jobs created or safeguarded by 4G
FFor or further informa information tion on course schedules and prices call FREEPHONE 0800 612 9193 or contact Richard Lee on 07814 678406 Email: info@ubi-tech.co.uk www.ubi-tech.co.uk www.ubi-tech.co.uk In association with
APPROVED BY MoD IN SUPPORT OF THE ELC SCHEME
E LC 6079
PROVIDER NUMBE NUMBER R
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I DID IT! Name: Paul Bailey Service branch: Royal Navy Course: ILM Leadership and Management Certificate/ NEBOSH NGC and Fire combined programme package Provider: Oak Tree Management & Training Ltd
Compliance training with the personal touch Training has to be informative, relevant and, above all else, enjoyable … That’s the ethos of HSF Training Ltd, an ELCAS-registered training company set up in 1997 by Keith Hutchinson after serving 14 years in HM Forces. Resettling into civilian life requires some change for all military personnel, something the director of HSF Training Ltd knows well through personal experience. We understand this and our aim is not to simply train people to pass courses but to give them the understanding of how to apply this knowledge in the mind-set of civilian employment, making it easier to: l express your knowledge during interview l become part of the civilian health and safety culture l work with people who often have blinkered approaches to compliance training. For those wishing to develop a career in training, we offer full compliance training courses covering health and safety, food safety and first aid. Our experienced tutors help you every step of the way, so you develop the skills and confidence to excel in this rewarding career. With never more than 12 students per course, we guarantee every student has time to be fully involved, ask questions, and prepare for their examinations and assessments. We are based in north-east England, with training centres in Sunderland and Billingham, and train across the UK, Middle East and Europe. An accredited training centre with NEBOSH, IOSH, HABC, CIEH and RSPH, we – together with our handpicked trainers – have excellent pass records for all of our courses.
‘I found Oak Tree in Quest soon after making the decision to leave the Royal Navy after 12 and a half years. I had researched a few companies who offered NEBOSH and ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) courses approved for ELC and, after a long day spent calling various companies, I spoke to Steve Crowe at Oak Tree and my choice was made! He was very helpful and genuine, and – even though we had not met – he made me feel very reassured. ‘I decided to book on to Oak Tree’s ILM Leadership and Management Certificate and NEBOSH NGC and Fire combined programme package. I was unsure what to do, so Steve offered his experience in dealing with the process of using my ELC and helped me complete the process with no fuss. ‘The programme consisted of classwork and numerous assignments. The latter are qualifications that are made up of a broad range of units. They cover skills in six core areas: working with people, managing yourself and personal skills, providing direction, facilitating innovation and change, achieving results, and using resources. The flexibility in unit choice allows the qualification to be tailored to meet the needs of both individual and employer. These assignments helped me use core management techniques to drive better results, develop my ability to lead, Get in touch motivate and inspire my teams, provide strategic leadership, as well as day-to-day +44 (191) 5022515 management throughout my team/teams, and benchmark my managerial skills. enquiries@hsftraining.co.uk ‘Each one of the tutors I had was very experienced in the sectors I was www.hsftraining.co.uk studying, and also worked after-hours to help me out if I needed their assistance. The courses were intense as I had only some managerial background as a junior See the advertisement on page 30 manager. The tutors catered for all students’ needs as our experiences differed. They also offered further instruction if required. I successfully passed my course programme with good results, which surprised a few people – especially my wife and family! All course books, materials and refreshments were provided by Oak Tree as part of the package. ‘I also believe that this experience and qualification, together with Oak Tree’s CV and interview techniques coaching, enabled me to secure my current role as Venue Operation Manager at Alexandra Palace, London, on my first attempt at securing employment and within two months of leaving the Royal Navy. ‘I would recommend Steve and the team at Oak Tree 110% to all service levels due to their professionalism and the support offered to me as I was leaving. Without the help I had from them I would not be in the position I’m in today. Not only did they help with the course I booked with them, they conducted interview techniques with me, which to be honest I was blown away by as I had never really been in that situation before, and they went Troops and their guests recently took to their seats to enjoy through everything I could possibly ask for and I used the information in my the new musical production of Mrs Henderson Presents, interviews for the job I currently hold and love dearly. After 12+ years in the based on the popular film of the same name. After the Royal Navy an interview could have seemed unsettling, but thanks to Oak show, all were given the chance to meet the cast. Says Tree my confidence grew and I was offered a job following my first interview. Tickets For Troops member, Staff Sergeant Scott Mackie, ‘It ‘When I’m ready I will probably look at booking ILM level 5 and is opportunities like this that make us feel appreciated and NEBOSH Environment and Construction certificated courses to enhance valued for the work we do.’ Tickets For Troops provides free my managerial skills. I will not look past Oak Tree and will continue to use tickets to Armed Forces personnel for a variety of events them throughout my professional career as they have helped me very much across the UK, as a small acknowledgement and reward The cast of the new musical production of through my transition.’ for the work they do for our country. Tickets are available
>> FREE TICKETS
Entertaining the troops
Get in touch 01284 763040 steve@oaktree-training.co.uk www.oaktree-training.co.uk/mod
to troops who are currently serving or who have been medically discharged since 2001. Go online and register at www.ticketsfortroops.org.uk to take advantage of the fantastic tickets available.
Mrs Henderson Presents meet members of HM Armed Forces, who enjoyed the performance at London’s Noel Coward Theatre last month thanks to Tickets For Troops
>> RECOVERY SUPPORT
See the advertisement on page 30
Wounded ex-Soldier urges fellow veterans to seek help For former infantry soldier James Alder, facing up to the symptoms of mental illness felt like a sign of weakness. Even when he knew he was struggling to cope, he continued with his career in the Army for years until his family urged him to seek help. Now a student, James was diagnosed with PTSD in September 2013 and has been receiving treatment ever since. He found the support he needed through a number of support agencies and charities, including Help for Heroes, and is urging other veterans to come forward to get the help they need. ‘Help for Heroes is just the beginning of the
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support out there for you,’ he says. ‘They can signpost you to more specific individual agencies, such as for the treatment of PTSD, and support you generally throughout your recovery. They gave me the start I needed to feel more confident about getting on with my life in general. Without them, I would not be as far along as I am now. They signposted me to the right people and I always had that support there.’ James was medically discharged from the Army in March 2015 and has completed a number of courses through the Help for Heroes northern Recovery Centre, Phoenix House, in Catterick, North Yorkshire. Now working towards a degree in Sports Science at Winchester University, he would like to become a rugby coach and in June will go to
South Africa with the Bhubesi Pride Foundation to coach rugby to children. He concludes: ‘It is good to know that the support from Help for Heroes will be there for life. They have given me and my family so much advice, including helping us find our house. Leaving the Army was a massive transition and Help for Heroes was there to help.’ For more information about how Help for Heroes can support you if you’re wounded, injured or sick, visit www.helpforheroes.org.uk or call Phoenix House Recovery Centre on 01748 834148.
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
Serious about becoming involved in the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) industry?
UAV8 Ltd are leading training providers for the Drone and UAS industry. Conveniently located on the Suffolk and Essex border.
THIS IS WHERE
Our 2 day residential courses equip clients to apply to the CAA for Permission For Aerial Work (PFAW), a legal requirement for those wishing to use their SUA / Drone for work. All training courses fully comply with the dictates of CAP 722 and the Air Navigation Order.
I prepare for my future with an ELCAS approved learning provider
Full NQE 2 Day Modular Course - £1167.75 inc. vat (includes 13.5% discount for Armed Forces)
This is distance learning at Leicester, with over 25 years’ experience delivering quality courses
Full theoretical training, flight assessment and preparation of the Operations Safety Manual. No need for pre-course on line training - we teach you what you need to know. Flight Assessment - £200 inc. vat For those who have completed ground school training with other companies. We will not charge for re-attempts.
Our expertise, wherever you are If you’re looking to retrain, upskill or start a new career, choose from over 50 varied and practical distance learning courses Quest March 2016 Final_2016 07/03/2016 20:00 5 at the University of Leicester, including ourPage internationally renowned MSc Risk, Crisis and Disaster Management. Start your journey e: dladvisers@le.ac.uk www.le.ac.uk/thisiselcas
07713 740229 enquiries@uav8.co
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses www.uav8.co When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
0800 3800 007 Fancy yourself as a Civil Aviation Authority Accredited Commercial Drone Pilot? Join the rapidly growing market at the right time. Use your IRTC and accommodation credits towards a short residential training course that will enable you to earn money using your drone for aerial work. Residential Course includes: • • • • • • Discounted rate for service personnel (quote QSTMR16) £899 plus VAT (Usually £1095)
Note: If you already have aviation experience then a shortened course may be available.
Starter bundles available including training and equipment – details on request
««
Contact the Drone Pilot Academy on 0800 3800 007 or visit us online at
Theory and Practical Training Theory Examination Industry and Business Start-up advice Operations Manual writing workshop and proofing Flight Assessment Membership of the ‘Drone Pilot Academy - Certified Operators’ database
Photography • Video • Survey • Crop Analysis • Topographical Surveys • Inspections
www.dronepilotacademy.co.uk questonline.co.uk l May 2016
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I DID IT!
>> MILITARY FOUNDATIONS
Celebrating our future Forces
Name: Jamie Fanneran Final rank: Sergeant Years served: 15 Course: Open I.T (various courses)
A special event was held at Cardiff Jamie Fanneran, 31, served in the Royal Signals, specialising as a Communications City Stadium last month to mark the Systems Operator, before leaving the Services in January 2016 ‘to settle my family in achievements of 200 teenagers from the a fixed location, to give my children stability and schooling. I also wanted to start early Military Preparation College – with two Major on a second career rather than playing catch-up later post-military.’ Generals and a regimental goat from The We asked Jamie to tell us about the training and experience gained during his Royal Welsh among the VIPs in attendance, Service career that he now finds useful in civilian life. Jamie says, ‘I have various IT recognising the strong partnership that and telecoms skills that I can apply to the commercial environment. Although most exists between the College and the Royal skills are transferable, the more technical elements are bespoke to the MoD, therefore Welsh. Students from five branches of the recertifying through resettlement was vital for me.’ While serving, he also achieved College across South Wales showcased their civilian qualifications including various management NVQs as well as NVQs in fitness, public speaking and teamwork skills engineering and telecoms (mainly through Foundation Modern Apprenticeships). to around 250 guests. The event celebrated During resettlement, as well as his CTW, he also undertook the ISO 27001 Lead the outstanding work accomplished by the Implementor and Lead Auditor course, which was completed using IT Governance. young learners during their time at the College. With seven branches across Wales, and Jamie’s online-based training with Open I.T was, he says, ‘very useful’. ‘They provided a further 12 in England, the Military Preparation College provides youngsters with a me with some good certifiable attributes. That was the reason I was able to gain such unique style of education that combines physical training with vocational instruction and fast and solid employment. I decided to move into the information/IT security space personal development. and Open I.T provided me with the training to get certified in a number of key areas For those interested in careers in the Armed Forces, the free-to-attend College that employers were screaming out for from their IT professionals. Through Open provides them with the best possible chance to pass selection and complete basic I.T I have managed to achieve the following certifications: CompTIA A+, Network+, training. For others, it’s a chance to acquire valuable new life skills and qualifications, Security+, CCNA Routing and Switching, CCNA Security and CISSP, and I’m currently setting them up for either further education or employment. The College operates a ‘roll going through the process of certifying in Microsoft’s MCSE: Server Architecture. on, roll off’ joining process, allowing new recruits to join on a weekly basis. These are vital certifications for me that give my employer the confidence that I can To find out more, visit www.mpct.co.uk or call 08442 438438. work in a multitude of technical areas, and be able to provide the necessary support and guidance from a security perspective.’ He is now working for FIS Global in Birmingham as a Senior Information Security Officer for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Jamie says that the job involves ‘managing the information security compliance aspects for various business lines such as retail payments solutions and banking hosted services, as well as provisioning of key contracts, providing technical solutions to the financial and retail sector. I also ensure that corporate information systems are kept in a secure manner and are up to current regulatory standards. Some things don’t change but, being open learning, which enables candidates ‘Working in a small, close-knit team of professionals is fantastic – being at the forefront of technology, to take the full City & Guilds course in given a task, and allowed the freedom to run it and provide periodic progress aviation does – constantly. their own home at their own speed. reports. Knowing that cyber-security is the next big thing, any competence Operational standards, and Exams can be taken in the UK or at in IT or security in general is a bonus when looking at future employment training, must meet the British Councils around the world. prospects. challenges of such changes. Avtech2000 provides ‘The relaxed atmosphere of my new role makes it easier to integrate with Operations and flight dispatch such programmes and is ELC different areas of the business, and engage with many external agencies and personnel are responsible for approved, so you need only pay a clients. Not wearing a uniform took some getting used to, although having the flight planning and preparation small proportion of the total cost of freedom to choose your own suit for work makes you feel more integrated for flights, so that pilots don’t need course and exams. It’s a considerable with the local community. My salary is currently slightly higher than it was in to spend their vital duty periods doing qualification involving five exams the MoD, and is due to shoot up in line with the current commercial rate for it themselves. In the USA there is totalling nine hours (or add another my job role, which means it will surpass my MoD salary by a long way.’ a Dispatchers Licence, but in the extra two-hour exam if you have no Open I.T is a UK Learning Centre that helps thousands of working rest of the world, the nearest previous experience and need the professionals, Service personnel and jobseekers into IT training programmes thing to verified approval is the foundation course as well). Avtech every year. City & Guilds accredited award. is currently making significant Open I.T works with the MoD to provide resettlement training and Both have their origins in the upgrades to all of its units to keep accreditations on behalf of all major vendors such as Microsoft, Cisco and recommended syllabus from up to date, so not surprisingly CompTIA, covering industry-recognised professional courses and certifications the International Civil Aviation it is used not only by UK military such as the MCSE, CCNA, CCIE, CompTIA A+, Security+, ITIL, Prince2, CEH Organisation (ICAO), which seeks personnel on resettlement, but also (Certified Ethical Hacker). For full course listings, information and prices, to promote safe standards that are intercontinental airlines like Qantas, please contact our resettlement training staff (see contact details below). common worldwide. many major European carriers and indeed the As air transport advances, so does UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Get in touch training. Programmes to meet these 0800 599 99 98 or 01279 621 750 standards are often available only ‘in house’ Get in touch resettlement@openittraining.com as airlines provide for their own staff, and 01892 770250 www.openittraining.com/elc some locations in the USA provide classroom administrator@avtech2000.co.uk courses tailored to US standards and www.avtech2000.co.uk See the advertisement on page 13 procedures. Courses designed according to worldwide procedures are also available via See the advertisement on page 47
Airline ops and dispatch: meeting the challenge of change
Why choose CCAS for health and safety training? CCAS is a south-east England-based health and safety consultancy that was established in 1995. Our services are delivered by a competent team of experienced safety professionals, who are IOSH Chartered Members. Services include the provision of safety training and, in particular, the internationally recognised NEBOSH certificates courses. These include: l NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety l NEBOSH Certificate in Construction Health and Safety l NEBOSH Certificate in Fire Safety and Risk Management l NEBOSH Certificate in Environmental Management
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NEBOSH International Technical Certificate in Oil and Gas Operational Safety. We offer these courses to serving and ex-Service personnel in a selection of training packages, normally three courses per one ELC claim. Our aim is to help students learn in a friendly, open atmosphere that is conducive to learning. All our fulltime trainers are ex-military and they fully understand the resettlement process that Service men and women go through. We also understand the importance of making the right course choice for a second career and we are happy to advise anyone on future employment opportunities. l
We believe in forming and maintaining a close working relationship with all our students and we take pride in our excellent pass rates, which is reflected in our repeat business. Get in touch 01473 212535 info@ccas-ltd.com www.ccas-ltd.com See the advertisement on page 28
NEBOSH personal development/ resettlement Y 2 DA
training Y 2 DA
Qualifying trainers, managers and compliance specialists for the future
www.train2train.org
FIRST AID INSTRUCTOR
FIRST AID INSTRUCTOR 2 DAY UPDATE
FIRST AID INSTRUCTOR
The National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety HEALTH AND SAFETY INSTRUCTOR
FOOD SAFETY INSTRUCTOR
The National Certificate in Fire Safety & Risk Management HEALTH AND SAFETY INSTRUCTOR
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
Managers, trainers and health & safety specialists who have responsibilities in meeting or training legal compliance for health and safety and fire safety as well as TEACHER TRAINING OTHER COURSES those who are looking to develop a new career.
FIRST AID INSTRUCTOR 2 DAY UPDATE
FOOD SAFETY INSTRUCTOR
COURSE CONTENT:
5 units delivered over the 3 weeks: Unit NGC1: Management of Health and Safety Unit NGC2: Controlling Workplace Hazards Unit NGC3: Health and Safety Practical Application TEACHER TRAINING OTHER COURSES Unit FC1: Fire Safety and Risk Management Unit FC2: Fire Safety Practical Application
Venue: Holiday Inn, Doncaster* Price:** £2,260 *Minimum numbers required **Price per delegate
For further details on this and other courses available, including Custodial Care, Compliance Training Instructor, Health and Safety, Food Safety and Teaching qualifications, please contact us at:
t: +44 (0)1302 363136
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Partner ©Train2Train 2016
Centre No. 11389
Q
THE HUB
>> JOB FAIRS
East Midlands Employment Fair 19 May, Lincoln South West Employment Fair 9 June, Bristol
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
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. l
This is a great networking opportunity. Don’t miss out on the chance to meet employers with current and future job vacancies! Book your place today. Call the Central Bookings Team on 0203 162 4410 or visit www.ctp.org.uk/events to find out more.
CORRECTION
>> IN BRIEF SIA licence processing times The Security Industry Authority aims to process a minimum of 80% of all correctly completed applications within 25 working days. In March 2016, 85% of all applications were processed within 25 working days.
The importance of IPS Ex-Service personnel with a serious mental health condition are nearly three times more likely to find and stay in work if they are supported through a method known as ‘Individual Placement and Support’ (IPS), rather than other methods of support, an in-depth report has found. The report’s findings will be used to create a toolkit, available this summer, to provide guidance for employers on supporting veterans with mental health conditions. To download a copy of the report, titled ‘Employment in Mind’ visit www.poppyfactory.org/ MH_report_2016.pdf
In April’s The Hub (p. 10) we published a story from the CQI (Chartered Quality Institute) about the International Register of Certificated Auditors’ (IRCA’s) professional recognition of military auditors. It has since come to our attention that the information we supplied may have proved confusing. The story described the Military Aviation Authority (MAA) being the first organisation to see its auditors approved by the IRCA’s new auditor competence scheme, providing external (i.e. civilian) recognition of their skills and knowledge. However, following clarification from the CQI, we would like to point out that this MAA entry route is entirely separate from RAF and other MoD routes to CQI/IRCA membership. The RAF route ceased on 31 December 2015 and the MoD route on 30 April 2016. Prior to that, the requirement for the MoD route to CQI membership was a full MOD Quality Practitioner Licence and at least five years’ quality management or systems experience as outlined in the CQI criteria. The MAA scheme referenced in our story is different; this scheme approves auditors employed by the MAA to be recognised by IRCA, the CQI’s specialist auditing division. We would like to apologise for any confusion caused to our readers by giving the impression that this route is more widely available throughout the MoD. For further information, please visit www.thecqi.org
>> SECURITY LICENSING
SIA launches new self-service website
Compensation date extended Veterans with mesothelioma caused by service can choose to receive lump sum compensation of £140,000, as eligibility is extended. Legislative provision will be made to enable lump sums to be paid from 11 April 2016. Those choosing a lump sum whose claim is accepted before this date will receive the current allowances in the interim, until the lump sum is paid. The MoD’s Veterans Welfare Service will contact all existing claimants to explain the new option and help them understand the choices available. For more information, visit www.gov.uk/ government/groups/veterans-welfare-service
The new self-service site from the SIA (Security Industry Authority) aims to make it quicker and easier for you to apply for the SIA licence you need. The site is clear, user-friendly and guides you through each stage of your licence application. All licence applications and renewals will now be made through the site via either a personal or business online account. The SIA has created 11 videos to clarify how the new process will work, and to introduce some of the key functionality. Those for individuals include: l Registering for a personal online account l Completing an application l Checking the status of an application l Making changes to your personal information. To see the videos, visit the SIA’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/channel/ UCDlHlrRHlCwzRRrv8D31XWg
Why be a dog handler? And why Wagtail? Dog handler Mike tells us what brought him to Wagtail … ‘I joined the Army when I was 16, straight from school. I was at AFC Harrogate for a year for my basic training, then my Phase 2 training was with the Royal Electronic and Mechanical Engineers at Bordon. I learned a lot there, but ultimately I wanted to be in the Infantry.’ There for a short while, Mike then transferred to the Royal Welsh Fusiliers, where he stayed for four years, developing his skills with a working dog in Afghanistan while operating as an explosives detection dog handler, where he says his experiences were invaluable. With the foundations built by the Army for a career with dogs, Mike returned home ready to find work on civvy street. ‘The transition from military to civvy life
12
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
can seem daunting at first, but I knew Wagtail were the company for me,’ says Mike. Wagtail’s management team is primarily made up of people from an ex-Forces background and its methods of training are based on UK military standards and principles, gained from the collective worldwide experience of its key personnel in Afghanistan, the Balkans, Iraq and Northern Ireland, to name a few. As well as his qualified experience in explosives in Afghanistan, thanks to Wagtail Mike is also now certified in illegal tobacco detection, cash, drugs and conservation work. ‘Every day is completely different
and you never know what to expect. It’s a great chance to prove that the concept of the sniffer dog actually works – we’re doing it every day and the dog gets it time and time again,’ he concludes. Get in touch 01745 561166 info@wagtailuk.com www.wagtailuk.com See the advertisement on page 49
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
The Handa Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence (CSTPV) at the University of St Andrews.
Terrorism Studies Individual Modules / Certificate / Advanced Certificate
Study the characteristics of terrorism, terrorist tactics and counterterrorism by part-time online e-learning
Course start dates: February, June and October
Quest March 2016 Final_2016 07/03/2016 09:26 Page 11
www.terrorismstudies.com/FLR2632AA301
Enrolment administered by:
Tel: +44 (0)20 3377 3210 / +1 (646) 957 8929 | Email: info@terrorismstudies.com Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses Quote VIP code: FLR2632AA301 When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
questonline.co.uk l May 2016
13
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COURSESTORY COVER CHOICES
A FAMILY AFFAIR Innovative children’s cutlery brand, Doddl – brainchild of former RAF Intelligence Officer Rosie Phelps and her sister, Catherine (Cat) Dodd – is the 500th business to have been launched by specialist ex-military start-up support provider X-Forces. Rosie’s husband, former Flight Lieutenant Brad Goggin, has played a key role too. Following many months of intensive preparation, and with launch day now imminent, Doddl’s pioneering products look set to propel this inspirational family team to tableRosie in RAF uniform: a FAMILY MATTERS high flyer in the making topping triumph! ‘The business does tend to be fairly all
The RAF and after
consuming in terms of my relationship with my sister and parents,’ says Rosie, ‘as we are all involved in it. We try to ensure that we have at least one day a week completely off from working on Doddl, which is reserved for quality time with our families, although we usually end up speaking on a Sunday night to ensure we are organised for the week ahead!’
N
specialist Doddl, Rosie Phelps began her
My time in the
working life in the Royal Air Force, and
RAF allowed me
was the first female in an intelligence post
to challenge myself
on the Joint Special Forces Aviation Wing
and discover what I was
(JSFAW), providing air intelligence support
capable of. I have been put in
to Special Forces. Says Rosie, ‘The Armed
situations on operations where I have
Forces appealed to me as they offered
had to calculate risks and make tough
joining right after she graduated from
decisions. This has given me confidence
university, and spent time on overseas
in my abilities and judgement. For the
operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. At
ow working as sales and marketing
combined with
director for her new start-up
physical and
company, children’s cutlery
mental challenges.
most part, I found my time in conflict zones to be an incredibly humbling
sweet tea. Times like this showed me that life
is precious and to make the most of every minute.’ Rosie served in the RAF for six years,
the end of her short-service commission, she felt it was time for a new challenge. ‘Towards the end of my resettlement
on a C-130 mission to deliver aid to
period, I was offered the opportunity to extend to a permanent commission.
Afghanistan. It had been an
However, working with JSFAW, I had been
abnormally harsh winter and this
fortunate enough to have experienced one
settlement’s supply routes had
of the most demanding roles in my branch,
been cut off by heavy snowfall.
so I decided it was the right time for a new
Once on the ground I handed a
challenge outside the Forces.’
food parcel to a little boy, who excitedly ran off to give it to
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
us out glasses of
experience – for example, I assisted a remote settlement in northern
14
Gadget Show Live awards finalists: Cat, left, and Rosie
adventure,
Rosie’s last night in uniform was spent hosting Baroness Margaret Thatcher
his father. To show his
for a formal dinner celebrating the 25th
sincere thanks, the boy’s
anniversary of 7 Squadron in February
father promptly brought
2008. She then joined her parents’
Ladies who launch: Doddl’s Cat (left) and Rosie
property lettings business in Somerset and
recognised a specific problem that was
people told us that this had typically cost
successfully grew the company to win a
affecting my three young children, I seized
them between £100,000 and £200,000.
number of awards before embarking on
the opportunity to solve it with a new
We had a maximum budget of £18,000
her Doddl mission in 2013. ‘I had thoroughly
design.’
for the development stage, so a huge
enjoyed my time in the RAF, especially
It is clear that Doddl combines Rosie’s
amount of time was spent researching
serving on operations. I had a high level
business acumen with Cat’s creativity and,
and applying for funding so we could more
of responsibility in my role and this gave
after a two-year journey through research,
effectively manage our budget and achieve
me the confidence to think that I could run
design, manufacturing and crowd funding,
our planned goal, which was to establish
my own business. For me it came down to
their strikingly different cutlery products
whether we had a viable product. We
timing – my parents indicated that they
were officially launched in March. They are
completed stage one at a cost of £14,000,
wanted to retire in the next few years, so I
the first of their kind, taking a new approach
including VAT.
saw an opportunity to join their business.
to developing the pincer grip of tiny hands,
‘I enjoyed working with them. I learned the importance of focusing on the key functions of the business and getting this
‘Alongside the challenges faced from a
and aim to give parents a solution to
business administration point of view, we
mealtime heartaches.
also had to develop our initial concept into a useful product. It had to be revolutionary
right in order to deliver excellent customer
… and a spouse too!
service – then everything else just falls
Also involved in the success of Doddl to
of traction in such a fiercely competitive
into place. Consumers are constantly
date has been Rosie’s husband Brad, who
market, where hundreds of different
being bombarded with information and
having fulfilled his RAF commission left
children’s cutlery items are available. To be
advertising, so to stand out from the crowd
the Service in 2014. With an aerospace
100% confident that our product fulfilled
you need to be exceptional at what you do. I
systems engineering degree and valuable
its brief, we secured the services of a child
found my time in the RAF helped shape my
experience of working in industry, he’s
development specialist. We then spent
moral and ethical values, which I applied to
had an advisory role within the business,
many months working with children in home
the way I ran my business.
focusing mainly on the technical design and
and nursery settings, testing and evolving
manufacturing aspects. ‘Brad was involved
our basic prototypes, made out of clay and
‘implementing plans for steady and
with Doddl in the early days,’ says Rosie,
cut-down plastic fork ends, until our final
sustainable growth is my speciality. Doddl
and helped Cat and I during the design and
designs were finished and Doddl was born!’
is an exciting new venture and I am really
development stages through to assisting
enjoying working with my sister, Cat. We
with the manufacturing process. Although
funds at the front end, with no guarantee
complement each other really well – Cat
his involvement is now less, he is an
that the business will be successful, can put
is the inventor and I supply the business
excellent sounding board for ideas because
pressure on families: ‘The costs involved in
know-how. Together I think we make a
he understands the business and what we
bringing a product to market are significant;
strong team.’
are trying to achieve. He is also incredibly
it is likely you will always underestimate
supportive in terms of helping us to make
the true cost. That’s why research is so
‘As a business leader,’ she continues,
Sister act …
and unique if we were going to gain any sort
Rosie admits that committing significant
Doddl a success, and understands that the
important, to be confident your service
Doddl operations director Cat had been
time I commit is essential to getting the
or product is commercially viable prior to
determined to run her own business for a
business off the ground.’
committing significant funds.
long time. For years she had come up with new products – ideas she would research
Making it work
THE DODDL DIFFERENCE
and record in a pocket book. These were
The journey to launch for a
subsequently discounted for various
manufacturing business is
reasons – either she had found someone
rarely without its obstacles,
doing something similar, it was too risky
of course, and Doddl has
or she felt it was not a strong enough
been no different. Cat
commercial proposition. Says Cat, ‘It was
continues: ‘One of our
not necessarily by chance that I came up
biggest challenges was
Doddl is an exciting and unique range of ergonomic children’s cutlery, comprising a revolutionary knife, fork and spoon, designed to help children aged 1–5 years learn to eat independently. Children struggle with long-handled, adult-type cutlery. Doddl’s palm-sized handle combats this problem and allows children to develop dexterity, control and hand–eye coordination. The ergonomic shape and soft-touch areas intuitively encourage a pincer grip – a key motor skill required for writing and drawing. Doddl cutlery is designed to be the natural progression from baby-led weaning, helping to reduce mess and make mealtimes more enjoyable for the whole family.
with this concept; I
securing funding to help
had been actively
develop the product, as well
looking for the
as getting access to relevant
‘”next big thing”, so when I
resources and expertise in order to try to minimise the risks involved in bringing a new product to market. We visited baby shows and carried out research among general consumers – but, more importantly, with other new businesses too, to gauge their experience of getting their own products to market. Terrifyingly,
Child’s play: Doddl cutlery aims to make mealtimes more relaxed
questonline.co.uk l May 2016
15
Q
COVER STORY sisters have shown pragmatism and
developed my abilities to solve problems
new to both Catherine and me,’ she adds.
‘Starting a business from scratch is
commitment in bringing this inspired product
and think laterally in order to achieve the
‘Although I have transferable skills and
to market. Many ideas never get
experience from running my previous
this far, and the business is
business, we are both learning about
testimony to the acute
manufacturing and retail on the job. It’s a
blend of focus and
new challenge, which we are both enjoying,
problem-solving skills
however designing and creating a new
we often see in
product and trying to bring it to market is
the Armed Forces
not an easy or straightforward process, and
community. It is
we have overcome many obstacles along
fantastic to support
the way. I am not a natural salesperson, so I
this family-run
have difficulty in approaching retailers. But,
business, and the
although it’s not something I particularly
many others set up by
enjoy, I know I have to do it!
military families.’
‘And I don’t think that Cat would mind
frequently apply in the day-
THE X-FORCES FACTOR
to-day running of a new business. I believe that my time in the Forces
Since its launch in July 2013 X-Forces – an official partner of the government’s Start Up Loans Company – has nurtured and guided 600 new businesses, and facilitated £6 million in seed funding. To find out more about running your own business and the support available from X-Forces, visit www.x-forces.com
has helped broaden my horizons and made me realise that pretty much anything is possible if you put your mind to achieving it. My Service career has given
me an excellent grounding
me saying that we both find engaging
Looking to the future
on social media a challenge too. I have
The company’s pre-orders – totalling
apply to business, and I am more focused
always been a very private person and as
hundreds of sets, predominantly to
and driven as a result. I could have gone in
a former intelligence officer in the RAF,
crowd-funding supporters – were fulfilled
to business without my Forces experience,
I’m very cautious
and perspective on life that I
early this year and
but it has definitely shaped the type of business person I am today. All in all, I feel
about sharing
A TYPICAL DAY AT DODDL
the product was
information.
‘It’s completely varied at the moment,’ says Rosie. ‘As we are a new start-up business, Cat and I share the tasks between us. My day usually starts by checking emails, followed by a Skype call with Cat to discuss the business and any outstanding issues. I then tend to process our orders, which can take up quite a chunk of the day, depending on how many we have! I also follow up leads with independent retailers and liaise with our PR company, which helps us with our social media campaigns and building our brand. Being a new mum, I have to strike a balance between quality time with my five-month-old baby daughter and working on Doddl. As the majority of mums would agree, multi-tasking is the key. Because I combine work with looking after our baby, some days are more productive than others!’
officially launched
that my time in the Forces has prepared me
at the Harrogate
incredibly well for going in to business. It has
International Nursery
provided me with an exceptionally valuable
Fair in March. They
toolbox of skills that can be used civilian life.’
Posting on social media is not something I relish, but it’s essential for building our brand and engaging with our customers.’
Strong support As noted in our introduction, Doddl has been supported by X-Forces, the official partner of the government’s Start Up Loan Company. It has
are not going to stop there, though, says
You can do it too!
Cat: ‘We are planning
Rosie concludes with some valuable advice
to build Doddl into
for QUEST readers: ‘I would recommend that
a global brand
you plan ahead and use your resettlement
and have already
period wisely, as the time goes very quickly.
received numerous
There are lots of great courses and liaising
international requests
with your resettlement adviser is essential –
for distribution. Our
especially if you qualify for ELCAS funding.
initial focus will be to
Plan the time and choose courses that are
establish our brand
both useful in your potential future roles
within the appropriate
but also that you have a passion for.’ Sound
channels of the UK
advice to ease your transition … in fact, to
market. We chose the name Doddl
helped by guiding the sisters to access
because the product is all about
the crucial funds required to begin
making family mealtimes easier. The
manufacturing their first batch of product.
cutlery is the first product from our
Says Rosie, ‘From the start, X-Forces showed
mealtime range and will be followed by
a strong belief in me as an ex-Services
further innovative creations.’
entrepreneur, and understood our drive
Q
are very knowledgeable, their processes
The Armed Forces advantage
are thorough and they take extra care in
Asked to tell us about the training, skills
assessing whether your business is viable
or experiences gained during her Service
so they can lend responsibly. It is fantastic
career that Rosie is now finding useful in
that this support is available to nurture
civilian life and work, she responds: ‘My
the potential that comes out of the Armed
skills of negotiation, time management and
Forces.’
diplomacy, as well as working with different
and determination to succeed. The advisers
Ren Kapur, CEO and Founder of X-Forces, is right behind Doddl too: ‘These
16
best outcome, which are skills I
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
agencies and countries, help us to achieve our objectives. My time in the Forces
make it a Doddl! Q
KEY CONTACTS
Doddl 07730 570735 www.doddl.com www.facebook.com/DoddlCutlery-323457764514107 @doddlcutlery
X-Forces 0800 307 7545 www.X-Forces.com www.facebook.com/xforces @OfficialXforces
Q
COURSE CHOICES RESETTLEMENT MATTERS
RYAN MANSFIELD
M
ost of the ex-Forces
demanding a sound knowledge
guys I’ve worked with
of all major exercises and
play a sport or have a
muscle groups, so you’ll need to
hobby of some kind – an activity
apply yourself.
they follow or participate in
Unfortunately, the
during their spare time. Maybe
aforementioned short
this is because physical activities
completion time can be a curse
require discipline and drive,
as well as a blessing, for reasons
much like the stereotypical
you can probably guess. You’re
civilian perception of what it’s
not the only one likely to be
like to be in the Services? Since
tempted by a career change
I recently changed jobs and now work for a company that hires predominantly ex-Forces members to teach kids who are failing in mainstream education, using a range of hands-on and practical courses, I feel I have sufficient evidence to back up my opening statement and further believe that our civvy stereotype is on the money. If anything, I’m quite surprised that it’s taken me until my fourth feature for QUEST to think of linking the two together. The penny didn’t drop until I read the article about sport and fitness in a previous edition. It is also quite fitting as summer is approaching fast and people
Work it! QUEST’s ‘civvy’ contributor Ryan Mansfield reports once again from the resettlement frontline, this time with some tips on using your Forces aptitudes to forge a successful future in the fitness industry. His mantra: make money by helping others drop pounds. You have the power!
are desperately putting in their
18
debt at the end. This inevitably, and regrettably, attracts a few know-it-all cowboys that have jumped on the bandwagon because they are at a loose end and pumped a bit of iron back in the 1990s. Fitness-based jobs will always attract such people. It’s a competitive, testosteronefilled environment and certain individuals within it just need their egos stroking once in a while. Don’t get me wrong, I admire people that have the mind-set and dedication to stick to a programme in order to better themselves – I just find pouts and poses for ‘Snapchat gym a bit sickly. Just get on
‘beach bodies’ to an acceptable
save even more millions from
breaks up the week and stops
standard.
the NHS budget, and we might
that feeling of monotony.
That said, the beauty of
slog at university and a £16,000
selfies’ in the middle of a busy
last-ditch efforts to get their
fitness is that the need for
that doesn’t require a four-year
be on to something. Having worked in a gym
If you’re applying for gym-
with it! The ‘ex-Services’ approach could be your big unique selling
related jobs it is almost essential
point. People hire a personal
it is always there. January
myself for seven years, I know
for you to have gained the level
trainer (PT) for assistance with
sees us anxious to shift
it’s a pretty relaxed and easy-
3 Personal Training award. This
attitude, routine and discipline,
Christmas timber; from
going environment. The ability
will set you back a few hundred
not just knowledge. Sounds a
February onwards we start
to converse well with members,
quid, but can be polished off
lot like our civilian perception
thinking about that summer
complete basic tasks and build
within a year. Once certified, you
again doesn’t it? So milk this
getaway; once that’s been
a decent relationship with your
can be out there constructing
advantage you have for all it’s
enjoyed, the weather begins
boss will all lead to a cushy way
the planning and execution of
worth and really push the ‘Army
to disintegrate and the social
to spend your working days.
your training sessions. It’s not
boot camp’ approach. After all,
calendar (with the exception
Your monthly pay cheque won’t
dissimilar to driving, in that
the shoe fits, so wear it.
of December obviously) starts
ever make you a millionaire, and
when you take your lessons,
to dwindle, allowing the gym
evening and weekend working
you’re not learning how to drive,
easy to forget that a gym is a
to take precedence. Marry
will certainly be part of the deal,
you’re learning how to pass the
business, and like any other,
that with the fact that we are
but it all depends what you’re
test; this is no different. The
its aim is to make money.
a nation that has become ‘too
motivated by. Personally, having
qualification is no pushover
Therefore it pays (literally) to be
busy’ to exercise, forcing the
been doing the ‘9–5’ thing for a
mind you, going into a credible
smart about how you construct
government to pile millions into
few years now, I actually quite
degree of depth on the anatomy
your PT sales pitch. If Arnold
healthy living in an attempt to
miss the varied shift times; it
of the human body as well as
Schwarzenegger’s personal
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
On the flip-side it can be
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest trainer put me through the
nonsense where only sessions or
That said, no matter how good
in shape and want to help
same session he does Arnie,
classes that utilise 10,000 pieces
your cleaning skills, the main
others do the same, this could
it wouldn’t make them a good
of equipment are considered
reason your boss will tilt their
be for you. Remember, find
trainer, because I’d either die
acceptable. It is as off-putting
magnifying glass at you will be
that happy medium of getting
or, if I didn’t, not come back. It’s
for some, as it is impressive for
your interaction with members,
improvements while maintaining
quite logical, and although we
others. Sometimes simple is
ability to motivate a large group
your client base; embrace the
all want to work to the best of
most effective, and that requires
in a class environment and your
few that think they can take
our abilities and flaunt what we
you to assess your clients
know, the instructor who keeps
carefully, structuring a plan that
capacity yourself to convince as thatasingle on the world; enjoy having Fancy Civil Aviation Authority
a client for ten weeks and gets
suits their personality as well as
her into that wedding dress, or
their needs. Some clients will be
whatever it is, has undeniably
no-nonsense and want to crack
achieved more than the one who
on straight away, others will
puts on a firework display of a
want a bit of a chin wag before
session, pulling out all the stops
they start; this again is up to you
at the first meeting, only to
to spot and read accordingly.
0800 3800 007
never see that client again. During my gym days I ran
The fitness industry can, and will, throw many different
two weekly classes: a circuit
roles at you. At 8 pm you could
class and a high-intensity class.
be sifting through paperwork
Need I tell you which was nearly
to recruit a new member;
Discounted rate for service personnel always the busiest? Or are- you by 10 past you’re untangling (quote QSTMR16) £899 VATterm (Usually £1095) slightly put offplus by the Henry Hoover ready to waltz
person to keep pushing when competitive, confident people Accredited Commercial Drone Pilot? the little devil on their shoulder
around you – even though it’s
is telling them to quit – with all
normally a front; and finally,
Join the rapidly growing market at the right time.
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out. A real boss will see right
through them. Q • Theory and Practical Training the perfect job, but if you have • Theory Examination •practical Industry and Business Start-up advice hobbies, keep yourself • Operations Manual writing workshop and proofing • Flight Assessment • Membership of the ‘Drone Pilot Academy - Certified Operators’ database There is no such thing as
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Q
Note: If you already have aviation experience then a shortened course may be available.
Ryan would be delighted to hear from you if you feel he could offer you any help or guidance, from a ‘civvy perspective’. To get in touch, ryan.mansfield14@hotmail.co.uk Because it Startertoo? bundles including training ‘high intensity’ Theavailable key down the gym with him. That isVideo likely• Survey that many Service leavers will have Surveys similar concerns, Photography • • Crop Analysis • Topographical • Inspections and equipment – details on request lies in striking that fine balance second point is not so much we would like to encourage you to get in touch with Ryan Contact the Drone Pilot Academy on and, in turn, we will aim to publish any resulting useful advice between repeat custom and an example as a stonewall 0800 3800 007 or visit us online at (anonymised, of course!) in future editions of QUEST for the effectiveness, while not getting certainty; be prepared for benefit of our wider readership. sucked in to the whirlwind of copious amounts of cleaning!
www.dronepilotacademy.co.uk
5 March 2016 / www.questonline.co.uk questonline.co.uk l May 2016
19
««
Q
RAIL CAREERS
Careers beyond the cab
TRANSLATE YOUR SKILLS If you’re considering a career in the rail industry, the following general skills will boost your chances:
Like many youngsters, you may have dreamed of becoming a train driver one day – that’s still a possibility, of course, but the modern rail industry offers so much more scope than that, with job roles covering a huge range of areas, from signaller to site manager, engineer to HR officer. Which track’s the right one for you?
l
people skills – customer care and
l
technical skills – IT and engineering
l
commercial skills – an understanding
teamworking skills for some roles of the marketplace and the ability to optimise resources.
services – such as caterers, consultants and contractors. Designing and building
20
trains is an international industry, with
What’s involved?
are responsible for the UK’s passenger
multinational companies using their
Rail offers an environmentally friendly
train services, and look to recruit people
worldwide experience. There are also
way to transport people and freight
who can look after their customers at
rail-related public-sector jobs working for
around the country. Within the sector,
stations or on their trains. They are also
government departments or agencies.
many different career opportunities are
seeking people to drive their high-speed or
The structure of Britain’s rail industry
available, fuelled by the fast growth of the
metro trains, and technicians to look after
has featured in the news a great deal
industry, which has created demand for
the complex equipment involved every day.
recently, particularly with regard to the
enthusiastic people with new ideas to meet
Network Rail is the national organisation
controversial planned HS2 high-speed
the challenges that lie ahead.
that looks after the rail track and signals;
rail link. This is just part of the radical
UK train operating companies (TOCs for
it needs people who understand how to
overhaul of the UK rail system to which
short), like Abellio, Virgin and Arriva, run
make a complex system work efficiently.
the government has pledged investment,
the National Rail Network. That means they
Many other organisations supply goods and
aiming to achieve greater efficiency,
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
and airhead, is an early priority in any expeditionary operation, to enable bulk shipment of manpower and material.
Finding employment The variety of different jobs in the rail transport sector means that there are several different routes into it. At entry level, good maths, English and IT skills are in demand, while, for more senior roles, technical and business-related qualifications are sought after, along with soft skills like those highlighted in the ‘Translate your skills’ box. Despite the recessionary gloom lingering in some sectors, the future for railways remains remarkably bright. Both passenger and freight transportation demand remains high and is predicted to continue to grow, as road gridlock becomes ever more common and fuel prices increase. As noted Geotechnical engineer Ludy Needham at Eden Brows
THOSE WITH A LOGISTICS BACKGROUND ARE IN DEMAND
above, new and improved railway lines are
reduced congestion, environmental
planned for the near future, so it seems
benefits and lower fares. Such an approach
that rail travel is definitely here to stay.
is sure to have a fundamental effect on
Good news if your plan is to pursue a rail-
the sector, increasing the range of job
related career!
opportunities for those wishing to take up a new career in this thriving industry.
The aforementioned developments planned for the UK rail sector add up to a growing demand for new staff on the
Rail-related skills gained in the Services Rail is an excellent transport
railways, although the industry already has recruitment problems at all levels,
items. Many military movements
WANT TO BE A TRAIN DRIVER?
use rail transport, large supply
If you are interested in becoming a train
depots will often include loading
driver, visit the website of Careers that
and unloading facilities, and
Move, an organisation that – as its name
the use of troop and medical
suggests – focuses on careers in the
evacuation trains is quite
passenger transport sector. The site offers
normal. Indeed, establishing
an array of very useful interactive tools
a railhead, as well as a port
designed to support you in your job search
resource for heavy and bulk
in this industry – whether you’re looking at train driver roles or something else. To find out more about this particular career,
ATOC TALK
Dave Rayner, Network Rail apprentice, at St Dunstan’s level crossing, Canterbury
‘The key to better value for money is a more commercial railway that releases the full potential of the private sector and puts the passenger at its heart’ Association of Train Operating Companies
though, visit careersthatmove.co.uk and scroll down to click on the ‘Career map’ tool. Then, in the ‘Industries’ menu on the left, select ‘Rail’. Here you can click on various areas of interest to access a huge amount of advice about how to become a train driver, as well as many other rail and transport roles. There is also in-depth information on light rail, tram and metro roles. It’s really worth a look!
questonline.co.uk l May 2016
21
Q
RAIL CAREERS
particularly in specialist engineering positions, so if that’s your specialism you could find yourself very much in demand. One significant development has been the requirement placed on Network Rail’s contractors to employ more staff direct and rely less on agencies, in an attempt to improve standards in the quality of new build, with the in-house management of maintenance also calling for new staff. Indeed, Network
THE DEVELOPMENTS PLANNED FOR THE UK RAIL SECTOR ADD UP TO A GROWING DEMAND FOR NEW STAFF
Rail has announced that it is in the process of creating more skilled engineering jobs to help deliver some of Britain’s most vital rail infrastructure projects. As you might expect, there is a lot of competition for train driver positions, with many TOCs actively seeking to recruit drivers. The job has come a long way from the schoolboy dream, with today’s driver having a critical safety role, and needing to undergo a rigorous aptitude test and training programme. Qualifications are less important than the ability to think clearly and concentrate, and rewards reflect the importance of the person in the cab, who can attract a salary of up to £50,000 (source: Careers that Move). TOCs are also finding it difficult to recruit customer service staff to work at stations and on trains. These positions need few formal qualifications, but they do require an ability to deal with the travelling public. Network Rail has a significant shortage of signallers, too, and is seeking new recruits. As with driving, the job of regulating train movements demands attention to detail rather than a long list of qualifications. Infrastructure maintenance organisations employ a small core staff, and there are vacancies for workers to maintain the track and signalling structures. Skill levels vary from technical staff with engineering experience and qualifications, to gangs of track maintainers who need physical strength and can work in all weathers. Many specialist agencies work under contract to supply such people. This can provide flexible work, good rates of pay and a useful entry into the industry. There are also management and engineering opportunities. Rail is very much a people business, with many staff and even more passengers, and there is significant demand for experienced customer service managers. It is also a business that relies on getting the most out of limited physical resources, so those with a logistics background are in demand. Academic
22
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
GET INFORMED You can find more detailed information about the kinds of career opportunities offered by the rail industry on the Network Rail website – see www. networkrail.co.uk/careers – where the following selected key roles are described: l project engineer l project manager l project planner l scheme project manager l site manager l signaller l track maintenance operative l customer service assistant l HR administrator l team organiser.
qualifications and practical experience help
home pages include a job opportunities
to secure the better-paid management
list. Network Rail has its own site (see ‘Key
positions, but the most serious skill shortage
contacts’) with a useful job search facility
remains in the engineering functions, which
and full details of the sorts of roles on
is why, as noted above, Network Rail has
offer.
announced the creation of the more skilled
It is less simple to check for vacancies
engineering jobs; this is likely to remain the
with subcontractors because these
case for some time to come.
companies rely heavily on agency staff.
A good way to get more information
There are many agencies, and several
about vacancies is to look online. All the
have websites offering work in
train operators are linked through one
maintenance, as well as other short-
central National Railways site operated
term contract work at stations and on
by ATOC and virtually all the companies’
trains. Q
Q
THE INDUSTRY HAS RECRUITMENT PROBLEMS AT ALL LEVELS, PARTICULARLY IN SPECIALIST ENGINEERING POSITIONS All pictures copyright © Network Rail
KEY CONTACTS
ATOC Ltd 0207 841 8000 enquiry@atoc.org www.atoc.org
Careers that Move careersthatmove.co.uk @careersthatmove Quest March 2016 Final_2016 07/03/2016 09:28 Page 25
Network Rail 0207 557 8000 www.networkrail.co.uk
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses @networkrail When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
questonline.co.uk l May 2016
23
Q
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Superheroes of the workplace
Taking a proactive, preventative approach to problems such as accidents, injury and equipment failure, today’s health and safety professionals really do have the power to protect the working population. It’s a huge responsibility. Do you have what it takes to join them in the fight against potential disaster?
WHERE DO H&S OFFICERS WORK? Common areas of employment include: l
chemicals and allied industries
l construction l
education and training
l engineering l
hospitals and clinics
W
NEBOSH’s Certificate in the Management
l
local government
of Health and Well-being at Work.
l manufacturing
What’s involved? orkplace health and safety (H&S) officers use their skills and
24
H&S officers (or advisers) are based in
l
oil and gas
a huge range of organisations – from small
l transport
H&S culture, ensuring that both employers
consultancies to multinational firms – and
l telecommunications.
and employees abide by safety legislation,
work together with many different people,
and that safety policies and practices are
from employees and employers to trades
adopted and observed. H&S officers play
unions and directors. As an H&S officer,
a vital role in preventing and controlling
you will help to plan, implement, monitor
‘competent’ people with responsibility
operational losses and occupational
and review the preventative and protective
for H&S, irrespective of the size of
health problems, as well as accidents
measures that companies are required, or
the organisation or the field in which
and injuries. These days, H&S has moved
choose, to follow, and work to minimise
it operates. A ‘competent’ person is
several steps away from reactive, accident-
accidents and injuries, occupational health
somebody with the necessary experience,
based management and towards a more
problems and operational losses.
training, knowledge and/or other qualities
preventative approach, as highlighted by
The law calls for employers to appoint
to undertake the role, particularly risk
knowledge to promote a positive
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
assessment. Because organisations
l
keeping records of accidents and
people actively involved in H&S work may
inspection findings
not even recognise that is what they are
writing reports to suggest
doing, or might consider it a relatively
improvements
unimportant part of their job.
advising on protective clothing and
Forces-run modular training courses in
safety equipment
H&S, leading to a certificate, offer an
l
ensuring equipment is safely installed
opportunity to gain relevant qualifications
l
organising safe disposal of hazardous
while you are still serving. You may
substances (e.g. asbestos)
currently be in a post that enables you
l
providing training (to both managers
to gain significant H&S qualifications
and employees) in H&S issues and risks
(e.g. N/SVQs or NEBOSH awards). There
l
staying up to date with changes in the
are also courses you could take that are
law.
aimed at the potential manager who sees
are obliged by law to employ such a person, training and experience are legal
l
requirements for the management of H&S. A breach of H&S law is a criminal offence
l
that can result in fines, imprisonment, or both. In smaller organisations, the H&S ‘competent’ person function might form one part of a wider role, with the individual concerned responsible for it as part of their job while having other responsibilities too. Larger
On an average day, you will probably also
H&S as part of a job description (e.g. the
organisations will employ a
be required to wear protective clothing like
IOSH Certificate in Managing Safely) or
specialist (or specialists), or use
overalls, ear defenders and safety glasses.
the person looking to specialise in this
a consultancy.
You will also need a clean driving licence
field (e.g. the NEBOSH National General
if your job calls for you to travel between
Certificate, seen as the essential minimum
sites.
qualification for any full-time health and
The day job So, if you are thinking of a adviser, what are you likely to
H&S skills gained in the Services
find yourself doing on a day-to-
It almost goes without saying that most
career as an H&S officer or
day basis?
Service people work for at least
As your aim
some of the time in potentially
is to prevent
hazardous environments
health problems, accidents and injuries at work, part of your role will call for you to draw up health
NEBOSH National General Certificate
The essential first step to a career in H&S www.nebosh.org.uk/ qualifications/certificate/ default.asp?cref=26
and safety policies, and make sure that both the employees and
or with dangerous equipment, or both. Across all branches
safety job).
TRANSLATE YOUR SKILLS The skills and qualities essential for an H&S professional are very likely to be familiar to military people like you: l self-confidence l
an eye for detail
and trades there are
l
problem-solving skills
those with practical
l
systematic approach to work situations
experience and
l
diversity of work environments
l
good communication skills (for writing
awareness of H&S at work – you may well be one of them! Indeed, many Service
reports or dealing with employers) l flexibility l
wide-ranging responsibilities
l
the ability to analyse what went wrong
employers stick to them, as well
and, importantly, how to put it right.
as following national safety legislation. Depending on the kind of organisation you are working in, your role could cover areas such as occupational health, noise, safe
NEED TO KNOW
use of machinery, fire safety and control
l
Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
of hazardous substances.
– the government body that ensures
Your other key tasks might include:
risks to health and safety from work
l
situations are properly controlled
carrying out inspections and risk assessments,
l
how risks could be reduced l investigating
Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) – the professional
and thinking about
body for H&S practitioners l
National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health
accidents and
(NEBOSH) – an independent
recommending
awarding body for H&S qualifications
improvements to
(universities and other bodies also
safety standards
provide qualifications recognised by IOSH)
questonline.co.uk l May 2016
25
Q
HEALTH AND SAFETY
I DID IT! Name: SAC Christopher Clark Service branch: RAF Course: NEBOSH course bundle Provider: Woodward SHE Ltd
‘I’m a fire-fighter who has served nine years in the military. As part of my resettlement, I recently attended a bundle of four NEBOSH courses with Woodward SHE Ltd. I have just received my results and am delighted to say that I gained credits in all four! ‘Doing the course package with Woodward has also helped me to secure employment in Cumbria, which is where I am originally from. This will help me immensely with my transition from military life to civilian employment, having spent the majority of my life in the Forces. I couldn’t have gained this opportunity without the knowledge I now have thanks to all my NEBOSH certificates. ‘Once I have my feet firmly back on the ground in my new role I will be looking to advance on to the NEBOSH National Diploma. In the meantime, I would like to thank everyone at Woodward for providing an amazing environment to learn in and the opportunity to develop new skills. I’d especially like to thank Wendy Berry and John Liddell, who in my opinion were amazing instructors and extremely helpful in using all their experiences to help me learn, and which they shared openly. ‘There’s only one company I can see myself ever using for my professional development and that’s Woodward, thanks to all their valuable support and guidance.’ Find out more about the unique Woodward Resettlement Package Scheme here: http://woodwardgroup.co.uk/military-resettlement/ Get in touch 01228 592614 info@woodwardgroup.co.uk www.woodwardgroup.co.uk See the advertisement on page 30
Get qualified!
knowledge in order to practise effectively. If
series of courses that promote a culture of
you are new to H&S, you can start by taking
safe working, such as its modular Managing
an introductory course that covers the
Safely course. You can find out more on its
basics (health and safety in the workplace,
website (see ‘Key contacts’).
regulations, risk assessment and basic accident investigation). Courses are usually
Other qualifications
available on a part-time basis or can be
Scientific, engineering or technical
done via online and distance learning.
degrees, HNDs, HNCs, National Diplomas
Courses include:
and National Certificates are particularly
l
level 3 Award in Health and Safety in
appropriate for H&S. There are also
the Workplace
postgraduate qualifications in H&S, with
l
level 3 (NVQ) Certificate in Occupational
particular emphasis on occupational,
Health and Safety
environmental and hygiene aspects. Some
National General Certificate in
universities have MSc distance learning
Occupational Health and Safety.
programmes that focus on H&S and can
l
In particular, N/SVQs at levels 3 and 4 in occupational health and safety practice will provide you with good career opportunities. Recognised by the IOSH as being equivalent to the NEBOSH National Diploma, each takes approximately a year to achieve. To work as a full-time health and safety officer, you may need a higher level of qualification approved by the IOSH. You can progress to more advanced qualifications as your skills develop and your level of responsibility grows.
To become an H&S adviser, you can either The NEBOSH
relevant training course before you look
National Diploma
for a trainee position. The type of training
in Occupational
you choose will depend on the industry you
Health and Safety is
work in, or wish to work in. All workplace
seen as the qualification
H&S practitioners need a basic core of
for aspiring H&S professionals, designed
l
l l l
l
26
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
available (see ‘Factfile’).
Finding employment As noted above, most H&S officers/advisers get into this role by either completing a qualification and then looking for work or studying while working. Note, though,
For the skills and knowledge to tackle health and wellbeing at work www.nebosh.org.uk/ qualifications/certificate/ default.asp?cref=570&ct=2
once you already have a job, or take a
www.healthandsafety-jobs.co.uk Safety and Health Practitioner (magazine of the IOSH) www.shponline.co.uk Major online job sites and recruitment agencies Websites of large organisations and multinationals Websites and publications relating to the industry you’re interested in, e.g. construction National and local media
be expensive, but there is financial help
that it is becoming more
NEBOSH
l HealthandSafety-Jobs
(see above) within a year. Training can
NEBOSH Certificate in the Management of Health and Well-being at Work
study for health and safety qualifications
FIND JOB VACANCIES AT …
lead to corporate membership of the IOSH
common for advisers to enter the profession with a degree-level qualification. Some good advice is that employers tend to favour job applicants who have good people management and interpersonal skills. Health and safety professionals should also keep their skills up to
date. And, if you can bring a range of additional skills – such as being able
to provide students with the expertise
to provide in-house training in areas like
required to undertake a career as a
manual handling or first aid – that’s another
safety and health practitioner. It assumes
benefit as far as employers are concerned.
prior learning equivalent to the National
In addition, the Management of Health and
General Certificate. Read all about it on
Safety at Work Regulations outline the legal
the NEBOSH website (see ‘Key contacts’).
requirements for safety management issues and, if anything, this increases the need for
IOSH
companies to employ ‘competent’ persons
Membership of the IOSH is seen as
themselves, as opposed to dealing with
essential by most H&S professionals
safety issues via consultants.
who are beyond ‘competent’ person
Jobs range from a small company
status and specialists in their field.
employing an individual to a major
Membership grades depend on a
organisation that has an entire safety
combination of qualifications, experience
team. Some companies specialise in H&S
and achievement. The IOSH also runs a
issues such as planning supervision, safety
Claimants must consult with their education staff to check eligibility for ELC funding before making any commitment to study
Q
Salaries vary widely depending on role and
management is another sector where
responsibilities, location
employment possibilities are enhanced by a
and type of company. They
safety qualification. As noted above, many
can range from ÂŁ22,000 to
employers look for H&S advisers to have
ÂŁ35,000 a year, again depending
Ltd
training qualifications, and to be able
on the exact role. The current
i2i is the first choice for Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and coaching
to assess for, designensures that your training and development average salary for H&S training.the Ourneed holistic approach are at the heart of what we do,which allows you to give your new career andneeds deliver safety training. professionals with the start you are looking for.
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The HSE employs
Institution of Occupational and Health (IOSH) TAKE THE NEXTSafety STEP 0116 257 3100 to ÂŁ37,671IN for YOUR CAREER reception@iosh.co.uk
inspectors and other
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those withNEBOSH, up www.iosh.co.uk IOSH, CITY & GUILDS, IEMA
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31
Q
Breathe life into business MARKETING
Marketing is a vital tool for all organisations – without it they wouldn’t survive! This popular and wideranging field offers a wealth of opportunities and new directions – especially with firms’ current focus on the importance to their bottom line of social media. It’s quite literally the life-blood of business – are you ready to help it flow?
any marketing and communications position that suits your aspirations and experience. If you want to, you can study to a higher level, specialise, or just develop your role and see where it takes you.
Get qualified!
What’s involved?
specialists devise a strategy to determine
There are numerous training opportunities
A career in marketing can be both interesting
which sites to engage with, build their
in marketing. The Chartered Institute
and rewarding. It’s an area that offers
following, generate business and measure
of Marketing (CIM) is the best-known
huge variety and diverse opportunities to
their success.
professional body for marketing
develop your career in specialist areas.
Other specialist roles in marketing
qualifications and offers a route to Chartered
Whether you fancy working in advertising,
include product management, new product
Marketer status. Its qualifications are well
data management, research, events and
development, events management,
respected and offered by different training
exhibitions, communications, on the web –
advertising, communications, public relations,
providers across the UK and overseas. It also
or in a host of other related sectors – there
international marketing, brand management,
offers specialist courses in digital marketing.
are many marketing roles to choose from.
database management and customer
The Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing
As your marketing career progresses you
relationship management. Fortunately,
(IDM) is arguably less well known, but if direct
can change course and adapt
marketing communications is your
according to the skills you have
Average UK marketing salaries by industry sector
developed and your ambitions.
£47,106
GAMING AND GAMBLING
£45,519
might be a better route to follow.
TELECOMS
£43,625
The IDM has a very good reputation
FINANCIAL
£42,856
AUTOMOTIVE
£40,746
of the CIM and the IDM can be
ENTERTAINMENT
£39,384
compared online (to do so, visit
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
£38,214
INDUSTRY OR TRADE BODY
£38,018
RETAIL
£37,699
CHARITY
£35,597
growing area of marketing is digital marketing, covering website management, online advertising, search engine optimisation and social media. Digital marketing requires if you’re technically minded. Most company websites have a content management system that is pretty intuitive, but if you know HTML that’s a bonus – and for some positions, it’s a requirement!
Social media sites like Facebook and
Source: Marketing Week Career and Salary Survey 2016
directly to the customer) then this
and its courses are also available across the UK. The syllabuses
their respective websites – see ‘Key contacts’). Other marketing courses will also lay down the foundations of marketing – understanding your market and their needs, segmenting, targeting, and
there’s no need to make your mind up
communicating appropriately to each target
straight away on which area, if any, you want
audience. You can start at a basic level or
Twitter have become so popular in recent
to specialise in. A generic marketing course
enter training at higher levels, right up to a
years that many organisations now employ
should cover a little of everything and teach
master’s degree, depending on your previous
social media managers, responsible for
the principles of marketing, which cross all
academic achievements.
proactively managing their pages on
boundaries.
If you’re confused by the choice, it can be
Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and YouTube, to name just a few. These social media
32
that goes
FMCG
The newest and fastest-
specialist skills and it helps
passion (that’s any communication
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
Once you’ve learned the foundations of marketing, you’ll be equipped to apply for
helpful to look at what employers are asking for and take it from there.
HEART OF THE MATTER What is digital marketing?
The marketing of products or
services using digital channels (e.g. mobile phones (SMS and MMS), social media, display advertising, search engine marketing) to reach consumers hour
Have you got what it takes?
a week, depending on
The field of marketing is so diverse that
what you commit
there’s plenty of scope to find an area
thing,
that interests you. However, there’s one
you could
myth that needs eliminating fast! Some
get a real buzz
people think marketing is glamorous and,
out of seeing your
as a general rule, this is untrue. You may
event run smoothly.
find yourself lugging heavy boxes around
Even opportunities like
to. You can devote as much or as little time as you like to it, but the experience it gives you could prove invaluable.
What can you earn?
exhibition centres, putting up exhibition stands and spending evenings smiling at people in Olympia’s Great Hall when you’d rather be in the pub with your mates (and that’s just on the events
IS MARKETING IN YOUR MAKEUP? The following personal attributes can be helpful in a marketing career: l confidence and a positive attitude l excellent communication skills l attention to detail l the ability to work to deadlines l an aptitude for teamwork l a flair for relationship building l negotiation skills.
database
Earnings vary enormously in marketing, from
management
the minimum wage as a marketing assistant
and customer
or trainee, to highly paid positions as the
relationship
marketing director of a global company. It
management
also depends on the sector you’re working
(CRM) can provide
in: the Marketing Week Career and Salary
a high level of job
Survey 2016 reveals the average salary by
satisfaction
which might give you food for
your
thought. Do bear in mind
The specialist marketing press
occasional dinners
generic recruitment websites.
and those marketers in
be rare and, more often than not, you’ll be
you know that your data
organising rather than attending them. So
are clean. And many
unless you’re a high-profile executive in a
people just enjoy the
wealthy company that everyone wants to
diversity of being a marketing
befriend, that glamorous marketing career,
generalist, with all the variety it
full of wining and dining, is unlikely to come
provides!
much better-paid jobs than
Getting a foot in the door
our diagram shows – the fmcg,* and gaming/ gambling sectors are
currently the best paid. Q
Q
a career in marketing communications can
Once you’re qualified, you need to
help you develop your writing skills and
tailor your CV to show how your
unleash your creative thinking. The most
experience makes you a strong
creative people are often drawn to specialist
contender for a marketing role. Think
advertising or marketing agencies that
through your skills and experience, and
build their reputations on their exceptional
highlight relevant attributes like presentation
creative flare. Marketers working in low-
skills, experience working at events,
budget organisations like colleges, or in
computer skills and media communications.
SMEs where cash flow is tight, may have the
It all helps to improve your profile.
KEY CONTACTS
Chartered Institute of Marketing 01628 427120 membership@cim.co.uk www.cim.co.uk @CIMinfo
If you’re lacking experience, charities
but most work with specialist design agencies
often have opportunities within local
and some work with copywriters, too.
branches to help out with public relations
If you love social media, then digital
industries vary – often quite significantly, as
campaigns go well and
opportunity to do graphic design in-house,
country and different
and websites usually advertise
and more glamorous events, but they can
On the plus side, if you’re creative, then
that different parts of the
INSIDER TIP!
side). There are
to fruition!
industry sector (see diagram),
when
(PR). This can give you experience in dealing
marketing might be right up your street.
with the press, in advertising or in social
And, if the hustle and bustle of events is your
media management. It need only take an
*fmcg fast-moving consumer goods products that are sold quickly and at relatively low cost, e.g. toiletries, over-the-counter drugs, soft drinks, processed foods
Institute of Direct and Digital Marketing 020 8614 0277 enquiries@theidm.com www.theidm.com @theidm
questonline.co.uk l May 2016
33
Q
SCHOOLS SUPPORT STAFF
Careers on campus orking in schools than w to e or m h uc m s e’ Ther range of supporting, ge hu A . ng hi ac te m classroo l to keep Britain’s ia nt se es e ar s le ro r non-teache . ctor running smoothly se s ol ho sc t en nd pe de in t see which one could ge to e ur at fe is th e in Exam your A* rating …
Bursar/business manager A bursar is responsible for financial administration within a school. These days the person in this role is more likely to be called a business manager. If you’re interested in pursuing this kind of work, it will help enormously if you have a background in finance and people management, and experience in managing large budgets. As well as financial duties, the role can also involve other responsibilities, such as recruitment, marketing, administrative responsibilities and operations management. Level of responsibility varies depending on the size of the school.
Day-to-day tasks include … l
accounts management drawing up financial policies l budget and resource management l payroll duties l procurement of goods and payment l overseeing financial admin team. You could also be involved in: l recruiting and selecting support staff l spotting opportunities to generate income l keeping health and safety, and security policies up to date. l
What’s involved?
I
nterested in working in education, but don’t want to teach? There’s a host of options open to you in-school, many of which don’t involve working in the traditional
classroom environment. Some school-based careers don’t even involve children at all! Non-teaching jobs in schools are also known as ancillary positions. Loosely translated, that means ‘support roles’. Support staff play a vital role in raising standards in schools. The work is varied and challenging, allowing you to make an important contribution to the overall success of a school. Schools are complex organisations; that means the work of support staff is becoming more demanding – but more diverse too. By working as part of a whole school team, you – in a support staff role – could make a real difference in terms
34
Get qualified! Progression into this role is not uncommon via entry-level roles within a school office environment. Typically, an office administrator role in a school will call for five GCSEs. To move up to the position of bursar, you may need to attain the Certificate in School Administration. For external candidates, a financial/accounting background is desirable so, as an example, an ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualification will be useful. There are many ACCA online courses you can enrol on immediately if you do not already have this qualification (see ‘Key contacts’).
Skills required l l l l l l l l
strong financial accounting skills capacity to manage large budgets efficiently ability to manage other staff good presentation skills effective time management and organisational skills solid IT skills good communication skills commercial awareness
of raising standards and achieving positive outcomes for
What can you earn?
pupils.
This depends on many different factors, such as size of school, sector, experience, level of responsibility, and so on, but as a general guide bursar positions start at around £25,000 and can range up to £70,000 plus benefits.
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
SHEET GET THE FACTma nagement
A career in school business information on school is a factsheet full of useful (see page 34) business manager careers e: Find it her k/Resource/Factsheets/Ao.u m.c asb w.n ww anagement.aspx Career-in-School-Business-M
Grounds staff A grounds person’s job is to maintain the school’s grounds, buildings and facilities (e.g. sports fields and pitches, and gardens/outdoor areas). If you enjoy horticulture and working outdoors, this could be the job for you! You will usually work as part of a team, managing sports and recreation facilities, and any surrounding gardens, to a high standard. Grounds staff take care of pitches and facilities all year round. Ideally, beginner grounds staff will be qualified to at least NVQ level 2 in Horticulture and are likely to then be supported by the school that employs them to attain further qualifications, such as NVQ level 3 in Horticulture. Additional qualifications attained are likely to be rewarded by a higher salary.
Day-to-day tasks include … l l l l l l l l l
maintaining and developing sports grounds marking lines on surfaces installing and maintaining equipment like nets, posts and protective covers general gardening duties clearing litter planting new trees, shrubs, etc. operating equipment like hedge cutters, strimmers and ride-on mowers making sure equipment is correctly maintained and serviced keeping pavilions and stores in good condition.
Get qualified!
CCF instructor The Combined Cadet Force (CCF), which operates in more than 300 schools across the UK, offers young people aged 13–18 a wide range of challenging, adventurous, exciting and educational activities, with the aim of encouraging the development of personal responsibility, leadership skills, self-discipline, resourcefulness and confidence. Each unit operates as a partnership between school and MoD, and each school with a CCF has a Contingent Commander – an experienced CCF Officer who has spent several years gaining experience before moving into the Commander’s role. They are responsible for the safe running and administration of the contingent. The other CCF Officers are teachers or staff from the school. Alongside the Contingent Commander in every school is the Staff School Instructor (SSI). He or she will usually have a military background, bringing with them a great deal of experience and knowledge of military procedures and etiquette, giving cadets a true insight into military life – clearly, this is a role to which Service leavers like you are eminently well suited.
There is no set entry route for those who wish to become a grounds person. You may be able to find work as an unskilled grounds person without any relevant qualifications; you may then be able to progress to skilled level by gaining experience and working towards qualifications. However, you might find it helpful to work towards a qualification before looking for work, such as the level 2 Certificate/Diploma in Sports and Amenity Turf Maintenance, levels 2 and 3 Certificate/Diploma in Horticulture, or HNC, HND, foundation degrees and degrees in subjects like sports surface management, sports turf and groundsmanship. This would show employers you are committed and interested in learning more. It is useful to have spraying qualifications, too. The ability to operate a variety of maintenance equipment is also extremely useful. Recognised qualifications in tree husbandry and chainsaw work can be desirable, as is a clean driving licence and first aid qualification.
Day-to-day tasks include …
Skills required
l
l l l l l l l l
adaptability good team worker physical fitness self-motivation and dedication detailed knowledge of grounds and gardens maintenance regimes working knowledge of natural and synthetic sports surfaces ability to operate a variety of grounds maintenance equipment knowledge of health and safety rules and legislation
l l l l l l
assisting in the training of cadets and CCF staff supporting the Officer Commanding in the organisation of CCF camps and activities helping with the delivery of Duke of Edinburgh and other adventure training courses preparing risk assessments carrying out admin associated with the role planning and implementation of field training exercises.
Skills required l l l l l l
prior military experience enthusiasm and self-motivation cadet/youth experience (desirable but not usually essential) ideally, relevant outdoor education qualifications strong admin/organisational skills ability to interact well with young people ideally, previous experience of delivering military training
What can you earn?
Pay is likely to differ depending on school, location and exact role/ hours. To find out more, contact the offices of the CCF direct (see ‘Key contacts’).
What can you earn? Beginner grounds staff can earn from £17,000 to £21,000. With experience and qualifications, more skilled grounds people can earn between £21,500 and £26,500.
WHAT DO
ES IT MEA
N?
Forces leavers like you provide potential employers with highly trained staff, who possess discipline, adaptability, initiative and a sound work ethic. All of which helps to make you an ideal candidate for such roles.
Schools ancillary careers in brief At a very basic level (and for the sake of convenience!), school support staff roles may be split into the following main areas. l
Admin staff and school business managers: provide essential back-
adjective providing n ecessary su pport to the primary acti vities or op eration of a organisatio n n, system, e tc. e.g. ‘ancilla ry staff’
up services for the whole school, ranging from day-to-day office support to financial and school business management (e.g. bursars/
business managers – see above left).
questonline.co.uk l May 2016
35
Q
SCHOOLS SUPPORT STAFF
Careers adviser
Specialist staff and technicians
In-school careers advisers provide information, advice and guidance to help young people make realistic choices about their education, training and work. They help to identify suitable careers options, prepare CVs, advise on where to search for jobs and relevant training courses, and help with applications.
Specialist and technical staff include science, CDT and ICT technicians and managers, librarians and music specialists. They provide valuable resources to support teaching and learning. A science technician, for example, might be involved in administration of science laboratories, support activities across the science curriculum, and lab support for science teachers and students.
Day-to-day tasks include … interviewing young people individually or in small groups to discuss career or education options l helping them draw up action plans for employment, education and training l advising on how to source relevant training courses or qualifications l providing advice on CVs, job applications, job seeking and interview techniques. l
Day-to-day tasks include … Continuing to take our example of a science (or lab) technician, the following responsibilities are likely to be called for: l giving technical advice to teachers and pupils l assisting in practical classes and giving demonstrations l management of materials, resources and equipment l daily preparation of resources l organising and storing chemicals and equipment l keeping stock records l maintaining resources. l general laboratory cleaning.
Get qualified! A degree, HND or foundation degree in a sociological or educationrelated topic would be useful. In particular, skills and knowledge in the following subjects may help: counselling, psychology, social work, teaching and/or youth work. Foundation degrees in working with young people and in young people’s services are available and may be useful to you if you wish to work in school as a careers adviser. Most employers will prefer those who have, or who are willing to work towards, the Qualification in Careers Guidance (QCG). This combines academic study with practical work experience and takes one year full-time or two years part-time. The usual entry requirement is an undergraduate degree in any subject, but if you are without this qualification, you may still be considered if you can demonstrate an interest in and commitment to the subject, and perhaps some relevant experience. For more information on the QCG and relevant training providers visit the website of the Career Development Institute (CDI) (see ‘Key contacts’). Work-based qualifications are also available, which include the Career Information and Advice level 4 (NVQ). For more information, visit the website of the OCR Examinations Board: www.ocr.org.uk
Skills required good organisational skills methodical l ability to prioritise and meet deadlines l good, basic background knowledge of science l ideally, some knowledge of procedures relating to safe handling of chemicals l l
What can you earn? Salary depends on qualifications, skills and experience, but is likely to be in excess of £20,000.
PROOF CHECK
If you are seeking work in a non-te aching role at a school or presch ool you must first be checked through the Crim inal Records Bure au (CRB). You will also need to provide eviden ce of your identity, entitlem ent to work in th e UK and any qualifications yo u list in your appl ication. l
Skills required excellent communication and listening skills ability to motivate people l an empathetic, non-judgmental approach l organisational skills l problem-solving skills l l
What can you earn? There is no nationally recognised salary scale for careers advisers. Pay varies by employer, location and entry level. Starting salaries may range from £18,000 to £22,000, possibly rising to £27,000 with experience and relevant qualifications.
Learning support staff: work with teachers in the classroom to help pupils with their learning, i.e. teaching assistants (TAs), higher-level TAs, cover supervisors and nursery nurses (as our focus here is on
l
l
36
l
Specialist
careers outside the classroom, we don’t look at these
and technical
roles in-depth here, but it’s important you know these
staff: include
opportunities exist too).
science, ICT and
Pupil support staff: could be responsible for the
CDT technicians
welfare of pupils at break and lunch times, or outside
and managers,
school hours; others assist pupils with social, emotional
librarians and
and behavioural difficulties, or provide advice on
music specialists;
careers and courses (e.g. careers adviser – see above
provide valuable
right on this page).
resources to
Site staff: ensure a clean, safe and tidy school
support learning
environment, and provide meals at lunch time. Such
and teaching (e.g.
staff include caretakers, caterers, site managers and
science technician –
cleaners (as well as grounds staff – see page 35).
above).
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
This roles we describe in this feature give just a taste of the
and kitchen porters, marketing managers to matrons. Other
very wide range of jobs available on school premises. However,
roles that we have not considered in detail here, but that are also
these are just examples and you should bear in mind that a
likely to be of interest to our readers, include estate manager,
school (especially a boarding or independent school) is like a
caretaker, clerk of works, computer systems manager and
small town, and that’s something that calls for a host of different
catering staff (at all levels, from kitchen porter to executive
people – with a host of different skills – to enable it to function
chef).
efficiently and successfully. Unfortunately, we just don’t have the
For many of the jobs we have covered here, good – relevant
space to cover the vast array of job roles that involves in detail
– basic qualifications (e.g. in maths, English, IT skills, depending
here, but have instead selected a few for closer analysis – those
on the role) are in demand, while, for more senior roles (e.g.
that we hope are likely to be of most interest to you if you are
bursar/business manager), relevant professional and business
considering a career – other than teaching – in the independent
qualifications are in demand. ‘Soft skills’ – some of which are
schools sector.
highlighted in the ‘Skills required’ sections above – are also highly
To sum up … We have looked at a selection of jobs in this feature, and that of course means there are several different routes into these and other ancillary roles in the
Q
independent schools sector. However, we have merely scratched the surface here of the kind of non-teaching employment
you might find in Britain’s schools – many other jobs exist, from laundry assistants to payroll and pensions administrators,
sought after in the school environment, and can only enhance your chances of securing work. Q
KEY CONTACTS
Bursar/business manager Independent Schools’ Bursars Association (ISBA) 01256 330369 office@theisba.org.uk www.theisba.org.uk @the_isba
afterschool club coordinators to nurses National Association of School Business Management (NASBM) 02476 231221 training@nasbm.co.uk www.nasbm.co.uk @NASBM_news ACCA UK 0141 582 2000 info@accaglobal.com www.accaglobal.com @ACCA_UK Grounds staff Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) 01908 312511 www.iog.org @the_iog Lantra 02476 696996 reception@lantra.co.uk www.lantra.co.uk @LantraUK CCF instructor Combined Cadet Force Association 0207 4268 377 PA-GENSEC@armycadets.com http://combinedcadetforce.org.uk/
Specialist and technical staff Association for Science Education (ASE) 01707 283000 info@ase.org.uk www.ase.org.uk @theASE Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) 0207 255 0500 onsite@cilip.org.uk (training course enquiries) Web: www.cilip.org.uk @CILIPinfo Careers adviser Career Development Institute 01384 376464 hq@thecdi.net www.thecdi.net @theCDI Independent Schools Careers Organisation (ISCO) 01491 820382 helpline@inspiringfutures.org.uk www.isco.org.uk Job vacancies (general) Job ads can usually be found on local authority websites, school websites or in the local press. See also: TES (The Times Educational Supplement) www.tes.com/jobs
Guardian job search https://jobs.theguardian.com
questonline.co.uk l May 2016
37
Q
CAREER BRIEFING
Their health = your wealth Careers in ‘feel good’ industries such as leisure, therapy and well-being are set to benefit from a boost in demand in what is already one of the UK’s largest employment sectors maybe as part of a holiday or
ideal if you prefer to be self-employed or
special break. This means that
wish to develop your own business.
opportunities for work within
osteopathy, nutrition and Pilates – focus
– from administrative roles
mainly on the physical benefits, many
organising events to support
others – such as yoga and meditation/
roles such as mechanic (for
mindfulness – focus on the link between
example, on specialist cycling
the physical, mental and spiritual in order
holidays) and instructor (which
to achieve overall good health. Taking an
could cover outdoor activities
example that is more on the physical side,
such as rock climbing and
massage therapists generally work on the
abseiling).
whole body, using a series of different
Opportunities abound and,
GENERAL ORGANISATIONAL AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS PICKED UP IN UNIFORM WILL PROVE VALUABLE IF YOU WANT TO SET UP AS A HEALTH AND WELL-BEING PRACTITIONER
What’s involved?
L
to manipulate soft body tissue in order to
you, an added attraction might
improve circulation, improve muscle tone,
be the chance to broaden the
and relieve aches and pains. In general, however, you would need
you’ve enjoyed in the Services.
to have a real interest in your chosen
More ‘active’ types of leisure
area, and should be empathic, calm and
work, with the potential to obtain work-based qualifications,
DBS clearance
could include
Find out more: www.gov.uk/government/ organisations/disclosureand-barring-service
eisure, therapy and well-
roles such as outdoor activities instructor, which might
being form part of one of the
incorporate
able to communicate well with a variety of personality types. You could choose to work from your own home, at clients’ homes, or perhaps from a salon or spa, which would charge rent for the time you are there.
Relevant skills gained in the Services The sector will generally accept relevant Service training and experience, but you must be prepared to take additional
team-building
courses or undergo assessment to reach
economy, focusing in particular on leisure
exercises, or working
official standards. General management,
pursuits, and the promotion of health and
with younger or disadvantaged people,
organisational and interpersonal skills and
well-being through an variety of activities
while undertaking a pursuit such as
experience picked up in uniform will prove
and therapies. The UK has thousands
climbing, camping or sailing.
valuable if you want to set up as a health
of health and leisure centres, gyms and
Well-being (looking after our bodies
recreational spaces for public use, and
and minds – and perhaps even considering
there is an increasing demand for skilled
some spiritual aspects to life) is an area
Get qualified!
health and well-being professionals and
that continues to expand too, as we try to
Many different qualifications and qualities
therapists – in both the private and public
find a less frantic way of living in the 21st
can help with a career in the sectors we are
sectors.
century. If you are considering a role as a
looking at here. Technical ability is usually
holistic or alternative therapist, the good
critical, though, as are skills like effective
continues to expand as people strive more
news is that the training, in many areas, is
communication, customer care, teamwork
and more to balance their lives away
relatively short and inexpensive, doesn’t
and interpersonal experience.
from work with all kinds of experiences,
require previous experience and can be
either in the form of regular activities, or
undertaken part-time. Work in this area is
The leisure industry is vast, and
38
strokes applied by their hands and fingers
for many new civilians like
‘active outdoor’ mentality
fastest-growing sectors of the UK
Although some therapies – such as
the sector are incredibly varied
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
and well-being practitioner.
In the leisure industry, entry into the more ‘outdoorsy’ side of this type of work
is likely to require you to have skills in
as Indian head massage. The training
could earn somewhere between £40 and
one or more outdoor activities, the ability
is shorter (and therefore cheaper), and
£100 per one-hour session, and – once
to drive, and to hold appropriate first aid
the therapy itself can be delivered in a
qualified as a massage therapist – you
and life-saving certificates. You might
variety of settings – including workplaces.
could expect to earn up to £60 for a one-
also need Disclosure and Barring Service
Do ensure, however, that your
hour session. Q
(DBS) clearance if you will be working with
chosen course meets the
children or groups of vulnerable people.
criteria of a professional
The Institute of Outdoor Learning (see ‘Key
body like the General Council
contacts’) can advise further on accredited
for Massage Therapy:
courses and job vacancies.
www.gcmt.org.uk
There is a vast array of training
Q
available in the well-being sector, too.
What can you earn?
Many holistic/well-being therapies are not
The leisure sector is not particularly
officially regulated, though, so it’s wise
well paid, starting with the minimum
to check if the one you are interested in
wage, although if you choose to
has a professional governing body and
set up your own business as a well-
whether you need to attain a recognised
being practitioner your earnings
qualification in order to take out any
are likely to be substantially higher
practitioner insurance you might need.
(see below) although usually on an
Training as a massage therapist – to give just one example – will take six months
hourly-rate basis rather than a fixed
KEY CONTACTS
Institute of Outdoor Learning 01228 564580 institute@outdoor-learning.org www.outdoor-learning.org @IOLOutdoorProfs
Institute of Wellbeing Ltd 0700 2222 700 support@tiow.org www.theinstituteofwellbeing.com @iWellBeing
salary.
to a year full-time, not least to become
As far as holistic/well-being
thoroughly familiar with whole-body
therapies are concerned, a typical
anatomy and physiology (A&P). However,
hourly rate for a self-employed
if you already have a qualification in A&P,
Reiki practitioner could be anything
you could choose to massage just one
between £20 and £70. A self-
part of the body using a technique such
employed hypnotherapy practitioner
Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT) 02380 684 500 customersupport@vtct.org.uk www.vtct.org.uk @VTCT_uk
Postgraduate Certificate / Postgraduate Diploma / Master of Science
Security Studies Counter-Terrorism Studies Intelligence and Security Studies Terrorism, Security and Policing Security Management Diplomacy and Security Studies All courses start annually in September
www.security-studies.com/FLR2649AA301 VIP Code: FLR2649AA301 questonline.co.uk l May 2016
39
Q
LOCKSMITHING
Unlock your potential A career as a locksmith requires many different skill-sets. These, complemented by the appropriate training, can make it a rewarding, well-respected career – and perhaps the key to your success in the civilian workplace What’s involved?
For more job info …
on income, skills, working hours, entry requirements and more … visit the National Careers Service website: https://nationalcareersservice. direct.gov.uk/advice/planning/ jobprofiles/Pages/locksmith .aspx
A
s you might expect, the practical side of the locksmith’s role is very varied, and depends on factors such as location, job scenario and customer. Many locksmiths love the challenge this presents on a daily
basis and, because the majority of the work is light, it’s a career that suits a wide range of people.
Being a ‘people person’ is a must, though – locksmiths spend a huge amount of their time dealing with people in a variety of stressful situations. Imagine how you would feel if you had just been burgled or had locked yourself out of your property … The locksmith is required to deal with members of the public in similar situations, so needs to be understanding and sympathetic, while getting the job done. That’s why honesty and integrity are essential skills, as is the ability to think through a problem logically and see a job through to completion.
The day job The services of skilled and highly trained locksmiths – regardless of whether they are self-employed, completing private work, or working with national or
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Q
local companies of varying
Get qualified
sizes – will always be in
In the past the locksmithing
Getting known
demand at every domestic
industry was a comparatively
For the self-employed
and commercial level. These
difficult one to get into.
locksmith there are many
requirements could take the
Nowadays, however, there
opportunities to operate a
form of anything from working
are many training facilities
successful business. As with
at a customer’s home, business
throughout the UK revealing
any business, your success
or even vehicle, to much more
the secrets of the trade, and
will be governed by the
complex work – for example,
allowing easy access to the
amount of effort you put in.
working on safes or complex
industry for those who would
If you are willing to put in
electronic systems on large
like to work in it.
the hard work and dedicate
commercial sites. as an
British Security Industry Association 0845 389 3889
operation of your business, then you – and it! – are very
Security Industry Authority
in terms of
likely to succeed.
yourself to the smooth
emergency
TOP TIPS
reactive
Having the correct training
giving you the
locksmith
is of paramount importance.
best possible
requires
Ensure you are getting the
start in your
Have you got what it takes?
flexibility
best possible training for you –
new career.
Due to the nature of
in terms
if a course seems very cheap,
Although the
locksmithing work, and the
of working
there’s probably a good reason
locksmithing
skills required, it’s clear
hours, and
for that! Most locksmiths in
industry is
that the profile of a military
there is a
the industry train and operate
not currently
Service leaver fits the bill
fair amount
as an ‘emergency locksmith’,
government
very well, with many of the
of time spent
and this will contribute to the
regulated, and
skills gained while serving
on the road
majority of their workload,
there are no
travelling
but look at other locksmiths in
regulations
from job to
your area, try to identify any
governing it,
job. If you
‘niches’ within the region (cars,
responsible
like the idea
for example) and ensure that
training
of being your
this additional skill-set is in
centres have
own boss,
demand.
ensured that they are
a locksmith
independently
might suit you – that is, if you
regulated in order to raise
don’t mind working odd hours
standards within the industry.
and driving that extra mile to
There are currently
help a customer in distress.
no government-backed
No one knows when they
qualifications either; there are,
might require the services of a
however, a number of quality
locksmith as most of the work
training providers offering
is very reactive – so, needless
courses at various levels and
to say, as a locksmith you must
accreditation in locksmithing.
be prepared to drop everything
On some courses, candidates
and attend the customer in
are given the opportunity to
their hour of need.
have their skills assessed by
But, thanks to the fact
@thebsia
important
facility is vitally
the role of
info@bsia.co.uk www.bsia.co.uk
Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) 01327 262 255 enquiries@locksmiths.co.uk www.locksmiths.co.uk @MLA_locksmiths
Finding a good training
Working
KEY CONTACTS
industry experts in purpose-
that the majority of the work
built, practical training
is not planned and is very
environments. It is important
reactive, the locksmith industry
that you do your best to
is virtually recession-proof. A
check out exactly what kind of
customer can’t say when they
accreditation or qualification
might find themselves locked
you will gain from a course
out of their property, but when
before you part with any
they are they have little choice
money.
0844 892 1025 www.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk @SIAuk Skills for Security 01905 744000 info@skillsforsecurity.org.uk www.skillsforsecurity.org.uk @Skills4Security
Acknowledgement With thanks to Keytek™ Training Academy easily transferable to the for supplying the information on careers in locksmithing. Keytek currently provides the role of locksmith. Q highest level of training in the locksmithing Courses 4 Forces Spring final 2016_C4F 29/03/2016 15:55 Page 39 industry, offering level 4 accreditation.
SA S
A1 Safe & Secure Ltd 15 Days Professional Locksmithing Course
15 £2 da ,99 ys 5 tra for in in g
Our Level 3 Locksmith training course is the most intensive and comprehensive course available anywhere in the UK. We are passionate about training. Our course is staffed by ex forces personnel, Chief Instructor Ex 22 (SAS) Regt. We know what you need and how you need it. It is delivered with E.D.I.P. You will receive 10 days technical workshop training, and on completion, 5 days Field Training with our professional Field Trainers who are all qualified locksmiths who started their careers training with us. These locksmiths are all ex-forces. Our aim is to give you the best possible start in your new career. You cannot learn these skills in 5-7 days. It is just not realistic.
Free 24 hour helpline for life, supporting you.
Tel: 01432 341257
www.safeandsecurelocksmithcourses.co.uk
but to seek the services of a professional locksmith.
questonline.co.uk l May 2016
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Factfile Sponsored by
FACTFILE
Tel: 01908 587665 www.gastectraining.co.uk
This summary of personal development and resettlement information should be used as guidance and direction to the appropriate Service or civilian authority.
[Personal development and education opportunities] What is Personal Development (PD)?
PD is about self-improvement and satisfaction. It is open to everyone and can be done for one or many of the following reasons: >> to improve knowledge for personal interest >> to be introduced to new ideas or skills >> to broaden horizons
>> to enhance in-Service career prospects >> to gain qualifications >> to prepare for a second career
PD won’t just happen. You must take steps to find out what’s available and decide what you want to do. Use the flow chart below as a guide
Other sources of information include:
Individual talks to line manager about developing a realistic plan and maintaining a PD record (PDR)
A PD Route Map
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
Individual decides: >> subject to be studied and qualification (if any) >> level of study (basic/key skills, GCSE, S/NVQ, A-level, degree, postgraduate) >> mode of study (e.g. short courses, distance learning)
unit education or training officer in-Service publications in-Service education centre local library or civilian college the internet Quest magazine friends and family Quest website: questonline.co.uk
Q
In-Service
Local colleges or training providers
Distance/ open learning
eLearning – the Defence Learning Environment (DLE)
PD can mean anything from career courses to sports and adventurous training courses. See Q for other options for Service personnel
A range of further education (16+) and higher education (degree and above) courses are available. Ask your education/training officer or local college/library for a brochure
College attendance is not necessarily required. Flexible study can be undertaken by correspondence, or using the internet and tutorial support is usually available
There is now a huge amount of high-quality learning material freely available online to Armed Forces and Civil Service personnel, accessible either over the World Wide Web or via the Defence Intranet. The Defence Learning Environment (DLE) is the MOD’s central distance learning resource, providing ‘one stop’ access to a wide range of eLearning, courses, wikis, forums and other materials across a large number of key topics including: IT skills including ECDL, core competencies, health and safety, languages and business skills. Readily available via your Defence Gateway account. Visit http://www.da.mod.uk/ Courses/Online-E-Learning/DLE or www.defencegateway.mod.uk
Grants and funding are available for most forms of PD. See ‘Sources of advice and finance’ for details. Course complete? Look for your next learning!
Distance Learning
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 the Quest website: questonline.co.uk
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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
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses Readers must consult their Single to Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding advertisements please mention Quest When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
FORCE RESETTLEMENT TRAINING 2016/17
Use your Standard Learning Credits (SLC), Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) Individual Resettlement Training Cost (IRTC) Short and Long courses are delivered at our newly built South West Academy located just 10 minutes from RNAS Yeovilton on the A303 and 25 mins from Junction 23 of the M5 City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Sustainability - Attend our most popular 5 week L3 course and learn the practical and theoretical side to building. Obtain a range of skills in Bricklaying, Carpentry, Plastering, Plumbing and Tiling. Learn how to maintain and convert properties, understand building regulations, water regulations and learn about how using sustainable building methods is now the way forward when considering any building project. This course will require some evening attendance and study. L3 Block Release - Use your ELC and IRTC to enrol on a City & Guilds L3 Diploma in Brick or Carpentry, attend for one block week every 6-8 weeks for 18-24 months. Short Skills Courses - Use your SLC’s to gain basic skills in Brick, Carpentry, Plastering, Plumbing, Tiling, Painting & Decorating, Health & Safety/CSCS training, and new for 2016/17 Driver CPC Training Modules 2&4. Courses delivered range from 1-5 days attendance.
Reserve now for 2016/17 by contacting our dedicated Resettlement Co-ordinator Rachel Allen Call: 01458 274043 or Email: forces@train4all.co.uk or visit Web: www.train4all.co.ukE L C 4435
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43
Q
FACTFILE
Tel: 01908 587665 www.gastectraining.co.uk
Sponsored by
Sources of advice and finance Standard Learning Credits
Q
The SLC scheme allows personnel to obtain financial assistance for learning costs. You are able to claim 80% of your course fees, up to a maximum of £175 per financial year. To qualify for SLC funding, the course of study must lead to a nationally recognised qualification, have substantial developmental value and directly benefit the Service.
Enhanced Learning Credits
Q
The ELC scheme provides financial support in the form of a single up-front payment of up to £2,000 per annum (depending on length of Service) in each of a maximum of three separate financial years. The scheme is based on the principle that individuals will make a personal contribution towards the cost of their learning. The ELC contribution may be up to 80% of the gross course value. ELC funding is available only for courses that result in a nationally recognised qualification at level 3 or above on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) or Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) (England and Wales), at level 6 or above on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) or, if pursued overseas, an approved international equivalent qualification. For full details visit www.enhancedlearningcredits.com
Individual Resettlement Training Cost (IRTC)
Q
The IRTC grant exists to help towards the cost of resettlement training through the CTP or external training providers. The IRTC grant may not be used for Civilian Work Attachments but may be used in concert with a Learning Credit – Standard (SLC) or Enhanced (ELC) – for any course that is completed prior to the Service Leaver leaving the Service and subject to the relevant criteria of either scheme. (See JSP 898 Part 4.)
Further/Higher Education (FE/HE) Access
Q
The Ministry of Defence and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills offer eligible Service Leavers free FE/HE support for a first level 3 or Foundation Degree qualification. To be eligible, Service Leavers must have registered for the ELC scheme while in Service, complete a minimum of four years’ productive service, complete a minimum of four years’ ELC scheme membership, thus qualifying for the initial lower-tier support, or eight years’ membership, qualifying for the higher-level support, and take up the offer of free support within ten years of leaving Service. Local Education Authority (LEA) grants and low-interest student loans are available for anyone entering full-time education. They are means tested in that what you receive depends on your income and that of your family. If you are entering full-time education you should apply for one, even if you do not think you are eligible, otherwise you may not qualify for other benefits. Contact your LEA for details.
Professional and Career Development Loans These are designed to help people change direction or increase their skills by providing a deferred repayment loan of between £300 and £10,000 to cover up to 80% of tuition fees for a vocational course of up to two years, plus a further year’s work experience if appropriate. Courses can be full-time or part-time, or involve open or distance learning, and people who have been out of work for three months can apply to have all their course fees covered. The low-interest loan is arranged through one of four high-street banks, and certain conditions and criteria apply. Find out which banks offer the loan and order an application pack by calling the National Careers Service on Tel: 0800 100 900.
Resettlement Grant (RG)
Q
The RG is paid only if there are no other terminal benefits due (so, if someone is medically discharged after the RG trigger point, RG is not paid as other benefits become due). The amount payable depends on length of Service and on which pension type the SL is on. The current rate for eligible Service Leavers who are on the most recent pension scheme is £9,825. It can be as much as £17,824 on previous pension schemes.
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Armed Forces Compensation Scheme
Q
The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) provides compensation for any injury, illness or death that is predominantly caused by service on or after 6 April 2005. The War Pension Scheme (WPS) compensates for any injury, illness or death that occurred up to this date. All current and former members of the UK Armed Forces, including Reservists, may submit a claim for compensation. For advice and guidance, call Veterans UK’s free helpline on 0808 1914218. Alternatively, you can visit: www.veterans-uk.info
Universities and Colleges Admissions Service UCAS deals with applications for first degree and similar standard courses at over 250 universities and colleges in the UK. Remember that you no longer need A-levels to go to university – vocational A-levels/NVQs and access courses now qualify students as well. If you are interested in entering higher education, call the UCAS hotline on Tel: 0371 468 0468 or visit www.ucas.com
University Short Courses
Q
The University Short Course Programme (USCP) exists to enhance the general educational development of Service personnel through providing short courses at a range of universities in topics such as leadership and management, regional and strategic studies, and languages. Course fees and accommodation costs are funded by the Services. Further details are available from education/learning centres or search in DINs.
learndirect learndirect is a free government service via which qualified advisers provide information on all aspects of learning, from UK-wide learning opportunities, to career guidance and sources of finance, and other national and local organisations that can help. Advisers can answer questions on any aspect of learning. The website address is www.learndirect.com The freephone number is Tel: 0800 101901.
Professional and Career Development Loans Finding a job
Jobcentre Plus has one of Britain’s largest databases of job vacancies, which is updated constantly. The database also lets you search for training, career information, voluntary work and childcare providers across the UK. You can search the database via Universal Jobmatch (www.gov.uk – search for ‘jobs’) or by using the Job Point in your local Jobcentre. When you find a job you are interested in, either using the Jobcentre Plus job search or at the Job Point in your local Jobcentre, Jobcentre advisers will tell you how to apply, send you an application form and may even contact the employer (so have your address, National Insurance number, date of birth and the job reference number to hand).
Benefits
If you’re unsure which benefits you can get, you can check online using the Gov.uk ‘Benefits calculators’ pages ( www.gov.uk – search for ‘benefits calculators’). To find out more about Jobseeker’s Allowance, who can get it and how to claim online, go to the Gov.uk ‘Jobseeker’s Allowance’ pages ( www.gov.uk – search for ‘Jobseeker’s Allowance’). You can also claim by phone by calling Jobcentre Plus on 0800 055 6688. There’s a Welsh-language line on 0800 012 1888, and a textphone on 0800 023 4888 if you find it hard to speak or hear clearly. Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am–6pm.
Armed Forces Champions
Q
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
consult their Single Service BEFORE committing courses Readers mustReaders consultmust their Single Service BEFORE committing Readers must consult their Single Advisors Service Advisors Advisors BEFORE committingtoto tocourses courses Readers mustWhen consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest responding to advertisements please mention When responding to advertisements please mentionQuest Quest When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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FACTFILE
Resettlement: Preparation for leaving the Forces
Official provider of career guidance, skills training and job finding assistance to leavers of the Armed Forces The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) is a partnering agreement between the MoD and Right Management to provide 3rd Line tri-service resettlement support. This consists of career transition services, training and job finding support for leavers of the Armed Forces. RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity – is an integral part of the CTP and leads on the provision of job opportunities and employment support. This 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
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Resettlement Centre Aldergrove Tel: 02894 421639 Regional Resettlement Centre Aldershot Tel: 01252 348336/339 Regional Resettlement Centre Catterick Tel: 01748 872930 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
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FACTFILE
Graduated Resettlement Time (GRT)
GRT is the length of time that a Service Leaver is eligible to spend on resettlement activities, including workshops, training courses, civilian work attachments or individual resettlement provision.
Transition services and entitlements
Entitlement All Service Leavers, other than those discharged as Early Service Leavers, are entitled to receive the resettlement support detailed in the table below. Principle Longer service is rewarded with entitlement to increased resettlement time. All Medically Discharged Service Leavers automatically qualify for the maximum entitlement. Entitlement includes grants, allowances, travel warrants, resettlement leave, consultancy, transition workshops and subsidised training. Years’ Service 1. <1 2. 1+ 3. 4+ 4. 6+ 5. 8+ 6. 12+ 7. 16+
Normal Discharge
Medical Discharge(2)
CTP GRT(1) No 0 No 0 ESP 0 FRP 20 FRP 25 FRP 30 FRP 35
CTP GRT(1) FRP 10 FRP 30 FRP 30 FRP 30 FRP 30 FRP 30 FRP 35
IRTC No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Outflow
<4 Years’ service or administratively discharged
IRTC Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes 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 ‘actuals’ 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 Leavers’ 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 ‘Local Training First’ 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.
For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.ctp.org.uk
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• Vulnerability Assessment • Resettlement Brief • Resettlement Interview • Gateway to 3rd Sector:
– Housing – Finance – Social Benefits – Employment – Pensions – Health
Employment Support Programme >4<6 Years’ Service
• Job-Finding Service • ‘RightJob’ Access • Consultant Interview • Housing Brief • Financial Aspects of Resettlement Brief • Access (on a standby basis) to 50 Various Resettlement Training Centre Courses • Post Discharge Consultant Support (up to 2 years) • Employment Fairs and Events
Full Resettlement Programme >6 Years’ Service
• IRTC Grant (£534) • Resettlement Leave (up to 35 days) • Career Transition Workshop (3 days) • Other Workshops – Self-Employment Awareness – Small Business Start-Up – CV Writing – Interview Skills – Networking • Career Consultancy • Travel Warrants (up to 7) • ‘RightJob’ Access • Financial Aspects of Resettlement Brief • Housing Brief • Access to 50 Various Resettlement Training Centre Courses • Post Discharge Consultant Support (up to 2 years) • Employment Fairs and Events
Standard Learning Credits Enhanced Learning Credit Access to first FE/HE Qualification Resettlement Grant - Officers with 9 years service up to £14,686 - Other Ranks with 12 years service who are AFPS 75 up to £10,302 - Officers (9 years) and Other Ranks (12 years) who are AFPS 05 up to £10,302
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses nsult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest Sponsored by Tel: 01908 587665 www.gastectraining.co.uk When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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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 Employment Events 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
RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity Job-finding assistance and access to RightJob is available through the RFEA Employment Compass Programme (ECP), a national employment support programme designed to address the employment needs of Veteran personnel who no longer qualify for MoD Resettlement support and are returning to the employment market after two years post discharge from service. The RFEA’s aim is to assist Veterans to secure quality, sustainable employment for the rest of their working lives. RFEA has an unparalleled understanding of the skills and ambitions that ex-Forces/Veterans bring to the employment market. We also have a proven track record of helping all ranks, trades, backgrounds and services to find, and remain in, work. Indeed, in 2014 RFEA provided employment support to just over 4,000 Veterans UK-wide. Tel: 0845 873 7166 Email: AdminRFEA@ctp.org.uk Website: www.rfea.org.uk
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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 our central line 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 Future Horizons 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 Darren Bickerstaffe, Programme Manager, on 07428 705 770 or meet with a CTP Future Horizons assessor at the following locations: >> ITC Catterick, Hook Company: 01748 831274 >> ATC Pirbright, Sword Company: 01483 475526 >> Resettlement Centre Plymouth: 01752 557635 Follow Future Horizons on Facebook, and receive the latest news and updates from the programme.
For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.ctp.org.uk
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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Claimants must consult with their education staff to check eligibility for ELC funding before making any commitment to study
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Making the transition Even if you have a job to go to on leaving the Armed Forces, you are still strongly advised to attend the CTP Career Transition Workshop (CTW), along with any other that you will find of benefit, such as CV Writing or Interview Techniques. The purpose of these workshops is to help you to recognise and assess your options and learn
skills in order to approach the civilian workplace and market yourself to a future employer. These are skills that are important to develop for life, and not just for your next job. If you don’t go – you won’t know.
The Self-Marketing Approach is based on the application of well-established marketing concepts to the task of getting a new job. Marketing is about delivering products and services to meet customers needs. In this case, you are the product, the customer is your next employer. Your task is to persuade the customer that the range of benefits, which you bring, match his or her needs.
Throughout our lives we are faced with choices or options and as you prepare to leave the Services, you are potentially about to face some of your biggest ones yet. You can never start this preparation early enough, so plan your resettlement carefully and thoroughly. In order to commence a successful self-marketing campaign one of the first things you should do is to decide what it is you wish to achieve.
Define the product
Understand the world of work
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
Identify as wide a range of your skills and experience as you can From these, you can choose which ones match what the employer wants Demonstrate your value to the employer List your successes Focus on skills and attitudes rather than tasks Identify transferable skills Learn to think in terms of product (you) and customer (your next employer) Remember, customers buy benefits Define yourself in terms of unique selling propositions (USPs)
Prepare self-marketing literature Your CV should include: >> a personal profile – your USP >> major achievements – 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 >> clichés, jargon, abbreviations and untruths
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 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
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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 employer’s needs Prepare questions that you can ask the interviewer Seek feedback and learn from mistakes
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.ctp.org.uk
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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Tel: 0845 121 0475 Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses © Forth Valley College 2016. www.i2idevelopmentsolutions.com All information was correct at time of publishing, but may be subject to change. CM225 When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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Q Courses and events COURSES AND EVENTS
This guide includes the courses currently scheduled to run from June to August 2016 Additional courses may be scheduled by each Resettlement Centre according to demand. A list of all courses scheduled for 2016 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
rcaldergrove@ctp.org.uk
rrccatterick@ctp.org.uk
START DATE END DATE
START DATE END DATE
CTW Mixed Class
CTW Junior Ranks
13 June 2016 13 July 2016 15 August 2016
15 June 2016 15 July 2016 17 August 2016
Employment Support Programme Wksp 21 June 2016 20 July 2016 24 August 2016
FAR All Ranks 28 June 2016
21 June 2016 20 July 2016 24 August 2016 28 June 2016
RRC Aldershot rrcaldershot@ctp.org.uk
13 June 2016 27 June 2016 04 July 2016 11 July 2016 08 August 2016
15 June 2016 29 June 2016 06 July 2016 13 July 2016 10 August 2016
CTW Officer/SNCO 06 June 2016 20 June 2016 18 July 2016 22 August 2016
08 June 2016 22 June 2016 20 July 2016 24 August 2016
Employment Support Programme Wksp 14 June 2016 18 July 2016
FAR All Ranks
14 June 2016 18 July 2016
START DATE END DATE
07 June 2016 26 July 2016
CTW Junior Ranks
Self Employment Awareness
21 June 2016 20 July 2016 22 August 2016
23 June 2016 22 July 2016 24 August 2016
CTW Mixed Class
13 June 2016
07 June 2016 26 July 2016 13 June 2016
RRC Colchester
27 June 2016 29 June 2016 (Course location Brize Norton) 04 July 2016 06 July 2016 (Course location Brize Norton) 08 August 2016 10 August 2016 (Course location Brize Norton)
rrcnortholt@ctp.org.uk
CTW Officer SNCO
20 July 2016
06 June 2016 20 June 2016 04 July 2016 18 July 2016
09 June 2016 11 August 2016
Employment Support Programme Wksp
18 July 2016
CTW SNCO
07 June 2016 09 August 2016
Employment Support Programme Wksp 16 June 2016 04 July 2016 25 July 2016 08 August 2016
16 June 2016 04 July 2016 25 July 2016 08 August 2016
FAR All Ranks
01 June 2016 01 June 2016 (Course location The Bell, St Omer Barracks)
Housing
06 July 2016 06 July 2016 (Course location Brize Norton)
START DATE END DATE CTW Mixed Class
23 June 2016 21 July 2016
FAR All Ranks 20 July 2016
08 June 2016 22 June 2016 06 July 2016 20 July 2016
24 June 2016 22 July 2016 20 July 2016
Interview Techniques 07 July 2016 08 July 2016
07 July 2016 08 July 2016
Self Employment Awareness 14 June 2016
14 June 2016
RRC Cottesmore rrccottesmore@ctp.org.uk
New Horizons in Retirement
START DATE END DATE
14 July July 2016
28 June 2016 14 July 2016
Self Employment Awareness 20 June 2016 05 August 2016
20 June 2016 05 August 2016
CTW Officer
06 June 2016 08 June 2016 04 July 2016 06 July 2016
Employment Support Programme Wksp
13 June 2016 13 June 2016 11 July 2016 11 July 2016 08 August 2016 08 August 2016
FAR Officers
08 June 2016 08 June 2016 (Course location External Venue)
FAR Other Ranks
09 June 2016 09 June 2016 (Course location External Venue)
Housing
13 July 2016 13 July 2016 (Course location External Venue)
Interview Techniques 27 June 2016
27 June 2016
Self Employment Awareness 30 June 2016 27 July 2016
30 June 2016 27 July 2016
RC Germany
rcgermany@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks
Interview Techniques 28 June 2016
54
RRC Catterick
CTW Mixed Class 07 June 2016 13 June 2016 14 June 2016 20 June 2016 21 June 2016 27 June 2016 28 June 2016 05 July 2016 11 July 2016 12 July 2016 18 July 2016 19 July 2016 25 July 2016 01 August 2016 02 August 2016 08 August 2016 09 August 2016 30 August 2016 31 August 2016
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
09 June 2016 15 June 2016 16 June 2016 22 June 2016 23 June 2016 29 June 2016 30 June 2016 07 July 2016 13 July 2016 14 July 2016 20 July 2016 21 July 2016 27 July 2016 03 August 2016 04 August 2016 10 August 2016 11 August 2016 01 September 2016 02 September 2016
28 June 2016 30 June 2016 (Course location Sennelager) 19 July 2016 21 July 2016 (Course location Sennelager)
CTW Officer/SNCO
07 June 2016 09 June 2016 (Course location Sennelager) 05 July 2016 07 July 2016 (Course location Sennelager) 30 August 2016 01 September 2016
Employment Support Programme Wksp
20 June 2016 20 June 2016 (Course location Sennelager) 18 July 2016 18 July 2016 (Course location Sennelager)
German CV Writing
06 June 2016 06 June 2016 (Course location Sennelager)
Networking
RC Northolt
rcnortholt@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Mixed Class 07 June 2016 21 June 2016 11 July 2016 25 July 2016
CTW Officer
14 June 2016 18 July 2016 01 August 2016
FAR All Ranks 13 July 2016
09 June 2016 23 June 2016 13 July 2016 27 July 2016 16 June 2016 20 July 2016 03 August 2016 13 July 2016
Interview Techniques
27 June 2016 27 June 2016
Networking
10 June 2016 10 June 2016
Self Employment Awareness 28 July 2016 28 July 2016
RC Plymouth
rcplymouth@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks 13 June 2016 18 July 2016 22 August 2016
15 June 2016 20 July 2016 24 August 2016
CTW Mixed Class
20 June 2016 22 June 2016 27 June 2016 29 June 2016 28 June 2016 30 June 2016 (Course location Culdrose) 11 July 2016 13 July 2016 19 July 2016 21 July 2016 (Course location Culdrose) 25 July 2016 27 July 2016 01 August 2016 01 September 2016 15 August 2016 17 August 2016 30 August 2016 01 September 2016
CTW Officer/SNCO
21 June 2016 21 June 2016 (Course location Sennelager)
06 June 2016 04 July 2016 08 August 2016
Central London
Employment Support Programme Wksp
START DATE END DATE
FAR All Ranks
CTW Senior Officer
Interview Techniques
resettlementinfo@ctp.org.uk
07 June 2016 28 June 2016 26 July 2016 09 August 2016
09 June 2016 30 June 2016 28 July 2016 11 August 2016
Interview Techniques (Snr Officer) 03 June 2016 12 August 2016
03 June 2016 12 August 2016
23 June 2016 14 July 2016 07 July 2016
04 August 2016
08 June 2016 06 July 2016 10 August 2016
23 June 2016 14 July 2016 07 July 2016 04 August 2016
Self Employment Awareness 20 July 2016
20 July 2016
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COURSES AND EVENTS
RC Portsmouth rcportsmouth@ctp.org.uk
RRC Rosyth
rrcrosyth@ctp.org.uk
RRC Tidworth rrctidworth@ctp.org.uk
START DATE END DATE
START DATE END DATE
START DATE END DATE
CTW Junior Ranks
CTW Junior Ranks
CTW Junior Ranks
06 June 2016 04 July 2016 01 August 2016
08 June 2016 06 July 2016 03 August 2016
CTW Mixed Class 20 June 2016 11 July 2016 08 August 2016
CTW Officer 13 June 2016 18 July 2016
CTW SNCO
27 June 2016 25 July 2016 15 August 2016
22 June 2016 13 July 2016 10 August 2016 15 June 2016 20 July 2016 29 June 2016 27 July 2016 17 August 2016
Employment Support Programme Wksp 23 June 2016 21 July 2016 18 August 2016
FAR All Ranks 06 July 2016
Housing
30 June 2016
23 June 2016 21 July 2016 18 August 2016 06 July 2016 30 June 2016
13 June 2016 15 June 2016 20 June 2016 22 June 2016 27 June 2016 29 June 2016 04 July 2016 06 July 2016 05 July 2016 07 July 2016 (Course location External Venue) 11 July 2016 13 July 2016 11 July 2016 13 July 2016 (Course location Lossiemouth) 18 July 2016 20 July 2016 01 August 2016 03 August 2016 08 August 2016 10 August 2016 15 August 2016 17 August 2016 30 August 2016 01 September 2016
CTW Officer/SNCO 06 June 2016 25 July 2016
08 June 2016 27 July 2016
Employment Support Programme Wksp 14 June 2016 19 July 2016 16 August 2016
15 June 2016 20 July 2016 17 August 2016
Self Employment Awareness 09 June 2016 04 August 2016
Interview Techniques
09 June 2016 04 August 2016
06 June 2016 13 June 2016 27 June 2016 04 July 2016 11 July 2016 18 July 2016 25 July 2016 08 August 2016 15 August 2016 31 August 2016
08 June 2016 15 June 2016 29 June 2016 06 July 2016 13 July 2016 20 July 2016 27 July 2016 10 August 2016 17 August 2016 02 September 2016
Self Employment Awareness
May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
21 June 2016 21 June 2016 (Course location 1 RHA Lecture Theatre)
Insight to Management Consultancy 16 June 2016 14 July 2016 04 August 2016
03 June 2016 23 June 2016 07 July 2016 21 July 2016 11 August 2016
CTW Officer/SNCO 16 August 2016
CTW SNCO
14 June 2016 20 June 2016 28 June 2016 12 July 2016 26 July 2016
18 August 2016 16 June 2016 22 June 2016 30 June 2016 14 July 2016 28 July 2016
02 June 2016 16 June 2016 23 June 2016 07 July 2016 21 July 2016 04 August 2016
16 June 2016 14 July 2016 04 August 2016
Interview Techniques
Networking
01 June 2016 21 June 2016 05 July 2016 19 July 2016 09 August 2016
03 August 2016
Visit www.ctp.org.uk for further details
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FAR Other Ranks
CTW Officer
02 June 2016 16 June 2016 23 June 2016 07 July 2016 21 July 2016 04 August 2016
02 June 2016 02 June 2016
05 July 2016 05 July 2016 (Course location External Venue)
27 June 2016 18 July 2016 01 August 2016
01 August 2016
11 August 2016 18 August 2016
FAR Officers
CTW Mixed Class
Employment Support Programme Wksp
07 July 2016 07 July 2016
11 August 2016 18 August 2016
28 June 2016 05 July 2016 02 August 2016
27 June 2016 18 July 2016 01 August 2016 28 June 2016 05 July 2016 02 August 2016
New Horizons in Retirement 20 June 2016
20 June 2016
Self Employment Awareness 21 June 2016 21 July 2016 31 August 2016
21 June 2016 21 July 2016 31 August 2016
When responding to advertisements please mention Quest When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
Fancy running your own local organic food business? If you are somebody who loves good food, shares our values and fancies being your own boss, then a Riverford franchise could be the right business for you. Why Riverford? - Established brand over 25 years - Ethical & rewarding business - Award-winning organic produce - First class business support Quest March 2016 Final_2016 07/03/2016 09:33 Page 50
Find out more: Visit riverford.co.uk/franchise or give us a call on 01803 227380
When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
Career Opportunities in England www.efhl.co.uk
BIO-RITE Working with the NHS
If you are committed to excellence in care for older people and seek an organisation where you will be welcomed, supported and developed then our care home group, which is owned by a substantial UK charity in England provides the highest standards of care.
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Call 02380 302025 www.bio-rite.com
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50 May 2016 l questonline.co.uk
QinetiQ.com/careers QinetiQ.com//careorerscall: 0208 834 9200 Email: recruit@efhl.co.uk
www.questonline.co.uk / March 2016
JOIN OUR TEAM!
CANARY WHARF SECURITY Are you leaving the Forces? Canary Wharf Security are recruiting for security officers to work at our East London estate. We offer you a permanent employment contract, including the following benefits: Competivive Salary Overtime opportunities Excellent pension scheme Free private healthcare for you & your immediate family Free Life insurance Subsidised health club / gym membership Interest free travel season ticket loan after probation Four weeks paid holiday per year Canary Wharf Security is a large organisation with opportunities for promotion. We provide all specialist training you will need to do the job, as well as many personal development opportunities. To apply Email: securityrecruitment@canarywharf.com quoting M1