BRIDGING THE GAP
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suite of retrofit courses that have been developed through a pioneering collaboration between education and industry are now open for applications
through the North East Institute of Technology (NEIoT).
Designed to make participants ‘industry- ready’, three bespoke courses will seek to address the widespread retrofitting skills shortage by training the next generation of Retrofit Advisors, Assessors and Coordinators. Retrofit involves the delivery of essential works and installation of renewable technologies to improve the energy efficiency of existing homes. It is an essential factor in the UK’s plans to achieve net zero by 2050 given the UK has one of the worst energy efficiency ratings in Europe. The courses present an opportunity for unemployed individuals who are looking to reskill, as well as those who are already employed in the construction sector and wish to upskill.
Participants who successfully complete courses will receive the essential certifications to cover various aspects of the retrofitting process in line with the PAS 2035 quality standard, becoming qualified to work in the sector and help the region decarbonise its housing stock. NEIoT director, Sharon Grant has championed the launch of the suite of courses which has been long in the making. She said: “We are thrilled to be accepting applications for the new courses that will address the practical skills needs of the sector. By integrating industry expertise, the courses align with
industry standards and best practices while incorporating the latest developments in retrofitting technologies and methodologies.
“The complex nature of the retrofit process and the roles required to deliver to a high standard presents a substantial opportunity for people across the North East and Tees Valley and it’s exciting to be part of the journey.”
The courses will be offered by lead NEIoT partner, New College Durham, and collaborating further education institutions Middlesbrough College, East Durham College, and Tyne Coast College at their respective campuses all on a part-time basis.
It is reported that most of the 3.4 million homes in the North East and Yorkshire will require domestic retrofit, and this will require 67,000 new full-time retrofit positions to meet the Government’s 2050 net zero target. Helping lead the charge in changing the landscape of retrofit training in the region is North of England contractor and NEIoT lead construction partner, Esh Group. Corporate Affairs and ESG Director for Esh, Darush Dodds, has hailed the collaboration between education and industry.
He said: “These courses have been meticulously developed and designed with industry partners at the fore, therefore
employers – be that social housing providers, local authorities or those in the supply chain - can be confident that their employees will gain a high quality, accredited learning experience and become skilled retrofit professionals ready for the job at hand.”
Courses are fully funded, or part funded, depending on employment status or employer size as a result of Skills Bootcamp and CITB funding. The Retrofit Coordinator and Assessor qualifications are accredited by ABBE, and the Advisor course is accredited by City & Guilds.
To find out more about the courses and apply, visit
www.neiot.ac.uk
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total of 28 students have now ‘graduated’ from the programme with cohorts one, two and three having successfully completed end point assessments. Cohort
four is due to complete by the end of the year, while cohorts five and six have commenced their studies at South Staffordshire College.
Ken Price, Managing Director of ADSA, is delighted by the success, stating: “The apprenticeship programme continues to set the standard for excellence in the industry, nurturing skilled professionals who are well equipped to meet the demands of the automatic door sector. “As well as the incredible commitment to
learning that the students have shown, I am most proud of the way all of the cohorts are bonding, forming friendships for life.”
Course camaraderie was perfectly illustrated by students from cohort three (pictured below with college practitioners Steve Rutherford and Rob Thompson) who celebrated their achievements with a farewell party, inviting ADSA representatives to join them. End point assessments require students to face the ultimate test by demonstrating that they can put their knowledge into practice.
This includes:
• Successfully installing a swing or slider- powered door operator, including interface with activation and safety devices
• Diagnosing and repairing a faulty powered pedestrian door system
• Preparing and passing a comprehensive professional interview which explores individual learner records and delves into knowledge of standards and essential health and safety practices and procedures
• Passing a written examination covering all aspects of their apprenticeship learning. Course content is continually evolving, combining both practical and academic learning, which is industry focused and up-to-date.
In April, South Staffordshire College underwent an OFSTED inspection, with Powered Pedestrian Door Technician students, practitioners, and the ADSA team featuring prominently in the audit process.
26 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER OCTOBER 2024
The college received a “Good” status for its delivery of apprenticeships, highlighting the quality and effectiveness of the programme. The next cohort of apprentices got underway this month (September) with a few places available for the following intake which will begin in the Spring of 2025.
For those interested in nominating potential apprentices, please contact
fae@adsa.org.uk
Amber Fowler and Kate Harris (pictured below) have made their mark as industry trailblazers after becoming the first female apprentices to complete the PPD Technician apprenticeship – both achieving distinctions. Amber, employed by DJ Doors and mentored by MD Dave Lyne, excelled under his guidance. “Dave’s mentorship was crucial,” Amber shares. “His belief in me pushed me to achieve more than I imagined.” Kate, working with Record UK, showed incredible dedication by commuting from Scotland each training week to South Staffordshire College.
“The commute was tough, but the opportunity togrow made it worthwhile,” Kate reflects. Both Amber and Kate credit their success to the support from Steve Rutherford and Rob Thompson at South Staffordshire College. Now, as qualified Powered Pedestrian Door
Technicians, they are excited about their future roles and are “ready to make our mark in the industry.”
Read the latest at:
www.bsee.co.uk
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