YOUR HOME FOR EVERYTHING ELC SEPTEMBER 2017
£250 PRIZE WINNER It could be you!
ELCs EXPLAINED
Find out how on page 46
All you need to know!
PLUS Access Diplomas Civvy savvy Resettlement planning Transition support
And get on course for these careers: Health and safety Rail
FORMER MEDIC’S NEW CALLING Francesca turns her transferable skills to training
INCORPORATING COURSES 4 FORCES COURSES I FUNDING I CAREERS I RESETTLEMENT
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T
H
E
EDITOR WELCOME TO THE LATEST ISSUE OF QUEST magazine, incorporating COURSES 4
FORCES, the place where you’ll find ‘everything ELC’ (and more!) under one roof. If this is the first time you’ve picked up a copy, you’ve come to the right place: whether you’re still in uniform or have already started preparing for life on civvy street, our magazine of two halves is the only guide you’ll need to courses, funding, careers and resettlement. The first part of the magazine focuses on ‘Your ELC’, bringing together all you need to know about claiming that very valuable funding and how best to use it – whether you’re still serving or have already left but are still eligible to make a claim. As well as answering all your important questions about the ELC application and claims process, we also delve into how distance learning can help you in your quest for qualifications, and highlight the benefits of higher-level study. Talking of high achievements, the subject of our HE success story this month – published novelist and director of production at a top engineering firm, Steve Higgs – is quite literally on course for success, largely thanks to his dedication to the pursuit of qualifications with an application to civvy street. He’s also our latest ‘QUEST questionnaire’ £250 prize winner! Turn to page 46 to find out how you could follow in his footsteps. Our focus this time falls on two career areas we know are popular choices with both Service leavers and those still serving but already looking ahead to their transition: health and safety, and rail. Find out about the sort of courses that will help you further your skills in these areas, whether to boost your Service career prospects or to smooth your resettlement with relevant qualifications that will make you a more desirable employee on leaving. Beyond that, there’s a brief guide to the opportunities opened up by the Access to HE Diploma, making higher education an option for those
who thought it wasn’t, and the section winds up with our one-stop education and funding planner. In part two, there’s the usual QUEST mix of inspiration and practical guidance on resettlement issues. First, we hear from former frontline medic, Francesca Burrows, who has transferred her unique Forces experiences to a new role delivering first aid and leadership training. After that you’ll find us taking to the air with Stoll, and the story of how they supported an RAF Veteran into employment with a leading airline. Beyond the workplace, regular contributor Ryan Mansfield – our man ‘on the outside’ – has some more of his usual down-to-earth advice to help make sure you’re civvy savvy. To aid your resettlement prep, you’ll also find full CTP course and events listings, and our ‘Transition Factfile’, pulling together in one place useful info from a range of sources. All this is held together by ‘The Hub’, where you’ll find essential information on courses and training options, transition news and reader reports. Yet again gathering together indispensible course and career information in one handy guide, we hope you’ll find this issue has plenty to say to you in its quest to support you during your Service career and beyond.
For all the latest information, visit our website: questonline.co.uk
Lynn Brown Editor
Quest and the Quest logo are registered trade marks of
Bulldog Publishing Limited Unit B4, Beech House, Melbourn Science Park, Melbourn, Herts SG8 6HB Telephone: 01763 268120 email: info@questonline.co.uk www.questonline.co.uk EDITOR Lynn Brown MANAGING DIRECTOR Bruce Hodge ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER David Lidbury Account Managers Tony Heathfield Brian Tolworthy DISTRIBUTION Martin Sells DESIGN AND PRODUCTION CB Creative Limited Tel: 01223 750566 www.cb2creative.com DIRECTORS Peter Threlfall (Chairman) Bruce Hodge (Managing) Roger Dalzell Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of information at the time of going to press. The Publishers can take no responsibility for inaccuracies due to changes after that date, nor can they accept responsibility for loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in this publication. Whilst every care is taken with artwork or film supplies, the Publishers cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage. The opinions expressed are those of the individual authors and not necessarily of the Publishers. All advertisements are accepted only on the grounds that they comply with the terms of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968 and all other relevant legislation. Inclusion of an advertisement cannot be construed as an endorsement for the advertiser or the product by the Publishers, their employees or agents. The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for any transaction between readers and advertisers. © All rights reserved. Not to be resold, lent, hired-out or otherwise reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the Publisher. Quest and Bulldog Publishing Limited are registered under the Data Protection Act (1984) registration number PX4096798
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September 2017
3
SEPTEMBER 2017 >>
Contents YOUR ELC
06 ELC 101: the basics 08 Are you eligible for ELC? 10 How to use your ELC funding
20
11 How to claim if you are still serving 12 How to claim after leaving 14 Avoiding queries or rejection 16 ELC dos and don’ts 18 Higher-level study 20 HE success story: Steve Higgs’ career is well on course thanks to his impressive haul of qualifications – he’s also our latest £250 prize winner! 22 Distance learning 25 Qualifications to further your Service career 26 On course: Health and safety 29 Health and safety case study: Richard Kear 34 On course: Rail careers 38 The Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma 44 Education and funding planner 46 Useful contacts
THE HUB 48 Course and training options, transition news and reader reports
YOUR RESETTLEMENT
52 Success story: inspiration from those who’ve already made the transition. This month, former frontline medic Francesca Burrows 56 Transition support: how Stoll is helping vulnerable Veterans 58 Civvy savvy: advice from the ‘other side’ 60 CTP courses and events 62 Transition factfile
4
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
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11
26
58
52
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
5
Q
YOUR ELC ELC BASICS
ELC 101 The basics
S
ubject to certain eligibility
l
The PF FE/HE scheme provides
l
Withdrawal once payment has been
criteria (see page 8), the ELC
Service leavers and Service personnel
made due to foreseeable postings/
scheme offers currently serving
in their qualifying resettlement phase
Service activities will usually meant
or former Service personnel access to a
with access to a first full level 3 or a
first full level 3 (GCE A-level or vocational
first HE qualification (a foundation
equivalent) or a first higher education (HE)
degree or a first undergraduate
compassionate reasons cause your
qualification (e.g. a foundation degree or a
degree or equivalent) with support
withdrawal, you should seek advice
towards tuition fees.
from your Education Staff or Learning
Only one ELC claim can be made in
Adviser.Q
first undergraduate degree or equivalent) free from tuition fees. Here’s the basic
l
information you need to know … l
The ELC lower tier offers up to three
l
learning of at least 20% of the cost (the ELC element includes VAT but
tier offers up to three payments of up
excludes travel, accommodation, food,
to £2,000 in three separate financial
books and materials). l
l
You must discuss your plans with
The three separate years do not have
your line manager and education
to run consecutively, and may be a
adviser before making any financial
combination of both higher and lower
commitment. l
ELC are available for full- or part-time
ELC may be claimed for the same
study for a qualification at level 3 or
learning course if it continues for more
above, as defined on the NQF or SCQF,
than a year, or for a different learning
with an organisation on the approved providers list maintained by ELCAS.
purpose each year. l
You must make a contribution to your
separate financial years; the higher
levels. l
If one course combines with others for
l
a single learning purpose these can be
− – Service training
combined to claim ELC.
− – civilian accredited Service training
You may not claim ELC for:
A new ELC award was created in 2016.
(unless at least 30 hours extra work
It’s an aggregated lower-tier award,
is involved, together with a separate
which is a single payment of up to
If unexpected Service or
any one financial year (April to March).
payments of up to £1,000 in three
years. l
that no further claims will be allowed. l
exam, assessment or assignment)
£3,000 for those with six or more
− – membership fees
years of qualifying service, which will
− – books and materials
count as all three awards.
− – normal Service sport and adventurous training.
ELC SCHEME: LATEST STATS From its inception until the end of July 2017, 383,091 people had registered with the ELC scheme and 129,775 claims had been made, to the value of £199.4 million.
6
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
cti
personal development/ resettlement
training
compliance
training instructor course
Value:
£2000+ £2,400 products
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Qualifying trainers, managers and health and safety specialists for the future Train2Train is the leading provider of compliance training and instructor-based courses within the UK. Our Compliance Training Instructor course (CTI) has been specifically developed for individuals who wish to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills to deliver a range of first aid, health and safety, food safety and fire safety qualifications. It is recommended to those who are looking to deliver both accredited and non-accredited qualifications, either for their own company or on behalf of a training organisation. The course is delivered over 10 consecutive working days. To provide flexibility, learners can also choose to complete modules of the course over a period of time at a venue or venues of their choice. All learners will receive a comprehensive instructor’s pack valued at over £2,500, including training presentations that can be downloaded on to an iPad Mini, which is also included as part of the course, as well as materials, handouts and learner thumbnails. On completion of the course, should you wish to apply for tutor and/or centre status to deliver regulated qualifications, you must meet the prescribed quality assurance standards as set out by a regulated awarding organisation. This unique course will allow you to teach either through your own company or on behalf of a training organisation. It is also a fantastic addition to any CV and will look great to a prospective employer.
Training venues include: Doncaster Catterick Cyprus
Blandford Oakham
*Minimum numbers required Visit: www.Train2Train.org for further information
Further details on this and other courses available, including: NEBOSH, Health and Safety, Food Safety and Teaching qualifications, please contact us at: e: info@train2train.org t: +44 (0)1302 363136 w: www.train2train.org
First Class publications from Highfield Products - a global leader in compliance and work-based learning training materials, and winner of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise. iPad mini which can be fully loaded with Highfield Products Ltd training presentations.
Partner Disclaimer: Any learner wishing to apply for tutor and/or centre status in order to deliver regulated qualifications must meet the prescribed quality assurance standards as set by a regulated awarding organisation, for example, Highfield Qualifications. Learners should note that the successful completion of the course does not guarantee approval by a regulated awarding organisation.
©Train2Train 2017
cti
Q
YOUR ELC ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Are you eligible for ELC?
Take a look at the eligibility rules below to find out … l
have left the Service or entered your
day of service, you will be eligible to claim
currently in service will be auto-
qualifying resettlement phase on or
ELC at the higher tier (£2,000), subject to
enrolled on the ELC scheme, as will
after 17 July 2008
meeting the other conditions associated
meet UK residency requirements to
with the scheme.
All Regular Service Personnel (SP)
future SP on completion of their Phase 1 training. l
l
l
qualify for full state subsidy. Special eligibility criteria apply if you were
for both ELC lower-tier and FEHE
medically discharged from service before
discharged?
awards will increase from four to six
achieving the required number of years’
You are eligible to claim ELC at the
years from 1 April 2017. If you will
service. If this is the case, please seek
lower (£1,000) or higher (£2,000) tier
already have accumulated four years’
advice from your unit education staffs.
depending on your length of service on
In detail …
lower-tier award and FEHE.
When can you start claiming ELC?
completing six years of service, you may
If you left – or are due to leave –
You can start claiming when you have
be eligible to make claims at the lower-
service on or after 1 April 2016, you
accumulated the necessary qualifying
tier rate if the injury or illness was caused
are entitled to post-service access to
years of service. For example, if you
or significantly worsened, wholly or
ELC and FEHE for five years.
registered on the ELC scheme and have
predominantly by service, as defined by
If you left between 1 April 2011 and 31
been serving since 1 April 2000, you will
the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme
March 2016 inclusive, you will have
have been entitled to start claiming at the
(JSP765).
until 31 March 2021 to use your ELC or
£1,000 level from 1 April 2004 and at the
FEHE (i.e. five years from March 2016).
£2,000 level from 1 April 2008. As noted
What if you are no longer serving?
If you left before 1 April 2011, you
above, from 1 April 2017, the qualifying
If you have already left the Service or are
will retain ten years of post-Service
service for lower-tier awards will increase
in your resettlement phase, you may be
access.
from four to six years. However, if you will
eligible to claim under the terms of the
have accumulated four years’ qualifying
Publicly Funded Further Education/Higher
service before 1 April 2017, you will still be
Education (PF FE/HE) scheme. Take a
able to claim your lower-tier awards.
look at the feature on page 12 to find out
To take advantage of ELC support, you
l
8
you are medically discharged prior to
more – or, for full details and to check the
must:
l
the date of discharge. Additionally, if
you keep your entitlement to use ELC
In brief … l
What about if you are medically
The qualifying service required
qualifying service before 1 April 2017,
l
l
have completed four years of full-time
What happens if you are made redundant?
detailed eligibility rules, visit
service or, from 1 April 2017, six years
Irrespective of whether or not you applied
www.enhancedlearningcredits.com
have joined – or since April 2016
to be made redundant, you will cease
been automatically enrolled – on the
to accrue service for ELC eligibility on
Find out more
scheme and completed four years’ or,
the day you leave service. If you have
Much more detailed information is
from 1 April 2017, six years’ qualifying
accrued six or more years’ service since
available in JSP822, which can be
scheme membership
registering on the scheme by your last day
downloaded from the ELCAS website at
apply only for a first eligible FE/HE
of service, you will still be eligible to claim
www.enhancedlearningcredits.com Q
qualification at the level for which you
ELC at the lower tier (£1,000). If you have
are academically qualified to enter
accrued eight or more years’ service since
learning on leaving the Service
registering on the scheme by your last
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
Insight into the UK Surveillance Industry As the leading provider of covert surveillance and investigations, The Surveillance Group would like to offer military personnel the opportunity to attend a free Insight Day, to discover more about the surveillance industry. Upcoming Dates in 2017:
29th September, 27th October, 17th November
Early booking will avoid disappointment, so to confirm your attendance please contact Lee on 0800 5870170 or visit our website: Quest March 2016 Final_2016 07/03/2016 09:26 Page 11 www.thesurveillancegroup.com Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
9
Q
Distance learning
Distance learning YOUR ELC SPENDING OPTIONS
What is distance learning?
D
ASK YOURSELF ‌
istance learning allows people to study when and where they � Does the course lead to the � Will there be an exam at want, rather than on the same site as the institution that is qualification I want/need? the end? providing the education (as is the case with ‘traditional’ study). As � Will the course train me to � Is the provider inspected or well as ‘distance learning’, you are likely to come across terms such as the level required (by me or accredited by an ‘open learning’ and ‘distance supported learning’. In truth, all these a potential employer)? independent body? types of learning are likely to overlap, but, as a rough rule of thumb, � Can I view the training � If I choose to study for a open learning includes more face�to�face classes than distance materials first, before degree, do I have to learning, while the word ‘supported’ usually indicates that there are committing? Or chat to complete it in three years? tutors and physical material available to help students. � Will I receive any special previous learners? Distance learning ranges from courses of even as little as a few � Do I have to pass an entry consideration for study hours, to degrees and postgraduate qualifications that may involve test? problems as a result of several years’ study. So�called ‘short courses’ typically last days or � How much support is operational duties? weeks as opposed to months or years. Even those subjects with a � Is the course available via available? And in what strong practical element often have modules that are appropriate for learning tools that I will be form? distance learning. � Can the whole course be able to access? (For Thanks to the wide availability of useful technology these days, done at a distance, or is it example, if you are in an learning materials and support may be provided by either one or a necessary to attend training environment where IT combination of the following means: books, telephone, DVD, CD� sessions at specific times? availability is limited, you ROM, email, the internet, podcasts and via mobile learning, where � How much time do I need should select a course the student accesses course content stored on a mobile device or to set aside for study? where it is possible to use through a wireless server. Some providers offer course elements via � How much will the course paper and telephone, at the iTunes Store, which can be downloaded free of charge. Many cost? least for a limited period.) courses make extensive use of the internet. Others involve tutor groups, which may meet regularly, or ‘summer camps’ of a few weeks’ LC are available for full- or partl foundation degrees duration for classroom education on top of regular, directed CHOOSING A COURSE time study for a qualification at l postgraduate qualifications coursework at a distance. Before deciding on a course, you level 3 or above, as defined on the l other academic qualifications should consider: National Qualifications Framework/ l professional self-development APL AND CATSto your personal Convenience is the key l its relevance Regulated Qualifications Framework l for accreditation development plan The great thing about distance learning(NQF/ – especially those in theof prior learning your ability undertake RQF),* anwho organisation l world vocational training When choosing a course,ltwo terms to betoaware of are it Armed with Forces, may be posted anywhere in the – is that it l likely disruptions to Service on the approved providers list held byOnce you have l registration fees of prior learning (APL) and the Credit accreditation puts you in control of your education. chosen and and accreditation requirements enrolledand on your course when, ELCAS viewable at (see below), you are free lto study sports qualifications Accumulation and Transfer Scheme (CATS). Both allow a l the flexibility of the study method. teaching organisation to give credit to: where – and, these days, how – you choose, fit your qualifications www.enhancedlearningcredits.com It couldso you l can overseas learning elsewhere, and education around your current work and/or family be an A-level, or an NVQ 3 or equivalent l commitments. resettlement training�(during lastobtained two � relevant experience at work in the subject concerned. You might be an early bird, who works best first thing in the award. You may also use ELC to fund years of service only). * The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is You should always ask about APL CATS, to and avoid repeating morning; or you might be a night owl, who finds the evenings the replacing theand Qualifications Credit Framework anything above that, too, like university To find out more about accessing higherthings you have already(QCF) done. best time to study successfully – it’s entirely up to you. And of course, from 1 October 2015 onwards. Ofqual expects modules or nationally recognised diplomas. level study in particular, take a look at our in these days of laptops, notebooks, tablets and mobile learning, the QCF to expire on 31 December 2017. This might include: feature on page 18. Continued on page 10
How to use your ELC funding When your claim’s approved, there’s a wide choice of where to spend your funding
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Course notes
YOUR ELC HOW TO CLAIM YOUR ELC
Engineering your way to the top
Accredited Competence in General Locksmithing level 3 course
M
A
echanical engineer Metal door lock bodies 1 Safe & Secure’s level 3 course is Alexander Bill completed Knob sets conducted over a three‐week period, his MBA part‐time at Aston Pad locks comprising two weeks in the technical Business School and, three Locker locks workshop and one week’s field training. months after graduating, Lever rim locks (Field training can be arranged at a later landed a senior role with global Bullet warded mortice locks 2/3 lever date for convenience.) The aim of the transport business Alstom. Sash and dead locks 2/3/5 lever workshop training is for you to gain in‐ Alex began his career at 5 lever British Standard mortice locks depth technical knowledge of the Alstom more than a decade APG door locks locksmith trade, allowing you to ago as a commissioning Digital locks understand the workings of the majority engineer. He rose to the Lock fitting of locks you will come across in The Aston Business School position of sales manager and MBA helped Alex Bill progress Key cutting customers premises be they domestic or his career then operations manager, but Safes commercial. found the commercial and Car opening You will be taught to strip and business side of selling and delivering advanced industrial Specialist non‐destructive lock opening assemble locks, make keys for them by services exciting. Says Alex, ‘Following a really successful techniques hand and machine, and pick them open. project, the station director of a client was talking to me You will also be taught other opening about the MBA he had done at Aston – it sounded very One‐week field training methods using specialist equipment. You interesting and appealing. He actively encouraged me to do Week three of your course will be spent will be trained on locking systems that one for myself. And I’m glad that I did! out with a locksmith doing daily work on are found on wooden, aluminium and ‘It has had a number of benefits, not just for myself, but a hands‐on basis. You will not just be an UPVC doors, as well as in what to expect also directly for Alstom Power. For example, it has enabled observer, you will be doing the work as when coming across steel doors found on me to impact the profitability of our service operations. At well. This is designed to give you commercial premises, such as final‐exit the same time, the improvements to my skills when invaluable experience in situations that doors and grill‐type gates. presenting and communicating to a wide range of audiences may arise, especially dealing with the Along with all of the above you will – from the shop floor to very senior managers – have been public if you have never done this be given sound advice from professionals very noticeable.’ before. Please note that we can arrange with regard to the financial side of your Alex adds, ‘It was challenging to find a balance between for you to complete this week separately business. You will be given guidance on carrying out my day job, going to lectures, studying at the at a later date if this is more suitable. what stock to put in your vehicle, how Do not leave until the lastare minute. 1. Read Joint Service JSP822 – Defence weekends and my family. Publication However, Aston was great, and Direction Class hours 9 am–4Allow pm. time for your vehicle8. should be laid outeverything and veryand flexible. When,for towards the end my second equipped, and even of vehicle anywhat new type publicly funded providers to be accepted on to the Guidance Training andofEducation . year, my daughter was born I was able to rearrange my exams. This is without the bestweeks. locksmith to use. We will also help you to acquire scheme, as the registration process can doubt take several 2. Think about what fits your personal development plan and Likewise, for my MBA dissertation, Aston was just as training course available anywhere in the accounts at the major locksmith supply Once they have been accepted, you can submit an application your future. flexible. UK today and, on successful completion, companies in the country. These to study them.at 3. Discuss this withvaluable your line manager and education/learning ‘One of the most things I learned was how to you will be awarded your level 3 NCFE accounts will allow you towith purchase, analyse and understand a wide range of complex and often Accredited Certificate infee, Providers are tools expected waive any initial registration trade price, 9. stock for your van, and toNational staff. incomplete sources of information, and then synthesise Locksmithing. any specialist requirements that you so don’t pay any ofmay your own money towards the cost of their 4. Get the necessary approval to enrol. them into a coherent and compelling argument and short If you have any questions or would have. You will also receive a full set of tuition fees – if you do, it will not be refunded. 5. Go to thethat ELCAS websitetoatthe point. presentation gets straight like to book a course, please call 01432 course notes. All of this is backed‐up by 10. You must submit a separate claim form for each year of www.enhancedlearningcredits.com and complete the ELC ‘The MBA definitely gave me the knowledge and skills to 341257. a free 24‐hour helpline should you have progress my career, helping me to be promoted to general course – if you don’t, it could result in support being application form online. problems while a trading. manager.’ withdrawn. 6. Check the ELCAS database of approved providers to see if the
Making an application Your step-by-step guide
Two‐week technical workshop
11. Start learning, and make thein most of your life! you wish to enrol on is allowable under the rules. Get touch Getcourse in touch Subjects covered
Tel: 01432 341257 7. you204 wish to use a provider that is not on the list, ensure Tel: If0121 3099 Pinthey tumblerELCAS locks has produced a useful flow diagram to sum up the claims
email: saslocksandtraining@gmail.com email: aremba@aston.ac.uk eligible to participate in the scheme (they must deliver Disc locks process. You can find this in the Annex at the end of JSP822, Web: www.safeandsecurelocksmithcourses.co.uk Web: www.aston.ac.uk Radial locks
publicly funded FE/HE) and ask them to apply for scheme
which can be downloaded from the ELCAS website at Pin‐tumbler locks bodies membership using the information on the ELC website. www.enhancedlearningcredits.com Q See the advertisement on page 39 See the advertisement on page 2 UPVC lock bodies
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11
Q
YOUR ELC HOW TO CLAIM AFTER LEAVING
No longer serving? Here’s how to claim your ELC if you have left the Services
A
Note: You should contact your SSR with questions only if you have been unable to find the answer to your query on the ELCAS website at www.enhancedlearningcredits. com (this also has a useful FAQs page).
lthough the main purpose of ELC
claim form to them at the relevant address
Royal Navy
is to encourage serving personnel
(again, see box), along with:
ELC Manager, Mailpoint 3.3, Leach Building,
to pursue higher-level learning
l
evidence of your last day of Service,
Whale Island, HMS Excellent, Portsmouth
that benefits both the learner and the
which could be a copy of your
PO2 8BY
Armed Forces, it also allows level 3-plus
discharge document, a copy of your
02392 625954
learning to be pursued during resettlement
P45 terminating employment or a
NAVYTRGHQ-EL3RRESETSO3C@mod.uk
or for up to five years after leaving the
document stamped by your regiment
Services.* The majority of this learning
confirming your leaving date**
Army
a copy of a utility bill showing your
Learning Credit Scheme (LCS) Manager,
home address
Education Branch Zone 4, Floor 2, Army
full information about the course
Personnel Services Group, Home Command,
future employer and, nationally, adding to
you wish to undertake and including
Ramillies Building, Army HQ
the UK’s skills base.
details of your registration date where
Monxton Road, Andover SP11 8HJ
is likely to be vocational (learning new
l
skills or enhancing existing ones), with the qualification benefiting the learner and a
First of all, refer to the eligibility
l
applicable. Q
criteria listed on page 8. To make a
01264 381580 elc@detsa.co.uk
claim, download the appropriate form
The Army Single Service telephone helpline
from the ELCAS website and complete
*If you left the Service before 31 March 2016, please
it fully, except for Parts 4 and 5 – your
refer to JSP822 at www.enhancedlearningcredits.
Single Service Representative (SSR) will
com for the expiration date of your claims.
Royal Air Force
complete these elements (you will find
** If you were in the RAF, you can request a copy of
Learning Credits Administrator,
their contact details in the accompanying
your discharge document from the RAF Disclosures
Accreditation and Education Wing, RAF
box). Send your otherwise fully completed
team at www.raf.mod.uk/links/contacts.cfm Army
Central Training School, HQ 22 TrgGp, Room
personnel can request details of discharge dates
IMPORTANT!
221B, Trenchard Hall, RAF College, Cranwell
from the Army Personnel Centre by calling 0845
NG34 8HB
All applications must be submitted to
6009663.
SSRs for approval at least 25 clear working days prior to the start of the course you wish to take. They will then submit approved applications to ELCAS. You should not submit your claim form direct to ELCAS.
12
WHERE TO SEND CLAIMS IF YOU ARE NO LONGER SERVING
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
is open 9.30–12.30, excluding bank holidays.
01400 268 183 22TrgGp-CTS-AandEWg-LCA@mod.uk
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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E LC PROVIDER NUMBER
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visit www.babcockpilottraining.com email Elly.Clark@babcockinternational.com or telephone +44 (0) 1452 856 007
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
13
Q
YOUR ELC HOW YOU CAN HELP
Avoiding queries or rejection How you can help things to run smoothly
E
LCAS deals with many claims that
minimum criteria (level 3 or above on the
and research and discuss your learning with
have to be queried or rejected: almost
NQF or RQF) or the learning provider is
your line manager and Service education or
not on the ELCAS approved providers list
learning adviser. This also applies if you are
failure to follow the correct procedure for
a qualifying ex-Service person using your
authorising the claim
ELC. The 25-working-day margin is in place
the course not commencing in the
for good reason. If you don’t plan far ahead
qualifying financial year
enough you could find yourself significantly
incorrect financial data, such as the
out of pocket as retrospective claims are not
authorisation note (CAN) from ELCAS
learner’s contribution being less than
allowed under any circumstances.
learners failing to allow sufficient time
20% or the MoD’s contribution calculated
20% of claims received fail to comply
with the correct procedures. Some of the
l
main reasons for rejection include: l
applicants enrolling on a course – and
l
sometimes paying a fee – without first obtaining the necessary claims l
l
between submitting a claim and starting a course – this takes at least five weeks,
automatically admissible under the ELC scheme. This is a common mistake: one
days of the start of the course will
all rejected/queried claims)
provider may supply many courses, but only
applicants not registered on the ELCAS
those approved courses at NQF/RQF level 3
system
or above (and equivalent) listed on the ELCAS
more than one active claim being
website may be considered for ELC purposes.
l
a second or third ELC claim being form for the previous claim has been completed – such claims are also
14
offered by an approved provider are
incomplete details or errors in course title or course level (these account for 25% of
submitted before the course evaluation
l
as exceeding the ELC award
so any claim submitted within 25 working automatically be rejected l
l
Also, do not assume that all courses
l
So:
processed for an individual in the same financial year.
l
plan ahead and get it right first time
automatically rejected
To help avoid rejection on grounds such as
l
don’t buck the system or pay upfront
the course does not meet the necessary
those listed above, you should plan ahead,
l
complete your claim with care! Q
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YOUR ELC ELC DOS AND DON’TS
ELC dos and don’ts Do: l
l
enhancedlearningcredits.com
provide evidence that you completed the course, your future claims will be
Publication JSP822 – Defence Direction
approved ELC provider if using your
denied.
and Guidance for Training and
Individual Resettlement Training Cost
l
Education, which can be downloaded
(IRTC) grant along with ELC to fund a
Don’t:
from the ELCAS website at www.
nationally recognised qualification at
l
enhancedlearningcredits.com
level 3 or above
to course providers until you have
consult your education, learning,
received a claim authorisation note
consult your education/learning staff
l
(CAN)
training and/or resettlement adviser if
personal development plan
you aren’t sure of the best way to use
plan ahead, leaving at least 25 days
funding for your resettlement training
provider status means that the entire
remember that the scheme operates a
portfolio of a provider’s courses meets
l
l
automatically assume that approved
the level 3 requirement
needing to book a course
strict ‘three hits and you’re out’ policy;
be prepared to provide evidence that
if you are eligible and have used the
the course you would like to do is at
Aggregated Lower Tier award you will
financially without having first obtained
least level 3 (or equivalent) on the
not be able to use it again, so think
approval from your own Service and a
(NQF) or Qualifications and Credit
l
carefully before submitting a claim
National Qualifications Framework
l
commit any payment contributions
and line managers to discuss your
between submitting a claim and l
your studies; if you don’t, and can’t
ensure the training is delivered by an
make sure you understand the regulations – see Joint Service
l
it out on the ELCAS website at www.
l
inform your Education Staff,
enrol on a course or commit yourself
CAN from ELCAS l
enrol on a course with a new provider
Framework (QCF),* and that it directly
Learning Adviser or Single Service
who is awaiting ‘approved’ status;
benefits the Service (unless your claim
representative if your last day in
wait until this has definitely been
is resettlement-related during your last
service alters from that originally
achieved – if this takes too long, look on
two years of serving)
stated
the ELCAS website for an alternative
complete and return the evaluation
provider. Q
ensure the course provider has approved provider status by checking
l
questionnaire when you’ve finished
* The QCF is being replaced by the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) from 1 October 2015 onwards. Ofqual expects the QCF to expire on 31 December 2017.
16
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
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questonline.co.uk l September 2017
17
Q
YOUR ELC HIGHER-LEVEL STUDY
Aim higher!
I
f you’re thinking of embarking on a
career openings, but if it turns out
higher education (HE) qualification
you’re no good at it, you’re unlikely
that’s great – you can use your ELC
to end up with a good qualification
to fund anything above level 3, and that
at the end of it – and may even fail
includes university modules and nationally
altogether.
recognised diplomas. Other HE courses open
It’s a good idea to start by
to you for consideration include diplomas,
thinking about the qualifications
bachelor’s degrees, foundation degrees
you already have and the subjects/areas you
and postgraduate qualifications. The only
have a flair for. Other things you might want
through students completing a number
problem you are likely to have is in deciding
to think about include the course provider’s
of modules, the distinction between HE
exactly what and how to study!
academic reputation (you can find university
(generally academic) and further education
league tables and subject ranking tables
(FE) (often vocational) can be unclear.
online), its graduate employment rates, and
Credits from a selection of courses can often
You may already have a pretty good idea
links between the university or college and
be added together to gain degrees and other
of what you’d like to study at a higher
employers.
HE qualifications.
Choosing an HE course level but, if you’re unsure, our advice is to
Having decided what you want to study,
With many qualifications being earned
Both HE and FE courses can be taken via
make sure you understand the nature of
you will be faced with a variety of ways of
distance learning. The difference between
the subject you are considering, especially
studying it.
these is not always clear-cut, though, and
if it’s something new to you. So do your
18
Higher education at a college or university is about more than just degree courses – it offers a range of options, including Higher National Certificates and Diplomas (HNCs and HNDs), and foundation degrees, all of which generally have a more vocational slant. So, if you’re ready to step up to the next level, HE could be the option for you.
in some cases (e.g. foundation degrees),
research, and ensure you know exactly what
How do HE courses differ?
a course is offering you – topic areas, what
The most basic difference is between the
are modular; this means that you complete
the modules will cover, etc. Whatever else
levels of courses. While most HE courses
them in sections (modules), often of your
you take in to consideration, it goes without
lead to a degree, some lead to sub-degree
own choosing, and credits gained from a
saying that you must have a strong interest
qualifications such as a Higher National
selection of such courses can be gathered
in the subject and the course content, as
Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma
together to ‘add up’ to degrees and other HE
you will be spending three years or more
(HND) or a foundation degree. In general,
qualifications.
occupied with it, which won’t be much fun
such courses will be shorter than a degree
if it turns out you’re not that struck with it
course, more vocationally orientated and will
TO HELP YOU CHOOSE …
after all!
have lower entry requirements. Some will be
Which? University is a free and
You are also likely to do better at a
linked to degree courses, though, giving you
independent website packed with
course if you already have an aptitude for
the option of progressing to a degree if you
everything you need to find the right
the subject. It might be a really fascinating
perform well enough on the early parts of
university course for you. See http://
course, which promises to lead to a host of
the course.
university.which.co.uk
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
both types are involved. Many qualifications
Please note that Service leavers cannot
usually takes three or four years to complete
access support under the FEHE scheme to
full-time (some degrees, such as medicine,
SOURCES OF ADVICE
commence studies at master’s level but they
can take five or six years).
Your line manager should be your
can utilise their ELC for study at this level.
first point of contact. Each unit has
Postgraduate qualifications
an education/learning specialist, and
popular higher-level course options you
Postgraduate qualifications are HE
each Service also has a network of
could choose from …
qualifications that require learners to have
educational and learning centres
already completed a bachelor’s degree.
where advice can be sought and ideas
Higher national certificates (HNCs) and higher national diplomas (HNDs)
Most types of postgraduate qualification will
explored.
generally fall into one of two categories:
in open learning, with distance learning
HNCs and HNDs are work-related
postgraduate certificate or postgraduate
generally catering for students who are so
(vocational) HE qualifications. While
diploma.
far away that they study almost entirely by
Here’s a rundown of some of the other
bachelor’s degrees (see below) tend to focus
include taught and research elements. They
themselves.
designed to give you the skills to put that
Think you’re missing the necessary basics?
knowledge to effective use in a particular
If you aren’t already in possession of the
ELC funding for higher education
job. Highly valued by employers, both in
lower-level qualifications you would normally
The good news is that your ELC provides
the UK and overseas, they can also count
need to build on in order to secure your
you with access to a first full level 3 or a first
towards membership of professional bodies
place on an HE course, the Access to Higher
HE qualification (e.g. foundation degree, first
and other employer organisations. HNCs
Education (HE) Diploma – often referred
undergraduate degree or equivalent) free
can take one year to complete full-time and
to by its shorthand form, Access Diploma
from tuition fees. This commitment means
two years part-time (or via, say, distance
– could be for you. It’s a qualification that
that Service leavers who have joined at level
learning). HNDs take two years full-time and
prepares people for study at university,
2, say, and have taken the opportunity to
can also be taken part-time (which takes
and is designed for those who would like to
gain a qualification such as an advanced
longer). (The award of an HND requires more
study in HE but who left school without the
apprenticeship, or other accredited learning
units to be passed than for an HNC.) They
usual qualifications, such as A-levels. It is
at level 3 or equivalent, may now be able to
equate to approximately halfway between
widely accepted by universities and colleges,
access their first higher-level qualification.
an A-level and a degree, although they are,
having been developed with their support,
as mentioned above, more practically based
and is designed to provide a good grounding
than the latter.
in the knowledge and study skills needed
Training and Education, which can be
to succeed in HE. Although equivalent to
accessed and downloaded at www.
Foundation degrees
A-levels, Access Diploma courses are put
enhancedlearningcredits.com Q
Foundation degrees combine learning with
together with people who haven’t studied
work experience if you decide you want
for a while in mind – and most don’t require
to ‘earn while you learn’. The equivalent
prior qualifications. Many are suitable for
COURSE FINDERS Full- and part-time courses
of two-thirds of a full honours degree, this
study part-time or in the evenings, which
l
Unistats: http://unistats.direct.gov.uk/
is a fully flexible qualification that allows
adds to their flexibility. Most FE colleges
Compare official course data from
you to study full- or part-time to fit your
in England and Wales offer such Access
universities and colleges, including
lifestyle. On passing, you will gain 240
courses, and a number are available through
student satisfaction and jobs after
‘points’ towards a full degree course, and full
distance learning, so you should be able
study (you have to apply to the college
account will be taken of any prior learning
to find a course that is convenient for you,
and experience you have accrued, too.
and that caters for your interests or career
l
UCAS: http://search.ucas.com
Recent developments, including university
ambitions. You can find out more about
Search and apply for full-time courses
partnerships and funding, make these
Access to HE courses, browse courses and
qualifications increasingly available to
read success stories on the Access to Higher
people in the Services.
Education homepage at www.accesstohe.
on gaining knowledge, HNCs and HNDs are
Full details can be found in JSP822
– Defence Direction and Guidance for
or university direct)
by course name, provider name or location l
ac.uk
Degree courses
National Careers Service: https:// nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/ advice/courses/Pages/default.aspx
A bachelor’s degree is a course of HE
How to learn
academic study leading to a qualification
Qualifications can be earned through full-
such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor
time courses, part-time courses, day release,
Postgraduate study
of Science (BSc). They are sometimes known
night school, open and distance learning
l
as ‘ordinary’ or ‘first’ degrees. A bachelor’s
(see the feature on page 22 of this issue).
degree is designed to give learners a
There will usually be more times when
thorough understanding of a subject, and
students get together for joint study periods
Search for full- and part-time courses
Prospects: www.prospects.ac.uk/ postgraduate-courses
l
Postgraduate Search: www. postgraduatesearch.com
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
19
Q
YOUR ELC HIGHER-LEVEL STUDY
£250 PRIZE WINNER!
success Author of his own
… that’s Steve Higgs, our latest QUEST quarterly £250 prize winner, who has put to excellent use the courses and funding available to him during and since his time in uniform. His pursuit of higherlevel qualifications got him noticed while serving – and, now he’s left, his dedication to self-enhancement is still giving back, seeing him secure a high-ranking role at a top-flight engineering firm while also finding success as a published novelist alongside his day job. Steve tells us his story so far …
I
spent a little shy of 25 years in the
GCSEs, which I had missed out on as a
continually search for more, to question
Army, joining the REME in 1988 as
schoolboy.
the ‘why’ and to link ideas. In so doing
I registered for Enhanced Learning
one can achieve a deeper understanding
career I chose was one that demanded
Credits (ELC) moments after they were
of business drivers, so learning becomes
a level of continuous learning with
announced, and knew instantly that I was
understanding and studying for exams
abundant equipment courses, trade
going to spend every available penny on
transforms into innovating for profit.
development courses and, as I was lucky
improving my knowledge and education
enough to be selected for Artificer
for the benefit of my military career and to
an apprentice vehicle mechanic. The
prepare me for what would come
training, an HNC in Mechanical
after.
Engineering.
I have no doubt that
The opportunity to utilise learning credits was one I seized on early in my career, using the lesser Standard Learning Credits (SLC) to offset
To visit Steve’s author page on Amazon click on www.amazon.com/-/e/ B073QRX9K1
my visible pursuit of high-level qualifications, such as a master’s degree in Engineering Management, aided my promotion prospects while still in uniform and I
the cost of a bachelor’s
advanced ahead of my peer
degree in Technology, and
group at every turn. However,
to gain vocational qualifications
there is benefit beyond the simplistic
such as IOSH Managing Safely and
20
From Army Captain to author – and director of production at a successful engineering firm: career moves worth contemplating
PRINCE2 for project management, as well
enhancement of one’s knowledge base, as
as more academic qualifications such as
the applied learning causes the student to
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
Success story: Steve’s first published novel, a crime-comedy, has attracted five-star reviews
benefit beyond the simple enhancement
zombie stories with my own unique crime-
stopped with my exit from the Forces
of one’s knowledge base. In June, I
comedy spin.
and exhaustion of ELC funds. You
achieved a long-term goal and became
should be prepared for this
a published author. My first novel,
My education has of course not
I was able to achieve this only because I applied myself to do more than I had to,
entitled Paranormal Nonsense:
too. I had planned for a
avoided coasting and really challenged
Blue Moon Investigations Book
career in logistics and distribution, but once
1, is available in Kindle or
employed discovered
paperback format from
Connect with Steve at www.linkedin.com/in/ steven-higgs-25678049
knowledge gaps where my staff knew more about basic
myself. I hope you find the effort to do the same. Good luck! Q
Amazon, and will very soon be
work-related subjects
released as
or had more pertinent
an audio book
qualifications at a lower
too. It’s a crime-
level than I. To correct this,
comedy, which has
over the past few years I have
thus far received nothing
added several new qualifications, chief
but five-star reviews. My
among which are the NEBOSH National
second book is also nearing
General Certificate in Occupational Health
completion and is set for
and Safety, and the CPC Road Haulage
release before Christmas,
Association Operators Licence, which
and I have been invited to
allows an individual to operate a haulage
contribute to an anthology of
Capt. Higgs and the soldiers of 2Plt Quebec Coy on parade
BothSpring of these role as 11:25 Page 47 Coursesfleet. 4 Forces finalunderpin 2015_C4Fmy16/03/2015 director of production at a multi-million-
IT COULD BE YOU!
Could you be our next quarterly £250 prize winner? To find out how to follow in Steve’s footsteps, turn to page 46 or visit www.questonline.co.uk where you can www.courses4forces.co.uk find out more and download a copy of the Quest Questionnaire. We look forward to portfolio, which harks back to what I hearing from you eligibility ‌ Claimants must consult with their education staff to check for ELC funding before making any commitment to study was trying to put across above, about pound engineering firm in the south-east. There is a recent addition to my
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questonline.co.uk l September 2017
21
Q
YOUR ELC DISTANCE LEARNING
Remote control
Let the classroom come to you!
ASK YOURSELF … l
Does the course lead to the qualification I want/need?
l
Will the course train me to the level required (by me or a potential
T
What’s involved?
can study when and where you
Courses delivered through distance
want. There’s no need to be
learning range from those taking as
l
Can I chat to previous learners?
physically on-campus to study or take
little as a few hours, to degrees and
l
Do I have to pass an entry test?
(some) training courses. And that, of
postgraduate qualifications that may
l
How much support is available? And in
course, is a considerable benefit to those
involve several years’ study. So-called
of you posted to far-flung locations,
‘short courses’ typically last days or
meaning that you can continue your
weeks as opposed to months or years.
distance, or is it necessary to attend
studies wherever in the world you may
Even those subjects with a strong
training sessions at specific times?
be. Nothing need come between you and your preparations for life in the civilian world. As well as ‘distance learning’, you may come across other, related, terms such as ‘open learning’ and ‘distance supported learning’. In truth, all of these
practical element often have modules
To see a list of ODL QC-accredited learning providers, go to www.odlqc. org.uk and click on ‘Find an accredited provider’, bottom left.
likely to overlap, but, as a rough guide, open learning includes
l
Thanks to the wide availability of useful
what form? l
l
How much does the course cost?
l
Will there be an exam at the end?
l
Is the provider inspected or accredited by an independent body?
l
If I choose to study for a degree, do I have to complete it within three
provided by either one
years? l
following means: books,
Will I receive any special consideration for study problems as a result of
phone, DVD, CD-ROM, email, the internet, podcasts
How much time will I need to set aside for study?
and support may be or a combination of the
Can the whole course be done at a
l
technology these days, learning materials
Can I view the training materials first, before committing?
that are suited to distance learning.
types of learning are
22
employer)?
hanks to distance learning, you
operational duties? l
Is the course available via learning
and via mobile learning; the latter
tools that I will be able to access? (For
more face-to-face classes than distance
is where the student accesses course
example, if you are in an environment
learning, while the word ‘supported’
content stored on a mobile device or
where IT availability is limited, you
usually indicates that there are tutors
through a wireless server. Some providers
should select a course where it is
and physical material available to help
offer course elements via the iTunes
possible to use paper and telephone,
students.
Store, which can be downloaded free of
at least for a limited period.)
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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questonline.co.uk l September 2017
23
Q
YOUR ELC DISTANCE LEARNING
charge. Many courses make extensive
focus on something very specific – such as
and learning centres with tutor support,
use of the internet. Others involve tutor
the entrance examinations of a particular
where students can undertake online
groups, which may meet regularly,
professional body.
learning, and that use ICT systems to
or ‘summer camps’ of a few weeks’
Other information sources include
duration to provide classroom education
further education (FE) courses can
that complements regular, directed
be taken via distance learning. The
direct from the ‘horse’s mouth’
coursework at a distance.
difference between these is not always
(somebody who has first-hand experience
clear-cut though, and in some cases
of a course or a training provider),
(e.g. foundation degrees), both types
written prospectuses and, of course, the
The great thing about distance learning –
are involved. Many qualifications are
internet. The website of the Open and
especially for those, like you, in the Armed
modular; this means that you complete
Distance Learning Quality Council (ODL
Forces – is that it puts you in control of
them in sections (modules), often of
QC) is particularly helpful (again see ‘Key
your education. Once you have chosen
your own choosing, and credits gained
contacts’).
and enrolled on your course (see below),
from a selection of such courses can be
you are free to study when, where – and,
added together to ‘add up’ to degrees and
these days, how – you choose, so you can
other HE qualifications. It is not always
Who are the learning providers?
fit your education around your current
necessary to have an undergraduate
Many learning providers are neither HE
work and/or family commitments. It’s
degree to gain a master’s; neither is it
nor FE institutions, although they may
entirely up to you.
necessary to have one in order to achieve
have links of varying strengths with
many professional qualifications.
one or more colleges or universities.
At your convenience
And, of course, in these days of laptops, notebooks, tablets and mobile
Increasingly, Service people like you
Many companies run large training
learning, you can set up and study at a
are taking distance learning modules
departments, and there are also many
location of your choice – home or work, at
as part of the training that contributes
commercial organisations that provide
a cafe, even while travelling. Importantly,
to career progression. So, you could
training to paying clients. Much of the
too, you can work at your own pace –
be studying with a view to gaining
training such providers deliver is of
there are no term times to be rigidly stuck
qualifications that will help you while in
excellent quality and targeted carefully
to (although you may have to sit exams,
the Forces or when you leave, or just for
at the needs of civilian employers in a
which may take place only at specific
personal interest – out of enthusiasm for a
specific market sector. Many commercial
times).
particular subject.
businesses offering training use the
To sum up, distance study enables you
But how do you know who is a good
premises of academic institutions to
take responsibility for your own learning.
provider and who is not? And exactly
deliver courses, and may have contracts
However, although you will be in control,
which course do you need? All this choice
with employment agencies to help their
a good provider will offer support – so you
can prove confusing! In the accompanying
students find work.
will certainly not be alone, left completely
‘Ask yourself …’ panel, there is a checklist
to your own devices, but will have back-up
that should help you.
and assistance as and when you require it.
You are likely to have heard of some of the bigger distance learning organisations, however – as mentioned
There are also likely to be self-checks and
Finding out more
interim tests to help ensure that you are
Service education and training staff,
out there too, also offering a wide
on target, and tutor-marked assessments
both within your unit and specialists,
range of courses, some with discounts
to provide valuable feedback, as well as a
can often provide the best advice about
for Service people (ask your education
telephone helpline to call or someone to
what you might want and what it is
email for advice if you get stuck.
actually possible for you to achieve.
How do I choose a course and provider?
They can also provide you with information about the funding available to support your studies,
above – there are many other providers
Q
and training adviser for further information). Q
KEY CONTACTS
Although necessarily influenced by
and recommend the subjects that
demand from learners, there are loads
you should be encouraged to pursue –
of courses available in distance learning
particularly with a view to a second career
0800 101 901
form. And because the choice of provider
when leaving the Services. Increasing
www.learndirect.co.uk
is huge, too, you are more than likely to
numbers of Forces learning and
@learndirect
be able to track down the course you
education centres and personal learning
are looking for. This may be something
advisers also have access to e-learning
Open and Distance Learning Quality
that will give you a general grounding
opportunities.
Council (ODL QC)
or background in a particular subject or
24
enable users to access learning.
Both higher education (HE) and
Information about courses is also
area (that you may go on to study in more
available from learndirect (see ‘Key
depth later), or you might be looking to
contacts’). It, too, runs its own courses
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
learndirect
020 8658 8337 www.odlqc.org.uk
Q
YOUR ELC QUALIFICATIONS TO FURTHER YOUR SERVICE CAREER
Boost your prospects
while serving
How your ELC can benefit both you and your Service publication, the main purpose
A
that your Service role might require,
place with Summit Skills with regard to
of ELC is to encourage serving
but that are also highly likely to prove
building services engineering-related
personnel to pursue higher-level learning
useful once you leave the Forces, could
courses. A great many other areas are
that benefits both the learner and the
include accountancy and management
likely to serve you well in future, too – not
Armed Forces. This is to comply with
qualifications, or courses related to
forgetting the benefit to your Service
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) rules,
health and safety, and facilities or project
branch now, of course! Q
which state that any money provided for
management. Depending on your Service
your personal development has to be of
role, you could find yourself in a position
immediate benefit to both the Armed
to embark on a range of studies that will
Forces and the individual – if not, the
turn out to have a very useful crossover
MoD would be liable for tax! (See the
into the civilian workplace when the time
accompanying box for more tax-related
comes for you to make the transition.
s noted elsewhere in this
information.)
Some of the areas of education
For example, thinking of IT training
remain in Service. Similar work has taken
TAX EXEMPTION MEASURES FOR THOSE WHO ARE NO LONGER SERVING Under the ELC scheme, most courses of
as an example, the Tech Partnership
study undertaken by individuals still serving
those courses that will benefit your own
(a network of employers working to
are exempt from taxation, either as income
career and promotion prospects in the
creating skills for the UK’s digital
or as a benefit in kind, if they can be justified
Services – and ultimately help you find
economy) has been involved in putting
as ‘work related’. In order for Service leavers
employment on leaving – as well as offering
together a matrix of eligible higher-level
to benefit fully, too, HMRC and MoD worked
a benefit to the Service while you remain
vendor IT qualifications, which in these
together to reach an agreement on tax
in uniform.
high-tech times will prove as useful to
exemption. This means that the Service
you on leaving as they are while you
leaver (or their surviving spouse, civil partner
The best of both worlds is offered by
or eligible partner, where appropriate) will not be required to pay income tax on payments received under the ELC and FEHE schemes. This allows them to draw maximum benefit from the schemes.at least for a limited period.
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
25
Q
YOUR ELC ON COURSE: HEALTH AND SAFETY
The workplace
warriors In their quest to protect the working population today’s health and safety professionals take a proactive, preventative approach to problems such as injury, accidents and equipment failure. Perhaps you have what it takes to join them in their important mission? What’s involved?
W
minimise accidents and injuries, occupational
‘competent’ people with responsibility
health and safety policies, and make sure
H&S culture, ensuring that both employers
for H&S, irrespective of the size of the
that both the employees and employers
and employees abide by safety legislation,
organisation or the field in which it operates.
stick to them, as well as following national
and that safety policies and practices are
A ‘competent’ person is somebody with the
safety legislation. Depending on the kind
adopted and observed. H&S officers play
necessary experience, training, knowledge
of organisation you are working in, your
a vital role in preventing and controlling
and/or other qualities to undertake the
role could cover areas such as occupational
operational losses and occupational
role, particularly risk assessment. Because
health, noise, safe use of machinery, fire
health problems, as well as accidents
organisations are obliged by law to employ
safety and control of hazardous substances.
and injuries. These days, H&S has moved
such a person, training and experience are
orkplace health and safety (H&S) officers use their skills and knowledge to promote a positive
several steps away from reactive, accident-based management and towards a more preventative approach, as highlighted by NEBOSH’s Certificate in the Management of Health and Wellbeing at Work. H&S officers (or advisers) are
health problems and operational losses. The law calls for employers to appoint
legal requirements for the management
of their job while having
– and work together with many different
organisations will employ a specialist (or
people, from employees and employers
specialists), or use a consultancy.
carrying out inspections and risk assessments, and thinking about how risks could be reduced
l
investigating accidents and recommending improvements to safety standards
l
keeping records of accidents and inspection findings
l
writing reports to suggest improvements
l
advising on protective clothing and safety equipment
l
ensuring equipment is safely installed
l
organising safe disposal of hazardous
other responsibilities too. Larger
to trades unions and directors. As an H&S
26
Your other key tasks might include: l
the individual concerned
responsible for it as part
based in a huge range of consultancies to multinational firms
part of your role will call for you to draw up
of H&S. A breach of H&S law
NEBOSH is a criminal offence that Certificate in the can result in fines, Management of Health and imprisonment, or both. Well-being at Work In smaller For the skills and knowledge organisations, the to tackle health and well-being H&S ‘competent’ at work person function www.nebosh.org.uk/ might form one part qualifications/certificate/default. of a wider role, with asp?cref=570&ct=2
organisations – from small
As your aim is to prevent health problems, accidents and injuries at work,
substances (e.g. asbestos) l
providing training (to both managers and employees) in H&S issues and risks
l
staying up to date with changes in the
officer, you will help to plan, implement,
The day job
monitor and review the preventative and
So, if you are thinking of a career as an H&S
On an average day, you will probably also
protective measures that companies are
officer or adviser, what are you likely to find
be required to wear protective clothing like
required, or choose, to follow, and work to
yourself doing on a day-to-day basis?
overalls, ear defenders and safety glasses.
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
law.
You will also need a clean driving licence
a trainee position. The type of training you
if your job calls for you to travel between
choose will depend on the industry you work in, or wish to work in. All workplace
sites.
Skill up while serving It almost goes without saying that most Service people work for at least some of the time in
TRANSLATE YOUR SKILLS The skills and qualities essential for an
H&S practitioners need a basic
H&S professional are very likely to be
core of knowledge in order
familiar to military people like you:
to practise effectively.
FIND OUT MORE … If you are new to H&S, on the RoSPA website: you can start by taking www.rospa.com/occupational- an introductory course safety/advice/career/ that covers the basics workplace, regulations,
environments or with
self-confidence
l
an eye for detail
l
problem-solving skills
l
systematic approach to work situations
(health and safety in the
potentially hazardous
l
l
diversity of work environments
l
good communication skills (for
risk assessment and basic
dangerous equipment, or
writing reports or dealing with
accident investigation). Courses
both. Across all branches and
employers)
are usually available on a part-time basis
trades there are those with practical
l
flexibility
experience and awareness of H&S at work –
or can be done via online and distance
l
wide-ranging responsibilities
you may well be one of them! Indeed, many
learning. Courses for which you could use
l
the ability to analyse what went
Service people actively involved in H&S work
your ELC include:
wrong and, importantly, how to put
may not even recognise that is what they
l
it right.
are doing, or might consider it a relatively
level 3 Award in Health and Safety in the Workplace level 3 (NVQ) Certificate in Occupational
as the qualification for aspiring H&S
Health and Safety
professionals, designed to provide students
National General Certificate in
with the expertise required to undertake a
Occupational Health and Safety.
career as a safety and health practitioner.
while you are still serving. You may
In particular, N/SVQs at levels 3 and 4 in
It assumes prior learning equivalent to the
currently be in a post that enables you to
occupational health and safety practice will
National General Certificate.
gain significant H&S qualifications (e.g. N/
provide you with good career opportunities.
SVQs or NEBOSH awards). There are also
Recognised by the IOSH as being equivalent
related courses:
courses you could take that are aimed at the
to the NEBOSH National Diploma, each takes
l
potential manager who sees H&S as part of
approximately a year to achieve.
unimportant part of their job.
l
Forces-run modular training courses in H&S, leading to a certificate, offer an opportunity to gain relevant qualifications
a job description (e.g. the IOSH Certificate
l
ELC and SLC cannot be used together
in Managing Safely) or the person looking
but, if you’re looking to use your SLC for
to specialise in this field (e.g. the NEBOSH
training that is below the level 3 threshold,
National General Certificate, seen as the
you might want to consider, say, the
essential minimum qualification for any full-
level 2 Award in Health and Safety in
time health and safety job).
the Workplace, which provides essential
Get qualified!
knowledge and understanding of health a level 1 Award in Health and Safety in
study for health and safety qualifications
a Construction Environment, if you are
once you already have a job, or take a
looking to work in a H&S-related role in the
relevant training course before you look for
construction industry; this qualification will
Common areas of employment include:
National Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety
l
International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety
l
Diploma in Environmental Management (level 6)
l
National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety (level 3)
l
and safety in the workplace. There is also
To become an H&S adviser, you can either
WHERE DO H&S PROFESSIONALS WORK?
NEBOSH also offers the following H&S-
Fire Safety and Risk Management Certificate
l
National Certificate in Construction Health and Safety (level 3)
give you the essential knowledge to manage
NEED TO KNOW
health and safety, and holding it will also
1. Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
allow you to take your CITB test and apply
– the government body that ensures
for your CSCS card.
risks to health and safety from work
To work as a full-time health and safety
situations are properly controlled
l
chemicals and allied industries
l
construction
officer, you may need a higher level of
l
education and training
qualification approved by the IOSH (see
l
engineering
below). You can progress to more advanced
l
hospitals and clinics
qualifications as your skills develop and your
l
local government
level of responsibility grows.
l
manufacturing
l
oil and gas
NEBOSH
body for H&S qualifications (universities
l
transport
The NEBOSH National Diploma in
and other bodies also provide
l
telecommunications.
Occupational Health and Safety is seen
qualifications recognised by IOSH)
2. Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) – the professional body for H&S practitioners 3. National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) – an independent awarding
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
27
Q l
l
YOUR ELC ON COURSE: HEALTH AND SAFETY membership of the IOSH (see above) within a
Occupational Health and Safety
year. Training can be expensive, but there is
staff through an online recruitment process.
National Certificate in Environmental
financial help available.
Trainees will usually spend their first two
Management l
l
l
years training in the Field Operations
National Certificate in the Management
Use your ELC
of Health and Well-being at Work
Under the ELC scheme, a wide range of
deployed into the Hazardous Installations
International Certificate in Construction
learning can be taken, provided it is offered
Directorate to meet business needs or for
Health and Safety
by an approved provider listed on the ELC
personal development.
International Technical Certificate in Oil
website at www.enhancedlearningcredits.
and Gas Operational Safety.
com and is at level 3 or above. For full details
What can you earn?
of how to make the most of your ELC, refer
Note: the following figures are intended as a
to our in-depth features on pages 6–25.
guideline only.
Finding employment
Salaries vary widely depending on role
IOSH Membership of the IOSH is seen as essential by most H&S professionals who are beyond ‘competent’ person status
Directorate. After that, some may be
As noted above, most H&S officers/
and responsibilities, location and type of
and specialists in their field.
advisers get into this role
company. They can range from £22,000
Membership grades depend
by either completing a
on a combination of qualifications, experience and achievement. The IOSH also runs a series of courses that promote a culture of safe working,
NEBOSH National Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Find out more at www.nebosh.org.uk/ qualifications/diploma/
such as its modular Managing Safely course. You can find out more on its website (see ‘Key contacts’).
to £35,000 a year, again depending on the exact role. The current average salary for
qualification and then looking for work or
H&S professionals with up to four years’
studying while working.
experience is £30,811, rising to £37,671 for
Note, though, that it is
those with up to nine years’ experience.
becoming more common
H&S trainers are also well paid by today’s standards. A NEBOSH National Diploma
for advisers to enter the profession with a degree-
holder could earn £25,000-plus per year,
level qualification. Some good
depending on experience and managerial
advice is that employers tend to
Other qualifications
Health and safety professionals
Scientific, engineering or technical degrees,
should also keep their skills up to
HNDs, HNCs, National Diplomas and National
date. And, if you can bring a range
Certificates are particularly appropriate
of additional skills – such as being able
for H&S. There are also postgraduate
to provide in-house training in areas like
qualifications in H&S, with particular
manual handling or first aid – that’s another
emphasis on occupational, environmental
benefit as far as employers are concerned.
and hygiene aspects. Some universities
In addition, the Management of Health and
have MSc distance learning programmes
Safety at Work Regulations outline the legal
that focus on H&S and can lead to corporate
requirements for safety management issues and, if anything, this increases the need for
FIND JOB VACANCIES AT … l
l
l
l
l
l
HealthandSafety-Jobs
companies to employ ‘competent’ persons themselves, as opposed to dealing with safety issues via consultants. Jobs range from a small company
www.healthandsafety-jobs.co.uk
employing an individual to a major
Safety and Health Practitioner
organisation that has an entire safety
(magazine of the IOSH)
team. Some companies specialise in H&S
www.shponline.co.uk
issues such as planning supervision, safety
Major online job sites and
audits, engineering surveying and insurance
recruitment agencies
company safety assessments. Facilities
Websites of large organisations and
management is another sector where
multinationals
employment possibilities are enhanced
Websites and publications relating
by a safety qualification. As noted above,
to the industry you’re interested in,
many employers look for H&S advisers to
e.g. construction
have training qualifications, and to be able
National and local media
to assess the need for, design and deliver safety training.
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
responsibility. With experience and more
Q
favour job applicants who have good people management and interpersonal skills.
28
The HSE employs inspectors and other
International General Certificate in
responsibility, senior H&S advisers could earn £50,000 or more. Q
KEY CONTACTS
Health & Safety Executive (HSE) 0300 003 1747 advice@hse.gsi.gov.uk www.hse.gov.uk @H_S_E
Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) 0116 257 3100 reception@iosh.co.uk www.iosh.co.uk @IOSH_tweets National Compliance & Risk Qualifications (NCRQ) 01244 893575 enquiries@ncrq.org.uk www.ncrq.org.uk @NCRQ_UK National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) 0116 263 4700 info@nebosh.org.uk www.nebosh.org.uk @NEBOSHTweets
Q
YOUR ELC ON COURSE: HEALTH AND SAFETY
H&S Q&A
with RAF Aircraft Engineer, Richard Kear Enlisted: March 1996 Years served to date: 21.5 Current rank: Sergeant Service branch: RAF Specialisation/trade: Avionics Engineer
Hello Richard! Please tell us which
I provide in the RAF to future civilian
How do you think the courses you have
qualifications you have used your ELC for
employees.
taken will help in your subsequent civilian career?
to date? NEBOSH Occupational Health and Safety,
What format did the study take?
I believe they will prove invaluable in my
and the ILM Leadership and Management
Both courses involved in-depth classroom
hope of developing a career within the
Diploma, both taken with Oak Tree
study with further self study. ILM required
world of health and safety.
Management & Training Ltd.
3,000-plus word essays for each module
What made you choose those courses? I chose the courses to reinforce the
covered, and NEBOSH was completed with
Did you have any advice from your
two exams and a practical assessment.
commander/education adviser that you
I thoroughly enjoyed the courses, which
would like to share with fellow readers?
military qualifications I had already gained.
were delivered by a fantastic group of
Plan as far ahead as you can prior to
In addition, I felt my skill-sets needed
trainers who were all keen to pass on their
deciding what courses to take and make
transferring into ‘civilian-speak’.
wealth of experience. While hard work on
sure they will benefit your future career.
an intensive level, the results will be worth What were they like?
it in the long term. Having a good selection
What advice do you have for other
Very well organised with all necessary
of fellow learners provides additional
Service people registering for or using
provisions made. All information for the
stimulus and helps with shared learning.
ELC? Seek guidance from your unit training
courses, including administration, was provided in good time prior to the course
Will you attend any other related
adviser and make sure you get your courses
starting.
courses?
booked well in advance to ensure you get
This month [September 2017] I am attending
your chosen dates and location.
Were the courses academic, vocational or
a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt practitioners’
a mix?
course followed by OHAS 18001 Health and
Anything else you’d like to tell us?
Vocational.
Safety Lead Auditor Course.
I would highly recommend Oak Tree for their fantastic support throughout all my
What civilian qualifications you have
What do you hope to gain from these?
learning with them. The service they provide
obtained so far during your Service
I hope they will give me a greater insight
is second to none and they are always on
career?
into life in the civilian world by engaging
hand to help should you require further
BA (Hons) Criminology, IOSH Managing
with fellow course attendees. On
guidance.
Safely and IOSH Manual Handling Instructor.
earlier courses, I was fortunate to have professional and enthusiastic colleagues
To find out more, see
Did your chosen ELC-funded courses build
who were able to provide me with valuable
www.oaktree-training.co.uk/mod
on these?
advice for my future civilian employment.
Definitely! That was the main reason I chose these particular courses. The ILM Diploma will translate the level of management
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
29
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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6781
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Ipswich: 01473 212535 | London: 0207 194 84 33 E: info@ccas-ltd.com | www.ccas-ltd.com
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
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APPROVED BY MoD IN SUPPORT OF THE ELC SCHEME
ELC
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PROVIDER NUMBER
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
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Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
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E LC
PROVIDER NUMBER
3518
Q
YOUR ELC ON COURSE: RAIL
It’s not just for train drivers!
What’s involved?
R
ail offers an environmentally friendly way to transport people and freight around the country.
Within the sector, many different career
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?
opportunities are available, fuelled by the fast growth of the industry, which has
an international industry, with multinational
Skill up while serving
created demand for enthusiastic people
companies using their worldwide
Rail is an excellent transport resource
with new ideas to meet the challenges that
experience. There are also rail-related
for heavy and bulk items. Many military
lie ahead.
public-sector jobs working for government
movements use rail transport, large supply
departments or agencies.
depots will often include loading and
UK train operating companies (TOCs for short), like Arriva, Merseyrail and Virgin, run
unloading facilities, and the use of troop and
the National Rail Network. That means they
has featured in the news a great deal
medical evacuation trains is quite normal.
are responsible for the UK’s passenger train
recently, particularly with regard to the
Indeed, establishing a railhead, as well as
services, and look to recruit people who can
controversial planned HS2 high-speed
a port and airhead, is an early priority in
look after their customers at stations or on
rail link. This is just part of the radical
any expeditionary operation, to enable bulk
their trains. They are also seeking people
overhaul of the UK rail system to which the
shipment of manpower and material.
to drive their high-speed or metro trains,
government has pledged investment, aiming
and technicians to look after the complex
to achieve greater efficiency, reduced
industry, the following general skills will
equipment involved every day.
congestion, environmental benefits and
boost your chances:
lower fares. Such an approach is sure to
l
Network Rail is the national organisation
34
The structure of Britain’s rail industry
that looks after the rail track and signals;
have a fundamental effect on the sector,
it needs people who understand how to
increasing the range of job opportunities for
make a complex system work efficiently.
those wishing to take up a new career in this
Many other organisations supply goods and
thriving industry.
If you’re considering a career in the rail
people skills – customer care and team working
l
technical skills – IT and engineering skills for some roles
l
commercial skills – an understanding
services – such as caterers, consultants and
of the marketplace and the ability to
contractors. Designing and building trains is
optimise resources.
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
Get qualified! The variety of different jobs in the rail
that you can use your ELC towards them:
NETWORK RAIL NEEDS YOU!
transport sector means that there are
l
available at level 3 and above, meaning level 3 = AS/A levels, NVQs, BTEC
You may be used to a field-based
several different routes into it. At entry
Nationals and Awards, Certificates
environment working with big kit in all
level, good maths, English and IT skills are
and Diplomas
weathers. Or you may have been desk
level 4 = NVQs, BTEC Professional
based, involved in planning and analysis,
Diplomas, Certificates and Awards
strategic design, systems or electrical
level 5 = HNCs, HNDs and Foundation
engineering. Dependent on your skills and
Degrees
experience, you may be suited to one of
level 6 = bachelor’s degrees, BTEC
our engineering functions:
Advanced Professional Diplomas,
l
maintenance
employees, in areas like maintenance and
Certificates and Awards, Graduate
l
asset information
signalling. It offers a range of programmes
Certificates and Diplomas
l
track
level 7 = master’s degrees,
l
buildings and civils
postgraduate certificates.
l
construction signalling, power and communication
in demand, while, for more senior roles,
l
technical, engineering and business-related qualifications are sought after, along with
l
soft skills like those highlighted above, in the ‘Skill up while serving’ section.
l
Network Rail runs training courses for
that are accredited by universities, colleges
l
or professional bodies, providing job-related training at all levels, including:
The National Skills Academy for Rail
l
l
National Vocational Qualifications
(NSAR) (see ‘Key contacts’) National
Just like the Forces, we rely on a number
(NVQs)
Network supports professional
of support functions. If you don’t feel
l
Higher National Certificates (HNCs)
development and training throughout
engineering is for you, we have plenty of
l
Higher National Diplomas (HNDs)
the UK. This includes Network Rail, the
other areas that you may be better suited
l
professional diplomas
National College for High Speed Rail,
to, such as:
l
bachelor’s degrees
private providers, specialist centres
l
commercial management
l
master’s degrees.
(e.g. the National Training Academy for
l
finance
There are various different qualifications
Rail) and strategic partner FE colleges
l
HR
available that can help you make yourself
and universities. The Network ensures
l
legal
more attractive to employers in the first
there is access to quality professional
l
project management.
instance. For instance, the following railway
development and training throughout the
Join us and we'll give you every
engineering-related qualifications are
UK.
opportunity to develop a highly rewarding and long-term career, offering training and development that will make the most of your potential.
GET INFORMED
Source: www.networkrail.co.uk
For detailed information about the kinds of career opportunities offered by the rail industry, see: www.networkrail.co.uk/careers
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
35
Q
YOUR ELC ON COURSE: RAIL
IF YOU DO WANT TO BE A TRAIN DRIVER … Visit the website of Careers that Move, an organisation that – as its In addition, registration as a Chartered
in the passenger transport sector.
Engineer (CEng) is recommended for
planned for the UK rail sector add up to
The site offers an array of very useful
technical rail professionals.
a growing demand for new staff on the
interactive tools designed to support
railways, although the industry already
you in your job search in this industry
Use your ELC
– whether you’re looking at train driver
Under the ELC scheme, a wide range of
particularly in specialist engineering
roles or something else. To find out
learning can be taken, provided it is offered
positions, so if that’s your specialism you
more about this particular career,
by an approved provider listed on the ELC
could find yourself very much in demand.
though, visit careersthatmove.co.uk
website at www.enhancedlearningcredits.
One significant development has been
and scroll down to click on the ‘Career
com and is at level 3 or above. For full details
the requirement placed on Network Rail’s
map’ tool. Then, in the ‘Industries’
of how to make the most of your ELC, refer
contractors to employ more staff direct
menu on the left, select ‘Rail’. Here
to our in-depth features on pages 6–25.
and rely less on agencies, in an attempt to
you can click on various areas of
has recruitment problems at all levels,
improve standards in the quality of new
interest to access a huge amount of
Finding employment
advice about how to become a train
Despite the recessionary gloom lingering
maintenance also calling for new staff.
driver, as well as many other rail and
in some sectors, the future for railways
Indeed, Network Rail has announced that
transport roles. There is also in-depth
remains remarkably bright. Both passenger
it is in the process of creating more skilled
information on light rail, tram and
and freight transportation demand remains
engineering jobs to help deliver some
metro roles. It’s really worth a look!
high and is predicted to continue to grow, as
of Britain’s most vital rail infrastructure
road gridlock becomes ever more common
projects.
and fuel prices increase. As noted above, new
build, with the in-house management of
As you might expect, there is a lot of
and improved railway lines are planned for
competition for train driver positions,
considered very complementary to a variety
the near future, so it seems that rail travel is
with many TOCs actively seeking to recruit
of rail-connected careers:
definitely here to stay.
drivers. The job has come a long way from
The following qualifications are also
l
l
l
36
The aforementioned developments
name suggests – focuses on careers
Network Rail is also keen to recruit
the schoolboy dream, with today’s driver
rail-related project managers
ex-Forces personnel, recognising the cross-
having a critical safety role, and needing
CSCS Certification – many rail projects
over between the two careers: ‘The skills
to undergo a rigorous aptitude test and
require construction workers to hold
and experience you’ll have picked up in the
training programme. Qualifications are less
a valid CSCS (Construction Skills
Forces are easily transferable to the kind
important than the ability to think clearly
Certification Scheme) card, which proves
of work we do here. The big connection is
and concentrate, and rewards reflect the
they are competent at carrying out
safety. You’ll know that keeping yourself and
importance of the person in the cab, who can
specific tasks
your colleagues safe is top priority in the
attract a salary of up to £50,000 (source:
IRSE (Royal Institution of Railway Signal
Forces. And it is for us too. After all, millions
Careers that Move).
Engineers) Accredited Technician, for
of people depend on us every day to get
those wishing to work specifically in
them to their destination, safely.’ Good news
recruit customer service staff to work
signalling.
if your plan is to pursue a rail-related career!
at stations and on trains. These positions
APM Project Management, for aspiring
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
TOCs are also finding it difficult to
need few formal qualifications, but they do
business that relies on getting the most
well as other short-term contract work at
require an ability to deal with the travelling
out of limited physical resources, so those
stations and on trains. Q
public. Network Rail has a significant
with a logistics background are in demand.
shortage of signallers, too, and is seeking
Academic qualifications and practical
new recruits. As with driving, the job of
experience help to secure the better-
regulating train movements demands
paid management positions, but the
attention to detail rather than a long list of
most serious skill shortage remains
qualifications.
in the engineering functions, which
Infrastructure maintenance
is why, as noted above, Network Rail has
Q
organisations employ a small core staff,
announced the creation of the more skilled
and there are vacancies for workers to
engineering jobs; this is likely to remain the
maintain the track and signalling structures.
case for some time to come.
Skill levels vary from technical staff with
A good way to get more information
engineering experience and qualifications,
about vacancies is to look online. All the
to gangs of track maintainers who need
train operators are linked through one
physical strength and can work in all
central National Railways site operated
weathers. Many specialist agencies work
by ATOC and virtually all the companies’
under contract to supply such people. This
home pages include a job opportunities
can provide flexible work, good rates of pay
list. Network Rail has its own site (see ‘Key
and a useful entry into the industry.
contacts’) with a useful job search facility
There are also management and engineering opportunities. Rail is very
and full details of the sorts of roles on offer. It is less simple to check for vacancies
much a people business, with many staff
with subcontractors because these
and even more passengers, and there
companies rely heavily on agency staff.
is significant demand for experienced
There are many agencies, and several have
customer service managers. It is also a
websites offering work in maintenance, as
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 National Skills Academy for Rail 0203 021 0575 enquiries@nsar.co.uk www.nsar.co.uk @nsarltd Network Rail 0207 557 8000 www.networkrail.co.uk @networkrail
3 Diploma in Railway NVQ Level Diploma in in Railway NVQ Level 3 Diploma Railway Overhead Line Construction Engineering Line Construction Engineering Overhead Line Construction (QCF) (QCF) (QCF) Akona Ltd Solutions Company specialising Akona Ltd isis a aTraining Solutions Company specialising Akona Ltd is aTraining Training Solutions Company specialising the delivery various vocational training packages. inin the delivery ofof various vocational training packages. in the delivery of various vocational training packages. We offer variety rail courses and 2014 We offer a awide variety ofof rail courses and ininin 2014 We offer awide wide variety of rail courses and 2014 opened new indoor practical rail training centre. opened a abrand new indoor practical rail training centre. opened a brand brand new indoor practical rail training centre. Akona Ltd an NSARE approved provider Overhead Akona Ltd isisis an NSAR approved provider ofof Overhead Akona Ltd an NSAR approved provider of Overhead lineConstruction Training whichmeets NetworkRail line Training which toto Network lineElectrification Construction Training which meets meets to NetworkRail Rail Standards. Standards. Standards.
ContactUs Us Contact
Contact Us Visit: www.akona.biz Visit: www.akona.biz Visit: www.akona.biz Email: info@akona.biz Email: training@akona.biz Email: training@akona.biz Tel: 01928 518004 Tel: 01928 518004 Tel: 01928 518004 Rail Course List: Rail Course Rail Course List: AC Personal Track List: Safety Personal Track Safety AC Initial Personal Track Safety AC Initial Personal Track Safety DCCR OLEC 1 11 OLEC OLEC OLEC 2 22 OLEC OLEC OLEC 3 33 OLEC OLEC NVQ Level 3Level Diploma in in Railway Engineering Overhead NVQ Level 3 Diploma Railway Engineering Overhead NVQ 3 Diploma in Railway Engineering Line Construction (QCF) Line Construction (QCF) Overhead Line Construction (QCF)
This Level 33 Qualification includes: This Level Qualification includes: This Level 3 Qualification includes: • • Personal Track Safety DCCR (PTS) Personal Track Safety AC Initial (PTS) Personal Track Safety AC Initial (PTS) • • Health and Safety Training (Working Health and Safety Training (Working Health and Safety Training (Working Safely at Heights, Moving and Handling, Safely at at Heights, Manual Handling, Safely Heights, Manual Handling, Manual Handling, Harness Safety,and Fire Harness Safety, Fire Awareness Harness Safety, Fire Awareness and Awareness and Emergency First Aid) Emergency First Aid) Emergency First Aid) • Overhead Line Electrification Level 1 Common Induction (ICI) • Industry Industry Common Induction (ICI) (OLEC 1) • • Overhead Line Electrification Level 1 1 Overhead Line Electrification Level Overhead Line Electrification Level 2 (OLEC 1) 1) (OLEC (OLEC 2) • Overhead Line Electrification Level 2 Overhead Line Electrification Level • Overhead Line Electrification Level 3 2 (OLEC 2) (OLEC (OLEC 3) 2)
The course will be completed in in our indoor The course will completed our indoor The course will bebe completed in our brand practical rail training centre and includes practical rail training centre and includes new indoor practical rail training centre practical training sessions, classroom practical training sessions, classroom and includes practical training sessions, sessions and assessments. sessions and assessments. classroom sessions and assessments. For this qualification we can offer you a rail AsAs Akona is is anan ELCAS approved Akona Ltd ELCAS approved sponsor andLtd employment opportunities. training provider this qualification can bebe training provider this qualification can funded byby Enhanced Learning Credits. funded Enhanced Learning Credits. As Akona Ltd is an ELCAS approved training provider this qualification can be funded by Enhanced Learning Credits.
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
37
Q
YOUR ELC HIGHER-LEVEL STUDY
It’s never too late for a second chance! … thanks to the Access to Higher Education Diploma. Even if you left school without the necessary qualifications, it could still be your ticket to HE
T
he Access to Higher Education (HE)
course, particularly if they haven’t been
became a teacher, as well as a role model
Diploma is a nationally recognised
in a classroom for some time – Access to
to her students and her own children.
qualification designed for people
HE tutors are aware of this and take it into account, so you won’t be ‘thrown in at the
course part-time while working full-time as
education, but left school without the
deep end’. The course is challenging, but
a Chief Petty Officer in the Royal Navy.
qualifications needed. The Diploma is taken
the purpose of the Diploma is to help you
by people of all ages and backgrounds,
succeed.
‘There are probably a lot of people who, like me, didn’t have
although it is designed for adults who have few, or no, qualifications. Many Access to
‘The tutors were so enthusiastic
a wholly positive experience of
HE students are looking to transition to a
and understood our learning needs
school, and as a result spent
new career.
really well. When your confidence
years assuming that academic
was beginning to wobble, they’d
study wasn’t for them. For me,
step in with the right advice.’
taking an Access to HE course
‘If you are thinking about Access to HE, don’t let what might be stop
Sue Nelson
changed that view. With the help of supportive, good-humoured
you – let what could be drive you! The course will provide all the skills
More than 330,000 of the mature students
and patient tutors, it provided me
you need to engage and be who you
who have gained an Access to HE Diploma
with the tools and, above all, the
really want to be.’
have gone on to university, changed their
self-belief to undertake a higher
career or moved up the career ladder.
education course. If you have
Sue Nelson was 43 when she started her
a sense of curiosity, and you’re
The Diploma is designed to offer academic
Access to HE course. Her early education
willing to commit time to study, an
preparation for higher education study in a
had been disrupted by regular moves
Access to HE course is a fantastic
supportive and encouraging environment.
with her Army family. She left school
opportunity. It gave me renewed
It delivers subject knowledge and study
at 15 and started work as a clerk. When
confidence in my ability to learn.’
skills to make sure students are ready to
circumstances meant she was not able to
start their HE journey. Many people are
work, she saw an advertisement that led
nervous when they start an Access to HE
her to take an Access to HE course. She
Alan Searle
38
Dr Mark Field did his Access to HE
who would like to go on to higher
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
Dr Mark Field
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
Dr Erik Johansson Cox was 31 years old, unemployed and living at home with his parents. He wanted a job, but decided to try an Access to HE course first. He became a research scientist, a job that has taken him around the world. He says the Access to HE course gave him a second chance. ‘Access to HE gave me the opportunity to start afresh, build a career and improve my self-worth.’ Dr Erik Johansson Cox A desire to push herself to achieve something while her four children were young pushed Gabrielle Holmes to enrol on an Access to HE course. At first she worried she wasn’t clever enough to cope with education, especially having been away from it for 20 years. Having completed her degree and become a midwife, she has this advice for anyone thinking about taking an
a higher education course each year
can search by subject, college or location.
Access to HE Diploma: ‘You can achieve so
and continue their transition to new
Most Diplomas are taught in further
much if you have faith in yourself, and an
challenges
education colleges. However, they are also
recognised by HE providers across the
available from private training providers,
UK, so you are not tied to a particular
some of which offer distance learning
place for your next course of study
study options.
Access to HE course can kick-start that self-
l
belief.’ ‘The Access to HE
l
at level 3, which is the same academic
course introduced
level as A-levels; universities make offers
me to the concept of
to A-level and Access to HE students
organised study.’
through UCAS.
Gabrielle Holmes You will be taught subject knowledge,
The Access to HE Diploma is a qualification … l
l
and learn the academic skills needed to succeed in higher education, in a
l
designed to prepare adults without
The Diploma is also designed for you to
the qualifications they need for study
use your life skills to help you with your
at university
studies, and to develop strong links with
that provides support and
your class, helping each other to succeed.
Access to HE Diploma 60 credits Grades - 45 credits at level 3 graded academic subject content - Pass, Merit or Distinction - unit grade profile achieved (no overall grade)
Credits - value given to units - based on the time of study required - 1 credit equates to about 10 hours of study - units sizes: 3, 6 or 9 credits
‘The other students were all of the
transition to a new career
same mind-set: they were there
designed to give you the skills, subject
to change their career pathways.
knowledge and confidence you need to
There was a good atmosphere of
succeed in higher education
mutual support, and to this day I
The Diploma is made up of blocks of
available at more than 300 providers;
am still in contact with many of my
study called units. Units are usually
you can search for a course near you
classmates.’
based around a particular topic. Each Richard Deacon
individual Diploma is governed by Rules of Combination, which explain which units
(see below, under ‘Find an Access to HE
l
Rules of combination - list of all units approved for a named Diploma - list units that must be done, mandatory - list units where there is choice, optional
other students, many of whom are in
using the Access to HE Diploma search
l
Units - blocks of study - usually based around subject topic - no national curriculum
supportive and encouraging environment.
encouragement, through tutors and
l
How is the Access to HE Diploma made up?
Diploma‘)
Access to HE Diplomas are available in a
need to be completed in order to complete
designed specifically for adults; around
wide range of subjects, from engineering to
the qualification. Each unit is allocated
50% of Access to HE students are over
nursing. More than 1,000 QAA-recognised
credits, and you must successfully
25 years of age
Access to HE Diplomas are listed on the
complete 60 credits, which meet the
that helps around 25,000 adults start
database on the Access to HE website. You
Rules of Combination, to achieve the
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
39
Q
YOUR ELC HIGHER-LEVEL STUDY up to an Access to HE Diploma, and find out more about what you will learn on the course. There is no national curriculum for Access to HE Diplomas so not all subjects will be the same at every college.
Take advice on funding Your education officer and college staff should also be able to give you advice about other funding opportunities that may available to help with living or childcare Diploma. Each unit is graded Pass, Merit or
costs.
Distinction, and you will receive a profile of grades, to a maximum of 45 credits at level 3. Universities will make offers for
Access to HE (1 or 2 years)
particular grade profiles.
Funding your studies Fees for Access to HE Diplomas vary and, if you’re eligible for the publicly funded FE/HE scheme, you will have options to pay for your Access to HE and university studies. Some Access to HE providers are listed on the ELCAS website at
• Self-belief • Speak to the education officer • Get GCSEs in English and maths • Find a Diploma • Funding option: publicly funded FE/HE scheme or Advanced Learner Loan
• Learn new skills • Study with support • Build a new network of friends • Accept HE offer
Enrol
After graduation
• HE studies • Use Access to HE skills • Advanced Learner Loan cancelled on completion
• Further study? • Graduate profession? • e.g. engineer, lawyer, medic, teacher – a world of choices!
Graduation (3 years in HE)
www.enhancedlearningcredits.com Tuition fees for all QAA-recognised Access to HE Diplomas (those listed on our database)
What next?
can also be paid for using an Advanced
First, check your qualifications
Visit our website
Learner Loan. Information about these can
Do you have GCSEs in English and maths?
… at www.accesstohe.ac.uk and take your
be found on the relevant section of the
If you don’t have them already, it is a good
first step to find out more about Access to
gov.uk website: www.gov.uk/advanced-
idea to do them before you start your
HE Diplomas. It’s never too late!
learner-loan
Access to HE Diploma. Your education
Access to HE Diplomas cost around
officer should be able to help you find a
Find out more
£3,350 if they’re paid for with an Advanced
GCSE course, and you may be able to do
Sign up for our email newsletter for Service
Learner Loan. However, when you complete
them before you leave the Service.
personnel, their families and advisers. Visit
your university studies, the balance of your Advanced Learner Loan will be cancelled.
at: www.accesstohe.ac.uk/Access/Pages/
You can do this by searching the QAA’s
AHE4SP.aspx?acceptcookies=true
Diploma database at https://goo.gl/
Example repayment amounts Annual income Monthly income before tax
the Service personnel page on our website
Find an Access to HE Diploma
Monthly repayment
0XUJ4N It is also a good idea to look at HE get the career you want. There are lots of
THE ACCESS TO HE DIPLOMA
websites to help you find out about higher
The qualification was established in the
education and the courses on offer. There
1970s and continues to be designed
are hundreds of courses to choose from,
to increase participation in higher
so allow some time for this. The names of
education by individuals who are
most Access to HE Diplomas describe the
underrepresented. More than 250,000
start when you earn more than £21,000
HE course they are designed to prepare
Access to HE students have started
per year, which means you may be
you for – for example Access to HE Diploma
university since 1999.
paying the loan back while you study.
(Law). Reading about the successes of
So it is important to look in to your
Access to HE students might also help. For
funding options carefully to ensure you
real-life stories, visit
make the best choice for you. Access to
https://goo.gl/qgKL9h
Up to £21,000 £1,750 £0 £22,000 £1,833 £7 £25,000 £2,083 £30 £30,000 £2,500 £67 £35,000 £2,916 £105 £40,000 £3,333 £142
Advanced Learner Loan repayments
courses that interest you and will help you
View this feature online at
HE providers, your education officer or
40
transition staff should be able to help you
Contact the college
www.questonline.co.uk for full access
choose the best route.
Speak to college staff about how to sign
to all the live web links. Q
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
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Tel: +44 (0) 1989 550325 • Email: specialist.training@g4s.com
www.g4sspecialisttraining.com
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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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
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Q Plan ahead!
YOUR ELC EDUCATION AND FUNDING PLANNER
Your one-stop guide to personal development and education opportunities, improving your career prospects and the funding sources available help you do it
Personal development and education opportunities What is Personal Development (PD)?
PD is about self-improvement and satisfaction. It is open to everyone and can be done for one or many of the following reasons: >> to improve knowledge for personal interest >> to be introduced to new ideas or skills >> to broaden horizons
>> to enhance in-Service career prospects >> to gain qualifications >> to prepare for a second career
PD won’t just happen. You must take steps to find out what’s available and decide what you want to do. Use the flow chart below as a guide
Other sources of information include:
Individual talks to line manager about developing a realistic plan and maintaining a PD record (PDR)
A PD Route Map
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
Individual decides: >> subject to be studied and qualification (if any) >> level of study (basic/key skills, GCSE, S/NVQ, A-level, degree, postgraduate) >> mode of study (e.g. short courses, distance learning)
unit education or training officer in-Service publications in-Service education centre local library or civilian college the internet Quest magazine friends and family Quest website: questonline.co.uk
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 page 22.
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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
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 offers currently serving or former Service personnel access to a first full level 3 (GCE A-level or vocational equivalent) or a first higher education (HE) qualification (e.g. a foundation degree or a first undergraduate degree or equivalent) free from tuition fees. The ELC lower tier offers up to three payments of up to £1,000 in three separate financial years; the higher tier offers up to three payments of up to £2,000 in three separate financial years. A new Publicly Funded Further Education/Higher Education ELC was created in 2016. It’s an aggregated lower-tier award, which is a single payment of up to £3,000 for those with six or more years of qualifying service, which will count as all three awards. You must make a contribution to your learning of at least 20% of the cost, and must discuss your plans with your line manager and education adviser before making any financial commitment. Detailed information about ELC can be found in the first half of this magazine. For full details visit www.enhancedlearningcredits.com
Individual Resettlement Training Cost (IRTC)
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.
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.
Jobcentre Plus Professional and Career Development Loans
Finding a job
These are designed to help people change direction or increase their skills by providing a deferred repayment loan of between £300 and £10,000 to cover up to 80% of tuition fees for a vocational course of up to two years, plus a further year’s work experience if appropriate. Courses can be full-time or part-time, or involve open or distance learning, and people who have been out of work for three months can apply to have all their course fees covered. The low-interest loan is arranged through one of four high-street banks, and certain conditions and criteria apply. Find out which banks offer the loan and order an application pack by calling the National Careers Service on Tel: 0800 100 900.
The Individual Resettlement Training Costs (IRTC) grant
Q
The IRTC grant is available to Service leavers with six or more years’ service and all Medical Discharges. It is a contribution to training costs and can be used internally at the Resettlement Training Centre (RTC), Aldershot, or at a Regional Resettlement Centre (RRC) for vocational training courses. It can also be used externally for training with CTP Preferred Suppliers. IRTC is available for tuition fees up to a maximum of £534. A range of courses at the RTC Aldershot is delivered within the MoD contract (called Contract Funded training). These courses are pre-paid by the MoD and only ‘cost’ the Service leaver time and a portion of the £534 allowance. No money changes hands for the training but days and funding are deducted from the GRT allocation at a rate of £26.70 per day. The £534 gives access up to 20 days of CF training. Any exam or registration fees are extra and payable by the students, but other allowances may be available to help with those.
Jobcentre Plus has one of Britain’s largest databases of job vacancies, which is updated constantly. The database also lets you search for training, career information, voluntary work and childcare providers across the UK. You can search the database via Universal Jobmatch (www.gov.uk – search for ‘jobs’) or by using the Job Point in your local Jobcentre. When you find a job you are interested in, either using the Jobcentre Plus job search or at the Job Point in your local Jobcentre, Jobcentre advisers will tell you how to apply, send you an application form and may even contact the employer (so have your address, National Insurance number, date of birth and the job reference number to hand).
Benefits
If you’re unsure which benefits you can get, you can check online using the Gov.uk ‘Benefits calculators’ pages (www.gov.uk – search for ‘benefits calculators’). To find out more about Jobseeker’s Allowance, who can get it and how to claim online, go to the Gov.uk ‘Jobseeker’s Allowance’ pages (www.gov.uk – search for ‘Jobseeker’s Allowance’). You can also claim by phone by calling Jobcentre Plus on 0800 055 6688. There’s a Welsh-language line on 0800 012 1888, and a textphone on 0800 023 4888 if you find it hard to speak or hear clearly. Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am–6pm.
Armed Forces Champions
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.)
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
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Q
YOUR ELC HELP AND ADVICE
Useful contacts
Need to know more? Here’s who can help …
F
or general enquiries about
Education and Resettlement Staff
RetResSO2or Civ: elc@detsa.co.uk
the scheme, eligibility and
seeking further clarification of sS
(
qualifications, seek advice from
instructions should contact SO3 EL3R, at DII: ‘NAVY TRG HQ-EL3R RESET
the following single-Service education and
Mil: 94391 7580 Civ: 01264
381580) l
RAF: Personal Learning Advisors
resettlement staff in the first instance,
SO3C’ (
not ELCAS. ELCAS’s role is to administer
625954)
Education Coordinators (REC) at RAF
Mil: 93832 5954 Civ: 02392
(PLAs), and Resettlement and
Army: Individual Education and
Learning Centres. Education and
guidance on eligibility or education/
Resettlement Officers (IERO), at Army
Resettlement Staff seeking further
learning or resettlement needs. Policy
Education Centres, which must be used
clarification of sS instructions should
helpline details are as follows.
by Service leavers on resettlement.
contact SO2 Accreditation at DII:
applications, not provide advice and
l
l
RN: RN/RM Education and
Education and Resettlement Staff
’22TrgGp-CTS-AndEWg-SO2’ (
Resettlement Officers (EROs), Naval
seeking further clarification of sS
95751 6888 Civ: 01400 266888)
Education and Training Support
instructions should contact the relevant
Officers (NETSOs) and Naval
SO2 Retention and Resettlement in
In addition, advice on any aspect of the
Resettlement Information Officers
Regional Command (RC) – DII: RC-Pers-
ELC and FEHE schemes is available from:
(NRIOs) at RN/RM Learning Centres.
ETS-N-RetResSO2 or RC-Pers-ETS-S-
Mil:
People-TESRR-ResetOffice@mod.uk Q
WANT TO WIN £250?
Tell us your story. Feature in QUEST and be in with a chance of winning our quarterly cash prize! Here at QUEST we’re always keen to hear from our readers. Whether you’re still serving and have already amassed an impressive array of qualifications (and are perhaps still working on others), or you’ve already negotiated the resettlement process and are well into your new life – and work – in civvy street, why not be an inspiration to other QUEST readers and let us know about your experiences? Your own personal learning or resettlement story could feature in a future edition, helping others see just where their own skills and qualifications could take them.
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And that’s not all – aside from the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping and inspiring those who are following in your footsteps, you could also get your hands on our quarterly £250 prize! Every three months we’ll select one reader’s success story as our lucky winner. So, help others and potentially help yourself! What are you waiting for? Visit www.questonline.co.uk where you can find out more and download a copy of the QUEST QUESTIONNAIRE. We look forward to hearing from you …
Readers must consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
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We recommend that you book at least 16 weeks before to secure your course place, however do enquire for late availability. L3 Block Release - Use your ELC and IRTC to enrol on a L3 Diploma in Brick or Carpentry L3/4 Flexible NVQs - already know what you are doing, obtain an NVQ to enable you to work on site as a qualified trades person Short Skills Courses - Use your SLC’s to gain skills in Bricklaying, Carpentry, Plastering, Plumbing, Tiling, Painting & Decorating, or level 1 Health & Safety/CSCS training “Don’t look anywhere else, this is the place to learn trade skills!” For advice and guidance speak to our dedicated Resettlement Co-ordinator Rache Allen Call: 01458 274043 or Email: forces@train4all.co.uk or visit Web: www.train4all.co.uk
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questonline.co.uk l September 2017
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HUB THE
THE HUB
>> Course and training options, transition news and reader reports
The extraordinary journey of Robert L. Jones From a troubled adolescence to a life of military service and numerous achievements Being a strong advocate for continuous education and a lifelong learner, Robert studied the Certificate in Terrorism Studies from the CSTPV at the University of St Andrews, to help him with his teaching.
‘Raised in Indiana, growing up was a low point. I come from a diverse nuclear family. In school, I wasn’t very academic, but two of my teachers saw something in me and made sure that I stuck it out and graduated. Looking at my community I didn’t see any opportunity. I was always up to mischief; I was a member of a street gang, always getting into juvenile things. I went to an uncle for advice and he encouraged me to go into the military to learn a skill. I joined in 1961.’ Continuing professional development ‘I completed all modules of the Advanced Certificate in Terrorism Studies. I also studied the Postgraduate Certificate in Security Studies. One instructor said, ‘You should be teaching.’ I was later appointed Adjunct Professor at Anne Arundel Community College. I now teach homeland security subjects.’ From theory to practice ‘As I go through and update course material for my students, I revisit my modules and notes from St Andrews. They have a direct impact on what I teach. I rarely use the textbook the college provides as it doesn’t go into depth. I tell my students, “Stay focused on your studies and what we discuss in the classroom. Seek a variety of open source materials, as well as multiple news sources to supplement our discussions.”’ Supporting fellow Veterans after retirement ‘I retired from the military after breaking my back in a skydiving accident. I went to work in a Veteran programme for men and women coming out of service and served on several national policy committees. I also worked closely with the Office of Public Liaison in the White House, among other duties. ‘The thing I always tell young people is to understand that education never stops. Look at globalisation and the transition of careers. You will change your path so many times it’s important to have your education to fall back on. I am always searching for ways to better my knowledge and expand my horizons to allow me to offer more to my students.’ Inspired by Robert’s story? … Get in touch 020 7017 4483 security@knect365.com www.terrorismstudies.com See the advertisement on page 15
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Valuable training package awarded to first ‘deserving delegate’ Corporate Risk Systems Limited has a programme of donating an MoD Full House training package, valued at £2,600, to a deserving delegate at all remaining BFRS events in 2017. The first of these is Kimberley Edmunds-Jones, who was nominated by the charity Armed Forces Bikers. The reason behind her nomination was that she has not found things easy since leaving the military – she has PTSD, but has worked hard to overcome barriers due to this. At present she is having difficulty securing full-time employment, but does pick up some part-time work. The training package is of particular interest to Kimberley due to the path she wants to take, and the charity knows it will be the sort of training she can ‘really get her teeth into’. Kimberly was presented with the certificate that will allow her to claim her future training at the recent BFRS Catterick Jobs and Careers Fair, by David Hancock-Dexter, Sales Manager for Corporate Risk Systems Limited, and Amanda Wood-Woolley from Armed Forces Bikers. David and Kimberley initially thought that the combination of the Nebosh National General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety, Nebosh Certificate in Environmental Management and Nebosh Fire Safety and Risk Management Certificate would be ideal for future job applications. Get in touch 01332 527107 advice@crsrisk.com www.crsrisk.com See the advertisement on page 31
Enhanced NEBOSH training provision at Catterick for 2018 Woodward delivered the first NEBOSH National General Certificate resettlement course at Catterick Garrison in March 1993, and we’ve been delivering NEBOSH resettlement training to Service leavers ever since – with excellent results. After the phenomenal success of our four-course NEBOSH Resettlement Package in Catterick this summer, we have decided to add an extra qualification to our NEBOSH resettlement packages for 2018. With our new five-course NEBOSH Resettlement Packages, you can get even better value for your ELC claim and Graduated Resettlement Time with the same added convenience of being able to choose to stay on base at Catterick Garrison throughout. Five-course, 30-day NEBOSH Resettlement Package • NEBOSH National General Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health • NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health • NEBOSH National Certificate in Construction Safety and Health • NEBOSH National Certificate in Fire
Safety and Risk Management • NEBOSH Certificate in Environmental Management Funding: course fees NEBOSH National General, International General, Construction, Fire & Environmental Certificate Package – £2,804.00 per delegate • ELC claim £2,243.20 (combined lower-tier ELC) • Personal contribution £560.80 (IRTC grant and personal contribution) Funding: subsistence costs Food costs £4.00 per day for 30 days, which is £120.00 (GRT allowance). Please note this does not include lunch. Also available Two-, three- and four-course NEBOSH resettlement packages are also available. However, each course is limited to 20 delegates, so if you are interested don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Get in touch 01228 592614 info@woodwardgroup.co.uk http://woodward-group.co.uk/ military-resettlement/ See the advertisement on page 31
I DID IT! Name: Craig Parker Rank: former Lance Corporal, Royal Engineers Courses completed: Vulcan Fire Training Fire Manager and Advanced Diploma ‘While on work placement during my resettlement and termination leave, I was advised to undertake a fire risk assessment course by my employer, and Vulcan Fire Training was the company recommended by them. ‘I enrolled on to the five-day Fire Risk Assessor course, and found the training staff to be very helpful and extremely knowledgeable. This made it much easier to learn given the fact that everything on the course was based around real situations. ‘On completion of the course, I signed up to the Managing Fire Safety four-day course, which allowed me to complete the Fire Manager course, and the Fire Manager Advanced Diploma. The Managing Fire Safety course was more intense than the Fire Risk Assessor, but the invaluable knowledge of the instructors (both of whom are retired fire-fighters) made it easy to take in and learn. ‘I then attended the Advanced Diploma. I was initially apprehensive about going on the course, not just because of the increased workload, but also doubting
my own abilities and experience. After my first day, however, my fears were laid to rest – the workload and exams, although mentally demanding, were not unachievable. ‘The instructors break every aspect down in such a way that you can easily understand, process and apply the knowledge to the job. They are enthusiastic and dedicated to what they do, which made learning from them so much more fun and achievable. I doubt I would have passed the course if it weren’t for their skill, approachability and dedication to their job. ‘Many thanks to the staff at Vulcan Fire Training, without whose help I would not have been able to complete – let alone pass – the course. It is more appreciated than you could imagine. Thank you.’ Note We have just heard from Craig that he has been awarded GradIFireE from the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE). Get in touch 01925 211488 info@vulcanfiretraining.co.uk www.vulcanfiretraining.co.uk See the advertisement on page 30
>> BUSINESS START-UP
Preparing for business with ICAEW and X-Forces Accounting records to satisfy the tax authorities By Clive Lewis, ICAEW, in conjunction with X-Forces Legally you have to keep accounting records for your business. This is so you can fill in your tax return and show the figures are right. Good records will help you to run your business more efficiently. Here we focus on accounting records needed to satisfy the tax authorities. HMRC checks on tax returns If HMRC has reason to suspect a self-assessment, Corporation Tax return or VAT return is incorrect, it will carry out a ‘compliance check’. After investigation, it may issue an assessment or amend the relevant return to collect any unpaid tax. You can ask for a review of, or appeal against, most of HMRC’s decisions, or ask for your appeal to be heard by an independent tribunal. HMRC also carries out checks on how businesses keep their records. Initially, an HMRC representative might telephone you and ask questions to help establish whether you are keeping the business records you need to meet your legal responsibilities. They may arrange a suitable date and time for a visit to your premises. The consequence of a compliance check or ‘a business records check’ may be the business having to pay additional tax as well as facing penalties. For more information, see www.hmrc.gov.uk/recordkeeping/index.htm Records for Value Added Tax (VAT) Every business registered for VAT is required to maintain financial records that comply with the guidelines provided by HMRC. For more information, see www.hmrc.gov.uk/vat/ index.htm Records for employers HMRC requires every business that employs staff to keep proper records for Pay As You Earn (PAYE) and for the calculation of tax liabilities. With the introduction of Real Time Information (RTI), employers must advise HMRC of their payroll at the same time as making payment to employees. For more information, see www.hmrc.gov.uk/paye Limited company accounts It is a requirement of the Companies Act that every company should keep proper accounting records of money received and paid, of all sales and purchases, and of assets and liabilities. For more information, see www.gov.uk/running-alimited-company/company-and-accounting-records Ready to go? Register for X-Forces’ start-up and business planning support today at www.x-forces.com Help for businesses can be obtained from ICAEW’s Business Advice Service, in the form of a free, straightforward discussion with an ICAEW Chartered Accountant. Find out more at www.businessadviceservice.com
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THE HUB
I DID IT!
Trade Skills 4U benefits from ethical investment fund
Name: Christian Woodfield Age: 29 Enlisted: 2005 Years served to date: 12 Current rank: Cpl Service branch: RAF Specialisation/trade: Mover
Please tell us which military qualifications you have obtained so far during your Service career? Defence Instructor, Junior Leadership Management, Dangerous Goods And Explosive Movements qualification. … and which civilian qualifications? English and Maths GCSEs, English AS level B, High Ropes Instructor, First Aid at Work and Lifeguard. When and why did you register for ELC? February 2017. I saw ELC advertised in the education centre. I wanted to start a logistics management degree and needed a leadership management qualification before I could apply. What qualification have you received as a result of using your ELC? Coaching Mentor and Leadership Management level 5. Who was the training provider? Andy Greene at Inspired2Be. Tell us about the course. It is three weeks’ intensive insight into the learning and skill-sets required to be a coaching mentor, while also learning the difference between leaders and managers. It showed me new skills I wouldn’t have learned from military courses. It was very professional and very well taught. The study was a mixture of classroom-based and open learning to complete the courses set. The studying was manageable thanks to the highquality teaching I received. Classes had follow-up study sessions the next morning to check our understanding. The course has built on my earlier qualifications – and has improved my overall confidence. I would like to carry on my teaching as a coaching mentor so will look to take this further. The course covers a broad spectrum and Andy is a great teacher who could be invaluable to teaching all ranks of the RAF on how to mentor and manage better. Before you started, what did you hope the course would give you? An overall knowledge, and different views on how to help my work and my mentoring grow. As for my military career, that it would help me grow as a leader and to develop future airmen. These hopes have now become fact! The course will also open doors to management positions, so I can succeed once I leave the Forces. It will help me use my skills and new confidence to take chances I wouldn’t have taken before.
Trade Skills 4U, the UK’s number-one electrical training company, has announced that it has won investment from a fund set up specifically to target companies that can make a positive social and environmental impact. Palatine Private Equity set up the impact fund as a vehicle to assist the growth of companies that can make a positive difference while providing return on their investment. Palatine Private Equity was attracted to Trade Skills 4U due to the latter’s involvement in helping people retrain or upskill in the growing electrical and renewable energy industries. The investment further highlights Trade Skills 4U’s commitment to providing first-class training in the electrical sector for both experienced and new electricians. Customers are assured that they will continue to see the same high standards of service delivered by the existing management team. However, the investment from Palatine’s impact fund will enable Trade Skills 4U to further improve its offering in particular by opening further centres across the UK. Carl Bennett, Executive Chairman of Trade Skills 4U, says: ‘Trade Skills 4U provides exceptional training for adults who are looking to develop their skills in an environment tailored to their needs. The business has grown recently with the opening of a new centre in Warrington in 2016, and with Palatine’s support we are looking forward to increasing our presence across the country as well as our social impact. Palatine has an exceptional track record of supporting companies like Trade Skills 4U with their expansion plans. We have found a unique partner in Palatine given its reputation for responsible investing. It has demonstrated that it shares our passion and values, which support our distinctive proposition in the electrical training sector, and is fully aligned with us in delivering a positive social impact and supporting our continued growth.’ Beth Houghton, Head of Impact Fund at Palatine Private Equity, adds: ‘We are delighted to support the management team of Trade Skills 4U with their exciting and impactful expansion plans, and look forward to working with them to build on their success to date and explore a number of growth opportunities.’ For more information about the training opportunities offered by Trade Skills 4U, please visit www.tradeskills4u.co.uk Alternatively, if you would like to speak to our experienced course advisers please call 01293 529777 or 0800 856448. See the advertisement on page 13
>> HOUSING
What advice do you have for others registering for or using ELC? If you have a course you want to do, and believe it will better you in all aspects of life, don’t wait to leave – do the course and realise your potential! To find out more, visit inspired2be.com
A helping hand to get on the housing ladder When leaving the military, finding a home of your own can seem daunting, especially if you are leaving Service accommodation. The government’s Forces Help to Buy scheme has offered significant help to Services personnel wanting to become homeowners, with more than 23,000 applications made to date, and the scheme has now been extended to April 2018. To qualify, you must have more than six months left to serve when you apply. Putting down roots in the local community can help families to settle in to civilian life, and there are a variety of other schemes out there – both government and private sector – to enable you to buy your own home. In addition to Forces Help to Buy, many house builders offer
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their own support to make the process of buying a home both easier and more affordable. In consultation with the MoD, Bovis Homes – an Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award holder – has developed a unique discount scheme to support Forces personnel. It reduces the upfront costs of purchasing a new property with a discount of £500 for every £25,000 spent on any new Bovis Home, free curtains and carpets, £500 towards legal fees, plus other benefits. Bovis Homes’ south-west region is also offering the chance to secure one of its homes for a reservation fee of just £99, which is ideal if you are based in the area and want to remain local.
This Bovis Homes discount is available at locations across the country and, when used in conjunction with the government’s Help to Buy Equity Loan and Forces Help to Buy scheme, is known as ‘Trinity’. It is how Devon-based Naval officer, Craig Lawrence (pictured), recently became a homeowner. He says: ‘I’ve already recommended the Trinity scheme to many of my friends in the Forces. It’s easy to understand, reduces hassle and makes buying a home that bit more affordable.’ To find out more, visit Bovis Homes’ website at www.bovishomes.co.uk and read more about the scheme at www.trinitysw.co.uk
Want to keep flying? Here’s how … If you are considering continuing to fly upon leaving the Armed Forces, equip yourself with the knowledge of what you’ll need to fly in the civilian world. First of all you’ll need a civilian licence – CPL or ATPL (you’ll need to check if you satisfy the prerequisites in either case). Depending on your aspirations, there will probably be specific further requirements – for example, if wanting the ability to fly IFR you will need to convert your military IR to a civilian qualification, and you’ll need a certain number of hours in order to fly HEMS or police aircraft. It pays to prepare yourself well in advance of your military leaving date. At Babcock, formerly Bond, we maintain a full working knowledge of all regulatory changes as and when they are introduced. We operate an ATO (flying school) but we are also at the forefront of the HEMS, police and offshore sectors. This is an ever-changing environment; as part of the training solution we want to be instrumental in preparing you for training, as well as guiding you through whichever course you undertake in preparation for your future flying career. Scott Armstrong served in the Royal Navy from 1991–2017. After 26 years of flying in almost every environment possible, he was looking to continue a challenging and rewarding aviation career in the commercial sector. Scott says: ‘I chose Babcock to conduct my (self-funded) training – first, as they are a recognised and experienced training organisation, but also because they are familiar with the requirements of Service leavers. They produced a training programme specifically tailored to my experience. This was right for me both financially and in terms of managing my expectations. ‘The reception I received from the training team and the company as a whole was very similar to that of any military unit: pragmatic, efficient and keen to deliver what the customer wanted. During my training I was interviewed for and accepted a position as a touring pilot with Babcock. I am now part of a team that includes operations staff, logisticians, paramedics, doctors and engineers, all with a common aim: to provide a service that is second to none and leads the ways in the HEMS and air ambulance industry.’ Get in touch +44 1452 856007 or +44 1452 716348
I DID IT!
‘Having served with Army Air Corps for 11 years, I was looking to start a new career in something hands-on that allowed me to be my own boss. After a bit of investigation into courses and possible career options, becoming a locksmith really appealed to me. ‘I spoke to many locksmith training providers, whose details I found on the internet and one of the companies that really stood out was Keytek. From the outset the staff on the telephone were friendly, polite and extremely helpful, and adopted a non-pressured and informative approach, which really helped and put me at ease. I was able to speak to their support staff and trainers directly before the course, and they ran me through exactly what would be covered and what I could realistically expect from being a locksmith. ‘I was also able to speak to the Keytek recruitment team, who gave me an idea of the amount of work I could expect on completion of the course, and the in-house marketing team were honest with me about start-up costs and answered the many questions I threw at them! It was for these reasons that I decided to train with Keytek – it they stood out to me as being genuinely the most professional of the many companies I had spoken to. ‘The guys in the office were very knowledgeable and I was able to speak to them about how to use my ELC towards paying for the course. They have obviously advised plenty of other candidates, and their knowledge on the ELCAS system was invaluable and helped me to understand the whole booking process. ‘Keytek was able to offer me a variety of courses and, after some deliberation and research, I decided to attend its eight-day level 4 NCFE-accredited course, which included five days within its purposebuilt training facility and three days “on the road” completing work with one of the instructors. ‘One of my concerns was not only the amount of work I could expect but also the ongoing support I might require … I’m now out on the road completing work on a subcontractor basis and, although daunting at first, I soon settled in to my new career. The ongoing support I receive from Keytek has been second to none. There is a 24hour technical support line (believe me, I’ve tested that it is 24 hours!) and a dedicated engineer support team at head office who assist me with any other issues I may have. Moving into the locksmith industry was the best decision I’ve ever made and, if you are considering it as an option too, I would wholeheartedly recommend one of the Keytek courses.’
Elly.Clark@babcockinternational.com www.babcockinternational.com
01202 711195 academy@keytek.co.uk
See the advertisement on page 13
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RAF and Army dominate OA Inter-Services Triathlon OA Inter-Services Triathlon 2017
Teams from the Army, Navy and RAF recently competed in the annual OA Inter-Services Triathlon at Cotswold Water Park. The RAF won both the men’s and women’s individual races, while the Army dominated the team categories. The event, sponsored by the Officers’ Association (OA), was organised this year by the RAF Triathlon Association. Competitors swam through 1.5 km of open water, cycled 41 km of tricky terrain and finished the course with a 10 km run. The rain added an extra challenge, making both road and track slippery.
Senior Aircraftman Luke Pollard completed the race in 1 hour, 54 minutes and 40 seconds, while Flight Lieutenant Lucy Nell finished in 2 hours, 11 minutes and 44 seconds. Remarkably, this is the third time that each of them has won the OA Inter-Services Triathlon. The Army won all three team awards: veteran male, open male and open female. In addition, the Army won both veteran individual awards. The fastest male and female veterans were Warrant Officer Class 2 Philip Westoby and Major Karen Peek. Lieutenant Henry ‘Harry’ Eaton, from the Army, and Lucy Nell won the fastest male and female officer awards. For the full results, visit dbmaxresults.co.uk and, for more images and reactions from the teams, visit the OA Instagram and Twitter accounts: officersassociation @OfficersAssoc
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
51
Q
YOUR RESETTLEMENT SUCCESS STORY FACTFILE
A walk on the
Wild side I
t feels like a long way from war-torn Afghanistan to the
Former frontline medic, Francesca Burrows, served in the Army for 12 years and was awarded the DZ Award for Bravery* during her tour of Afghanistan. She left the Services in 2016 and has found a way of transferring her unique experiences to a new role delivering first aid and leadership training programmes with Call of the Wild, one of the UK’s most innovative training companies …
rugged landscape of South Wales, but in many ways the transition has felt fairly seamless.
In Afghanistan, I was responsible for teaching all new
soldiers entering the country – there were more than 200 new soldiers per day, so it was a big task! I also became the first-response medic, charged with organising the medical training of 350 soldiers. In 2015, I was promoted to senior manager, responsible for the medical service and support of 550 infantry soldiers. I’m really proud of my Army career and the skills and mind-set it gave me.
Preparing for the future I gained a string of qualifications during my 12 years’ service – these ranged from medical and military qualifications to things such as Mountain Leadership. I think many of these qualifications helped me to work out what I wanted to do on the outside.
* Francesca was awarded the DZ Award for Bravery after the military vehicle she was travelling in with colleagues was blown up. Ignoring her own injuries, she treated those around her in a more critical condition. The DZ Award for Bravery is given in memory of Ella Dlugosz (known as DZ), who was killed in Iraq in 2007. She was one of the British Army’s youngest female soldiers to die on active duty.
52
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
ABOUT CALL OF THE WILD Call of the Wild has been delivering Although I loved what I did, my
I joined Call of the Wild a few months
personal, team and leadership
priorities had changed over time. I wanted
ago. I was attracted to them because of
development programmes for its
to be closer to home and family – and to
their values and standards. After being in
clients for 19 years. It has its own
start to build my own family, too.
the military for 12 years you get very used
73-acre training centre in the Brecon
to a family feel and this company gave me
Beacons National Park and travels all
that.
over the UK delivering programmes
Now, instead of battling the Taliban, I am helping to deliver training courses for a range of companies and organisations
Their support and professionalism
to clients, with the aim of creating
from all industry sectors. The role is
shone through and it’s something I
positive, measurable, transferable
different, but my Army career prepared
wanted to align myself to. I am really
and lasting behavioural change for its
me for setting goals and taking the
looking forward to the challenge ahead,
clients.
necessary steps to achieve them.
developing the first aid offer and working
Finding a suitable role
on leadership programmes.
Call of the Wild’s philosophy is based on experiential learning
Call of the Wild owns a 73-acre
– believing that the most powerful
I wanted to find a position within a
training centre on the hills above the
and lasting learning comes from an
company that had a similar sense of
village of Abercrave in the Brecon
individual’s experience of the world
camaraderie to my Army position. My
Beacons National Park. I have joined a
and their subsequent reflection on
first job in civvy street was as a first aid
team of 50 staff, 25 of whom are full-time.
that experience. Learning by doing,
trainer – I went to apply for a course using
My role here focuses on business
my Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC), and
development. I contact previous and
they recognised my qualifications and
existing clients, and answer any queries or
invited me to an interview.
source new enquiries. I am also involved
WE ALL HAVE QUALIFICATIONS AND LIFE EXPERIENCE THAT WORKPLACES LOVE AND WANT
not just listening. www.callofthewild.co.uk
with site visits and meetings, where we
fair, and they want to make a positive
assess how we can add the most value
impact to society. Their ethos is very
to a business or organisation. I also book
similar to a military ethos, and very
people on to first aid and health and
family orientated. They work to better
safety courses.
one another, and are always looking to
I love my job! I love that the team
improve, grow and help more people …
and company have good values and
and that’s exactly the type of company I
standards – they are professional and
wanted to work for.
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
53
Q
COURSE YOUR FACTFILE RESETTLEMENT CHOICES SUCCESS STORY
Planning for civvy street
something that is drilled into you in the
feeling not reporting back to someone on
I’m really glad that I registered for
Army, where you have a strong sense of
what you’ve done that day.
Enhanced Learning Credits. I chose to do
team: you don’t finish until the last man
a higher-education qualification to better
has finished, and that outlook is invaluable
Advice for others
my chances of employment in civvy street.
in any workplace.
I think my main advice would be don’t
I think it’s really important to register for
Resettlement
there, but they think it’s a long-winded
Doing a one-week resettlement course
a job – we all have qualifications and life
process to use the grant. However, it’s
really benefited me. I think it helped
experience that workplaces love and want.
actually very simple to do and I highly
me mentally more than anything. It’s a
recommend everyone uses what they are
big adjustment period and the course
because they are so useful, and make
entitled to – you can never learn too much!
helps you to realise what’s going on in
sure you take up all the grants that you’re
the outside world and how you can best
eligible for.
I THINK IT’S REALLY IMPORTANT TO REGISTER FOR ELC Through ELC I did a CAVA Assessor Awards/Certificate Qualifications course, which was really helpful to have on my CV.
prepare for it.
think it is. Don’t worry about not getting
Attend all the mandatory courses
I think it’s important to take the time
The course also helps you to realise
to get yourself mentally ready, too; speak
the qualifications you have and actually
to people who have just gone through the
how much of an asset you would be to a
transition, not those who have been out for
workplace. It boosts your confidence and
years. If you speak to the people who have
gets you mentally prepared for big change.
left most recently, they can tell you exactly
I have found that my personality,
what it’s like. And stay connected with those that are
I had heard from previous Service leavers
and the skills and drills I learned in the
that it’s a good qualification to have,
military actually fit into civilian life well, so
still serving when you leave. It helps with
and hoped that the course would give
I haven’t had to change much. I think the
the transition – don’t totally cut yourself
me a different experience of education
biggest and most difficult change has been
off from the Services.
and teaching styles. In the military, you
getting used to not being given orders.
get used to teaching in the same style,
Daily and weekly you are told what to do
sure you get into a routine as soon as you
whereas this course teaches you to be a
in the military, but in my new job role the
can and just enjoy the new chapter! Q
more versatile teacher, which is definitely
company very much trust me and let me
needed in the civilian workplace.
get on with things, and are there
Transferable skills I think the single most important skill that I’ve transferred from my military background is discipline – it’s about turning up on time and doing what you said you would. And accountability – if I’ve said I’ll do something I will do it. There are lots of other things too – like always being smart and well presented, and having a robust mentality, which is something that has helped me to teach to all sorts of students. Enthusiasm and motivation to get a job done, no matter what, is another key transferable skill. And that get-up-and-go mentality, no matter what the hour or what is needed, you get it done – that is a very powerful life skill. And, of course, there’s teamwork – the value of helping others even if you have things to do yourself is
54
worry! Civvy street is not as bad as we
ELC. A lot of people know that they are
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
to support and guide me. It’s a very strange
It’s not an easy transition, but make
Readers mustWhen consult their Single Service Advisors BEFORE committing to courses responding to advertisements please mention Quest When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
WANT TO WIN ÂŁ250?
Tell us your story. Feature in QUEST and be in with a chance of winning our quarterly cash prize! Here at QUEST we’re always keen to hear from our readers. Whether you’re still serving and have already amassed an impressive array of A qualifications career in law (and are perhaps still working e negotiated the without a law degree on others), or you’ve already resettlement process and are well into your new Make a successful uccessful tr transition ansition life – and work – in civvy street, why not be an ond career b y stud ying into a second by studying inspiration to other QUEST readers and let us SLNHS X\HSPÄJH[PVU I` MVY H WHYHSLNHS X\HSPÄJH[PVU I` experiences? know about yourdistance earning Your own personal learning learning or resettlementvider story could feature in a no. 1105 future edition, helping others seehool.ac.uk just where cilexlawsc and their box. them. Contact S in the search own skills and qualifications could take
And that’s not all – aside from the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping and inspiring those who are following in your footsteps, you could also get your hands on our quarterly £250 prize! Every three months we’ll select one reader’s success story as our lucky winner. So, help others and potentially help yourself! What are you waiting for? Visit www.questonline.co.uk where you can find out more and download a copy of the QUEST QUESTIONNAIRE. We look forward to hearing from you ‌
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March 2015 / www.questonline.co.uk
13
55
Q
YOUR RESETTLEMENT TRANSITION SUPPORT FACTFILE
‘The wind beneath my wings’
With the support of Stoll, RAF Veteran Brian is taking to the skies as he completes training with a leading UK airline to become a flight attendant …
B
‘For the next three years I was
given his own flat at the Stoll Mansions
personnel administrator in 1986.
homeless, either sleeping on a friend’s
in Fulham. ‘It was exhilarating; I’d been
He served for six years, during
sofa or having to face the streets. For a
given a lifeline. Moving into Stoll was the
which time he was based at RAF Wyton,
while I was at a shelter, which was just
beginning of me being able to turn my life
RAF Gatow in Berlin and finally at Biggin
awful. I was in a temporary room with no
Hill, as well as a four-month tour to RAF
windows, just a tiny skylight.
After a year of settling in
Mount Pleasant in the Falklands. He says:
I had no idea what to do.’
at Stoll, Brian applied to
‘I had left school and saw an opportunity
Unfortunately, as Brian
to sign up to the RAF at the careers
had no dependants he
office. I went for it and didn’t look back.’
was at the bottom of
After his time in the Forces, Brian
the priority list to be
rian joined the RAF as a
had an opportunity to train to become
found local authority
a croupier. This took him to London,
accommodation. He was
Dublin, round the Caribbean and to
desperately trying to
the Judean desert. Brian loved the job
find accommodation, but
and continued to succeed. However
he didn’t know where to go or
after 25 years of being a croupier, the
who to ask.
London casino he was working in at the
56
around.’
an airline to train as a
Stoll provides safe and secure housing that allows Veterans to live comfortably and independently
After three years, Brian by chance saw
flight attendant. He had always wanted to do it and saw it as his chance to start afresh. There were 20,000 applicants trying to secure a place on the training scheme but
Brian successfully got through on his second time round and is now a fully fledged air steward.
time was suddenly closed down. Once
something about The Royal British Legion
Although the six-week programme
his redundancy money ran out he was
on television and got in touch with them.
was incredibly intense, Brian thoroughly
evicted from his home with nowhere to
Immediately he was put in contact with
enjoyed it. Speaking of his experience, he
go.
Stoll and, within a few months, had been
says: ‘This is a career I’ve always wanted
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
Quest March 2015 Final_2015 06/03/2015 13:16 Page 15 March 2015 Final_2015 06/03/2015 13:16 Page 15 Quest
to have. It’s people focused, I can travel and I’m so excited to get stuck in to the role. We’ve covered everything from customer service to emergency landings on the water – I’ve got an entirely new skill set.’ Stoll supported Brian throughout his application by funding travel to and
100% Guaranteed Work Placements
from his course and buying him
Stoll offers a unique combination of housing, health and well-being support to vulnerable and disabled ex-Service men and women
a computer with up-to-date software for his study. Brian says: ‘Stoll’s Employment Advisor has had a huge input while I’ve been training – my computer is a godsend, and means I can learn in my own
time and space, rather than using a public computer. ‘I’ve really taken to my job in the skies and there’s no need for me to be nervous, I feel a million dollars. I’m so proud of what I’ve achieved. Suddenly I’m flying all over the world, I’ve got a purpose and a wonderful flat to come back to. It’s amazing. I would say to anyone who finds themselves in my situation after leaving the Forces, to not give up. You can do anything you set your mind to – but you don’t have to do it alone. There is so much help and guidance to get you to where you need to be.’
Stoll is the leading provider of supported housing for Veterans. Most people who leave the Armed Forces transition effectively back into civilian life. But not everyone does. Stoll supports the most vulnerable Service Leavers by providing people with an affordable home to rent and the support they need to lead independent lives. The charity, Walking With The Wounded, provides Stoll with an Employment Advisor to support Veterans to get a job or training.
Find out more Stoll’s outreach team provides advice and support to Service
Q
leavers and Veterans on a wide range of issues, from housing to work and benefits to access to expert healthcare. Q
KEY CONTACT
Stoll 446 Fulham Road London SW6 1DT 020 7385 2110 outreach@stoll.org.uk www.stoll.org.uk
Drop-in Stoll’s drop-in runs every second Wednesday of the month at its Fulham site (see above), in the Community Hall
Brookhouse Training Centre is the Uk’s Number One gas, plumbing and electrical training and assessment specialist. We offer full and part time training courses with Level 3 Qualifications. So, if your next move is a career in gas engineering or domestic electrical contracting, you need to speak to us first. Call today for an informal chat or to arrange a visit to one of our open mornings
0844 415 2700
Go to www.brookhousetraining.com/MOD
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
57
Q
YOUR RESETTLEMENT CIVVY SAVVY
RYAN MANSFIELD
L
eaving any job can
Stick at it!
be demanding on the
school, and I’m aware that this
emotions. We may
may even be the first job chat
have a blurry misconception
you have ever prepared for.
of our own self-importance
I’m also sure that everyone
and interrogate ourselves with
you know is eager to chuck in
questions like, ‘How will they
their two-penn’orth and advise
cope without me?’ or ‘Am I
you on what you should say
letting them down?’ This is
and do, making it all seem very
normal and far more common
confusing. Well it’s not. The key advice to
than you might think – and won’t be helped by the reality
remember from this, if
that you perhaps no longer
nothing else, is that times
view some of the people you
have changed, and pretty
work alongside as colleagues,
much everything I say from
but as friends. Nevertheless,
here on out fits comfortably
the fact that you have QUEST
within that statement. You
in your hands is more than
need to try to portray who
enough evidence that the time
you are as much as possible.
is right and you’ve moved on,
The older generation will tell
or know that it’s just a matter
you to cover your tattoos and shave your stubble off; your
of time until you do. Indisputably the biggest nuisance in this situation is the pursuit of a new job. No question. Finding and applying for jobs that tick a satisfactory amount of boxes on your fantasy wish list, only to never hear back from most of them
‘Searching for a job is very much like trying to hit a piñata,’ says QUEST’s regular civvy contributor Ryan Mansfield. ‘You’re blindfolded and you have no idea what will happen each time you take a swipe … but you do know that the law of averages says you’ll crack it in the end …
mum will tell you to be the ‘sharpest dressed there’; your mates will give you a load of tosh suggestions they’ll claim they’ve used in the past, when really it’s just the Carlsberg talking. Now I’m not saying you should have a total disregard
or discover that the position
for job chat etiquette, but
is already taken. My advice: apply for plenty and see what
to focus our attention in this
to and see if you can make
happens.
feature: the interview. Having
it work between you. It’s all
doing what everybody says
said that, I really dislike the
a matter of mind-set – and
you should do, and what is
comparatively small
word ‘interview’. It seems far
keeping a lid on your nerves
actually best for you. For
percentage that expressed an
too serious and it puts me on
and demons is the best way to
example, I once went to what
interest in you will be in touch,
edge just to say it. So let’s
get ahead of the rest.
turned out to be a successful
and that’s where we’re going
refer to them as ‘job chats’
I have always been quite
from now on. I suggest this
lucky and seem to land jobs
wore the same outfit that
because it’s amazing how
rather than actually having
night for a party with friends.
an interview has the bizarre
to look for them. However,
If you don’t own a suit or
ability to make us very tense
having sat on both sides of the
feel uncomfortable in certain
and disrupt every butterfly in
interview desk, I know not only
type of clothing, then don’t
our belly. Why is that? We’re
how difficult it can be, but also
wear it! There are plenty of
going to sit down, have a ‘chat’
what companies tend to look
smart alternatives. The same
with a representative of the
for – and I’d like to share this
goes for the rest of your
organisation you’ve applied
with you. You may have been
appearance. The taboo that
From there, the
KEEPING A LID ON YOUR NERVES AND DEMONS IS THE BEST WAY TO GET AHEAD OF THE REST
58
in the Forces since you left
September 2017 l questonline.co.uk
there is a fine line between
job interview on a Friday, and
YOU NEED TO TRY TO PORTRAY WHO YOU ARE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE
stuff … You get the gist. These
and intimidating interviewer,
who can’t wait to dart out and
people may interview eight or
take the advice of a young
breathe a big sigh of relief.
more candidates a day, and if
builder I once worked with: try
It demonstrates confidence,
you regurgitate the same as
to imagine them sitting on the
calmness and composure.
the robots before and after
toilet. Maybe it works? He did
Three qualities they are sure to
you, chances are – unless
get the job after all …
be looking for.
you’re particularly attractive –
You always want to stand
So can you recall the one
was once beards and tattoos
you’ll just blend in with all the
out. Even if it’s for something a
key statement? Times have
in the interview world is no
others and be forgotten about
little unorthodox, you want to
changed. You don’t have to
more, and as long as you look
come 5 pm.
be remembered for something.
conceal that little tattoo on
If there’s one thing that baffles
your foot, wear your dad’s
respectable, and your granny
So it’s essential we don’t
isn’t heading the interview
let our anxieties overpower
me in job chats more than
old-fashioned ‘interview suit’
panel, it shouldn’t hinder your
the reality of the situation
anything, it’s those people who
or treat the whole experience
chances.
and do whatever necessary to
respond with an immediate
like you’re being interrogated
steady our excessive worries.
‘No’ when asked if they have
at the end of a flashlight beam.
Mark Pilbeam, a lecturer in law,
When trying to land a new job,
any questions. No? You’ve had
If anything, they should be
once gave me one of those
we sometimes overlook the
several days to prepare for this
grateful that you are sitting in
obvious but invaluable pieces
fact that the panel are human
interview and you don’t have
front of them, wanting to work
of advice we don’t always
beings too, and just want to
one question to fire back at
for them. And, most important
think of it when it comes to
go home and sit with their
them after they’ve just grilled
of all, remember that they
job chats. He told me to avoid
families – just like the rest of
you for everything you’ve
want you to impress them and
what he called ‘conveyor belt
us. So try your best to brighten
got? This is your big chance
not mess it up. After all, what
responses’: loosely translated,
up ‘interview day’, because
to not only show you have an
company or organisation wants
don’t bother with all the ‘I
it’s not much fun for them
interest in the workplace you’re
to hire mediocre staff? Do what
work well as part of a team; I
either. Failing that, and if you
trying to join, but also that you
you have to in order to stand
A former colleague of mine,
est March 2016 Final_2016 07/03/2016 09:31 Page 44
aren’t big panicking mess a particularly imposing am honest andconsult hard working’ Readers must their Single have Service Advisors BEFORE committing toacourses When responding to advertisements please mention Quest
out. Good luck! Q
Do Something Different- Be Something More
Close Protection Course Includes Hostile Environment Preparation and a SIA compliant
Level 3 Certificate - Working as a CP Operative within the Private Security Industrry & FPOS Intermediate
Remote Medicall Te ech hnician Course Includes the QualSafe Awards First Response Emergency Care Level 3, 4 and 5
Can you honestly y call yourrself s a "Body" "Guard" until you are both tactically and medically competentt to save a Client's Life?
www.ronin.co.za Ronin
TM
is trademarked within the UK K & EU and can only legally be used by Ronin South Africa
questonline.co.uk l September 2017
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Q Courses and events YOUR RESETTLEMENT COURSES AND EVENTS FACTFILE
This guide includes the courses currently scheduled to run from October to November 2017 Additional courses may be scheduled by each Resettlement Centre according to demand. A list of all scheduled courses is available from your nearest Resettlement Centre. All the dates given should be confirmed with the relevant Resettlement Centres. Dates are correct at time of going to press.
To book onto any CTP courses, workshops or events, please call the central bookings team on 0203 162 4410 Visit www.ctp.org.uk for further details
RC Aldergrove
RRC Catterick rrccatterick@ctp.org.uk
rrccottesmore@ctp.org.uk
resettlementinfo@ctp.org.uk
START DATE END DATE
START DATE END DATE
START DATE END DATE
START DATE END DATE
CTW Mixed Class
CTW Junior Ranks
CTW Junior Ranks
CTW Senior Officer
10 October 2017
10 October 2017
12 October 2017
02 October 2017
04 October 2017
10 October 2017
13 November 2017 15 November 2017
30 October 2017
01 November 2017
30 October 2017
01 November 2017
07 November 2017 09 November 2017
13 November 2017
15 November 2017
Employment Support Programme Wksp
27 November 2017
29 November 2017
rcaldergrove@ctp.org.uk
12 October 2017
RRC Cottesmore Central London
12 October 2017
09 October 2017
11 October 2017
Interview Techniques (Snr Officer)
CTW Mixed Class
CTW Mixed Class
10 October 2017
12 October 2017
19 October 2017
16 November 2017 16 November 2017
21 November 2017
16 October 2017
18 October 2017
20 November 2017 20 November 2017
(Course location Preston)
17 October 2017
19 October 2017
FAR All Ranks
23 October 2017
25 October 2017
RC Northolt
CTW Officer/SNCO
13 November 2017
15 November 2017
02 October 2017
04 October 2017
20 November 2017 22 November 2017
16 October 2017
18 October 2017
21 November 2017
17 October 2017
04 October 2017
17 October 2017
04 October 2017
RRC Aldershot
23 November 2017
23 November 2017
19 October 2017
rcnortholt@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE
rrcaldershot@ctp.org.uk
07 November 2017 09 November 2017
CTW Mixed Class
START DATE END DATE
Employment Support Programme Wksp
CTW Officer/SNCO
16 October 2017
18 October 2017
03 October 2017
05 October 2017
23 October 2017
25 October 2017
CTW Junior Ranks
12 October 2017
31 October 2017
02 November 2017
06 November 2017 08 November 2017
10 October 2017
16 November 2017 16 November 2017
14 November 2017
16 November 2017
20 November 2017 22 November 2017
12 October 2017
12 October 2017
07 November 2017 09 November 2017
Housing
CTW Mixed Class
08 November 2017 08 November 2017
CTW Officer 14 November 2017 16 November 2017
03 October 2017
05 October 2017
31 October 2017
02 November 2017
Employment Support Programme Wksp
02 October 2017
04 October 2017
30 October 2017
01 November 2017
09 October 2017
Self Employment Awareness
13 November 2017 13 November 2017
19 October 2017
19 October 2017
06 November 2017 06 November 2017
Housing
RRC Colchester
25 October 2017
rrcnortholt@ctp.org.uk
CTW SNCO
09 October 2017
20 November 2017 22 November 2017 (Course location Brize Norton)
27 November 2017 29 November 2017
25 October 2017
Self Employment Awareness 05 October 2017
05 October 2017
START DATE END DATE
29 November 2017 29 November 2017
Employment Support Programme Wksp
CTW Mixed Class 09 October 2017
11 October 2017
RC Germany
06 November 2017 06 November 2017
16 October 2017
18 October 2017
06 November 2017 08 November 2017
Housing
20 November 2017 22 November 2017
01 November 2017
01 November 2017
12 October 2017
21 November 2017 23 November 2017
16 November 2017 17 November 2017
Housing 15 November 2017
07 November 2017 09 November 2017
CTW Officer/SNCO
11 October 2017
24 October 2017 15 November 2017
26 October 2017
28 November 2017 30 November 2017
Self Employment Awareness 10 October 2017
10 October 2017
05 October 2017
Housing 23 November 2017 23 November 2017
Self Employment Awareness
RC Plymouth
CTW Junior Ranks
Self Employment Awareness
05 October 2017
START DATE END DATE
22 November 2017 22 November 2017
11 October 2017
Employment Support Programme Workshop
03 October 2017
10 October 2017 12 October 2017
13 October 2017
27 November 2017 29 November 2017
rcgermany@ctp.org.uk
Employment Support Programme Wksp
(Course location Brize Norton)
CTW Officer
Employment Support Programme Wksp 23 October 2017
23 October 2017
27 November 2017 27 November 2017
03 October 2017
30 November 2017 30 November 2017
rcplymouth@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks 09 October 2017
11 October 2017
13 November 2017 15 November 2017
CTW Mixed Class 02 October 2017
04 October 2017
23 October 2017
25 October 2017
06 November 2017 08 November 2017 14 November 2017 16 November 2017 (Course location Culdrose) 27 November 2017 29 November 2017
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CTW Officer/SNCO
CTW SNCO
CTW Officer/SNCO
CTW Officer/SNCO
16 October 2017
09 October 2017
11 October 2017
02 October 2017
24 October 2017
20 November 2017 22 November 2017
13 November 2017
15 November 2017
28 November 2017 30 November 2017
Employment Support Programme Wksp
Employment Support Programme Wksp
Employment Support Programme Wksp
12 October 2017
12 October 2017
03 October 2017
05 October 2017
09 November 2017 09 November 2017
26 October 2017
16 November 2017
16 November 2017
17 October 2017
19 October 2017
30 November 2017 30 November 2017
Housing
Self Employment Awareness
21 November 2017
Self Employment Awareness
07 November 2017 07 November 2017
24 October 2017
Self Employment Awareness
09 November 2017 09 November 2017
Employment Support Programme Wksp
26 October 2017
RRC Tidworth
RRC Rosyth
18 October 2017
18 October 2017
18 October 2017
26 October 2017
28 November 2017 28 November 2017
RC Portsmouth rcportsmouth@ctp.org.uk START DATE END DATE CTW Junior Ranks 02 October 2017
04 October 2017
06 November 2017 08 November 2017
CTW Mixed Class 16 October 2017
18 October 2017
20 November 2017 22 November 2017
CTW Officer 23 October 2017
25 October 2017
27 November 2017
29 November 2017
26 October 2017
24 October 2017
04 October 2017
26 October 2017
CTW SNCO
07 November 2017 09 November 2017 23 November 2017
rrctidworth@ctp.org.uk
10 October 2017
10 October 2017
17 October 2017
17 October 2017
START DATE END DATE
24 October 2017
24 October 2017
CTW Junior Ranks
21 November 2017
02 October 2017
04 October 2017
CTW Mixed Class
09 October 2017
11 October 2017
Housing
09 October 2017
16 October 2017
18 October 2017
30 November 2017 30 November 2017
(Course location Kinloss)
30 October 2017
01 November 2017
17 October 2017
rrcrosyth@ctp.org.uk
START DATE END DATE 11 October 2017
07 November 2017 07 November 2017 21 November 2017
06 November 2017 08 November 2017
Self Employment Awareness
(Course location Faslane)
13 November 2017 15 November 2017
23 October 2017
23 October 2017
20 November 2017 22 November 2017
27 November-2017 27 November-2017
19 October 2017 25 October 2017
05 November 2017 07 November 2017
23 October 2017
27 November 2017 29 November 2017
(Course location Lossiemouth) 05 November 2017 07 November 2017
CTW Officer
06 November 2017 08 November 2017
10 October 2017
12 October 2017
14 November 2017 16 November 2017
31 October 2017
02 November 2017
(Course location Faslane)
14 November 2017 16 November 2017
20 November 2017 22 November 2017
(Course location Lossiemouth) 27 November 2017 29 November 2017
Visit www.ctp.org.uk for further details
Solent Gateway Limited is offering a fantastic and unique opportunity for you to transition from the Armed Forces to a civilian career whilst still serving the nation using the extensive skills acquired in the Forces. SGL is a progressive and innovative company and are looking for motivated individuals to become part of a growing team of General Port Terminal Operatives and Supervisors who are also willing and committed to undertake duties of a Sponsored Reservist when required. In return SGL offer long term career development, competitive salary and training to obtain recognised civilian qualiďŹ cations whilst continuing to maintain core skills through Armed Forces annual training. If you would like a new challenge with a company specialising in all aspects of Port Operations then Solent Gateway would welcome hearing from you. For more information please contact: Mrs Debs Jones Email: debs.jones@solentgateway.com Telephone: 02380 664469
solentgateway.com questonline.co.uk l September 2017
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Q
YOUR RESETTLEMENT TRANSITION FACTFILE FACTFILE
Transition factfile:
Preparation for leaving the Forces Advice from the CTP, official provider of career guidance, skills training and job-finding assistance to Service leavers CTP provision is delivered from ten Resettlement Centres in the UK and Germany, and the Resettlement Training Centre (RTC) in Aldershot. The CTP provides a number of workshops, seminars, one-to-one career advice, and a range of in-house resettlement training for entitled Service Leavers from up to two years before discharge. CTP RightJob is the CTP’s online job-finding service, listing thousands of live vacancies for Service Leavers from local, national and international employers.
Contact the CTP on 020 7469 6661 or visit the website at www.ctp.org.uk
A Service leaver’s route map Service leaver completed under 4 years’ Service: CTP Future Horizons – registration upon discharge
Employment Support Programme
>> Prepares PRP with Consultant >> Receives regional employment advice
No Service Leaver completed at least 4 years’ Service: registers with Career Transition Partnership (CTP)
Served more than 6 years – or medical discharge?
Yes
Attends Career Transition Workshop (CTW) or equivalent
Prepare Personal Resettlement Plan (PRP) with Career Consultant
Attends: • further CTP workshops • training at RTC/ Resettlement Centre • civilian training attachment • external training • Financial/Housing briefings
Receives advice on or notification of matched job opportunities
Makes job applications
Secures employment
Career Consultant led Wounded, Injured and Sick Service personnel: CTP Assist – registration upon discharge
ORANGE ELEMENTS ALSO AVAILABLE TO THOSE WITH 4–6 YEARS’ SERVICE
Develops, reviews and actions PRP: • further advice on: • career options • self-employment • job finding
• training • attachments • research activities • civilian work attachments Consultant supports and monitors progress
CTP support for up to 2 years after discharge; OA job finding support until retirement
Resettlement Services
Resettlement Centres
1st LINE The first stage in your resettlement process is with 1st Line, who offer information and administrative support. They are: >> RN – Education & Resettlement Officers (ERO) >> Army – Unit Resettlement Officers (URO) >> RAF – Resettlement & Education Co-ordinators (REC).
Career Transition Workshops (CTW), career counselling and other CTP workshops, briefings and events usually take place at one of the ten Resettlement Centres in the UK and Germany. Further information can be obtained from any of the Resettlement Centres listed below.
2nd LINE The principal task of 2nd Line is to provide advice and guidance on the resettlement package that will best suit the individual Service Leaver. For those entitled to CTP this will normally be a referral to a CTP consultant and/ or enrolment on a CTW, both of which will require the Service Leaver to be registered for CTP services. 2nd Line are: >> RN – Naval Resettlement Information Officers (NRIO), located at Base Learning Centres; for medical discharges the RN has a single 2nd Line point of contact referred to as NRIO (Medical) based in the Institute of Naval Medicine, Gosport >> Army – Individual Education and Resettlement Officers (IERO) and AGC(ETS) Officers are located at Army Education Centres (AEC) and Theatre Education Centres (TEC); AGC(ETS) Officers may deliver 2nd Line resettlement advice when deployed on operations and occasionally when IERO are unavailable >> RAF – Each Regional Resettlement Adviser (RRA) is allocated a group of RAF stations to visit on a regular programmed basis. 3rd LINE Resettlement support at 3rd Line is provided by the CTP as outlined at the top of this page and in more detail on its website at www.ctp.org.uk
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Resettlement Centre Aldergrove Tel: 02894 421639 Regional Resettlement Centre Aldershot Tel: 01252 348336/339 Regional Resettlement Centre Catterick Tel: 01748 872949/2922 Regional Resettlement Centre Cottesmore Tel: 01572 812241 (ext 7716) Resettlement Centre Germany Tel: 0049 5254 982 x 5448 Resettlement Centre Northolt Tel: 020 8842 6063/6064 Resettlement Centre Plymouth Tel: 01752 557635 Resettlement Centre Portsmouth Tel: 02392 724130 Regional Resettlement Centre Rosyth Tel: 01383 858230 Regional Resettlement Centre Tidworth Tel: 01980 650689
For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.ctp.org.uk
Sponsored by
Tel: 01908 587665 www.gastectraining.co.uk
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. 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
Transition services and entitlements
• 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 Credits 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
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Q
YOUR RESETTLEMENT TRANSITION FACTFILE FACTFILE
Resettlement Training
Service Leaver Support Teams (SLSTs)
Training provided by the CTP
Can be found at Army UK divisional and district HQs and at some regional brigades. They provide Service Leavers with information and help on a wide variety of subjects, including employment, housing, schooling, finance and other resettlement issues. They work in close cooperation with other agencies, including the RFEA, single-Service specialists and the CTP.
Skills training takes place at the Resettlement Training Centre (RTC) in Aldershot and at a selection of Resettlement Centres. The RTC has bespoke workshops within its Building and Engineering Departments, and also offers Management and IT courses. Many of those on offer result in civilian-recognised qualifications. To find out more about the wide range of courses available, and to search for dates and locations, visit our website at www.ctp.org.uk For all other enquiries, to check availability, or to make a booking or payment, contact our Course Booking & Information Centre (CBIC): Civilian: Tel: 02894 456 200 Military: Tel: 9491 56 200 Email: coursebookings@ctp.org.uk
Training provided by Preferred Suppliers ThePreferred Suppliers List (PSL) identifies a range of local training providers offering some of the most common vocational training that Service Leavers undertake. In order to qualify for the PSL, the training organisation is obliged to demonstrate financial reliability, appropriate insurance cover, past performance, future plans, training facilities, accreditation levels and quality standards. The PSL is published at www.ctp.org.uk and is also held in each of the Resettlement Centres. Preferred Supplier status is subject to continuous evaluation, on each course by the Service Leaver, by the CTP and by annual review.
Overseas Resettlement Training Resettlement training should, wherever possible, be undertaken either in-house (given the value for money and quality assurance available on those courses) or locally in recognition of the local training first policy. Authorisation for overseas resettlement training can only be made by HQ SDE staff on a case-by-case basis and through the intelligent application of the following conditions. >> The training outcome is not available under the local training first policy, either within the UK for those serving in UK or within their normal theatre of operations for those serving overseas. >> The total costs of the training overseas to the MOD, including eligible subsistence allowances and travel costs, which will be claimed under current regulations, are less than those that would be incurred if undertaking the training in the UK, i.e. the value for money consideration. >> SDE staff have reasonable assurance of the quality of the training and its recognition by UK employers. Any request for overseas training must arrive with SDE HQ staff at least eight weeks in advance of the intended departure date, to enable the necessary political clearances for successful applications to be made.
CTP RightJob CTP RightJob is the CTP’s online job-finding service, listing thousands of live vacancies for Service Leavers from local, national and international employers. The CTP works with hundreds of organisations that recognise the benefits of recruiting from the ex-military talent pool, and value the experience and strong working ethos Service Leavers bring with them. The site is accessed via the CTP website and the login required is issued during CTWs. Call the Central Employment Team for more information, on 0121 236 0058.
Useful CTP Contacts TO BOOK A CTP WORKSHOP OR BRIEFING…
Call 0203 162 4410 For booking your Career Transition Workshop (CTW) or any other workshop or briefing. (This is a not a premium rate number and you should only be charged at the normal national rate, dependent on the phone provider) Alternatively, if you are calling from a military line, contact the Resettlement Centre running the workshop which is normally the Resettlement Centre that you are registered with for your resettlement. Contact details can be found in the list of Resettlement Centres provided earlier in Factfile. CALL OUR COURSE BOOKING & INFORMATION CENTRE (CBIC) Civilian: Tel: 02894 456 200 Military: Tel: 9491 56 200 or Email: coursebookings@ctp.org.uk
FOR RIGHTJOB ASSISTANCE…
CALL OUR CENTRAL EMPLOYMENT TEAM (CET) Tel: 0121 236 0058 If you have forgotten your RightJob password, have been locked out of your account or require support using RightJob.
CTP Employment Events
CTP Future Horizons
Our events can be of great benefit and provide an excellent opportunity to network with potential employers and discuss the job market in general, as well as within specific industry sectors. The main types that we hold are: >> Employment Fairs – attended by a wide range of national and local employers, seeking the skills, quality and experience that Service Leavers have >> Live Online Chat Events – enable Service Leavers to chat one-to-one with employers during dedicated time slots, about their company, current vacancies and any training needs >> Company Presentations – these focus on one particular company, which is normally actively recruiting for a number of vacancies. >> Search for upcoming CTP events on our website at www.ctp.org.uk
CTP Future Horizons understands that leaving the Armed Forces is a key point in the lives of all Service Leavers, and believes that everyone who has served, even for a short period of time, is entitled to support in transitioning from the military into civilian life. The programme will provide support and assistance to enable you to find suitable employment upon leaving the Armed Forces. Through its network of partners, it will link you in to the most appropriate level of support you need to help with the transition. CTP Future Horizons has been developed in response to the recognition and commitment from the MoD to improve resettlement provision to Early Service Leavers (ESLs). It is open to ESLs across all Services, regardless of how long you have served or the reasons you have for leaving. The programme has been designed and is delivered by the RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity. To discuss any aspect of CTP Future Horizons, please call Richard Jones, Programme Manager, on 07428 705 770 or meet with a CTP Future Horizons assessor at the following locations: >> ITC Catterick, Hook Company: 01748 872949/2922 >> ATC Pirbright, Sword Company: 01483 798614 >> Resettlement Centre Plymouth: 01752 557635 Follow Future Horizons on Facebook, and receive the latest news and updates from the programme.
RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity We exist to provide life-long, life-changing support, jobs and training opportunities to Service leavers and veterans, irrespective of circumstances, rank, length of service or reason for leaving. Founded in 1885 and operating across the UK, we have the specialist knowledge and understanding to bridge the gap between military life and civilian employment. We work in partnership with other organisations and employers who, like us, respect and value the unique qualities and abilities of all those who have served. We are the leading provider of job opportunities and employment advice for ex-Forces men and women. We have thousands of job opportunities with employers who value military experience. We advise you on careers suited to you and we know which employers are recruiting in your area. We work with you so that you have a good CV, and support you through the application and interview process. To register with us … Tel: 0121 2360 058 Website: www.rfea.org.uk
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CTP Assist CTP Assist aims to help wounded, injured and sick Service personnel who have the greatest need to find a new, fulfilling career that meets their individual needs, and to assist them in moving on with their lives. The support given will help to pinpoint a rewarding and realistic change of career. Service leavers who are likely to be medically discharged and are ready to engage in resettlement will be referred to the programme by their Chain of Command. To find out more about how CTP Assist can support you, visit www.ctpassist.ctp.org.uk
Sponsored by
Tel: 01908 587665 www.gastectraining.co.uk
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 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
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
For the most up-to-date information, please visit www.ctp.org.uk questonline.co.uk l September 2017
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• Are you a highly motivated, intelligent person with a work ethic and a conscience? • Are you looking for a business that you know has the potential to earn you a large professional income each and every year? • Can you work effectively in a team and as an individual? • Can you absorb new information and are you willing o learn new skills? • Does the thought of working in both Spain and the UK excite you? • Is offering lucrative, below market value Spanish investment property advice to a growing client base something you could do?
Real-Estate International
We are experts in delivering high yield, below market value property investments as both a pensions hedge and as part of a planned investment strategy, to both seasoned professionals and first-time investors alike. However, this takes more than just a little hard work, good will and planning. It is also about caring and going the extra mile for each and every one of your clients. Like any responsible, forward-thinking organisation, we have a training programme and support structure in place to guarantee that you start, grow and succeed in your business. Once you have the necessary skills and knowledge you will be in a position to become successful. You will be responsible for your own exclusive county area, you will be expected to build your business professionally and you will be expected to form lasting, personal relationships with your clientèle. The potential business opportunities are almost limitless, for in addition to our key product areas, we are experts in retirement planning solutions, and are also uniquely positioned to offer accountancy, insurance and mortgage advice through our network of fully regulated partners. If you believe that you have something to offer us, and you know that you are the right fit for this exciting new position, then please join us for a lunch interview at our new Midlands office.
Please contact our recruitment director on 01832 864020 or email info@mondragonint.co.uk https://player.vimeo.com/video/231888081
Real-Estate International
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