Education Apprenticeships and Training

2 SPECIAL REPORT:

EDUCATION, APPRENTICESHIPS & training

a different path Giving students a fresh taste of working life

bridging the gap Developing skills for tomorrow’s world

powerful partners Business and academia prove potent mix

“A new perspective really can change your world.

I started up my own software business while I attended lectures, and gained outside experience during my studies to make my CV stronger.”

Henry Amm, BA Hons Business Management

Newcastle University Business School – connecting talent to the North East economy.

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ncl.ac.uk A New Perspective

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CONTENTS

CONTACTS

04 news

room501 ltd Christopher March Managing Director e: chris@room501.co.uk Bryan Hoare Director e: bryan@room501.co.uk

Latest headlines from the education and training sector

12 OVERVIEW

EditorIAL Peter Jackson e: p.jackson77@btinternet.com Andrew Mernin e: andrewm@room501.co.uk

The challenges facing the region’s workforce and its trainers

14 a different path Giving North East students a fresh taste of working life

18 bridging the gap How Gateshead College is looking to the future with its skills drive

22 spinning at speed Why spin-outs form an important part of the agenda on Teesside

28 powerful partner What can be achieved when academia and business combine

40 leading the way County Durham’s pioneering approach to education and training

48 at their peak The potent force of graduate internships for growing businesses

JOINING FORCES

28 educATioN, APPRENTICESHIPS & Training

SPECIAL REPORT:

education, APPRENTICESHIPS & Training

WELCOME Welcome to this issue of BQ2 in which we shine the spotlight on education and business in the North East. The global economy is now very much a knowledge driven economy in two fundamental senses.

First, in an increasingly technologically sophisticated world, a successful and productive workforce not only needs to be trained in the latest techniques and be equipped with the latest information, it must also be trained to be able to keep up with and absorb new developments in a rapidly changing environment.

Second, those discoveries at the cutting edge of technology made in our universities must be commercialised and introduced to businesses so that the UK does not see the benefits of its world-beating research go abroad as so often has been the case in the past.

In these pages we celebrate some of the great strides being made in both these areas. In traditional education and apprenticeships we look at some of the exciting new initiatives being taken to improve the readiness of young people for the world of work.

In the relationship between universities and commerce we look at academia’s contribution in terms of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, spin-outs and in helping to develop new kinds of schools.

From our research it is clear that education, training and business in the North East is a fascinating and dynamic area.

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Design & production room501 e: studio@room501.co.uk Photography Chris Auld e: chris@chrisauldphotography.com Kevin Gibson e: info@kgphotography.co.uk sales Heather Spacey Senior Sales Executive e: heather@room501.co.uk Richard Binney Senior Sales Executive e: richard@room501.co.uk or call 0191 537 5720

room501 Publishing Ltd, 16 Pickersgill Court, Quay West Business Park, Sunderland SR5 2AQ www.room501.co.uk room501 was formed from a partnership of directors who, combined, have many years of experience in contract publishing, print, marketing, sales and advertising and distribution. We are a passionate, dedicated company that strives to help you to meet your overall business needs and requirements.

All contents copyright © 2013 room501 Ltd. All rights reserved.

While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, February 2013. room501 Publishing Ltd is part of BE Group, the UK’s market leading business improvement specialists. www.be-group.co.uk

BQ Magazine is published quarterly by room501 Ltd.

SPECIAL REPORT | winter 13

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Career opportunities being missed, door to finance sector opens up, shortage of female applicants, training star changes hands, rule bending on the rise, and shedding new light on an old sector >> Finance scheme launched

>> Risk over missed opportunities Young unemployed people in County Durham are missing out on long term job opportunities by failing to turn up to appointments with employment advisors at a local college.

Despite the struggling economy, staff at Bishop Auckland College are having to tell some employers looking to appoint apprentices they have no one interested.

The college’s employment services manager Camilla Race said: “The college works with various agencies to try and address the problem of NEETs [people not in employment, education or training].

“As part of this work we invited 31 young unemployed people in two weeks ago to discuss a number of apprenticeship vacancies and only five turned up. Of these, one has already secured a job and three more have interviews.

“So the message is come here if you are serious about getting into work. It doesn’t matter whether you are an A-level student who started in September but has decided that is not for you, or you are unemployed if you are committed we will get you an apprenticeship.”

Apprentices receive a minimum wage of around £400 a month, working between 30 to 40 hours per week, with a mix of on-the-job and day release dependent on the industry field. More than 90% of Bishop Auckland College apprentices who complete their programme, which range between one and four years, are retained by their host firm.

The college currently has more than 30 apprenticeship opportunities on its books with local companies, ranging from the care sector to construction, manufacturing, hospitality, catering and office work.

It has organised a new programme designed to help prepare young people for apprenticeship opportunities. Called Gateway

SPECIAL REPORT | winter 13

Hard work pays off: Megan Forster, 19, secured an apprenticeship with Durham University within a few days of meeting college staff as a business administration apprentice in the university’s finance department. She is pictured with her boss Caron Gregory, accounts receivable manager at Durham University to Apprenticeships, the six week programme will run every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9.30am to 4pm.

It will include sessions on team building, employability skills, interview techniques, writing a tailored CV and taster activities in different industry areas. Anyone aged 16 to 24 with four GCSEs grades A*-D including Maths and English is eligible to join up, and they will be guaranteed an interview with an employer, £50 towards an outfit for the day and free transport to and from the college.

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GetInGetOn, a major initiative to teach employability skills using virtual work experience has been launched by the financial services sector.

The Financial Skills Partnership, FSP, aims to address a lack of business awareness and employability skills among young people by deploying new technology to reach out to school and college students across the UK. GetInGetOn is an industry-led e-learning project through which the financial and professional services sectors will build employability skills and ensure the industry’s future talent pipeline.

The programme aims to arm 16-19 year olds with the necessary skills and knowledge to break into the financial and professional services sectors. Young people taking part in the programme, which starts on April 1 2013, will undertake online learning modules, delivered through an interactive platform, at the same time as having access to industry professionals with whom they can have e-conversations about careers and working in the sector.

Prior to the start of the programme, the FSP needs 300 people working in the financial and professional services industries to sign up to act as e-career mentors to participate for just seven hours volunteering over one calendar month.

Financial Skills Partnership’s chief executive Liz Field, said: “We are rolling out this important new scheme with this first of two six-month pilot projects offering virtual placements which will each last for one calendar month. First, participants from sector companies will be able to develop their coaching and mentoring skills and receive online training on how to be good e-mentors.

“Bright and ambitious students will then be able to gain real learning about the sector, presented in eight thirty-minute-long modules developed in consultation with employers and teachers which will convey an understanding

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of topics such as how do financial services work, risk and rewards, and good customer service. Their e-mentor will be on hand on the e-learning platform to guide them through the learning process and answer their additional questions.”

E-mentors will need to commit seven hours of time for each placement, one hour to complete a Criminal Records Bureau form, one hour undergoing online training on how to be a good mentor, an optional one-hour webinar, and four hours of e-mentoring activity.

>> Strong team on paper SCA has taken on eight new apprentices to its paper mill in Prudhoe bringing its total number of apprentices on site to 31.

The site in Prudhoe makes the popular Velvet brand of toilet tissue, with the plant

producing in the region of 80,000 tonnes of products every year. The company has been running its apprenticeship programme since 2004, providing education and training to over 80 apprentices in either an operational or technical role.

Ian Callender, operations trainer at SCA, said: “In an industry like ours with a very experienced workforce, it is vital that we continue to pass on our skills, talent and manufacturing knowledge to people who will be responsible for taking the company forward well into the future.”

One new recruit, Matthew Stevens, 19, from Prudhoe said: “I discovered SCA’s apprenticeship scheme while doing work experience here.

“Working with engineers for two weeks gave me a good feel for the company and I’m really pleased to be given the opportunity

>> Female apathy marks worrying trend An Ashington based business advertising for an apprentice has not received a single female application for two years – despite new figures which reveal youth long-term unemployment has risen rising by nearly nine-fold since 2000.

Mike Heslop, owner of Centrex Services, which repairs business IT

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to train here.

“This is the perfect place for me as I really enjoy a practical hands-on role and there is lots of scope to progress within SCA once I’ve completed my apprenticeship.”

Each SCA apprentice trains for the first two years on the same technical pathway, then some will go to work in different roles on-site and others will continue to train as a technical apprentice for a further two years, eventually gaining an HNC. All of the apprentices receive tuition and support from Training and Development Resource, TDR. The group will work towards achieving a Performing Engineering Operations, PEO, multiskilled, NVQ Level3 in Engineering Maintenance, BTEC National Diploma level 3 in Manufacturing Engineering and an HNC in Engineering Maintenance.

Looking for ways to fulfill your corporate responsibilty?

equipment on behalf of companies, created an apprenticeship scheme for his Ashington branch, as a way to tackle the rise in

Newcastle Education Business Partnership (NEBP) offers local businesses high quality project management services bringing businesses and schools together to illustrate how successful approach to business and CSR go hand in hand with education.

youth unemployment.

Centrex Services placed adverts in Job Centres and colleges, and received more than 500 applications for three apprentice positions, but there was not a single female applicant among them.

Heslop said: “I’m baffled as to why women do not want to apply.

You’d think young people would be jumping at the opportunity, given the high rates of unemployment, even if the role is in a traditional male dominated technology environment.”

He remains keen to offer women placements on the Centrex Services’ apprenticeship scheme after jobs which typically attract young women, such as retail, hotels and restaurants suffered huge losses.

He said: “I’m dismayed by the lack of opportunities for young people

By creating strong partnerships between school, college, university and employers we successfully prepare young people and businesses for employment.

and that’s why we want to give them the chance to learn a trade.

“I would encourage all young people to consider careers they may not have previously considered.

“If you have an interest in an industry and the skills to succeed, then go for it.”

Centrex Services’ original three apprentices are completing their time on the scheme and the business is currently actively recruiting to replace them.

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Please contact us for more information: Newcastle Education Business Partnership (NEBP), Drayton Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE3 3RU Tel: 0191 277 4444 Web: www.newcastle-ebp.co.uk e-mail: nebp@newcastle.gov.uk

SPECIAL REPORT | winter 13

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>> Training star sold Zodiac Training, which has offices in Gateshead, Sunderland, South Shields and Ashington, has been sold to Ingeus, a national providers of employability training.

Zodiac is the region’s largest independent apprenticeship training provider and helped more than 2,400 people complete apprenticeships and other qualifications in 2011.

Owner Lilian Mains has sold the business after deciding two years ago to begin to look at the company’s future options in advance of her planned retirement.

Ingeus’s position as one of the UK’s leading providers of employability services gave a strong strategic fit with Zodiac and its national presence provides an opportunity to grow Zodiac’s presence outside the North East.

Mains said: “Having decided it was time to step away from the business, finding the right kind of buyer for it became a real priority for me, both in terms of how they could realise the growth potential I know Zodiac has and the role that the staff that have always been central to our success would play in delivering this.

“We were aware of Ingeus’s considerable industry presence and success, and also of their reputation as a progressive employer with similar values to our own.’’

RMT’s Anthony Josephs said: “Having watched Lilian build the Zodiac business up into a hugely successful operation, it’s very pleasing to see her hard work now getting its due reward, and to also see the company entering into an exciting new era. Ingeus provided the right option at the right time.”

>> Rule bending rise As many as one in five people are prepared to lie on their CV if it means landing a job according to recent research.

Interactive recruitment website staffbay.com asked 25,000 people: Do you think it’s wrong to lie on your CV? While 80% said they’d never lie on their CV, nearly 20% said they’d make an exception if it they thought it would impress a boss. staffbay.com co-founder, Tony Wilmot, said: “Obviously, these figures are shocking, but with as many as 80 people chasing the same job it’s hardly surprising that some jobseekers are prepared to bend the rules a little to enter the world of work. It’s pleasing to see that 80% of the jobseekers we surveyed are honest, but what is very apparent from these results is the need for those seeking work to

>> Tree’s company Social enterprise Groundwork North East has extended its training services with the acquisition of a County Durham nursery.

Butterwick Tree Nursery Community Interest Company, near Sedgefield, has become a wholly owned subsidiary of Groundwork North East. The business, which sells locally grown and sourced trees, provides training for ex-offenders on behalf of Durham and Tees Valley Probation Service and has been delivering this in conjunction with East Durham College and A4E. Kate Culverhouse, Groundwork North East managing director, said: “Taking Butterwick Tree Nursery in to the Groundwork North East portfolio complements what we do as a socially responsible business.

“Two of our core aims are to develop sustainable business ventures and offer training opportunities to people from a wide range of backgrounds to help them take a step in to the world of work.

“By linking up with colleges and training agencies, the nursery is able to help people achieve more with their lives and this will continue under Groundwork North East’s stewardship.”

Butterwick Tree Nursery allows the trainees to gain valuable practical experience alongside

SPECIAL REPORT | winter 13

Great outdoors: Kate Culverhouse and Peter Facey at Butterwick Tree Nursery them studying for level one City and Guilds in horticulture.

Training at the nursery involves people undertaking community service with the Probation Service and includes tree and shrub production. The aim is to help them progress to further education and employment.

Butterwick Tree Nursery benefits from work carried out by offenders completing their unpaid work orders as well as providing training for them.

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School groups also visit the nursery to help teachers and pupils enhance their appreciation of all aspects of trees and the environment.

Butterwick Tree Nursery was formerly owned

by Peter Facey and he will continue to work within the business.

The nursery grows a range of young trees from locally collected seed, which make ideal planting stock for native woods and farm hedges.

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differentiate themselves.’’

He advised that applicants can employ techniques other than lying to do this.

He said: “More and more we’re seeing that potential employers will engage with jobhunters by looking at how they’ve marketed themselves. This can take the form of video CVs or even chats with employers using Skype.

“Simple paper CVs just don’t make you stand out from the crowd these days. What employers want to do is find out more about job applicants before they call them in for an interview, and they simply can’t do this by flicking through a paper CV.”

>> On the white path The National Skills Academy Process Industries and the Centre for Process Innovation, CPI, are developing training programmes targeting workplace skills in the UK industrial biotechnology, IB, sector.

CPI, which runs the National Industrial Biotechnology Facility at Wilton on Teesside, is writing and delivering the courses, the first of which will improve general awareness of microbiology among operators, technicians, supervisors and support staff employed in IB. The importance of improving the skills of the existing IB workforce was highlighted in the industry-led IB 2025 report prepared by the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation and Growth Team, IB-IGT, which is supported by government.

The collaboration between the Skills Academy and CPI is in response to the IB-IGT’s skills recommendations and forms part of the work plan of the IB Skills Group, a sub-group of the IB Leadership Forum.

educATioN, APPRENTICESHIPS & Training

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>> Post graduate giveaway Thanks to a funding stream aimed at helping a priority sector of the economy, Teesside University is offering a 50% reduction in fees for a range of part-time postgraduate courses.

The scheme applies to businesses in the science, technology and engineering fields.

Employers in these sectors can sponsor individuals or groups of staff on postgraduate courses beginning next month at half the normal cost.

Margunn Hindenes, from Norway, studied a master’s degree in digital character animation and works as a 3D animator at Ubisoft Reflections in Newcastle.

She said: “My master’s gave me crucial skills for my job at Ubisoft.”

Dr Graham Hillier, director of strategy and futures at the Centre for Process Innovation, Wilton, said: “At CPI we work with companies at the high end of the manufacturing and process technology spectrum. As an innovation centre, we help them develop, prove and scale-up the next generation of processes and products. We help our partners create more sustainable, efficient and economic industries for the future.

“The high value manufacturing sector – which is key to the UK’s future economic success – needs people with industry relevant postgraduate skills and qualifications. We welcome this initiative by Teesside University to help business develop people’s advanced skills.”

Professor Cliff Hardcastle, deputy vice Kevin Thrower, biotechnology business manager, National Skills Academy Process Industries, said: “To meet the skills challenges facing a complex industry, such as IB, employers need access to high quality training that is demand-led. This collaboration with CPI enables us to meet both these criteria and we look forward to developing our relationship with them well into the future.”

Sandy Gunn, commercialisation manager, Centre for Process Innovation, said: “We work with a number of rapidly growing biotechnology companies and see an urgent

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New skills: Margunn Hindenes, who studied a master’s degree in digital character animation chancellor for research and business engagement at Teesside University said: “Postgraduate skills and qualifications are immensely important for high performing businesses in science, technology and engineering. We are delighted to be able to offer this special funding stream directed specifically at helping a key sector to develop and grow.

“The subsidy reflects the university’s recognition of the need to address critical skills gaps and its commitment to creating opportunities for talent to flourish.

“Our central role in supporting economic growth and business development means we are committed to working closely with employers and stakeholders. Halving the cost of postgraduate study in a key economic sector makes it easier for companies to invest in high value skills and knowledge for their workforce.”

Teesside University will pay 50% of the fee for the eligible postgraduate courses starting in February 2013. There are a number of options available for payment of the remainder. need to equip people with the right skill sets.

Working with National Skills Academy Process Industries, we trust biotechnology training will become more accessible for people within the industry and for people wanting to re-skill to join this growing sector.”

The first IB course is due for delivery in March.

Representatives from the Skills Academy and its partner in the strategic skills alliance for the Process Industries, Cogent, attended the recent Leading IB: A UK Showcase event in Westminster where they discused IB skills development.

SPECIAL REPORT | winter 13

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>> Shedding new light

Helping hand: Andrew Hughes and Deborah Matthews

>> Student becomes the teacher at Coast & Country A Teesside University graduate who excelled during an innovative partnership is now helping a fellow graduate follow in her footsteps.

Deborah Matthews, 26, was the original graduate associate in a Knowledge Transfer Partnership, KTP, between Teesside University and Coast & Country Housing after graduating from the University in 2008 with a degree in computer studies. She was taken on permanently only nine months into the project after applying for a permanent role during the KTP. In her new role as business system development manager at Coast & Country, Deborah is now supervising graduate Andrew Hughes in a new Knowledge Transfer Partnership between the two organisations after a goal was set to implement a new IT service desk within the company.

A KTP is a business-university partnership, aimed at improving productivity and performance through a strategic project. The company gets access to academic skills and expertise, along with a graduate recruited specially to work on the project.

Matthews, originally from Fife, said: “I’m really enjoying my time here and the fact that I was hired within the first year of the KTP proves what a great initiative it is. It gives graduates the platform to get ahead in their careers and a chance to impress and show what they can do in the real world.”

Andrew Hughes, 34, the new KTP associate who graduated with an MSc Computer Science in 2011, is part of the new IT development team at Coast & Country. His role is to develop IT solutions.

He said: “The KTP is providing me with invaluable hands-on experience of the industry, and it’s very satisfying to solve problems successfully that come my way. I hope I can follow in Deborah’s footsteps and secure a permanent position here, I’ve already learned so much since I began here.”

Coast & Country had first approached Dave Eagle and Alison Brown from the university for a half day consultancy for some tips on improving their internal IT services.

Alison Brown, principal lecturer (recruitment & marketing) in the School of Computing, said: “We set to work on developing an information management strategy which would focus on our business information requirements and ensure business alignment of our ICT services.

“I worked with Coast & Country to develop and implement a new IT service desk within the company as part of the first level of the project. Dave then went on to help develop information management policies and set up the infrastructure needed to maintain the service desk and ensure it was a long-lasting success.”

SPECIAL REPORT | winter 13

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North East construction firm the Owen Pugh Group is to host a careers day for teaching professionals to dispel myths about construction and civil engineering.

It’s Not All Mud and Boots is an event that aims to give teachers and professionals involved in careers advice the tools to guide budding engineers into the industry. It will also explore ways of building aspects of construction into the curriculum The event at Northumbria University on Friday, March 1 will see a host of contractors and professionals representing the breadth of the construction sector pledging their time to provide an insight into the range of career opportunities available within the sector.

John Dickson, chairman of the Owen Pugh Group, which has its head office in Dudley and operations throughout the region, believes that the careers day is a great way for teachers to appreciate the skills acquired for a role in the construction industry.

He said: “The Owen Pugh Group understands that its work in engaging young people rests on building positive relationships with teaching staff and career advisors and we’re passionate about working with schools and colleges to help young people discover more about the wide-ranging careers they could pursue in construction and engineering.

“We have a duty to future-proof the construction and civil engineering sector, making it more appealing to the younger generation and ultimately filling the roles made available within the industry. Only by engaging young people at an early age can our sector attract talent and enthusiasm and build the skilled workforce of the future.

“The careers day is a great opportunity for teaching professionals to work with genuine

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experts who between them represent all aspects of the industry - allowing them to filter through their new found knowledge throughout the school curriculum, ultimately developing enthusiasm and understanding amongst students.”

Owen Pugh Group is working alongside Northumbria University, Hellens, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association, CECA, the Construction Industry Council, CIC, and other partners from the Northumberland EBP, Education Business Partnership, to ensure the event is a success.

Many of the Owen Pugh team are also gearing up to support the delivery of the Wonder Crossing Challenge, an inter-schools competition designed to inspire careers in the construction and civil engineering industry.

The challenge, now in its ninth year, will ask young people from around the region to design a wonder crossing that stretches the imagination.

Organised by Owen Pugh Group in conjunction with the Institution of Civil Engineers, ICE, and led by ICE’s regional education coordinator Pauline Vipond, working closely with leading industry professionals, the challenge aims to provide young people with practical experience and increased awareness of the varied technical and professional opportunities available within sector.

The Wonder Crossing challenge will give learners the chance to develop their skills in the areas of science, technology, engineering and maths, as well as other key skills. Teams are assigned industry mentors to support them throughout the challenge, giving students the opportunity to work with a cross-section of sector experts throughout.

John Dickson, added: “Previous evaluations clearly demonstrate the positive impact the inter-school challenge has on career awareness, personal development and key skills for students and industry volunteers.

We’ve seen first-hand how young people were encouraged to progress onto further and higher education and into careers within engineering. We’re really excited to see how this year’s challenge develops and we hope to inspire yet another group of young people about the host of exciting career opportunities on offer within the sector.”

educATioN, APPRENTICESHIPS & Training

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>> Double win for Olympic legacy group An organisation that aims to build on the Abbey Foreman has a placement there. success of the Olympic Games has Prof Thompson said: “This KTP was able to succeeded in doubling its surplus thanks to provide independent evidence about the expertise from Northumbria University. strategic direction TASS needed to take TASS - a government-funded partnership beyond London 2012. As such, it has had a between talented young athletes, universities major role to play in persuading funders to and national governing bodies for sport – invest in TASS over the next Olympic cycle.” asked Northumbria University for help in Prof McLeay said: “Prior to this KTP, most of developing a strategy to expand its range of the business TASS received was through support services to elite athletes, coaches word of mouth recommendation. By taking and supporting bodies to boost its income. a proactive approach and placing marketing A Knowledge Transfer Partnership, KTP, was at the heart of the organisation, we were set up which saw graduate Colin Allen able to put TASS on the map. That has paid employed as an associate at TASS where he real dividends in terms of doubling their worked on a marketing strategy, supervised surplus which means they can help more

by Fraser McLeay, professor of strategic talented young athletes and capitalise on the marketing, marketing lecturer Dr Matthew success of London 2012.”

Sutherland and Prof Kevin Thompson, a One student who is benefiting from TASS is former head of department of sport and design student and member of the London exercise science at Northumbria University.

2012 Volleyball team Peter Bakare. TASS Using the latest software, Allen was able to provides much-needed support ranging from carry out analysis of the organisation’s physio treatment to lifestyle advice and help customer base and integrate marketing into with the expense of travelling to away games. the business.

While most of his team mates went overseas He looked at ways in which TASS could after the Olympics to follow their sporting expand its services through new strategic careers, Bakare chose to pursue his sporting developments including sponsorship and dreams at Northumbria while also studying continuing professional development courses. for a degree.

As a result of the KTP, TASS was able to He transferred from Sheffield Hallam diversify income streams which led to a University and is now in the second year of doubling of its surplus. a degree in animation and motionGuy Taylor, chief executive of TASS said: graphics. He said: “You have to “The results of the research carried out recognize that you have to seize the during our KTP with Northumbria day in terms of your sporting career University have had a significant impact because it’s so short-lived but, at the on TASS. We have developed new same time, you must never approaches to satisfying customer needs forget that education is and enhanced the TASS brand. As a important. Studying at result, we can now be sustainable Northumbria means I without government funding and can keep up both have been able to employ new elements.” staff to take advantage of new A Northumbria market opportunities.”

University sport Allen was able to study for a scholarship, pays his Masters in sport tuition fees and he receives Peter Bakare, management and has also a package of support including member of the secured a permanent position coaching from Team London 2012 at TASS while marketing student Northumbria.

Volleyball team.

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SPECIAL REPORT | winter 13

COMPANY PROFILE

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Education finance support you can bank on from Lloyds TSB Commercial With many schools choosing to convert to academy status, it is important that they have the right support network in place if and when they decide to make the change.

At Lloyds TSB Commercial, our dedicated education banking team can help schools achieve their ambitions if they choose to convert to an academy.

This support is exemplified by Town End and Bexhill primary schools, which are on the same road in Sunderland and, until 2008, were considered rivals.

But with the Local Authority struggling to find a Headteacher for Bexhill, Town End Head Teresa Laybourne was asked to become Executive Headteacher for a new federation involving both schools.

The move solved the problem and allowed a restructuring of finance. Without paying for two Headteachers, the federation was able to invest in a School Business Manager instead.

Teresa explains: “We were one of the first federations in this region. Although it was a new challenge, running two schools, I realised that it didn’t mean we all doubled our workloads, we just had to work smarter and look for opportunities to share resource.

“Employing a School Business Manager was vital.

While modern teachers have to get used to this new and challenging world and adapt accordingly, they are still primarily here to educate. A School Business Manager helps you see the financial benefits clearly.”

The role was also crucial when the federation opted to convert to academy status from 1 March 2011, working with all stakeholders, from the teaching staff to Lloyds TSB Commercial, as the schools went through the process which would give the federation greater budgetary control and freedom for the curriculum.

The group has since changed its name to WISE Academies as it looks to welcome more schools into the partnership, with the new Hasting Hill Academy having joined in December 2012.

Teresa added: “Savings are an attractive part of

SPECIAL REPORT | winter 13

Left to right: Joanne Lampkowski (Lloyds TSB Commercial Education Relationship Manager) and Teresa Laybourne (Headteacher)

federations or academies but the exciting part is innovation. We have been able to introduce a Family Liaison Development Officer to work with children and parents who need additional support.

This has been a great success and we are keen to look at other things we can do to add value for pupils and parents.

“It feels like we’re one big team now. I believe parents like the status we have as an academy and we’ve certainly managed to unite different schools in terms of ethos and resources.

“Lloyds TSB Commercial is a part of that. We have been impressed by the seamless transition and ongoing dedication the bank has demonstrated.”

Joanne Lampkowski, Education Relationship Manager for Lloyds TSB Commercial, said: “I take great delight in being able to help and support schools during the conversion process – whether

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it be a single convertor school or a multi academy trust.

“Working purely in the education sector, I have a great understanding of the challenges that can be experienced when converting to academy status.

My knowledge of the sector allows me to support schools, such as WISE Academies, in ensuring that every angle of the process is taken care of.”

Graham Lowes, Senior Manager for Lloyds TSB Commercial in the North East, said: “The education sector in England is going through the biggest shake up in generations. As schools look to explore the possibility of academy conversion, alongside the various other collaborative structures to help ensure ongoing success, more and more schools are looking for external support and guidance.

“Lloyds TSB Commercial has a national network of specialist trained Education Relationship Managers helping schools on their journey. It is testament to this support and experience that in the North East area last year, over 80 per cent of all academy converts chose to bank with Lloyds TSB Commercial.”

Lloyds TSB Commercial is a trading name of Lloyds TSB Bank plc and Lloyds TSB Scotland plc and serves customers with an annual turnover of up to £15M. The Lloyds Banking Group includes Bank of Scotland plc and a number of other companies using brands including Lloyds TSB, Halifax and Bank of Scotland, and their associated companies.

Joanne Lampkowski, Education Relationship Manager 07717 881741 Graham Lowes, Senior Manager, North East & Cumbria 07525 767923

educATioN, APPRENTICESHIPS & Training

Wellington Academy, Tidworth Lloyds TSB Commercial customer

WE’VE HELPED MORE SCHOOLS CONVERT TO A NEW STYLE ACADEMY THAN ANY OTHER BANK. The journey to becoming an academy can be a daunting one. But Lloyds TSB has the experience to support you. We’ve helped more schools convert to a new style academy than any other bank.† We will give you a dedicated, locally based Education Relationship Manager with specialist NASBM accreditation who will be on hand to give you the support you need.

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OVERVIEW

WINTER 13

action stations Training our workforce remains a huge challenge but it’s one that can be met as long as we adopt a diverse approach argues Peter Jackson

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It has become commonplace to stress the importance of training to business and of a close relationship between business and academia.But, trite though it may be, like most clichés, it remains true.

In fact, that training and those links are becoming increasingly important as businesses have to fight harder and against overseas competitors whose output increases so much faster than our own. UK productivity in terms of output per hour has trailed that of Germany, France and Italy since 2008. In 2011 British workers on average were 20% less productive than the G7 average and nearly 40% less productive than the average US worker. That’s the biggest gap since they started measuring it in 1990.

It is reported that some 8,500 skilled workers in the region are due to retire in the next three years and it is claimed that 15,000 North East workers need to improve their skills if the North East is to remain competitive. Nationally, the engineering and manufacturing sector

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needs to recruit 82,000 people to replace those retiring in the next three years.

The worlds of business and academia have risen to that challenge over recent years and they have done so on two fronts, by a continued emphasis on traditional areas and by innovation.

It is a long time since schools and universities lost their distrust of and antipathy towards business. Rather they now regard it as an essential and valuable ally. In return, businesses appreciate that good education is vital for their own long term future. Work placements are becoming of greater value with youngsters being allowed to do something more meaningful than the photocopying or tea making.

At the same time, apprenticeships are popular again, particularly since the introduction of tuition fees. This is likely to be a good thing for the UK’s economy if we have more engineering and manufacturing apprentices and fewer graduates in Madonna Studies,

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Beckham Studies or Knitwear. There were more than 31,000 new starters in engineering and manufacturing in 2011/12 compared to just 16,760 in 2009/10.

This has not yet begun to yield results in terms of the UK’s productivity but then, by its nature, education and training will take a number of years to bear fruit.

We are also seeing continued strong interaction between universities and business with Knowledge Transfer Partnerships providing our SMEs in particular with much needed expertise and research skills. Similarly encouraging are the businesses being spun out of the universities. Probably the best example in the North East of a successful spin out is Sedgefield based Kromek which has raised £24m in investment since it was spun out of Durham University research into X Ray properties. It makes an X ray scanner which can detect explosives in luggage

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and has won multi-million pound deals with the US government for equipment to check the potential danger from nuclear waste.

What is particularly encouraging, however, is that new ways of training are being explored.

We reveal in this issue of BQ2 that County Durham could be the home to the region’s first University Training College, UTC. Details of the proposal have yet to be provided but we do know from other UTCs such as that being set up in Sheffield that they promise to be an exciting addition to the educational mix.

If they perform as hoped, they will give bright, practically minded students a robust grounding in vocational subjects such as

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advanced engineering and manufacturing or creative design and media. These subjects will be taught in an atmosphere which is close to the normal working environment and be will working closely with committed and enthusiastic employers.

Places in such a UTC are likely to be highly desired and much sought after. This matters enormously because it means the college will have status and so will its students. This will do a great deal to end that dangerous condescension we have directed for far too long in this country towards those doing such vocational studies.

Similarly the bid to set up a studio school in Peterlee is to be welcomed. This would also provide a vocational education while working closely with local employers.

It is difficult and dangerous for educationalists to try to second guess where the world economy will be in 10 or even five years time and discern what skills it will demand.

However, while acknowledging the difficulties and dangers, it is undeniable that an attempt has to be made. As a nation we are likely to be more successful in this the greater the variety of training and teaching models we have. The rise of academies, free schools, UTCs, studio schools and new apprenticeships would indicate that we are heading in the right direction. n

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INTERVIEW

Finding a different CAREER path

One North East company is engaging with students to give them a taste of working life and to give itself the cream of the crop Advertising, design and marketing agency Different opened its doors to students last summer to give them an insight into working life.

Over 27 weeks, 69 students worked at the 40-strong Newcastle-based agency and one went on to secure a permanent position. And the experiment was seen as such a success it will be repeated this year.

Candidates were carefully selected and

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welcomed to the agency for a two week placement in teams including account handling, planning, digital, design and creative.

Lucy Craigs, 22, from Newcastle, attended summer school in July, after graduating from Leeds Metropolitan University with a degree in journalism and after her two week placement was taken on by Different as a client partner.

She says: “I wasn’t really sure what I >>

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wanted to do after university and I was just doing placements and work experience and then the placement with Different came up.’’

She saw it advertised on the university jobs website, applied, had an interview a couple of days later and was given a placement.

She adds: “I loved it. I didn’t have any time when I was bored or when I didn’t know what I was doing. My placement was action packed, I was straight in at the deep end, attending photo shoots and writing job briefs; the experience was invaluable and securing a full time job from it really demonstrates the value of work placements. I definitely recommend anyone to do one.

“As soon as I got into it, I realised it was what I wanted to do. You sit in lectures but you don’t get any hands-on experience of what it’s like working within an agency where everything is going on.”

Each student is given a bespoke training programme to work through, depending on their interests and objectives. They gain real experience; communicating with clients, attending meetings, working on live jobs and at the end of their placement give their own pitch presentation.

Along with the summer school initiative, Different also ran a Creative Pioneers programme. The Institute of Practitioners in Advertising, IPA, initiative saw 100 businesses in creative and digital media sign up – joining the nationwide search for entrepreneurs.

The successful candidates secured internships to showcase their talent. Different was the only agency to be represented in the North East and provided paid internships for four candidates across Creative and Digital roles across a three-month period. Two interns are still with the firm Following this year’s success, Different is already looking toward next summer and ways

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As soon as I got into it, I realised it was what I wanted to do.

You sit in lectures but you don’t get any handson experience of what it’s like working within an agency where everything is going on

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to improve its summer programme for 2013, with the key objective being to fuse academia with real life.

The firm says there is a substantial gap between students leaving education to entering the real world of work – a gap which Different wants to bridge, giving students an insight into the industry they couldn’t get in a lecture theatre.

Managing director, Yousaf Khalid, says: “I did work placements when I was at school and college and it was a pretty poor experience making the coffee and doing the photocopying. It was a matter of trying to find work for the students and everybody’s busy and in an SME even busier.

“Summer school created a positive buzz about us serving the community and giving students something really worthwhile. It has had other benefits throughout the business, giving middle managers the opportunity to demonstrate how much they know and to do some mentoring.

He adds: “The challenge for higher education now more than ever is to equip students with relevant industry experience. The challenge for industry is to give new talent an opportunity to flourish. Different summer school is a chance for both sides to work together in a seamless way.” Summer school will be back in full force from May. Lucy says: “The number probably won’t be as high this year because we are trying to get quality over quantity but the aim is to have someone in every department for a two-week period from June to September.’’

The programme will be exclusive; students must earn their place and prove they have what it takes to thrive in an agency environment. Applicants who stand out will be shortlisted and interviewed before winning their place. n

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COMPANY PROFILE

Delivering the skills employers need Sunderland College is leading the way in pioneering a collaborative approach between education providers and employers in need of industry specific skills.

They may not be in the traditional industries many remember, but the North East is enjoying a resurgence in engineering, processing and manufacturing.

And with research from Semta, the sector skills council for science, engineering and manufacturing, showing that by 2016 a further 82,000 new recruits will be needed to help fill a growing skills gap, it’s important that future generations are trained in the up-to-date skills employers need.

This gap illustrates why greater collaboration is needed between education providers and employers.

Sunderland College has more than 20 years of experience working with companies in skills development but recognises that more needs to be done in delivering improved teaching and training programmes that will benefit students, employers and the UK economy.

To do this new models of delivery and collaboration are needed between schools, colleges, employers, the business community and local and national government to help ensure future generations are trained in the skills employers need.

Already the college is working hard to forge closer ties between education and engineering companies. It recently hosted, in collaboration with BQ magazine, a debate with companies from across the region to try to ensure training needs match those of the industry.

The debate discussed ways of changing the outdated image of engineering and manufacturing and promoting the value of a quality apprenticeship.

It also recognised the need for new models of skills and training delivery and how these could be implemented, whether directly through colleges, via an off-site provider, within the company’s own facilities or a combination of all three.

Here the college continues to lead the way in delivering new models of sector specific training.

The college has recently opened a new training centre and is in the middle of constructing a new

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Welding is just one of the many engineering skills being developed at the college

Sunderland College has been working closely with the relevant industries to develop courses that teach the skills that employers need, and as a result, give students the best possible start to their careers engineering centre to train 300 apprentices which is due to open in November.

Blue Square Training, set up and run by the college, is providing the tradesmen - and women - of the future with the tools they need to succeed thanks to a range of vocational courses delivered in a setting designed to reflect the work place.

Opened in September 2012, the centre offers training in a range of vocational courses including welding, mechanics and areas of construction.

Based in Boldon, South Tyneside, the centre aims to help students and out of work adults find work in the construction and engineering sector by training them in the skills explicitly needed by employers.

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The centre boasts excellent training facilities and first class tutors, giving its students sought-after skills in a competitive sector.

The courses can be adapted to suit the needs of individual employers and are designed to give students the skills they need for a lifelong career.

Gary Cumiskey, director of vocational skills at Sunderland College, said: “Sunderland College has been working closely with the relevant industries to develop courses that teach the skills that employers need, and as a result, give students the best possible start to their careers.

“What we need are more employers with active apprenticeship programmes coming to us with the skills gaps they need filling.

“We can then work together to devise a quality training programme that gives the employer the skills they need their staff to have for a career in the relevant sector.”

Just like the Blue Square Training facility the new engineering centre will look to promote even closer ties with industry through improved programmes of education and training.

The continued improvement in the delivery of quality education can further be enhanced by greater collaboration.

The college is exploring how this can be achieved through placement work, training master classes, partnership programmes and social enterprises projects.

What’s clear is that by working together, education providers, industry organisations and employers can educate, involve, train and inspire people from across the North East.

For more information about the college’s work in this area contact Gary Cumiskey on 0191 511 6000 or email gary.cumiskey@sunderlandcollege.co.uk

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INTERVIEW

bridging the gap Gateshead College is looking to the future to ensure the North East has the skills for tomorrow’s world as Mick Brophy explains to Peter Jackson Mick Brophy has to stay one step ahead of the game as his job title implies.

He is, after all, Gateshead College’s managing director of business innovation and development and he has to anticipate what the world will be like in five or 10 years time and so understand what kind of training is required today. This is even more important in the current economic climate.

He says: “With major recessions like this, what comes out of it is not the same as what went in. There will be a new economy and what does that look like and what are the skills that our young people are going to need to be successful in that new economy?’’

But even without the recession, technological advances will transform the world.

Brophy says: “In 2020, which is only seven years away, computers are going to have 20 times more memory and be 20 times as powerful as they are now and also the process of miniaturisation is continuing apace. How is that going to change the world and what will cities look like and how will people behave and operate?’’

“If that’s where we are going, how are we developing our young people? The skills programmes we are starting to put in place now are to develop them and get them looking into that future.

“Our job, as we peer into that future, is to pick off elements of it and construct them into training programmes, piloting the training programmes with our young people

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and then going and getting them validated as proper qualifications.’’

He cites the example of one new programme to look at social media apprenticeships to meet growing demand from media and advertising companies.

“They are looking for the kind of young person who can understand social media like Twitter and how you develop those platforms and how you link with your customer through them,’’ he says.

Some of the more forward-thinking businesses are also looking into the future and identifying the skills that they will need. Brophy has been approached by a bank, one of whose primary client groups is young people.

“They are interested in reviewing their approach to young people,’’ he says. “They want to know how to use apps and Twitter and how to communicate with people via their mobile phones.’’

Through its close links with Nissan, Gateshead College is working with the city of Yokohama in Japan where they are looking at what a city

will look like in the future, the so-called smart city, and how information technology will be used to manage and organise cities and the way people move and live and work within them.

“All their big companies such as Hitachi and Mitsubishi are developing the idea of smart cities,’’ he says. “What does a city look like in 2020? There are a number of things going on. We have climate problems, we’ve got diminishing carbon resources with their costs going up. How do we develop alternative fuel sources? Also how do increasingly powerful technologies affect our cities? The whole thing is ubiquitous, right across our city lives from how we use energy for industry as well as housing.

“How do you move people around cities and shift dependence from internal combustion powered cars and shift to different road infrastructures and public transport systems and how all of that will change? How do we manage our water environments with the massive population growth that’s forecast?

The smart city is about how all of that >>

The skills programmes we are starting to put in place now are to develop them and get them looking into that future

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begins to meld together but at the heart of it is technology.’’ He points out that in the Western world the age group 55 to 59 will have increased by 25% by 2020 but with a corresponding decline in young people.

“You have a potential problem but the technology can change the way people work.

You can’t get an older person to do the same things as a younger person but you can get them to work smarter and do things differently.’’

Not only in Japan but all around the world major conurbations are grappling with these problems. This could present the North East with an opportunity.

Brophy says: “This is going on right across the globe. The critical feature for the North East is that there is a lot of ability and a lot of research taking place. It’s a question of trying to bring all that together and hold it in the region so we have some skills and capability to take us in new directions.’’

For its part, Gateshead College is developing a research capability to explore alternative fuel and energy sources in construction and transport and to look at their impact to develop the skills training programmes.

The college has acquired a building at Barmston behind the Nissan plant to be at the heart of the research and development capability of its £60m Automotive Centre of Excellence. It has had a close relationship with the car giant going back more than 10 years and more than 100 Nissan apprentices attend the college every year doing four-year apprenticeships.

“It’s very practical research,’’ says Brophy.

“For example, how do you develop the back office for electric vehicle infrastructure? Once we have decided that we then create training programmes and build them into the learning that our young people do.’’

Fact file • Gateshead College opened in 1955 • It has an annual turnover of more than £40m

• It employs 450 teaching and support staff • It has more than 10,000 full and part time students

• It is currently working with around •

•

Increasingly a lot of work is international. The college has just had a delegation from Hong Kong which brought six top apprentices to have two days training in electric vehicles maintenance. Gateshead College also has a close relationship with Smith Electric Vehicles.

The company is leading the field in telemetry and smart technology data collection which allows the monitoring of driver behaviour and, again, this can inform the college’s training programmes.

Gateshead College also has its Skills Academy for Construction at Team Valley and here it is

The critical feature for the North East is that there is a lot of ability and a lot of research taking place. It’s a question of trying to bring that all together

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275 employers and more than 1,500 apprentices Businesses include Nissan, The Sage Gateshead, 21 Hospitality Group, Dance City, South Tyneside Council, RAF, Hitachi, Nexus and the North East Ambulance Service It has six campuses: Baltic Campus; The Skills Academy for Automotive, Engineering, Manufacturing and Logistics, Team Valley; The Skills Academy for Construction, Team Valley; AutoSkills Centre, Team Valley; Academy for Sport at Gatehead International Stadium; Skills Academy Sustainable Manufacturing and Innovation at Washington.

researching how technological changes relate to new construction techniques.

Less than two years ago it announced a £7.5m extension to its Team Valley site. The 50,000 sq ft facility offers specialist training in green and renewable energy technologies for the benefit of students and construction industry employees. It will allow the college to build on green courses already available which include solar photovoltaic, solar heating, grey water recycling, heat pumps, biomass and combined heat and power training.

We know there will be an recovery in construction but it will be a different industry,’’ says Brophy. “With the construction academy we have really emphasised new and renewable energy sources so that our young apprentices and our full time learners are learning all those skill sets that will be in such demand. That will be the workforce that will be needed in the future.

“From a carbon footprint point of view the UK still has some of the worst housing in Europe.

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Those houses need to be made warmer and increasingly people are falling into fuel poverty and need really good smart insulation of their homes. Increasingly, we are developing what we call green apprenticeships in construction.

“We will teach someone his trade as a joiner, but that joiner should also know how to do cavity wall insulation, loft insulation and perhaps even solar insulation. They can go to a home and see what needs to be done and advise on what needs to be done and that would make them invaluable to an employer.’’

He adds: “We are looking at the installation of quick chargers and how you get a car battery to power your house. We are researching all of those activities hand-in-glove with Japan.

Construction is an area that will emerge from the recession completely different.

“For example, we’ve always had bricklaying training courses and we always will but most buildings don’t need that now. You’ve got

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prefabricated units that just assemble and that’s the way buildings are going to go. Bricklaying’s not a dying trade but basically it’s almost becoming a cottage industry.’’ But once you have identified the technology of tomorrow, where do you find the people to teach it?

“That is always the challenge, trying to get talented people. Invariably a lot of those talented people are young people and they are out there now beginning to experiment. A lot of them are sitting in their rooms already doing stuff like this but not having any real direction of travel with it. When we started games technology a few years ago there was hardly anyone out there but now there are a lot of people in technology houses coming in and teaching.’’

Fortunately the youngsters find it remarkably easy to grasp tomorrow’s world.

“You confront a youngster with any new technology and they are absolutely like ducks

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to water,’’ says Brophy. “To them it’s just natural and routine. They’ll use their mobile phones now for lots and lots of things so any change or new application and they instantly take to it straight away. They get it, they understand potentially where that future is going.’’

He only wishes all the region’s employers could think more about the future.

“In the North East, of all the manufacturing and engineering companies only 27% take on apprentices. I ask the question of the other 63%: how do they see their future and do they see themselves sustaining themselves, particularly when you have an ageing population who are going to retire and they are not replacing them?

“Some companies aren’t even thinking about it at this stage and the danger for them is that they will end up with skills shortages because they are not future-proofing their own organisations.’’ n

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spinning at speed Spin-out companies form an important part of Teesside University’s business agenda as director of academic enterprise Laura Woods explains to Peter Jackson

Money is not the main reason behind Teesside University spinning out commercial businesses from the fruits of research.

As Laura Woods explains, the key driver is academic.

“The reason we do them is because we want to keep relevant to the economy and society the research we do at Teesside. We are very focused on making sure all our activity has a direct application to the needs of business and society.’’

Spin-outs also fulfil a broader purpose of demonstrating to the world at large the practical benefits of university research.

Also the university wants to keep its academic staff close to the world of business.

“Developing a spin out is a bit of a steep learning curve for everybody involved because every one takes a different path,’’ she says. “It’s a really useful experience for our colleagues going through that process.’’

For the academics involved the experience gained in setting up and running a spin-out informs and enriches their teaching.

“It has a massive impact on their teaching and their research, so it’s students who ultimately get the benefit, of these experiences,’’ says Woods. The university will not set up a spinout unless it feels there is a real chance of commercial success and it has five currently operating. They are an important element of what we are doing so we make sure we put resources and support into making them happen where there is a strong case for a spinout,’’ says Woods.

It is not the only way to commercialise research. It did its first spin-out five years ago.

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They developed from the considerable work Teesside does in encouraging start-ups by students. The university’s intellectual property, IP, policy is that the fruits of a student’s research belong to the student but when the product or idea results from a member of staff’s work at the university the IP is the university’s.

In some cases licensing is felt to be more appropriate. In other cases the university decides that the research does not present it with an appropriate commercial opportunity but it will give the IP to the member of staff and allow them to develop the idea commercially. When research does result in a spin-out the university and staff member agree the division of equity and set up a board to manage the company.

Teesside would hope it would go on to attract investment from a venture capitalist and over time its equity stake would fall.

Teesside has conducted an audit of all its research and looked at what commercial

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opportunities this throws up.

“So we have a number of potential spin-outs on the books now that we are developing alongside the ones that are already in place,’’ says Woods.

The spin-outs present a challenge for the staff involved. “It’s not an easy thing to do, it’s never straightforward but once somebody is engaged in the process then they really get enthused by it,’’ says Woods.

“It makes a massive difference, it’s such an exciting place to be when you are developing a new company, especially if you have the support you need which we try to make sure is there.

“We try to make sure we provide the right support, either from within the university where we have knowledge transfer and commercialisation expertise or working with external partners making sure we have commercially minded people who can provide the advice and the guidance and the support to help the business go in the right direction.

It would be too easy to set up a spin-out and say, right, you’re on your own and then watch it fail because the person involved hasn’t got the know-how and expertise to make it a commercial success.

“That’s a fundamentally important part of it all.’’ But, however daunting the process, those involved enjoy the ride.

“The people who are establishing the spinouts are really good advocates of that process and they help the enthuse and encourage others to do the same,’’ says Woods.

“It’s a hard world but once you’re involved you get totally immersed in it.’’ n

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INTERVIEW

It’s such an exciting place to be when you are developing a new company

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CASE STUDY

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One Teesside University academic is poised for the launch of his own spin-out company Senior lecturer in crime scene science and digital forensics Dr Tim Thompson is accustomed to sharing his knowledge and expertise with the police.

When they find a skeleton they need to know whether they’re dealing with a recent crime or have stumbled across some archaeological remains. Dr Thompson doesn’t mind helping out, but he has long thought the identification process could be more accessible for those who, unlike him, don’t have a PhD in forensic anthropology. He has formed digital technology company Anthronomics to do just that.

He submitted his plans to the 2010 Blueprint Business Plan competition, which celebrates enterprise and innovation among North East university staff and students each year and won the Ward Hadaway Science Award at Teesside’s Blueprint area finals was highly commended in the Knowledge Transfer Staff category at the regional finals.

That gave him the confidence to polish up his business plan. And, with a grant from Teesside University Enterprise Development Fund and help from a DigitalCity Fellowship, Tim launched his spin-out business.

He explains: “In much forensic anthropological work, we are still using pen and paper and stills photography for casework, research and teaching.

My idea is to digitalise as much of the process as possible, developing appropriate protocols for scanning the bones into 3D models.

‘Bones are actually very difficult to scan.

You’re dealing with holes and pores, lumps and ridges and a combination of organic and inorganic materials. It’s not as easy as you might think.

“But my new company plans to work with experts at the university, including our own

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It’s been a steep learning curve in a good way.

Thankfully there are some very good people at Teesside who’ve given me advice

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Teesside Manufacturing Centre, to create the scans.’’ He is also creating new information management software.

“By importing the bone data straight into the software, we hope to give much quicker information to people who aren’t trained forensic anthropologists – about the sex, age and height of the body,’’ he says.

“This will be a great help in determining what the police might be dealing with – a recent murder victim or someone who died centuries ago?’’ The new company is already established in one of Teesside University’s business incubation units.

He has developed a product which is currently being trialled at Teesside and Durham universities. The target market is teaching institutions. “It will be a great classroom aid for teaching biology, anthropology and forensic science’’, says Dr Thompson.

He has worked closely with Landslide Studios also based at the university, which develops apps for smart phones.

This has been his first commercial venture.

He says: “It has been a steep learning curve – in a good way.

“I’m an academic and I know how the academic world works but in terms of the commercial world it calls for a different mindset. Thankfully there are some very good people at Teesside who have given me lots of advice. It has only been possible to develop this company because I’ve been at Teesside. ’’ He aims to have the product ready for market by the summer in time for a major anthropology conference in York this September.

He says: “I’m not inclined to sell the company or anything like that but I am looking to expand it. It’s a global market and it could be a global company.’’ n

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Dynamic Motion Detection, DMD, has been joined by a former Australian prime minister, and a BAFTA winning video games designer to fight rising health and fitness problems.

The company has been set up on the back of research at Teesside University’s Social Futures Institute – which works in digital design, gaming and animation.

Partnered by New South Wales-based sports technologists, ShadowBoxer Systems, the DMD research team is now taking its pioneering new Shadowboxer ACTIVE product to a burgeoning fitness entertainment market currently led by global brands including Sony, Microsoft and the Nintendo Wii. ShadowBoxer ACTIVE harnesses photorealistic 3D computer games and sophisticated motion capture technology to allow players to train in a virtual gym, punch along to their favourite music or fight against an opponent.

The opponent can be either an artificially intelligent boxing avatar or a friend.

Gamers of all ages and skill levels can undertake brief, High-Intensity Interval Training – or HIIT a method of exercise which has been shown to significantly improve health with as little as six to nine minutes exercise per week.

The product has been released in Australia and the UK with plans to launch in the USA, Asia and Europe this year. Former Australian PM Bob Hawke, now 82, is chairman of the Shadowboxer Advisory Board. Hawke.

He says: “This partnership is addressing real societal need through academic innovation and commercial acumen and we hope to work in a similarly constructive and socially responsible way with other top research teams, including in our own leading universities in Australia.’’

Aimed at the serious fitness and computer gaming enthusiast, the mass market consumer product will build on ShadowBoxer’s marketleading position as a provider of high-intensity fitness aids and programmes.

A professional version of the technology is available for schools and for workplace interventions to improve employee fitness and deliver the related economic benefits from a healthier workforce. It is also being used in programmes to research the health impact of HIIT exercise in at-risk groups.

Iain Spears, professor in biomechanics with

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CASE STUDY

A Teesside University spin-out company is to land a knockout blow in the global exergaming market

Teesside University’s Social Futures Institute, led the Digital Economy research project with funding from Research Councils UK, RCUK, and it was from this project team that the DMD technology was developed and the ShadowBoxer ACTIVE product emerged.

He says: “The value of this project is to see whether we can reduce health inequalities by harnessing the latest motion capture, gaming and social networking technologies to give people opportunities to be healthy in their everyday environment.

“HIIT can deliver remarkable results and this product, which can be used by players in the comfort of their home, is designed to make the road to a healthier lifestyle far more accessible for those leading busy or normally sedentary lives.”

ShadowBoxer Active was developed with input from Andrew Walker, a video games designer who was part of a team awarded a BAFTA in 1995 for his work on Sony’s trailblazing Playstation racing game: Wipeout and who is

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now a senior lecturer in Game Art at Teesside.

The Teesside researchers were assisted by a new academic investment broker, The Commercial Edge Initiative, TCEI, which pursues commercially driven research and technology licensing deals. TCEI, which is sponsored by a consortium of UK universities, aims to maximise research innovation by identifying real social and economic impact for prospective business partners, to return financial value back to academics and universities.

Andy Todd, co-founder of the Commercial Edge Initiative, says: “As a broker in a very high-tech environment, we’re delighted to have helped to bring such an innovative product, which can help to drive standards of health across the world, to market.

“Thanks to the lead taken by Teesside University we now have an opportunity to rapidly and reliably drive high economic and social impact across a number of universities we’re working with, helping UK research to punch above its weight in the global market.” n

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Training provider offers new recruitment service North Tyneside-based training provider, Trade Training Associates (Trade Training), which is transforming the world of apprenticeships and post-16 training, has announced a more efficient way for employers seeking to recruit apprentices.

With this new service Trade Training firstly interviews the employer to fully understand their requirements, explains the funding available and then matches their specific needs with suitable individuals who are already known and skills-tested by Trade Training.

A tailor-made training package and delivery model is then developed to exactly suit the employer’s needs, ensuring it follows as a minimum, the current apprenticeship frameworks available. As a privately owned company, Trade Training is not constrained by the academic year and employs trainers to deliver focused training without lengthy holiday interruptions in the learning process.

This is a break with tradition from the traditional apprenticeship training and recruitment model.

Trade Training utilises assessors who are currently in industry to ensure that competency is measured when it is achieved rather than after the event.

This means that the length and composition of each training programme can be designed in close consultation with the employer and matched with the apprentice’s prior background, aptitude and knowledge.

At a time when most companies are feeling the effects of the austerity measures, the one remaining area of competition relates to staffing costs and it is in this area that Trade Training’s operations director, Blake Robinson, sees an increasingly vital role, as well as a great opportunity, for young people. He says: “Company directors know they still need to invest in the future and while the money supply for capital investment is scarce at the moment, companies can prepare for the upturn by making an investment in young people so that they have a solid skills base from which to grow their business in the future.

“As a private sector company operating with

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Trade Training offers a wide range of construction-related apprenticeships

a commercial focus ourselves, we know how important it is to keep overhead costs under control. When we talk to employers and potential trainees, we are not only looking at ways of putting training in place to provide multi-skills or cross skills, but are also looking at ways of ensuring the apprentice or trainee has a financial worth to the company as quickly as possible.

“At Trade Training we have a wide range of young people who have already been skill-tested by our trainers which means we can offer employers a ‘greater understanding of their abilities’ and value, which gives confidence in taking on a new recruit.

Trade Training can then arrange for an employer to have a prospective trainee working alongside them for a short period. This allows both the trainee and the employer to get to know one another far better than they would through an interview alone, giving the employer time to assess an individual’s suitability and aptitude.

“We also encourage employers to look around our training headquarters at North Tyne Industrial Estate for themselves where we have over 30,000

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sq ft of fully equipped facilities offering the latest in tools and technology.

“This includes a fully equipped hair and beauty salon which is open to the public, offering a wide range of treatments and staffed by highly experienced hairdressers and beauticians as well as part-qualified trainees. It is a resource used by a number of local hairdressing salons that send their apprentices to us for training and assessment.

“There is also an extensive workshop area to support our construction trades qualifications which is fully equipped with all the facilities needed for existing tradesmen seeking reaccreditation or for Level 2 and 3 apprentices to gain comprehensive theoretical and practical training.

“To deliver the on-site assessments, we work very closely with commercial partners such as 4041, a social enterprise company providing affordable quality construction and property maintenance projects. The focus is based upon creating opportunities for apprentices to gain the experience necessary for progression in their chosen trade.

“This relationship allows our learners to gain the evidence for their assessments as soon as they are ready, giving them control over their qualification, rather than planning in visits over a long period of time. Apprentices on live projects often get enough evidence from one job to measure their competencies against the national occupational standards – and these are not easy projects.

Recent jobs include building a bungalow in Low Fell as well as refurbishing a Grade II Listed property in Newcastle city centre.”

The various financial support packages now available should make the decision to appoint apprentices an easier one for employers.

Firms are now able to benefit from a grant to

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support employing apprentices. There is a grant of £1,500 to support business growth by employing young people between 16 and 24 years and putting them through an apprenticeship programme, which is now available for up to ten apprentices per company if employers have not employed apprentices before.

This type of financial support has been particularly well received within the automotive sector which is still relatively buoyant in the region, a factor which has contributed significantly to the success of Trade Training’s automotive division established six months ago.

At David James Limited in Newcastle, 18-year-old Sean Usher was appointed in September and has already become a very useful member of the sales team. He is responsible for running a small trade centre of lower priced vehicles and has sold two cars himself after shadowing more experienced work colleagues.

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Trade Training’s automotive division offers training to 16-24 year olds who have an interest in sales and are keen to launch their careers. There are four different types of apprenticeship available.

• Vehicle Sales • Parts Operations • Valet • Customer Service Robinson continues: “For automotive dealership owners or managers who are keen to invest in the future of their business, Trade Training can provide a number of 16-24 year olds ready to work and learn or qualifications for existing staff.

“Apprenticeships remain the best way to train well rounded and fully-qualified trades people and to build their skill set in line with your company’s needs. With grants available, “on site” learning and assessments and assistance with recruitment, we can offer a dedicated service.

“At Trade Training we are passionate about the

need to get more young people into work and give them the help they need to launch their careers.

“I would urge anyone considering employing an apprentice to call me. If you are a business owner or manager there has never been a better time to secure your company’s future and young people deserve all the help we can provide.”

Blake Robinson, operations director, Trade Training Associates, Units 40 & 41, North Tyne Industrial Estate, Benton, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE12 9SZ Tel: 0191 215 9903 www.trade-training.com Email: enquiries@trade-training.com

RECRUITING APPRENTICES? Gosforth-based salon, Nik Addis, has appointed Matthew Grey as an apprentice (l to r) Matthew Grey, Nik Addis (seated) and Corey-jo Skeen, responsible for employer liaison at Trade Training’s Hair Academy

Trade Training’s unique employer-led apprentice recruitment package removes all the uncertainty and lengthy administritive process.

Available to employers in: CONSTRUCTION • HAIR & BEAUTY • AUTOMOTIVE We can skills test, pre-screen and develop a tailor made training package to suit your business - within 24 hours.

Funding support available.

www.trade-training.com (l to r) Blake Robinson, Trade Training operations director, Ben Trousdale 4041 trainee, Wendy Berry, Home Group, Kevin McCabe, 4041 trainee and Peter Galbraith, construction director 4041, refurbishing a Grade II listed property

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Call Blake Robinson today on 0191 215 9903 E: blake.robinson@trade-training.com

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INSIGHT

the power of partnerships Northumbria University works closely with North East businesses on a number of initiatives to boost know-how and training, as Peter Jackson reports

Northumberland-based firm Renown Engineering is seeing its profits soar as a direct result of working in partnership with Northumbria University.

The company has two Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, KTPs – one with Newcastle Business School which has seen the implementation of a business and marketing strategy – and the other with the Faculty of Engineering and Environment, which has introduced a New Product Development capability. KTPs support businesses which are keen to improve their competitiveness, productivity and performance by accessing the knowledge and expertise that is available within universities.

The company originally asked the university to establish new processes for the firm’s design, analysis and manufacturing operations.

Mechanical engineering graduate Jack McCusker worked as an associate at the firm and has played a key role in helping the company to re-invent itself as a high-tech, value-added company with its own products and brands.

As a result of the KTP, new processes have been introduced which have enabled the rapid development and cost-effective manufacture of new products and will also enable the company to develop other products for existing and new markets.

A few months later Renown Engineering started another KTP to help with its marketing. Although the company had

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successfully expanded through acquisitions and felt it could supply a variety of markets, management felt the company needed marketing expertise.

A KTP was initiated with Newcastle Business School graduate Ben Moore being given the task of embedding a more strategic approach to business management.

As a result, a three-year strategic plan has been drawn up setting out the company’s future direction and a customer relationship management programme has been introduced. Managing director of the Renown Group, John Hamilton, said: “Since the KTPs started, our sales have risen from £11m to £15m and profits have also increased.

“The KTP relationship has been a great success, it continues to deliver tangible benefits, not just to the growth of the business, but also injecting a feel good factor which is permeating throughout the Renown team.”

In addition to boosting the firm’s profits and competitive advantage, the university

reports that the KTPs have provided valuable experience and commercial awareness to the associates involved.

The partnerships have also led to new research projects and teaching materials, conference presentations and more graduate employment.

Dr Phil Hackney, senior enterprise fellow at Northumbria, said: “I have been involved with KTP projects for 15 years and firmly believe they provide a win, win, win situation for the company, the university and the associate.”

Working with businesses on training is not limited to KTPs for Northumbria University.

Collaborative working between the university and Newcastle-based engineering group British Engines is paying dividends for staff.

A project, funded by the National Higher Education, HE, STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, programme, is aimed at learners with no previous experience of HE. Engineering academics accredited the training undertaken by nine team leaders and >>

Organisations need to be sure that they are developing their people in line with the needs of their clients

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managers. Mechanical engineering academics Jenna Tudor and Martin Birkett helped British Engines BEL Valves division to assess their existing training programme and developed modules based on live workplace projects.

The students completed a range of modules in engineering, computing and personal development as well as putting together a portfolio of evidence.

All employees who took part in the scheme received individual Higher Education credits for their work Which they can use their credits to support future learning development in Higher Education.

Ray Couch, human resources manager at BEL Valves, said: “All the learners worked incredibly hard, fitting their studies around their shift work and family life. The company

Army of SMEs encouraged to recruit Northumbria University has introduced its Graduate Internship programme to encourage SMEs to hire graduates.

The scheme offers Northumbria graduates who have been unemployed or under-employed since graduation last year a paid ten-week placement doing graduate level work with a North East employer.

Graduate Tom Bailey secured an internship in a similar scheme two years ago with local property consultancy IAM SOLD. This led to him being offered a permanent position and he s now an associate director at the firm which now operates on a national basis.

He said: “The internship was a fantastic opportunity for me to showcase my skills and gave me a chance to apply the theory of what I’d learned at university. Prior to joining IAM SOLD, I was working in a call centre which wasn’t what I wanted to do. The Graduate Internship literally turned my career around. I am now running my own department within the business and have other graduates working within my team.”

Jamie Cooke, director of IAM SOLD, who is also a Northumbria University graduate, said: “The Graduate Internship scheme has brought real benefits to our company. We’re really pleased with Tom’s achievements since he started working for us. This allowed for a quicker expansion in a competitive market place and we now rank in the top five of UK residential auction providers and have also taken on a number of graduates from the University since Tom.” Ann Smart, head of the careers and employment service at Northumbria University, said: “Northumbria graduates have a great mix of skills and potential to offer businesses and graduate internships are a cost effective method for employers to experience the benefits of recruiting a recent graduate. It’s also an excellent way for graduates to gain valuable work experience and, as has been demonstrated by Tom, perhaps gain longer term graduate employment.

Especially in the current climate, it’s a scheme that offers huge potential for Bright future: Director of I AM SOLD Jamie both graduates and employers.”

Cooke with graduate Tom Bailey

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is already benefiting from the projects they worked on as some have helped us already to reduce waste and improve efficiency. In addition, it has strengthened our relationship with Northumbria University and paved the way for future collaboration.”

Keith Grant, continuous improvement trainer at BEL Valves, said: “We’ve developed an excellent relationship with the university and are now considering rolling out this programme to other areas of the company to see if we can extend accreditation to others areas of our work.”

David Bell, associate dean in the Faculty of Engineering and Environment at Northumbria, said: “In today’s rapidly changing business environment, organisations need to be sure that they are developing their people in line with the needs of their clients.

“Partnership working in this way can unlock the potential of our external partners but also helps the university by ensuring our students’ programmes are up-to-date and relevant to today’s workplace.”

Machine shop manager Paul Brady took part in the work-based training and gives it an enthusiastic thumbs up.

He said he found the training relevant because it focused on projects staff were already working on. In his case, he was able to analyse the quality performance of products and use new procedures to improve both quality and productivity.

Although he already had permission from his employer to embark on a degree, the training also acted as a catalyst.

As a result of taking part in the training he earned 20 credits which, together with previous experience and qualifications, allowed him to progress directly onto the second year of a degree programme at Northumbria.

He is currently studying part-time for a degree in leadership and management at Newcastle Business School.

“The degree programme fits with my job and it was recommended by other workers at Bel Valves who had completed it.

The workload is heavy but I’m enjoying it immensely,” he said.

“I’m confident that the degree will develop me as a manager and act a spring board to the next tiers of management.” n

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COMPANY PROFILE

Boost to skills base of small and medium sized companies Newcastle University is aiming to create jobs whilst boosting the skills base of North East businesses with the launch of its ERDF funded Postgraduates for Business Project part of Newcastle Science City’s business support service.

North East based small and medium sized companies will have the opportunity to recruit a highly skilled, but also heavily subsidised Newcastle University postgraduate student to undertake an in-house project.

The initiative will provide 50% of the costs of the postgraduate for a period of up to 24 weeks or 900 hours, a timescale which will allow the student to use their high-level expertise to develop a significant in-depth project to assist the company leading to improved performance. A further layer of support will be provided by a Newcastle University academic who will be closely supervising the student throughout the placement. In addition, the business can take advantage of a project grant to contribute towards the cost of project consumables.

The majority of the postgraduate students placed are anticipated to come from the University’s Science, Agriculture and Engineering Faculty and will be undertaking science and engineering based masters and doctoral courses across energy, environment, transport, marine, computing, agriculture and process technologies.

Typical projects could include: design of new processes and products for new markets, development of energy efficient products, processes and services to reduce feedstock consumption and waste or by-product generation, feasibility studies for renewable energy projects, general business planning advice in support of innovations in the areas of: renewable and clean energy generation, energy reduction, environmental impact, pollution control and waste management. For businesses, this scheme offers a cost effective system of assessing the suitability of a highly skilled student for permanent employment, thus potentially reducing the time and resources spent on recruitment. The greater

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Students from Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials

A considerable amount of our postgraduates offer skills and knowledge relating to the environment the number of postgraduates retained in the region, the higher the skills base which will assist in reducing the 20% disparity in Gross Added Value – the economic indicator used to measure output – between the North East and the rest of the country.

The project’s aim is to support small and medium sized businesses operating in key innovation and technology-led sectors of the North East economy specifically: • Energy and environment and transition to a low carbon economy • Process technologies • Healthcare and health science • The digital, creative and design sectors Bryn Jones, project director, said: “This is an ideal opportunity for a small or medium sized company to take advantage of the high level skills of our postgraduate students at a subsidised rate, and to have these students tackle a problem or concept

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that they may not have the resource to deal with themselves. A considerable amount of our postgraduates offer skills and knowledge relating to the environment and therefore their project could have a significant major environmental impact on the company.”

“The predecessor to this project –‘Postgraduate Bursaries Programme’ enabled employers to gain from some of the brightest talent around and understand the value that postgraduates can bring. The projects supported brought forth new ideas and new ways of thinking and operating.”

The project runs for two years initially and will be placing postgraduates into industry from Easter onwards. As funding is limited, businesses are encouraged to take advantage of this subsidy at their earliest convenience to benefit from the skills and expertise of a Newcastle University postgraduate student.

The project is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), managed by the Department for Communities and Local Government. The ERDF Competitiveness Programme 2007-2013 is bringing over £300m into the North East to support innovation, enterprise and business support across the region.

To find out how Postgraduates for Business can help your business contact Melanie Dunnett the Project Manager on 0191 222 5259 or email melanie.dunnett@ncl.ac.uk or visit www.ncl.ac.uk/business/knowledge/nsc_ supportpartnerships.htm to see the full list of Newcastle University masters and doctoral programmes supporting this initiative.

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Strong, visionary leadership an essential quality for the region’s only multi academy trust A multi academy trust, focused on the north of England region and based in the North East, launched towards the end of last year with five schools under its management in Bolton, Newcastle, Bradford and Stockton.

Sponsored by Northern Education, a successful education consultancy, which has consistently provided support to over 250 schools in more than 20 local authorities since it was established in 2000, the Northern Education Trust (NET) is already making its presence felt on the education scene.

The DfE approved not-for-profit- charity, is headquartered in North Tyneside - very much the ‘home turf’ of its chair, Les Walton, former Executive Director for Education, Children’s and Community Services at North Tyneside Council 1996-2000 as well as Chief Executive and Principal of Tyne Metropolitan College in North Tyneside from 2002-2006.

Proud to announce that when he was Director for Education in North Tyneside, the borough achieved Beacon Status for ‘tackling school failure’, Walton continues to this day to campaign tirelessly for the right of every child to a first class education.

There can be few people better suited to take up this latest role than Walton. At a time when the spotlight shifts from the rigours of the economy back and forth to the best way to educate children and raise educational standards on an almost daily basis, he has a lifetime of achievement within the sector on which to draw.

Most recently this saw him as chair of the Young People’s Learning Agency, which became the Education Funding Agency in April 2012, a post which he held for over three years in spite of a long period of treatment for cancer during which he continued to travel up and down to London, keen to demonstrate that people with cancer do recover and can continue to thrive.

Unsurprisingly, out of the many advisory and policy roles he holds, his chairmanship of the

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Les Walton CBE (l) and Baroness Estelle Morris (r) chairs of Northern Education Trust and Northern Education respectively at the launch of Northern Education Trust

We have access to a fantastic network of experience and provision through Northern Education and we are working to extend and improve this all the time. charity Coping with Cancer North East, is very close to his heart.

Such passionate dedication to raising standards in education as well as his contribution to society as a whole, earned him further recognition by The Queen in the New Year Honours list this year when he was awarded a CBE to sit alongside his OBE for ‘service to education’.

With an ambitious business plan forecasting

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at least eight more schools coming under NET management by the end of its first year of operation, he has not taken his foot off the gas for a minute, as he explains: “It has been a period of intense activity since we launched the Trust in October last year. We are now talking to schools throughout the North West and North East of England and are anticipating that as many as 14 schools could be under our management by this time next year.

“We have access to a fantastic network of experience and provision through Northern Education and we are working to extend and improve this all the time. Northern Education Trust is managed by trustees who have decades of experience in school improvement, business and regeneration and additionally, have worked at the highest levels in education funding and policy.

“Our focus is on creating self-managing schools, because self-managing schools make selfmanaging and confident students. The ideal scenario is for us to achieve a situation where schools do not need us at all. However, we will only work with schools by invitation.”

It was as a result of an approach to Northern Education, by Bolton Council that Kearsley Academy became the first school to be overseen by the Trust. After only one year, Ofsted judged its progress to be outstanding. So when Bolton Council suggested Northern Education might sponsor a second academy, this time a failing primary school, it became apparent that a multi academy trust would have to be formed.

Since then, there have been many approaches from local authorities, the DfE and individual schools for Northern Education Trust to act as sponsor.

Dyke House Sports & Technology College in

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Hartlepool recently hit the headlines when it excellent relationships with important bodies such focusing on the needs of young people and their announced its decision in October to apply for as local authorities, the North East Chambers of future prospects. academy status and approached NET to act as Commerce, the Association of Colleges and Schools “We would urge anyone to contact us who thinks sponsor. It was followed in December by Blyth Northeast, all of which have a key role to play in they could make a difference for children, because School Community College, which wrote to the DfE creating a climate of collaboration. this very important phrase lies at the heart of our also requesting permission.

“For this reason, we are very keen to talk to people values and beliefs.”

Dyke House is an interesting case because often in all walks of life, but particularly those operating it is schools that have had poor Ofsted reports in the arts, sports or business sectors who are that are recommended to become academies, but prepared to invest some time to act as school Dyke House, which is responsible for just over governors. We want governors in all the schools 1,000 students aged 11 to 16 years, was judged as we manage to reflect a wide cross section of skills outstanding by Ofsted. and experience, which is critically important to Headteacher, Andrew Jordon, said Dyke House had ensure that students gain a better understanding If you think you can make a difference for approached the Trust because they believe that and awareness of the need for employability skills. children, please contact Les Walton CBE at the values, vision and ambition of the Trust will “I am committed to achieving a regional consensus Northern Education Trust on 0191 280 4623 provide exactly the type of ongoing support the on what is important for our children and young for more information. school needs to further improve. people. Academies and other educational Cobalt Business Exchange, Academies managed by the Trust operate with a institutions are part of the process for life-long Cobalt Park Way, Silverlink, clear strategy for delivering the highest levels of learning. “This is why it is critical we develop high Newcastle upon Tyne NE 28 9NZ attainment in English and Mathematics and focus quality, independent advice in all our academies, www.northerneducationtrust.org on achieving outstanding governance and self- management with decision making at school level.

Not surprisingly, the issue of strong governance is high on the agenda.

Walton continues: “In my opinion, the challenge centres on one crucial word: leadership.

We believe our academies need to The Northern Education Trust, a multi academy trust, demonstrate leadership and take focused on the north of England region, is keen to forge responsibility for initiating strategic links with people from all walks of life who would like to conversations with employers so that become academy governors. both sides are as confident as they can Ideally, we are looking for widely experienced people from be that the capacity we are building all sectors of the world of business and enterprise, the arts, within our students in terms of future or sports, who can provide significant input into the way employability is a match for demand. schools under our sponsorship are managed.

“It is a priority for the schools under We seek individuals capable of providing independent Ryecroft Primary, in Bradford our management to build upon our

Have you got what it takes to be an academy governor?

advice in all our academies, focusing on the needs of young people and their future prospects.

If you think you can make a difference for children, please contact Les Walton CBE at Northern Education Trust on 0191 280 4623 for more information.

Northern Education Trust Cobalt Business Exchange, Cobalt Park Way, Silverlink, Newcastle upon Tyne NE 28 9NZ North Shore Academy in Stockton

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www.northerneducationtrust.org

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South West Durham Training

Hub for high-flyers: SWDT’s CORE site (above and right)

One training centre has produced a string of high-flyers for the manufacturing sector for more than 40 years as Peter Jackson discovers

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Walking through S.W Durham Training’s, SWDT, 90,000 sq ft site is a tour of the different ages of manufacturing.

From the original training facility, built in the 1960s and designed as a place in which students could learn the essential skills to get their manufacturing career off the ground, to the CORE centre that was added to the building in 2011, one is forcibly struck by how much the sector has changed.

“The different parts of this building really do bring to life just how much the modern manufacturing environment has changed from the old,” says Charl Erasmus, chief executive of SWDT. “But more importantly, having both ends of the scale strikes the balance in providing for an industry that still depends on the older known equipment. It allows us to teach the apprentices the basics, before progressing to high-tech advanced engineering, and caters for the modern era that many of the region’s

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businesses have moved into.

“For many people, when they first step foot in the CORE centre, they are absolutely blown away by how bright, clean and professional the environment is. The reality of what a modern factory is like is really very different from the perception. It’s fair to say that some modern manufacturing facilities are cleaner and more pleasant than many other working environments – something I think people still don’t realise.”

This is just part of the challenge that centres such as Newton Aycliffe-based SWDT face.

Dispelling the myths, and re-educating people about what the manufacturing and engineering sector has to offer, is something that Erasmus – who was appointed to his current role in September 2012 – feels is key to the ongoing growth and development of the industry.

“For a long time, I think people saw apprenticeships as being the route >>

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Top talent: (above) Apprentices Stephen Searle and Joanne Alden (front) with Tam Ashcroft, MD of Cleveland Systems Engineering and Charl Erasmus Big plans: (above right) Mike Matthews of Nifco

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for under-achievers. And in a similar way, manufacturing and engineering was perhaps looked down upon; not a career someone with A grades would pursue. But nowadays, people are beginning to see the Nissans and Nifcos of this world, and they’re realising that these businesses represent the opportunity to follow a highly skilled, and actually rather lucrative, career path,” he says.

The rising cost of university tuition fees must also represent an opportunity for training providers like SWDT? “Absolutely,” says South African born Erasmus. “People are finally beginning to see that the chance to earn while you learn is one that they cannot pass by. Young people leaving school know that following the higher education route – college then university – does not guarantee them a job.

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“We speak to many of our former students, who have gone on to have successful careers in manufacturing or engineering, and many would argue that the skills gained during their time served as an apprentice went beyond what they could ever have earned at university. And fundamentally you can still get to the masters degree level but without the debt associated with the traditional A-Level then university route. This combination of academic and vocational skills – teamed with skills for life, which we ensure every one of our students leaves with – is what has stood our apprentices in such good stead, and that’s exactly why many of them are now leading lights in their field.”

Perhaps the most famous of SWDT’s former students is comedian Vic Reeves. However, more impressive is the list of those who have

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gone on the achieve great things in industry.

Among SWDT’s alumni are Stewart Wingate, chief executive of Gatwick Airport, Gareth Berry, who is now vice-president of Electrolux Major Appliances, and Mike Matthews, managing director of Nifco UK and operations officer for Nifco Europe.

“It’s an impressive list and we’re really proud of that,’’ says Erasmus. “To see our students go on to have such success in the industry is a real sign that we have been getting it right, not only on a technical and practical level, but also in respect of the life skills we are teaching them.

“The real vote of confidence in our work though, is the fact that in some cases, former apprentices of ours who have risen through the ranks are now sending their own apprentices and staff to SWDT.” Nifco, which recently relocated to an

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£8.5m Eaglescliffe facility, has a number of apprentices training with SWDT and md Mike Matthews has worked closely with SWDT to draw up their training programme.

“I started my training to become a toolmaker with SWDT in September 1980 and though, over the years, the technical skills I was taught there have become less critical to my role, they will always provide me with the strong foundation needed to succeed in business,” he says.

“While I realised, reasonably quickly that my ambition and interest in business would take me away from the factory floor, I really do believe that the practical and theoretical skills I gained during my apprenticeship have made all the difference to my career progression.

“As a business, Nifco UK works with SWDT to source and train its apprentices. The track >>

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To see our students go on to have such success is a real sign that we have been getting it right on a number of levels

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Achievers: (left) SWDT and Caterpillar apprentices with centre (l-r) Fred Felton, Charl Erasmus and Phil Handley Caterpillar Peterlee MD Tea time: (below left) Tony Stubbs and Charl Erasmus at Tata Global Beverages in Eaglescliffe

record it has built up over the past 45 years, and my own positive experience of studying there meant that we chose to work with the company to appoint our first apprentices in more than a decade last year.”

Other companies that use SWDT include Sunderland-based Tacle Seating and Tata Global Beverages – the company behind Tetley.

But Erasmus has no intention that SWDT should rest on its laurels.

He says: “We have a duty to future-proof manufacturing and make it more attractive to the younger generation, all the while staying true to our values and a teaching approach that has held true throughout our years of operating. That’s something that’s important

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to us. As an organisation, we’re keen to go back to the future and explore what has made our former students a success to make sure that we are still delivering the employability skills needed to get them ready for entering the industry as well as the basic practical skills to get their careers going.”

The company was established in 1967, a product of the 1964 Training Act designed to tackle the poor training standards that had been blamed for Britain’s uninspiring post-war economic performance.

“Our role in the 60s was absolutely crucial,’’ says Erasmus. “We had to do our bit to spur on growth in the sector, and ensure that we produced skilled people who could

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drive this growth and I still feel that sense of responsibility today. Our role is to support industry. And, of course, while we have to ensure that we work within the confines of educational frameworks, we absolutely want to adapt our approach to ensure that what we do is developed with business in mind. That has to be the priority so we know that we supply the industry with the people needed to meet the growing demand.”

This shortage of skilled engineers is something that has been recognised by Government. A grant, which offers manufacturers with less than 1,000 employees access to a £1,500 incentive to take on apprentices, has been extended to March 2014. It’s something Erasmus hopes the business community will take advantage of.

“It’s great that apprenticeships seem to be firmly on the agenda as a means of supporting industry,’’ says Erasmus. “While enterprises in the manufacturing and engineering sectors are not immune to the economic problems many businesses are facing, the positive news we have seen from car giant Nissan and North East-based suppliers is very encouraging, and it is our role to do what we can to make sure that these businesses invest in the workforce of tomorrow and choose apprenticeships as the means to grow their teams.

“We have something really special at SWDT. And I am committed to making sure that we are here, helping this region to prosper, for many years to come.” n

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COMPANY PROFILE

Nesma get the marketing mix right The North East Sales and Marketing Academy.

Over 100 students have been tutored for all levels of qualifications from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) with an enviable overall pass rate of more than 80 per cent. This is well above the national average and for just over half the modules there has been a 100 per cent pass rate. nesma expanded the range of qualifications in 2012, to offer the Chartered Institute of Public Relations’ Foundation Award and CAM diplomas, including their Digital Marketing qualifications.

Students can study the CIM Introductory Certificate to find out just what marketing involves and progress through the Professional Certificate and Diploma to the highest level, the Chartered Postgraduate Diploma. nesma tutors support and guide

students through each level and encourage them to qualify for Chartered Marketer status.

Veronica Swindale, nesma’s founding director, believes their flexible and supportive approach provides organisations and students with the best results. “We are able to deliver the tuition in a variety of ways to suit both the employer and the student, so, for example, we have run in-company programmes for businesses as diverse as Arco in Hull to Virgin Money in Newcastle as well as delivering online and centre based programmes.

“I am convinced that the fact that all our tutors are all qualified, experienced practitioners means that we are able to provide practical, pragmatic teaching which students can apply to their own workplaces immediately.”

This philosophy is proving successful, with many students choosing to progress from level three to level four and five qualifications with nesma. In the last round of CIM Student Awards, nesma had 12 shortlisted students, and the ultimate accolade of CIM Student of the Year for the north east branch. Helen Foley, currently marketing executive at Elanders Ltd received her award for CIM Professional Certificate at the CIM North East’s Centenary celebrations at the Copthorne Hotel.

www.nesma.co.uk info@nesma.co.uk Tel.: 07590 018205

Apprenticeship training… we’ve got it covered

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Call our Business Development Team today to see how we can help your business grow 01325 503210 Visit www.darlington.ac.uk/business Email business@darlington.ac.uk Call 01325 503210 Darlington College, Central Park, Haughton Road, Darlington, DL1 1DR

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SPECIAL REPORT | winter 13

INSIGHT

WINTER 13

Leading the way County Durham is pioneering exciting ways of bringing business and education together as Peter Jackson reports There may be little or no government money available to support all of businesses’ training and education needs but County Durham is not letting that hold it back.

It is, in fact, setting the agenda in at least three areas which are described here. First, BQ can exclusively reveal that a partnership of educational institutions and business is seeking to set up the region’s first University Training College, UTC, to meet the demand for engineering and manufacturing skills.

Second, two other organisations are seeking to set up a new studio school in Peterlee with a similar aim.

Finally, Business Durham is working to bring schools, businesses and other County Durham initiatives to encourage new approaches to business and education. >>

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INSIGHT

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INSIGHT

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County Durham could be home to the region’s first University Training College, UTC Employers have complained for years that youngsters leaving school lack the necessary skills – in numeracy and literacy – and attitude, to make useful employees.

In an attempt to tackle that university technical colleges, UTCs, are being set up around the country. And, BQ2 can exclusively reveal there are discussions to establish one in the North East.

UTCs are specialised colleges, sponsored by a university, offering 14 to 19-year-olds in partnership with industry the opportunity to take full-time, technically-oriented courses.

The intention is that they will engage students, particularly those who prefer hands-on practical learning, and turn out the kind of highly skilled job-ready youngsters that employers are crying out for.

Now a partnership including Sunderland University and believed to include Bishop Auckland College and unnamed business sponsors is seeking permission to set up a UTC in County Durham.

Gary Holmes, pro vice chancellor and dean of faculty at Sunderland University, confirmed that permission is being sought to set up a UTC from an adjudication panel in Sheffield in early February.

“We are not in a position where we can make a public statement yet but there is a University Technical College being mooted,’’ he said.

“The application we have in is to open one in – probably – 2015.’’

There are two UTCs in England. The first was the JCB academy in Staffordshire which opened in 2010. Last September saw the opening of the Black Country UTC in Walsall, in the West Midlands. There are three more in the pipeline, including one in Sheffield and the Government has approved plans for 13 more.

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The intention is that there should be 33 across the country.

UTCs typically take students from a sub region.

UTC Sheffield, sponsored by Sheffield Hallam University, will have 600 students drawn from Sheffield, Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham, Chesterfield, Bolsover and Bassetlaw so that no more than a handful will come from any single school.

“These colleges operate under very similar governance and finance basis as academies,’’ explained Prof Holmes.

While state funded, UTCs have greater control over their own curricula, hours and teachers’ pay and conditions. They differ from normal academies in that they take students from the age of 14 and there is a guaranteed involvement with local businesses and a university. The university helps develop the curriculum, staff development and allows its specialist facilities to be used to by the

At the bottom of it is an approach to skills development which can only benefit our region

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students. UTC Sheffield will offer specialist courses designed with employers in advanced engineering & manufacturing and creative & digital media.

Students will also study a more conventional academic curriculum – GCSEs and A Levels – alongside their specialist courses. But all academic learning will relate to employer-led projects with the intention that students will gain the skills and qualifications to open up opportunities for jobs and university courses in their specialist subjects.

In Sheffield employers will allow the students to come into their work setting and will give master classes in the ways in which companies work. Various professionals will come into the class room to guide and support students and there will be an emphasis on employability skills and an awareness of different sectors of employment.’’ Prof Holmes said: “At the bottom of it is an approach to skills development which can only benefit our region. There’s a huge deficit in the skills mix for engineering in this region and if you speak to the Engineering Employers Federation and the major employers of engineers in the region they will all tell you that there is a skills shortage and that the further development of the engineering capacity and therefore the wealth of the region is tied up with that.

“These are small steps and I don’t think the university is going to be involved in more than a very small number and possibly only one or two such projects.

“We can’t address this on our own but we are partnering with relevant interests in establishing a UTC.’’ He added: “We have an application in and we hope and expect we will be successful but we don’t know.’’ n

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COMPANY PROFILE

Investing in training is key to success for Derwentside Homes Supporting local communities by creating apprenticeships, placements and employment opportunities.

Derwentside Homes is committed to improving the lives of people living in the communities in which it works, and to becoming an employer of choice within the region.

Following the transfer of social housing from the council in 2006, Derwentside Homes made a commitment to offer a variety of apprenticeships and trainee placements across the organisation, and to work with local partners to encourage training opportunities.

Since then, within its own workforce, Derwentside Homes has created 40 apprenticeships, six graduate placements, two Future Job Fund placements and four trainee placements.

The training on offer varies from traditional skills such as plumbing and joinery, to office-based roles such as customer services and human recourses.

In 2010 Derwentside Homes became the first North East landlord to offer a housing apprenticeship, and last year the company signed the National Housing Federation’s North East Apprenticeship Commitment, pledging that at least 5% of its workforce will be made up of apprentices.

Recognising the importance of supporting the communities in which it works, the company set up the award winning social enterprise SHED (Social Housing Enterprise Durham) to provide job opportunities and training for local people.

SHED offers a range of estate-based services, including gardening, decorating and small repairs, creating an additional 10 new jobs for local people.

In 2012, Derwentside Homes in partnership with East Durham Partnership and North East Procurement set up its Brighter Futures Project, helping residents into employment by offering

Derwentside Homes’ Chief Executive Geraldine Wilcox (centre) pictured with some of the company’s current apprentices

tailored support with CV writing, interview techniques, training and job searches.

The company is also currently working with Durham County Council, New College Durham, the North Durham Engineering Forum, North East Procurement and local Area Action Partnerships to launch the County Durham Academy – an initiative to place 100 unemployed people into apprenticeships with local businesses.

Derwentside Homes Chief Executive Geraldine Wilcox said: “Our apprentices add great value to our company. A highly skilled and motivated

Our apprentices add great value to our company. A highly skilled and motivated workforce is essential to the success of our organisation. It is people that make the difference not organisations or processes

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workforce is essential to the success of our organisation. It is people that make the difference not organisations or processes.”

Derwentside Homes is supporting a number of events to celebrate National Apprenticeship week in March, including interviews on Star Radio, a talent and skills event at the Raddison Blue Hotel in Durham and a Skills Showcase at New College Durham.

Derwentside Homes, Greengates House, Amos Drive, Greencroft Industrial Park, Stanley, County Durham, DH9 7YE

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INSIGHT

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Elsewhere in County Durham there are plans for another type of school to close the skills gap Peterlee could soon be the site of a brand new studio school if plans to offer alternative education to young people in the area are agreed. The Academy at Shotton Hall and East Durham College, are bidding to develop the new type of government funded mainstream school, which would offer both academic and work-based qualifications to 14 to 19-yearolds in Peterlee.

If the bid is approved by the Department for Education, the school would specialise in STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, and health and social care qualifications, helping to meet skills shortages in the area and improving the career prospects of local teenagers.

Studio schools offer a different educational experience to traditional secondary schools and sixth forms.

As well as studying for GCSEs and vocational qualifications, students work with local employers on real business projects and experience a 9-to-5 working day while earning a wage.

The school is being backed by several local businesses and will cater for up to 300 pupils.

It is planned to open in September 2014 and premises are still being explored.

Lesley Powell, principal at the Academy at Shotton Hall which is jointly sponsoring the bid, said: “A studio school would be a great development for the area giving youngsters access to a broad curriculum and dynamic learning opportunities with local businesses.

“Although we advocate the merits of a traditional academic secondary education, we recognise that for some students, a vocational approach is more beneficial.

“A studio school would help nurture the entrepreneurial and enterprise skills of young people and help them to be better

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Studio supporter: Suzanne Duncan, principal at East Durham College

We recognise that for some students, a vocational approach is more beneficial

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prepared for higher education, employment or training.” And Suzanne Duncan, principal at East Durham College believes a studio school is another way to help students within the local area reach their full potential by studying in a different environment.

Duncan said: “The model of a studio school is recognised as one which develops work skills, an enterprise culture and creates high aspirations among its learners.

“Everyone studying at a studio school takes part in a large element of real work experience, equipping them with relevant work skills over an extended period of time.

“Young people who may not reach their full potential at a traditional school will flourish in an atmosphere where they are regularly challenged to take more responsibility for their learning that the enquiry based model demands and by learning to behave as a professional in the school as well as the workplace environment.” n

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COMPANY PROFILE

Corporate Social Responsibility Don’t duck* the issue; NEBP has the solution.

NEBP (Newcastle Education Business Partnership) is a registered charity working in Newcastle and the surrounding areas. We link you with schools and their communities; offering bespoke services to help pupils from 5 to 19 years of age develop employability skills and raise awareness of available career paths. NEBP are the complete solution.

We work in a range of ways; choose from our menu of services or talk to us about your specific needs, we offer: • Brokerage - linking you with schools • Project design • ‘Production’ activities to engage pupils • Employability skills delivery

• ‘Ambassadors for Work’ programme • Job interview experience for young people • Workplace visits • Financial support from business You choose the level of involvement; this could be allowing your staff time off to support students in school; hosting pupil visits or providing valuable work experience.

NEBP work with some of the most prestigious business names in the North East and have a successful track record of more than 20 years.

Our experience in linking education and business is unrivalled.

You and your staff will benefit from the experience of working with young people and your organisation will raise its profile in the

local community. *Ask us about Duck Production!

Please contact us for more information: Newcastle Education Business Partnership (NEBP), Drayton Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE3 3RU Tel: 0191 277 4444 Web: www.newcastle-ebp.co.uk e-mail: nebp@newcastle.gov.uk

BQ Breakfast

The new indispensible companion to Business Quarter Magazine in print, BQ Breakfast is a new daily digital news service providing comprehensive overviews of the days breaking news together with features and news analysis, business stories and events.

Reaching a targeted audience of 46,000 North East business directors and owners on a daily basis, BQ Breakfast will aim to inspire, enlighten and empower, reporting on relevant national and regional business stories for our readers at the start of each day, interweaving daily news with additional online editorial compiled by our award winning journalists.

Register now at www.bq-magazine.co.uk to receive your early morning update.

BQ Breakfast, the only way to start your day.

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SPECIAL REPORT | winter 13

INSIGHT

WINTER 13

County Durham is working hard to provide the skills necessary for a thriving economy Stewart Watkins makes the point forcefully: County Durham’s future depends on the skills and entrepreneurial spirit of the workforce. The managing director of Business Durham says: “If we are to thrive in County Durham we must support our existing businesses, attract new and innovative projects and develop a highly skilled and enterprising workforce.”And despite the current economic climate he remains upbeat about the future pointing to the continued growth of NetPark, near Sedgefield, and the recent announcement of the Hitachi Rail Project.

Business Durham is keen to encourage new approaches to enterprise and education, create new opportunities and grow the businesses in the county.

“At Business Durham we recognise the skills of our workforce but want our people to be fully equipped for the challenges ahead,’’ he says.

“We have an inspirational programme

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which raises the aspirations of our people, introducing them to sunrise technologies, space technologies and offering them the chance to meet and share the experiences of NASA astronauts.’’

Watkins explains how the Future Business Magnates programme lets students in County Durham schools experience the world of business.“Each participating school works with a partner from a County Durham based business to come up with a business idea and produce a business plan.

“Companies involved as business partners this year include Ebac Group, Thorn Lighting, NSK and Hydram Engineering, and with the majority of the county’s schools participating, this represents a great opportunity for businesses and schools to work together and build lasting partnerships.”

“This kind of project prepares our future entrepreneurs and workforce for the

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challenges ahead.” Recognising the importance of exports to the local and national economy, the theme for this year’s FBM Competition is Made in Durham – Sold to the World and Business Durham has encouraged students to develop ideas which could be exported around the world.

Sarah Slaven of Business Durham says: “We would like teams to look beyond the county this year and use their imagination and skill to come up with products and services with global appeal.”

Watkin is keen to illustrate that Business Durham’s vision works in harmony with other County Council initiatives to develop skills and enterprise.

For example, Durham Education Business Partnership works with schools and businesses to provide meaningful work experiences which are closely linked to the school curriculum and 17,000 students and 600 business volunteers will take part in DEBP programmes during 2013.

The County Durham Apprenticeship Programme provides support for businesses wishing to take on an apprentice. The county council, working with the National Apprenticeship Service, has improved the standard £1,500 grant and provides a total of £2,500 to SMEs. Through last year’s pilot programme 162 apprenticeship opportunities were supported and it is anticipated 130 additional apprenticeship opportunities will result from the programme. Watkins says: “We need an agile and innovative workforce with an entrepreneurial edge.

“I see programmes like Future Business Magnates as key in developing the most important asset County Durham has – its people.” n

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COMPANY PROFILE

Partnership brings new opportunities for apprentices Coast & Country has developed a partnership with the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) and Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council to assist unemployed people into work by creating apprenticeship and work experience opportunities.

The partnership will enable Coast & Country to create 15 apprenticeship places to start in February, as well as offering 30 work placements throughout the year in collaboration with the NECC and the Council.

The apprenticeships will be split into three categories. Seven places will be available in trades such as bricklaying and joinery, whilst the remaining places will be in both business administration and housing.

As part of the project, Coast & Country’s Westfield Farm Community Resource Centre will play host to the NECC’s ‘Programme for the Unemployed’ classes, which will help prepare unemployed people for the transition into work. The programme will deliver pre-apprenticeship support and fill the gap between worklessness and employment.

The partnering agreement means Coast & Country will be able to access a network of support that meets the needs of unemployed individuals, meaning the overall process is as streamlined, effective and successful as possible.

Iain Sim, Chief Executive of Coast & Country, one of the largest housing and regeneration companies in the north east, said: “Being able to offer the opportunity for 15 new apprentices to join our existing team of 19 is very important to us. The unemployment rate is extremely high at present, and by creating these positions, it shows our commitment to assisting the communities in which we operate.

“Our partnership exemplifies how the pooling of resources and expertise can unlock a wealth of new opportunities for unemployed people in our areas.”

Each apprentice will receive full support throughout their apprenticeship including assistance in developing employability skills.

Alastair Waugh, Coast & Country’s Learning and

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Charlotte Bagley, Administrations Clerk and Rob Wilcox, Gas Services Manager

Our partnership exemplifies how the pooling of resources and expertise can unlock a wealth of new opportunities for unemployed people in our areas.

Development Partner, who is a key figure in the management of the apprenticeship programme, said: “I really believe that the potential of young people is unlimited. Here at Coast & Country we strive to offer quality support and encouragement to all our apprentices throughout their time with us to unlock their potential.”

Coast & Country run several annual collaborative events designed to offer the apprentices a valuable opportunity to build practical skills in the workplace.

These skills and qualities will benefit them as they build their careers, which is why Coast & Country strive to provide a structured training programme and opportunities for continuous development.

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James Ramsbotham, Chief Executive of the NECC, said: “This partnership is built for success as the strong points of the organisations complement each other perfectly. This will enable us to get down to the ground work of creating more employment opportunities in the most efficient way possible.

“Reducing the number of unemployed people in the north east is the key to the economic prosperity of the region. By working on projects such as this one with Coast & Country, we are constantly edging closer to seeing the north east prosper economically.”

Westfield Farm is located in Dormanstown, Redcar and was transformed from a derelict property to a well-equipped facility that recently became a UK online centre. It offers training, meeting and conference facilities, as well as community gardens and allotments, and a residents’ resource centre, which are all available for use by the local community.

Alastair concluded by saying: “The support from the Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council’s Routes to Employment Team and NECC will help us to create a fantastic learning experience for young people in the Borough and to be recognised within the Housing Sector as one of the leading apprenticeship providers. “

14 Ennis Square, Dormanstown, Redcar, TS10 5JR Tel: 01642 771300 twitter.com/cchousingonline facebook.com/coastandcountryhousing

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peaking at the right time Graduate internships can provide growing businesses with the talent they need as one Newcastle firm has discovered

Graduates are proving the key to success for an expanding company which provides business intelligence solutions for some of the world’s largest organisations. Since launching in 2008, Peak Indicators has grown into a consultancy firm with clients ranging from John Lewis to the Irish Post Office.

Founded by University of Sunderland graduate Andy Ball, four years ago in Chesterfield, Peak Indicators now employs up to 48 permanent staff and most recently opened up a Newcastle branch at Regent Centre, Gosforth, turning to Sunderland’s graduate internship scheme, to provide graduates who could help grow the business further.

Graduates Clare Winter, Carley Howell and Steven Wales recently joined Peak Indicators under the internship scheme as a human resource co-ordinator, a business consultant, and a systems adminstrator respectively.

Matt Harte, Peak Indicators head of delivery, said: “We believe we’re offering an exciting opportunity for talented individuals to join an expanding consultancy and perform in a technical and challenging business environment.

“We opened up a Newcastle office as we knew there was such an untapped pool of talent coming through the region’s universities, and knew if we had a base here we could

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offer the sort of opportunities you’d normally get by moving to London.

“As we’ve grown there was a real need to increase our non-customer facing staff, and so far we’ve been incredibly impressed with Clare and Carley’s dedication and professionalism, and look forward to continuing our relationship with the University of Sunderland.

“There’s a definite enthusiasm with interns, they pick up on new technologies so quickly and show willingness and drive to succeed.

Interns pick up on new technologies so quickly and show willingness and drive to succeed

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As a company we want to embrace what is being taught in universities and want to be stretched by our staff into new areas and value their ideas.

“Without the graduates we would not have been able to expand in the way we have.

Our strength is that we’re close to the business we provide solutions for, using Oracle Business Intelligence, we’re not based on an off-shore model.”

All new staff are assigned a mentor and placed on a six-week training programme to ease them into the transition of work at Peak Indicators.

A further recruitment round is planned by the company in February.

Nickola Gray, University of Sunderland internship development manager, said: “The internship schemes that we run here at the university prove that graduates can make a difference to business during turbulent economic times.

“It’s also helping to retain graduate talent in the region in local organisations and crucially, helping to create and strengthen relationships between the university and business.

“We are delighted we have been able to match up a number of our interns with Peak Indicators, and the feedback has been very positive. We hope to continue this relationship for a growing organisation.

“Many companies engaged in the scheme have returned to the university to see what they can do next to develop, how they can continue to work with us and access further student and graduate talent.”

The graduate internship scheme offers business a financial contribution to employ a recent >>

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Going places: (L-R) Steven Wells, Matt Harte, Carley Howell and Clare Winter

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SUCCESS STORY

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Talent train: Carley Howell and Clare Winter graduate on a six-month fixed term contract.

For graduates, they gain six-months experience at a graduate level job, are paid a minimum salary of £14,859 per annum pro-rata, develop their skills and gain valuable work experience that will help secure future employment.

The scheme, launched in 2009, has received strong support from the European Regional Development Funding, ERDF, and the former regional development agency ONE North East.

Former bank worker Clare Winter, 39, from Washington, who studied a degree and a Masters in human resource management, said:

“Despite not having a technical background, what appealed to me about Peak Indicators was their willingness to train someone with the right skill set.

“I’m really enjoying the job, the culture of the organisation has really appealed to me, everyone’s ideas are valued, people are the business and you feel valued as an individual.

“This job certainly made me realise that I made the right decision to change careers and I thoroughly enjoyed my time at university. I’d encourage any graduate to enquire about the Internships scheme.”

I would encourage any student to make the most of their time at university, seize any opportunities and get involved in as much as you can

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Carley Howell, 21, from Sunderland, who studied business and marketing management, said: “When I graduated I worked at Sunderland’s Students’ Union for a year as the vice president during which time I heard about this job through the graduate internships scheme. I thought it was too good to be true.

“I applied and a month later I was in a job I absolutely love. It’s completely different to anything I have done before. It’s really interesting and I would rather be in a role where I am being challenged, rather than doing a job that comes easy to me.

“I could never envisage this job becoming boring. I’m working with major clients and their business intelligence systems, working with their data to create reports and the analysis of it.”

She added: “I would encourage any student to make the most of their time at university, seize any opportunities and get involved in as much as you can, it will help with your CV and strengthens your experience when going for interviews.” n

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NORTH EAST SMES You can get up to £3500 of funding for a Business Improvement Project Recruit a Science, Technology, Engineering Masters/Doctoral Newcastle Uni student for up to 24 weeks to undertake a bespoke in depth project Get a 50% subsidy towards their employment costs and a grant for project set up Supervision throughout placement from University Academic specialised in the project area Example projects • Design of new energy efficient processes or products • Design of products/services for new markets • Design of technologies which support renewable and clean energy generation • Feasibility studies for renewable energy projects • Audit of energy consumption and energy management planning

Take advantage of this ERDF funded project to help improve your company’s performance

Interested?

Then contact Postgraduates for Business Tel 0191 222 5259 Email Melanie.dunnett@ncl.ac.uk www.ncl.ac.uk/business/knowledge/NSC_SupportPartnerships.htm Follow us @postgrads4busin Facebook us www.facebook.com/NCLUniStempostgradfunding