42 Training A different way of learning
WHEN CITY AND Guilds introduced its QCF Diploma in Air Conditioning or Refrigeration (6187-01 or -02 respectively) in 2011 it was greeted with trepidation combined with fairly negative reactions, ranging from gently sceptical to outright ‘not fit for purpose’, writes Karen Greenbank of the Practical Refrigeration Training Centre.
Totally different to the previous NVQ qualification (6087) the underlying concepts were actually good.
Building services elements such as health and safety and environmental issues were expanded, a scientific principles module was added, and the existing technical elements were developed to include specific copper brazing and electrical knowledge as well as the essential FGas. In creating a modular format, with increased use of online assessments as well as practical assignments and portfolio work, it presented a comprehensive and up to date qualification to reflect the modern, multi-tasking and ‘high tech’ nature of the acr industry today.
It also presented major challenges to the training organisations already delivering the traditional NVQ.
Achieving an over 90% success rate from the first year of completion our ‘class of 2014’ went one better and 100% achieved their qualification this summer. Working in conjunction with Skills Solutions in Manchester and Training 2000 in Blackburn who provide eligible funding, pastoral care and the Key Skills elements, existing techniques were adapted to meet
the needs of the new
qualification: Small classes – no more than 10 people
Block release, not day release
Expert tuition – all technical modules are delivered by time served acr/ electrical engineers
Everyone takes their City and Guilds 2079 category 1
Good hand outs/ course notes/ guidance
Plenty of practical work on real working systems
Timetabled portfolio sessions Support and pastoral care as needed.
Courses run all year without the restriction of conventional ‘terms’ and the first level 3 group is now underway and keen to prove that it can do just as well.
Training and personal development is not limited to apprentices and engineers just starting out.
The QCF Diploma is open to engineers wishing to change vocation or those wanting to update their qualifications to be able to get their engineers’ skill card. While working legally and being environmentally friendly are good, training can enhance all aspects of working life.
Adult learners come from such diverse industries as aerospace, oil and gas and pharmaceuticals, travel from all over the world and may be 18 to over 70 years old. Benefitting from the same mix of small classes, practical work, short training periods, and, of course, expert tuition, courses include refrigerant handling – hydrocarbons and ammonia as well as FGas – service and installation on refrigeration/ air conditioning plant, copper brazing, electrical and design.
The modern air conditioning and refrigeration industry is complex and demanding. The right knowledge and skills will give the confidence to progress and thrive.
Toshiba expands training into the North
TOSHIBA HAS OPENED two new air conditioning training centres in recent months, one at its Leatherhead headquarters and a new facility in Manchester to serve the North.
TOSHIBA HAS OPENED
They are part of a new network of 13 training centres being opened at Toshiba and distributor locations across the country. The new centres will operate all year round, with a scheduled programme of advertised courses, supported by bespoke training to meet specific installer and end user needs.
Between them, the two new centres will have the capacity to cater for more than 1000 engineers a year.
Added to the capacity of the other centres in the network, it gives Toshiba the ability to train more than 2000 people each year, making it one of the most significant providers of air conditioning training in the UK. Engineers are given hands-on experience of installing, commissioning and servicing the latest technology, including VRF air conditioning, electronic controls, leak detection and digital inverters. It includes training in the installation and use of Toshiba’s award-winning refrigerant management and protection systems, which offer complete reassurance for building owners and occupants. The North of England training centre, based at Middleton in Manchester, is equipped with a fully operational RD6 leak detection system.
Toshiba Carrier is sponsoring the Training and Careers Theatre at the 2016 ACR Show. ACR News September 2014 Visit ACR News online at
www.acr-news.com
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