http://www.process.nsacademy.co.ukThe latest news from the national skills academy.Copyright 2011 - Process Nsacademy. All rights reserved. News of the National Skills Academy's industrial biotechnology training was reported in Teeside's Evening Gazette - <a href="http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/business/business-news/2013/02/08/new-centre-of-biotechnology-training-84229-32771609/" title="Evening Gazette IB article">read story. Chemical makers more upbeat - the National Skills Academy's&nbsp;facilities was mentioned&nbsp;in an article by the CIA in Process Engineer - <a href="http://processengineering.theengineer.co.uk/chemical-makers-more-upbeat/1015568.article" target="_blank">read story. Losing sight of process safety? The National Skills Academy's PSM initiative was reported in Process Engineer - <a href="http://processengineering.theengineer.co.uk/losing-sight-of-process-safety/1015246.article" target="_blank">read story. Proskills partnership offers new training courses to sector&nbsp;- the new alliance between the National Skills Academy Process Industries, Cogent and the National Skills Academy Materials, Production and Supply was reported in PrintWeek - <a href="http://www.printweek.com/news/1172206/proskills-partnership-offers-new-training-courses-sector/" target="_blank">read story /news-events/news/february-2013-news-coverage.aspx11/02/2013 The National Skills Academy Process Industries is working with the <a href="http://www.uk-cpi.com/">Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) to develop a series of training programmes targeting workplace skills in the UK industrial biotechnology (IB) sector. CPI, which runs the National Industrial Biotechnology Facility at Wilton, is authoring and delivering the courses, the first of which will improve general awareness of microbiology among operators, technicians, supervisors and support staff employed in the IB area. The importance of up-skilling the existing IB workforce was highlighted in the industry-led <a href="http://www.berr.gov.uk/files/file51144.pdf">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 responds 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. The agreed outputs from the collaboration will be hands-on practical courses that combine CPI's technical expertise and its <a href="https://catapult.innovateuk.org/high-value-manufacturing">High Value Manufacturing Catapult capabilities with the Academy's skills assurance and links into industry. Kevin Thrower, biotechnology business manager, National Skills Academy Process Industries, said: "In order 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 need to equip people with the right skill sets. Working with the 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 scheduled for delivery in March. Representatives from the Skills Academy and its partner in the strategic skills alliance for the Process Industries, <a href="http://www.cogent-ssc.com/">Cogent, will be attending the Leading IB: A UK Showcase event in Westminster on 22nd-23rd January where they will be discussing IB skills development.&nbsp; /news-events/news/national-skills-academy-announces-ib-training-programme-collaboration-with-the-centre-for-process-innovation.aspx22/01/2013 25th September 2012 - Working in conjunction with bioeconomy consultants, NNFCC, the National Skills Academy Process Industries has launched a one-day training module aimed at the UK's growing anaerobic digestion (AD) industry. The course is the first in a series being planned by the Academy to upskill workers in the technical and safety aspects of the AD process. Anaerobic digestion involves bacteria breaking down organic material, such as agricultural and food wastes, in a digester. In the absence of oxygen, this process produces biogas which is used to produce electricity or purified to run vehicles or injected directly into the gas grid under the Feed-In-Tariff Scheme. As well as the gas, anaerobic digestion also produces nutrient rich digestate which can be used as a bio-fertiliser. The Coalition Government has made a commitment to introduce measures to increase energy from waste through anaerobic digestion. The resulting Anaerobic Digestion Strategy and Action Plan from DEFRA identifies that building UK skills is a challenge that needs to be overcome if the AD market is to thrive. As part of its remit to increase skills and competencies in the UK process industries, including biotechnology, the National Skills Academy Process Industries has invested in the development of a training course aimed at operating staff employed on farm and commercial AD sites. The course focuses on providing underpinning scientific knowledge appropriate to the job role of the technicians operating the units. It will provide the chemical understanding of how an AD process works, for example the importance of variables such as pH and acidity. Understanding the chemistry of the process will improve the knowledge of the technicians enabling them to interpret trends better and make informed decisions about how the plant is operated. Putting this scientific and operating knowledge into practice will allow technicians to increase the yield of methane, creating greater economic benefit and increasing plant profitability. Kevin Thrower, biotechnology business manager, National Skills Academy Process Industries, said:&nbsp;"NNFCC's knowledge of the AD sector combined with the Academy's experience in developing targeted and standards-based training has created a strong offering which we firmly believe will help to improve knowledge and skills in the AD market and contribute to its future success." Courses will be delivered by Academy approved providers at various locations around the country. The first course is scheduled for delivery in October with further courses planned for later in the year.&nbsp; /news-events/news/national-skills-academy-targets-skills-to-support-future-of-uk’s-anaerobic-digestion-sector.aspx25/09/2012 Composites Skills Alliance established to boost skills provision for employers in the sector The National Skills Academy Process Industries has announced a new strategic partnership agreement with Semta, the sector skills council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies, to ensure composites businesses have the training support they need. The agreement, which sees the formation of the Composites Skills Alliance, has been established to develop and maintain the industry-led occupational training delivery standards that support a growing range of composites qualifications and courses. /news-events/news/composites-skills-alliance.aspx10/07/2011 Dr David Adams has been appointed as Cogent Director of Science and Higher Education (HE). Dr Adams' responsibilities include leading on Science and HE, including policy, as well as project management of a number of key programmes within Cogent's strategic Life Sciences Skills Action Plan. Dr Adams has a long and established career in the biosciences, based largely in academia and with frequent interaction with industry. His most recent position was as the Director, UK Centre for Bioscience, Higher Education Academy; the Centre supported a large network of learning and teaching practitioners involved in HE bioscience throughout the UK.&nbsp; Prior to this he held senior academic posts with the University of Leeds.&nbsp; He is a prolific contributor to both academic journals and books, as well as holding memberships of a variety of national academic committees. Dr Adams said, <span class="pull-quotes-important-information">"with the launch of Cogent's Skills Action plan for Growth in UK Life Sciences this is a particularly exciting time to join the Sector Skills Council.&nbsp; As Director of the UK Centre for Bioscience a major priority was promotion of key skills in the biosciences.&nbsp;&nbsp; "I now greatly welcome the opportunity to extend this work by collaborating with colleagues throughout the UK in ensuring students achieve their full potential as the well-equipped, communicative, critical and creative problem solvers sought by employers." Cogent CEO Joanna Woolf said, <span class="pull-quotes-important-information">"I'm delighted to welcome David to Cogent, his background and experience will bring a tremendous focus to the delivery of our strategic programmes in life sciences, working closely with key stakeholders in HE, professional bodies and employers across the sector.&nbsp; "Our over-riding objective is to ensure that the wealth-creating life science industries are promoted as an exciting and accessible career choice and have access to the right skills, delivered through employer-shaped learning provision, which is underpinned by national industry standards and industry placement opportunities." Dr Adams has a PhD in Microbiology from theUniversity of Aberdeen. He has a particular interest in the promotion of creativity in bioscientists and recently edited the book Effective Learning in the Life Sciences: How Students Can Achieve Their Full Potential.&nbsp; He also helped introduce enterprise to bioscience modules at University of Leeds and elsewhere, and co-edited the book Enterprise for Life Scientists.&nbsp; /news-events/news/dr-david-adams.aspx29/09/2011 The National Skills Academy for Process Industries has recently welcomed Tom Preece to head up its new composites division.&nbsp; Tom was instrumental in writing the bid that saw the Academy win the extension to its remit of improving skills in the process industries. Appointed in April Tom comes from previous roles in skills and training. Most recently he was at the National Skills Academy for Manufacturing where he held the posts of East Midlands Regional Manager and subsequently Head of Finance and Admin. Prior to this Tom's early career was as an accountant, having graduated in Economics. He completed his MBA in 2001 and ran his own management consultancy for a number of years.&nbsp; Tom will be working under the banner of the Composites Skills Alliance, a partnership between the National Skills Academy for Process Industries and Semta, the sector skills council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies. &nbsp;His ambition is to increase the skills and competence of UK composites businesses, predominantly in aerospace, automotive, construction and wind energy. The Composites Skills Alliance will ensure that the network of providers maintains the necessary provision to meet the needs of emerging technologies and market growth. Tom comments "We are unique in that we are licensed by the Government and led by employers, to deliver a national, co-coordinated training and skills service through our network of quality assured providers within the composites arena" For composites, a sector with a turnover of around £1.5bn and recent annual growth of 15% for carbon fibre composites, the Alliance can support growth in low carbon technologies and 'light weighting' of major structures such as wind-turbine blades and aircraft wings. Employing over 40,000 people, composites is seen as an important emerging technology in the UK&nbsp; but one that has only a limited number of quality assured training providers.&nbsp; The key role of the Alliance is to raise the quality of composites training as well as improving the skills of the existing manufacturing workforce with composites-specific skills. This includes developing and implementing new apprenticeship frameworks that will deliver more advanced training. /news-events/news/composites-lead-hired-at-national-skills-academy-for-process-industries.aspx10/10/2011 Sixty top-tier COMAH companies have signalled their intention to upskill their Senior Executives and Board Members in the area of Process Safety Leadership, demonstrating their appetite for a quality assured approach to training delivery in the chemical and petrochemical industries. The National Skills Academyfor Process Industries has worked with Cogent, the sector skills council for the science-based industries and a consortium of trade bodies and senior industrialists to set the standards for theProcess Safety Leadership for Senior Executivescourse. This high level course will provide participants with a detailed understanding of the business case for effective process safety management. It will offer a clear insight into how to promote a positive safety culture throughout the organisation through the effective engagement of the workforce. The one day course is supplemented with a one to one follow up and review of actions taken and lessons learned by the participating organisations, delivered by the course leader. In the recent past, there have been several attempts by organisations to develop training in the area of process safety leadership and management. Ian Travers, from the Health &amp; Safety Executive (HSE) who sits on the Process Safety Project Board supports the objectives of the project by saying, <p class="body-copy-primary-navigation pull-quotes-important-information"> "The control of major hazard risks requires a structured and systematic approach based on sound process safety management principles. Provision of an effective process safety management system is a key requirement of the COMAH Regulations and its development, implementation and maintenance requires competent staff at all levels within major hazard organisations but especially at senior management level. This training standard and the underpinning training will help equip senior managers with the understanding and skills needed to ensure major hazard risks are being effectively managed within their organisation." Designed to support senior executives, the course provides a clear framework for understanding the principles of process safety leadership across an organisation and the methods used to deliver sustainable results. Courses will be delivered by Academy Accredited Training Providers, who will have undertaken a rigorous quality assurance process and will have had their training delivery and personnel endorsed against the requirements of the nationally agreed training standard for Process Safety Leadership. Senior executives and managers who are yet to register their organisations interest are encouraged to contact theSkillsAcademyto arrange their training. &nbsp; To register your interest in the course, contact theSkillsAcademyon 0845 607 0140 or email <a href="mailto: industry@process.nsacademy.co.uk">industry@process.nsacademy.co.uk&nbsp; /news-events/news/demand-soars-for-process-safety-leadership-training.aspx12/08/2011 The Composites Skills Alliance has signed up the first of its training providers to deliver accredited Composites training across the UK. The Alliance, a partnership between the National Skills Academy for Process Industries and Semta, the sector skills council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies, has confirmed four Further Education establishments as the Founder Providers. Oxford and Cherwell Valley College, Yeovil College, Southampton City College and Burnley College were all identified as having proven experience of Composites delivery. The four colleges offer training across aerospace, automotive, marine and motor sport and are being assisted by the Academy to develop further courses in line with employers needs. Course development will be informed by an Employer Steering Group which includes representatives from across the key composites sectors. Tom Preece, leading the Composites Skills Alliance, was encouraged by the response of the training providers at a recent event at Pera Innovation Park: "We have seen real strength in the colleges agreeing to work together and wanting to further develop their provision in line with the guidance coming from employers. The colleges differ by target market sector, training facilities and courses available so there is great synergy in them working together." Mike Williams from Burnley College added: "The Composites Skills Alliance is joining up the training provision in the Composites arena and helping colleges such as ours to develop further courses. Accrediting the college, facilities, trainers and course content will mean that all colleges are delivering to a specific standard. This in turn assures employers that their employees are receiving approved quality training. The Alliance will also benefit colleges by marketing Composites training collectively to employers." /news-events/news/composites-training-providers-working-together.aspx10/10/2011 The Technical Apprenticeship Service (TAS) is an easy to use recruitment service for employers, providers and apprentices. It was officially launched on 13th October, by <a href="http://www.cogent-ssc.com/" target="_blank" title="Cogent">Cogent Chairman, Tom Crotty at Cogent SSC's Annual Skills Forum hosted by Wirral West MP, Esther McVey, at the House of Commons. It is a new subsidiary of Cogent, initially funded from the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) Growth and Innovation Fund, but with a longer term remit to be fully self-sustaining. The newly-formed <a href="http://www.the-tas.com/" target="_blank" title="TAS">Technical Apprenticeship Service is an employer-led organisation which attracts, selects and places technical apprentices. It is aimed at companies involved in the process manufacturing industries: chemicals, life sciences, pharmaceuticals, polymers and associated industries. The service aims to increase Apprenticeship numbers in the Process Sector by addressing barriers - for example, establishing new provision in areas which have previously lacked specialist technical training. The over-riding aim is finding "real jobs for real apprentices" but TAS will support employers who might not be able to employ the apprentice at the outset. It will also encourage apprentices to progress to higher levels of learning and promote the new Higher Level Apprenticeships, particularly in Life Sciences. With University fees escalating, this offers a debt-free route to degree-level employment while gaining essential workplace skills. Jayne Edwards, newly appointed Managing Director of TAS said, <span class="blue">"the wide support for TAS demonstrates the importance of science-based Apprenticeships to the economy; we look forward to supporting employers, particularly SMEs, in finding the right calibre of people for their business." Phil Jones, CEO of the National Skills Academy Process Industries added,<span class="blue">"the Skills Academywill support the delivery of TAS - and we've already identified a strong appetite from employers who are seeking talented, motivated individuals, who are equipped with the specialist, high value, skills these industries need to succeed." Joanna Woolf Cogent CEO added, "our event at the House of Commons was a real celebration of the specialist apprentices across the science-using footprint. The launch of TAS will support companies to boost their skills base, increase capacity to meet future demand and is a cost-effective way to address skills gaps." More about TAS <span class="orange">For employers TAS: Helps to create the specification for the ideal apprentice Recruits, screens, skills tests and interviews candidates Provides employers with a shortlist of the most suitable candidates Employs the apprentice on behalf of a company (if required) managing all payroll and HR functions Matches the employer with the most suitable provider to access the associated government funded training Mentors the apprentices throughout their Apprenticeship. <span class="Apple-style-span">For individuals TAS: Identifies paid positions they might like to apply for Supports them throughout the programme Helps them to use the Apprenticeship to move on to a career in their specialism, or take studies A bursary is available for individuals who complete their Apprenticeship and want to go on to access higher level studies, for example, a High Level Apprenticeship Provides the opportunity to earn a living and avoid student debts Provides exit support - at the end of the Apprenticeship it is expected that the apprentice will be offered a job with their host employer. If not, they will be supported to find another position. <span class="Apple-style-span">For providers TAS: Provides an additional service to their current employers who are unable to employ the apprentice at the start of the programme Brings employers looking for training to the provider acting as an extension of their business development team Acts as the point of liaison between the apprentice, training organisation and employer to ensure all needs are being met Works in partnership with them to promote Apprenticeships to stakeholders Makes their programmes viable Supports them to extend provision into new programme areas. Employers who are interested in the services of TAS, can call 01925 515 219 or email,&nbsp; <a href="mailto: tony.prior@cogent-ssc.com">tony.prior@cogent-ssc.com <a href="http://www.the-tas.com/" target="_blank" title="TAS">www.the-tas.com /news-events/news/tas-launch.aspx17/10/2011 The September edition of The Manufacturer looks at energy and sustainable manufacturing with Croda's Paul Newton, VP Corporate Finance. <a href="http://issuu.com/themanufacturer/docs/tm_september_2011" title="http://issuu.com/themanufacturer/docs/tm_september_2011">http://issuu.com/themanufacturer/docs/tm_september_2011&nbsp;&nbsp; Pages 33 - 35.&nbsp; /news-events/news/the-manufacturer-interview-with-paul-newton.aspx20/10/2011 Bayer CropScience Ltd inNorwich, has received a prestigious <a href="http://www.cogent-ssc.com/Gold_Standard/Show-Your-Commitment/index.php" target="_blank" title="Roll of Honour">Roll of Honour Certificate in recognition of its commitment to the Gold Standard, the industry skills benchmark for world class performance, from <a href="http://www.cogent-ssc.com/" target="_blank" title="Cogent Website">Cogent, the Sector Skills Council for the chemical industry. The Gold Standard, which was also signed up by Europe in April this year, is a national framework for continuing professional development, setting out the skills required for world class performance in key job roles in the process industries. It encompasses job role skills, knowledge and behaviours and requires participating employees to achieve high levels of understanding regarding the theory, principles and practices associated with a variety of appropriate business improvement techniques as well as the concepts of Resource Efficiency applied to energy, water and waste. As part of the process, Bayer went through the ASET (Assessment System for Employer Training) procedure, one of a suite of National Skills Academy Assessment Tools designed to allow employers to have their own in-house training benchmarked against the national Gold Standard.&nbsp; The result of this exercise revealed that in-house training met and exceeded Gold Standard requirements. The Bayer Training Team, led by Hilary Wright, is delighted to have achieved the Award:&nbsp;"We have been very focused on working towards the standard, to ensure that employees are trained in high-value skills, aligned to business need, and ultimately to increase the company's competitive advantage. Also, in providing clear progression routes and career pathways which allow individuals to reach their full potential. We are very happy to have achieved this Nationally recognised standard." Jenny Clucasfrom Cogent, who presented the Certificate, added: <span class="blue">"I have been very impressed with Bayer's investment in the site itself and equally, having met some of the people, by their positive attitude and competence.&nbsp; Bayer is clearly committed to the development of their workforce in line with their company strategy and the Gold Standard Framework, and to train personnel to be highly-skilled business aware individuals." Roger Langford from the National Skills Academy Process Industries was also at the presentation and commented: "Bayer has demonstrated that companies can take up and develop a competency based programme using their own in-house resources.&nbsp; I couldn't have done it better myself.&nbsp; The Academy is structured to deliver such outcomes but Bayer CropScience is fortunate to have the resource to facilitate delivery internally." Plant tour: l-r: Colin Dann , Bayer CropScience; Jenny Clucas, Cogent; Roger Langford, &nbsp;National Skills Academy Process Industries and <span class="body-copy-primary-navigation black">Chris Perry, Norfolk Chamber of Commerce <span class="blue"> /news-events/news/bayer-cropscience-receives-a-cogent-gold-standard-certificate-for-its-process-operator-training-programme.aspx07/11/2011 Dear Colleague/Partner, The North East Process Industry, which includes the&nbsp;chemistry using industries of chemicals, fine &amp; speciality chemicals, petrochemicals, polymers and composites, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, bioresources, biofuels and renewable energy and low carbon materials, are vital to the&nbsp;future of the North East economy.&nbsp;More than 1400 companies directly involved or in the supply chain of&nbsp;these important&nbsp;sectors in the region and generate £26bn of annual sales, employ&nbsp;190,000 people and export £12bn each year. As a member of the North East Process Industry Cluster (NEPIC) we play an active role in helping to secure the future of these sectors. If you are not already a member I would recommend that you consider joining and contribute to our future success. NEPIC has a strategic role in shaping the future of our sectors and has made significant impact since its formation in 2005, just one clear indication is the 3,600 plus jobs NEPIC has helped create or safeguard which equates to generating over £1 billion of Gross Value Added (GVA) to the north east regional economy. In addition to playing an active role in shaping the future of our industry your company will see a multitude of additional benefits which far outweigh the modest membership fee. About NEPIC membership NEPIC is a not for profit organisation limited by guarantee and membership is restricted to companies and not personal membership. Fees start from as little as £200 + VAT per annum and based on a company's number ofUKemployees. Individually companies benefit from increased sales, better local supply chains which help reduce costs and inventory levels and improved productivity and resource efficiency. Companies have reported up to £2million per annum of bottom line benefit through these activities. This helps those companies remain competitive within their own organisation which hopefully leads to future investment. Whilst collectively the cluster has a stronger voice to regional, UK and EU government; and through the coordination of mutually beneficial activities (<a href="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b461a13f0820b289d0" title="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b461a13f0820b289d0"> led by industry) the competitiveness of the North East Process Industries is improved. In addition the sector has a greater international profile and has benefited from new companies establishing investing in the region. Membership Benefits Networking opportunities through our regular business &amp; social meetings Publicising your business and the regions capabilities on a global level through the NEPIC website, NEPIC Directory, our Focal Point newsletter and a number of bespoke marketing brochures Increased profitability through Energy &amp; Resource Efficiency &amp; Productivity Programmes International Trade, New Business Opportunities &amp; Supply Chain Connections Support for your Regional Investments with Technical &amp; Funding advice Impacting on Skills, Education &amp; Stakeholders Access to World Class Technology Opportunityto join the NEPIC Buying Group - average saving of £65,000 per member per annum Opportunityto benefit from the NEPIC Insurance scheme which guarantees members saving of at least 10% with enhanced policy coverage and market leading risk management advice &nbsp; How membership helps you market&nbsp;members businesses <a href="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b4e0debd42b03312c4" title="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b4e0debd42b03312c4"> FocalPoint newsletter A free half page editorial feature on your company in the 'New Members' section of our bi-monthly Focal Point magazine. FocalPoint is distributed to over 17,000 industry contacts and is a great opportunity to introduce your company to the NEPIC membership and wider process industry. Free editorial opportunities for good new stories in future editions of FocalPoint, inclusion subject to NEPIC's editorial discretion. <a href="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b4ff28d4decdc09c23" title="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b4ff28d4decdc09c23"> NEPIC Directory - Free ¼ page company profile, with additional advertising opportunities <a href="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b45ae31e3ab2becd38" title="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b45ae31e3ab2becd38"> NEPIC website - Free webpage linked directly to your own website designed to promote your company's capabilities to the global web <a href="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b42403a123f24ef342" title="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b42403a123f24ef342"> Members Portal - Access to the NEPIC members portal (launched April 2011) providing a central point for process related products, services, information, knowledge sharing, sector events (including a facility to advertise your own events free), networking, exclusive member to member offers and much more. <a href="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b40b76bbfa9646790c" title="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b40b76bbfa9646790c"> NEPIC events - Discounted rates for delegates and exhibitors DOWNLOADS <a href="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b47e283bce318fc68e" title="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b47e283bce318fc68e"> Membership Presentation <a href="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b4d416a4da9b438e83" title="http://link.coremotivesmarketing.com/c/306/06496ce492c705e6d2c6e82297a173b68b3e515fcca2c5b4d416a4da9b438e83"> Membership Form Or for further membership information please contact Paul Butler, Customer Services Manager on 07802 255118 or email <a href="mailto:paul.butler@nepic.co.uk" title="mailto:paul.butler@nepic.co.uk">paul.butler@nepic.co.uk.&nbsp; Kind regards Ian Stark NEPIC M&amp;C Thrust Team Chair Commercial Director Dow Haltermann Custom Processing Peter Snaith NEPIC M&amp;C Thrust Team Chair Partner DickinsonDees LLP &nbsp; &nbsp; /news-events/news/your-help-is-needed-to-increase-nepic-membership.aspx08/11/2011 Cogent, the Skills Council for the science-based industries, has today 24 November, announced the launch of a series of UK-wide employer-led and owned skills programmes co-funded by the second round of the Employer Investment Fund (EIF), which is managed by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES). The £4.8m EIF investment is across three extensive programmes, which have been shaped by the employers themselves and are aimed at raising employer ambition and investment in skills. They are central to a strategy for growth, in which skills are a key lever in delivering economic expansion across the UK.&nbsp; Tom Crotty, Director of Ineos, and Chair of Cogent's Board said:&nbsp;"This is really great news for employers across the process, life sciences and nuclear industries. Their leadership has been central to securing funding for these successful bids which are centred around what employers want. "The EIF is a positive force and a key investment in skills. Through this investment Cogent will work with employers to raise ambition on skills increasing the productivity and competitiveness of these vital, strategic global industries. This approach to investment led by the UKCES ensures the best return on Government funds and clear employer ownership of the programmes so essential for success." The EIF funding is set to replace previous "core" grant funding which all Sector Skills Councils will see come to an end in March 2012. It means that Government funds are even more transparently invested in tangible deliverables linked to higher skill levels across the workforce. The fund provides the opportunity for SSCs to take action to establish the skills infrastructure, to change behaviours and to influence positively the way employers secure sustainable skills investment across the UK. The EIF funding is contestable, and all the bids submitted to the UKCES have been the subject of a thorough evaluation against some robust criteria. Central to this is the requirement for the proposals to be underpinned by employer input, as well as contribution in time and money. Funding is limited, and to ensure impact, only ambitious and high quality proposals make the grade. All the programmes must be sustainable and must leave a lasting legacy. Cogent CEO, Joanna Woolf added:&nbsp;<span class="blue">"The allocation of funding under EIF will see us achieve real traction with employers in the science-using sector.&nbsp; The employers in turn will feel more "ownership" for these initiatives and the solutions they themselves have designed. "The projects will build further momentum from employers from the very large to the very small and will lead to higher skill levels across the Sector, as well as ensuring those skills are applied in the workplace, based on the very highest of standards." Cogent is already successfully delivering two programmes under the first phase of EIF; Life Sciences SMEs and Women and Work. The successful EIF2 programmes: Nuclear Life Cycle Skills - supporting a skilled nuclear renaissance This programme will deliver a dynamic workforce model for the UK's nuclear workforce, providing the clear granular labour market information to enable forward planning and capacity building by providers and employers alike. Knowing the skills required is a fundamental ingredient to successful delivery. The existing Nuclear Industry Training Framework will be extended to embrace the nuclear supply chain, capturing the nuclear relevant training and qualifications to be recorded on the Nuclear Skills Passport managed by the National Skills Academy Nuclear. These programmes will support the UK's Nuclear Industry ambitions both within the UK and to allow it to compete in the global civil nuclear market.&nbsp;&nbsp; Upskilling the Process Industries - Gold Standard&nbsp; To establish the employer-led Gold Standard competency framework as the Process Industry standard for skills and to expand into areas such as formulation, water treatment, explosives and industrial biotechnology.&nbsp; Through 3 strands: •&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Expanding Gold Standards coverage into new sectors •&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Developing products for new sectors •&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Developing products for existing sectors&nbsp; The National Skills Academy Process Industries, Cogent's delivery arm, helps employers assess workforce capability against the Gold Standard, to identify skills gaps and opportunities for performance improvement. Mobilising Life Sciences Skills for Growth&nbsp; -&nbsp; A Skills Gateway Through this strand Cogent and partners will sustain the skills community and infrastructure to support home-grown talent to be the best it can be. The strand is also aimed at increasing the UK value proposition internationally by growing a skilled life sciences workforce.&nbsp; Cogent will undertake more detailed research to better understand the needs of this growing and developing sector and produce a BioHorizons series of labour market reports, as well as working with employers to develop employer-led skills solutions to drive the life sciences economy forwards. Central to this strand is a Window on the World for life sciences which will be delivered through an interactive web portal.&nbsp; /news-events/news/employer-investment-fund-to-support-ambitious-skills-programmes-for-science-based-industries.aspx02/12/2011 The Composites Skills Alliance has launched a series of Awareness and Introduction courses for people working in or with the composites industry. The Alliance, a partnership between the National Skills Academy Process Industries and Semta, the sector skills council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies, recently exhibited at the Composites Engineering Show in Birmingham where it launched the courses.&nbsp; An employer group, with representation from aerospace, automotive, renewable energies and the composites supply chain, advised the Alliance on the courses required by industry and the design of the courses reflect their demands. They have been designed in a modular format to offer flexibility in how and where they are studied as well as to adapt to different career progression routes.&nbsp; The courses are tailored for people across the organisations from business leaders to support teams.&nbsp; They have been independently verified and accredited and include the following modules:&nbsp; Composites - Issues &amp; Opportunities Composites - Individual Awareness Composites - Business &amp; Organisation Introduction to Composites Manufacturing Processes Introduction to Composites Materials &amp; Properties Practical Introduction&nbsp; to 3 Common Composites Manufacturing Processes Interest in the courses at the exhibition was high. Tom Preece, Composites Business Manager for the Academy said, 'The response we had illustrates the importance of these awareness courses. We work with a number of training providers who deliver specialist and technical courses but there is a real appetite among employers in the industry for employees to undertake general awareness courses.'&nbsp; The courses will be rolling out in January and will be delivered in house or at convenient locations across the country. To register your interest you can email <a href="mailto:info@composites-skills-alliance.com">info@composites-skills-alliance.com &nbsp; /news-events/news/new-composites-awareness-and-introduction-courses.aspx06/12/2011 An innovative car, flight refuelling kit and turbine blades showcased the latest in composite technology to the Rt Hon Dr Vince Cable MP, Secretary of State for the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills. Dr Cable formally opened the National Composites Centre (NCC) in Bristol on Thursday 24 November. Dr Cable was joined by more than 200 guests to see first-hand the fantastic capabilities of the centre. He was shown state-of-the-art machinery, including a world-leading £2.5m robotic, automatic fibre placement. Dr Cable also met some of the highly skilled engineers that will assist UK manufacturers to develop and commercialise new technologies and products. The event was accompanied by an exhibition of the NCC's members showing what composite technology can do across a wide range of industries. The Composites Skills Alliance exhibited at this opening event and highlighted the importance of increasing the skills of the composites workforce in order to compete on the global stage. The Alliance has recently formed the National Composites Hub with partners the National Composites Centre and Composites UK. Business Secretary Vince Cable said: "This centre will work with our world class universities and international businesses based in the South West and across the UK, to develop and commercialise new technologies. Its work will strengthen our manufacturing sector, exploiting the next generation of advanced composite materials and helping maintain our global lead in this technology area. I look forward to seeing what they produce." The NCC is a £25m investment and has powerful support from industry. The private sector was involved from its inception. Tier 1 members - AgustaWestland, Airbus, Rolls-Royce, GKN, Umeco and Vestas - have committed almost £5½m of work over three years, and that's not to underestimate the importance of small and medium sized enterprises. Jim Godman, Chair of the NCC's Steering Board, added: "The NCC is a fantastic national asset and is a catalyst for real change in the industry.&nbsp; It has something for all businesses involved in composites manufacture, across all sectors. We already have commitments from large and medium sized enterprises involved in renewable energy, aerospace, automotive, defence, marine and rail, and expect this list to grow. &nbsp;"We are now focussed on working closely with our partners to ensure the UK remains competitive in the expanding global market place and therefore that the UK Composites manufacturing industry can contribute significantly to the country's economy." &nbsp; /news-events/news/vince-cable-opens-up-opportunities-for-uk-composites-companies.aspx06/12/2011 2012 is set to be a very exciting year. Following the success of its Process Safety Leadership training which began in the autumn, the Skills Academy will celebrate the launch of its second Process Safety Management (PSM) course at the beginning of the year and it will also be holding a Process Safety Management Conference on the 15 March 2012: Raising the bar on Process Safety. The theme of the conference will be the launch of the National Strategy for Process Safety Management. The conference will also present recent PSM case studies with research updates and networking opportunities. Judith Hackitt, HSE Chair, will make the keynote speech alongside other prominent speakers from the Process Industry sector. The one day conference will provide a topical afternoon session, ensuring delegates are provided with plenty of time for discussion, debate and learning. The power and the success of the national PSM strategy depends on your input, and so I would encourage you to make a note of the date and come along and contribute. &nbsp;&nbsp; Process Safety should permeate through the culture of a Top Tier COMAH company from its business leaders to operator technicians. Senior Executives must "get it", understand the major risks and manage the company accordingly. At the sharp end, Operator Technicians must have the training and levels of competence to deal with the processes confidently and safely. I look forward to seeing you at the PSM Conference in March. Allan Laing Chief Executive Pentagon Chemicals&nbsp; and &nbsp;Chair of NSAPI and the Process Safety Management Board&nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="/{localLink:1558}" title="eBulletin"> /news-events/news/welcome-to-our-december-ebulletin.aspx09/12/2011 During 2011 the Academy increased its engagement activities with the refinery companies, leading to the development of some very positive outcomes for the Sector. Mid-way through the year the Cogent launched Guidelines for Competency Management for Downstream and Petroleum sites. These new guidelines were the subject of extensive consultation and designed with input from industry experts, including members of the Cogent Downstream Advisory Council.&nbsp; In the downstream sector, a good quality, highly effective competency management system is absolutely critical to ensuring a strong safety performance.&nbsp; The need for organisation-wide processes for both developing and monitoring the competence of staff is paramount within both the Sector and its supply chain. The guidelines are applicable to all sizes of organisation, from non COMAH smaller sites, through to large top-tier COMAH sites. Work also continued throughout 2011 to develop the Petroleum Safety Card. The ambition for the project is to ensure that all personnel working in the downstream sector can provide evidence of their safety related competencies, demonstrating a detailed awareness of the risks and hazards associated with working on a top-tier COMAH site. The Petroleum Safety Card (or COMAH card) will lead to heightened safety performance, whilst also improving the transferability of skills within the Sector. As 2011 draws to a close, the key challenge for the Academy in 2012 will be expanding its service delivery to other parts of the Sector, to continue to provide employers with the skills and knowhow to assure operational safety through improved collaboration and upskilling programmes. &nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="/{localLink:1558}" title="eBulletin"> /news-events/news/increased-engagement-with-refinery-companies-leads-to-key-product-developments.aspx09/12/2011 Wednesday 30 November saw the Academy host its third provider event at the home of FESTO in Northampton. The annual event brought together Academy Accredited Training Providers from around the UK to network and receive updates from the Academy Team and Board Members. This year's theme ofmaximsing business performanceproved to be very popular with those attending. Neil Smith, Academy Network Development Director said,<span class="blue">"The day is a great opportunity for providers to get together to discuss the year ahead and to hear first-hand from the Academy about new opportunities in 2012." Neil continues,"It's always a productive session and another chance for us to let providers have their say. Over the years we have been able to shape our service offering to suit providers and so we place a high value on the two way communication." In 2012 the Academy will be introducing more regular regional meetings. If you would like to get involved contact <a href="mailto: h.smithson@nsapi.co.uk">Heather Smithson, Provider Account Manager. Presentations from the 2011 Annual Provider Event can be found on the Presentation tab.&nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="/{localLink:1558}" title="eBulletin"> /news-events/news/providers-have-their-say.aspx09/12/2011 C&amp;A Pumps offers a large range of pumps from small cellar drainers to large flood defence pumps. As well as a comprehensive selection of pumps and accessories, they also supply packaged sewage pumping stations&nbsp;and&nbsp;treatment plants, and a range of rainwater harvesting equipment. In its 27 year history the company has steadily expanded from pump sales and repair in a small unit inDurham, to a wide range of mechanical and electrical services together with pump sales and repair, metal fabrication and health &amp; safety consultancy and training. C&amp;A Pumps is a long time supporter of apprentices and has picked up various accolades a long the way for the support they have shown to young people in the region. The company was also recognised by the MoD at a special ceremony to reward their commitment to recruiting and training ex forces personnel. C&amp;A Pumps employs four apprentices through the Tees Valley Apprenticeship Programme (TVAP) as well as an additional four apprentices taken on in 2011. The initial TVAP fund was to be used by the company to expand on apprentice recruitment policy. &nbsp;&nbsp; With the additional four apprentices employed through TVAP, the company soon noticed that it was beginning to put a strain on the management and production teams. The solution would be to train a recently qualified adult apprentice to become the company's on site mentor. This would then mean that their chargeable productivity rate would need to be reduced by approximately 60% in this new role as a mentor. With the second round of TVAP funding secured, the company was able to put their newly appointed mentor through a mentoring training programme and the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health Train the Trainer course. Additional monies secured the purchase of specialist tools and additional AutoCAD licenses. The company has also gone on to set aside a training day each month to allow apprentices to complete assignments and portfolio work with the support of the mentor and wider management team. Alan Roberts, Managing Director of the Durham base company said,'without the second round of funding from TVAP we would have struggled to maintain the same level of direct support we have shown to apprentices in the past. The fact that we now have a dedicated team member to mentor apprentices has put us in a really advantageous position.' Recognised commitment to training C&amp;A Pumps Ltd has also received the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (North East), Training Company of the Year 2011 Award.&nbsp; Photo: A proud moment for C&amp;A Pump as they receive their SaBRE certificate from the Government. (Alan Roberts pictured)&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="/{localLink:1558}" title="eBulletin"> /news-events/news/four-more-apprentices-saved-by-the-tees-valley-apprenticeship-programme.aspx09/12/2011 National Strategy Launch On the 15 March 2012 the National Skills Academy for Process Industries will be launching its national strategy for skills in process safety management. The new national strategy provides a framework to address the skills challenges associated with managing major hazard risk and improving safety culture, it will detail: Strong leadership Competence at all levels Workforce involvement More information will follow. In the meantime if you would like to pre-register your interest contact the Skills Academy on 0845 607 0140.&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="/{localLink:1558}" title="eBulletin"> /news-events/news/save-the-date-raising-the-bar-on-process-safety-management.aspx09/12/2011 Biotechnology, a sector with a turnover in the UK of over £5bn and a workforce of around 38,000 is expected to grow through increased adoption by many sectors in the economy including pharmaceutical production, fuel production, novel plastics and chemicals. Biotechnology will become increasingly important as it helps the UK meet societal challenges of an aging population, improving sustainability and decarbonising our industry and transport sectors. <p style="text-align: left;" class="body-copy-primary-navigation orange">The skills problem In order to respond to the growing biotechnology sector and to compete on the world stage, companies need to invest in the skills of their employees. It has been identified that graduates entering the field lack the business skills to succeed and apprentices need qualifications to support their work based training. The existing workforce also has a requirement for ongoing training to be able to adapt to new technologies and business processes. <p style="text-align: left;" class="body-copy-primary-navigation orange">The solution One critical success factor for meeting the skills challenge is delivering targeted training in the right format, in the right place and at the right time, for both the employer and the learner. The Academy has been working with industry and training providers to ensure this takes place and that skills provision is developed to meet the growing need. <p style="text-align: left;" class="body-copy-primary-navigation orange">Academy Training Providers The University of Lancaster and TOPRA, a regulatory affairs organisation are the two most recent training providers in biotechnology going through the Academy accreditation process. These 'founder providers' will benefit from having Academy accredited courses, and trainers and will have access to funding to develop further courses in areas identified by industry. They will also have the support of the Academy in finding new learners and marketing their facilities and courses. <p style="text-align: left;" class="body-copy-primary-navigation orange">Skills support for employers The Academy is working with a number of biotechnology companies through theSkills Assuranceprocess. This tool identifies the gaps in individuals' training and forms the basis of an objective, personalised and cost-effective development plan, helping companies to get the best return from their staff. In the plan recommendations will be made about the most suitably qualified Academy Accredited Training Providers to deliver the training solutions. The Academy recently undertook aSkills Assuranceat Croda in Widnes. The Sun Care &amp; Biotechnology Division at Widnes is a world leader in the research, development and manufacture of naturally derived speciality biopolymers and biosynthetic actives for consumer care products, and speciality inorganic UV absorbers for both skin and sun care applications. The Widnes site is also the commercial base for Croda's global activities in biopolymers, biotechnology and sun protection. As Nick Challoner, MD Suncare and Biotechnology at Croda says <span class="blue">'This thorough assessment of our staff capabilities against the Gold Standard has enabled us to plan for future training needs and to assess the skills needs of future employees. We were pleased to score well &nbsp;but accept that we can always further improve the skills of our employees and look forward to working through accredited providers to do this'. Employers who take part in the Skills Assuranceprocess will see performance improvements through effective management of their employees. Training needs are also aligned with business goals and allow you to see a clear demonstration of organisational competence. In addition to theSkills Assurance process, the Academy also works with employers to create their training strategy and policy documents and supports them working through these. The latest company we worked with in this way was Ensus which operates one of the world's largest cereal grain biorefineries at Wilton on Teeside. The company refines locally grown animal feed wheat to produce over 400 million litres of bioethanol. It required standardisation of its training procedures and a plan of action for its 70 employees on site which the Academy delivered. Mark Wilson, Operations Manager said <span class="blue">'The training strategy developed for Ensus by the Academy has shown where our training focus needs to be and helped us to budget and plan for our employees' training needs. It &nbsp;allows us to illustrate a comprehensive training plan is in place and that we take the skills of our employees seriously, something we believe that job seekers are looking for in their employers' For more information on how the Academy can work with your organisation please contact Kevin Thrower, Biotechnology Business Manager on <a href="mailto:k.thrower@nsapi.co.uk">k.thrower@nsapi.co.uk or call 07894 483694. Photo:&nbsp;Joanna Woolf, Cogent Chief Executive presents Keith Layden and Nick Challoner with Croda's Gold Standard certificate. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="/{localLink:1558}" title="eBulletin"> /news-events/news/rising-to-the-challenge-of-upskilling-the-biotechnology-sector.aspx09/12/2011 The process industries have the utmost regard for the highest standards in health and safety. However, official reports into process safety accidents and incidents have highlighted time and time again the need to continuously improve safety culture; by starting at the top. Our research shows that there are understandably gaps in the understanding of process safety management at the most senior levels in industry - for example Finance Directors, CEOs and Board members. Yet it is widely acknowledged that highly effective risk control extends to much more than developing new controls and technical solutions. Clear and positive safety leadership is at the core of managing a major hazard business and board level visibility and promotion is essential. That's why the National Skills Academy for Process Industries and Cogent SSC, with the support and expert guidance of a Process Safety Board embarked on a project to address the issue within the high risk process industries, beginning with Process Safety Leadership for Senior Executives, a course that would see high level involvement from senior managers and board members. Philip Jones, Skills Academy CEO says,<span class="blue">"effective process safety management works best if it is taking place at all levels within the business and to achieve that you need buy-in at the top table. The Process Safety Leadership for Senior Executives course is highly practical and commits employers to developing and supporting a PSM action plan for the future." Philip continues,"completing the action plan is an incredibly important part of the training, we will work with the businesses involved to support them in delivering on their actions. We haven't developed a course that's over and done with at the end of the training day. This course will impact on how the entire business is run." Twelve months ago the Skills Academy and Cogent formed the Process Safety Board including: the Chemical Industries Association (CIA), the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Unite theUnion, the UK Petroleum Industry Association (UKPIA) and the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE). In the time that has passed, the first training standard for Process Safety Leadership has been developed and rigorously tested and four training providers have had their delivery quality assured against the training standard. &nbsp; Today a number of businesses have successfully completed theirProcess Safety Leadership for Senior Executivescourse and are now working on their action plan, which will see them move up a gear in process safety. &nbsp; One of the first businesses to undertake the training was Pentagon Chemicals Ltd, Allan Laing, Chief Executive Officer says,<span class="blue">"we are very focussed on PSM in Pentagon so it was always going to be a challenge for Process Industry Consulting [the training provider] to take us to a higher level of understanding… feedback can be summarised in one word - excellent.Missionaccomplished. Indeed and Pentagon is now working on our PSM Improvement Plans for 2012." Daren Smith, SABIC UK Petrochemicals EHS Director added, <span class="blue">"SABIC UK Petrochemicals Limited has been at the forefront of Process Safety Management for a number of years, investing time, energy and resources to address this vital area of manufacturing excellence within the Chemical Industry. The opportunity to engage with a Process Safety Leadership course, which&nbsp;firstly reinforces the necessity for this level of commitment and secondly reinvigorates and challenges the established practises and operational norms, was both timely and extremely effective. The one day Process Safety Leadership course provided an excellent platform to engage with our Senior Leadership Team and develop common understanding of the subject. As a result of this engagement we have produced a&nbsp;set of&nbsp;short and medium term Process Safety improvement initiatives for our Teesside Site facilities." <span class="blue"><a href="/{localLink:1558}" title="eBulletin"> /news-events/news/setting-the-standard-for-process-safety-management.aspx09/12/2011 The Academy is delighted to re-launch a redesigned website that will provide users with easier access to information about skills and qualifications and the ability to search and book courses on offer from Academy Accredited Training Providers. The key changes include: A cleaner and easier to navigate site A completely new homepage, with a rolling banner of products and services A new meet the team section, profiling Academy experts Industry specific facts and figures A dedicated section to search and book courses (currently in development) An employer matching service for companies seeking specific training The website also includes updated new stream&nbsp;and a link to Skills Match, an online tool which allows users to benchmark their skills against the national Gold Standard competency framework. The new publications section shows good practical examples of how theSkillsAcademyhas worked with employers to improve the performance of their organisation. And at the centre of the new website sits the new 'Find a Course' facility. This includes an online booking system, allowing employers to search by sector, qualification type or area of Gold Standard competence. Philip Jones, CEO theSkillsAcademysays,<span class="blue">"the internet plays a key role when it comes to finding the right skills and training solutions&nbsp;- especially so for individuals or employers researching courses and qualifications. We hope that the new enhancements will give users more choice around training and development&nbsp;and access to relevant industry news and information… the site is the a perfect shop window for users looking for quality assured training providers who have successfully received the Skills Academy's quality kite mark." <a href="/{localLink:1558}" title="eBulletin"> /news-events/news/skills-academy-unveils-a-re-launched-website.aspx09/12/2011 At the request of BASF Management, the Skills Academy was asked to provide a comprehensive Skills Assurance assessment of the level of competence for Operating Staff at its Bradford andGrimsbysites against the independently verified Gold Standard, a competency framework for the process industries BASF has a well-established commitment to training and development, but recognised that theSkillsAcademycould bring an objective approach to its skills and training infrastructure. In parallel the Academy examined the training infrastructure at BASF sites in Bradford andGrimsby, making a comparison of the training material, standard operating procedures and assessment packs used to develop and maintain competence. The competence assessment was tackled via a two-pronged approach. Firstly the training infrastructure was analysed using the ASET (Assessment System for Employer Training) tool and at the same time a Training Needs Analysis (TNA) exercise was undertaken. The TNA involved interviewing selected staff members to assess their level of competence against the Gold Standard role profiles. The TNA identified a lack of process knowledge and interventions have now been put into place, including several employees receiving BIT training (Business Improvement Techniques) Level 2 training, which helped to reduce significant amounts of waste throughout their processes. Several employees have since gone on further to study BIT Level 3 and this has also led to further cost savings. A Shift Manager said,"We have been really impressed with the training that has been put into practice, the Skills Academy helped to identify funding and they also connected us with an Academy Accredited Training Provider….Since the BIT training the whole place looks and feels different." Representatives from a number of areas were interviewed as part of the overall site review, covering production, process support, warehousing and engineering. This formed an informal focus group, providing an overview of the training structure, delivery mechanisms, assessment processes and recording and monitoring systems. BASF has since gone on to recruit a training manager responsible for the management of training at both sites, as recommend by theSkillsAcademy. As a result of BASF's commitment and dedication to skills and training the company has been named on the Cogent <a href="http://www.cogent-ssc.com/Gold_Standard/Show-Your-Commitment/index.php" target="_blank">Gold Standard Roll of Honour.&nbsp; &nbsp; <a href="/{localLink:1558}" title="eBulletin"> /news-events/news/skills-overhaul-boosts-productivity-at-basf-sites.aspx09/12/2011 S.W. Durham Training has been accredited by the National Skills Academy for Process Industries as a Centre of Excellence for Technical Competence. The Skills Academy has an accredited network of providers throughout the UK who meet rigorous standards to ensure the highest quality provision is obtained. The accredited network is aimed at ensuring high quality training across the process industries, promoting the use of national standards and boosting skills transferability. Ann Cant Chief Executive of S.W. Durham Training said, <span class="blue">"recognition from the National Skills Academy for Process Industries as an accredited provider is a reflection of the quality of the training we provide… The opening of CORE will provide young people in the region with tremendous opportunities for development, giving them access to state of the art equipment and learning that they may have previously found hard to find."&nbsp; Ann added, "when I joined the organisation my ambition was to build closer links with schools in the region, so that pupils leaving school were better able to meet the needs of North East employers. Receiving Skills Academy accreditation will enhance our links to industry." Speaking at the official launch of S.W. Durham Training's new CORE facility Philip Jones, Skills Academy CEO said, <span class="blue">"we are delighted South West Durham Training is now part of our accredited network, delivering high quality training for employers in the region. CORE is an exemplar education facility for people wanting to get on and progress with a long lasting career in the process industries." <span class="blue"><a href="/{localLink:1558}" title="eBulletin"> /news-events/news/sw-durham-training-ltd-gains-national-skills-academy-for-process-industries-accreditation.aspx09/12/2011 The Skills Academy has appointed two new members to its Board of Directors, they include: Helen Stewart, HR Services Manager&nbsp;at&nbsp;INEOS Services and Infrastructure and Denise Hicks, Refinery Director of Human Resources, Valero Energy Limited. Philip Jones, Skills Academy CEO said,<span class="blue">"the two appointments represent a fantastic response to our open recruitment process for new Skills Academy Board members. We now have a board that is representative of the Sectors in our footprint. We look forward to working with the newly appointed Board members who will feed their ideas and industry knowledge into our work for employers, and support us to develop new and innovative projects and services both locally and nationally." Helen attended her first board meeting in September 2011, and Denise who officially joins in January 2012 will attend her first meeting in March. Our Board Members provide strategic direction and contribute enormously to our efforts to help employers steer a steady course through the skills agenda, particularly in the current economic climate. We are looking to attract committed, dynamic individuals from a broad representation of process industries, in particular those with experience in the Composites Sector. If you feel you fit the bill and would like to contribute to the future success of the process industries, please forward a copy of your current CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the Academy Board to Mr Allan M Laing, Chairman, C/O Bev Robinson, National Skills Academy Process Industries Limited, 5 Pioneer Court, Morton Palms Business Park, Darlington, DL1 4WD; or e-mail: <a href="mailto:b.robinson@process.nsacademy.co.uk">b.robinson@process.nsacademy.co.uk &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; /news-events/news/the-skills-academy-welcomes-two-new-board-members.aspx09/12/2011 Launched in November 2011 by Business Secretary Vince Cable and Business Minister Mark Prisk, Make it in Great Britain is a campaign aiming to transform the image of modern UK manufacturing and to raise awareness of its importance for the economy. The campaign will culminate in an exhibition which celebrates the best of British manufacturing, held at the Science Museum during the Olympic and Paralympic Games time. The exhibition will highlight the successes of the manufacturing sector, show the true face of British manufacturing and encourage young people to consider a career in the industry.&nbsp; If you want to get involved in an engaging experience that demonstrates how successful and innovative British manufacturing can be, and you have cutting edge products or processes made or designed in Great Britain, then you could be part of the Exhibition from 24th July to 9th September 2012. Expressions of Interest are now being invited for those who wish their product or process to be considered. Interested parties should complete an online form at&nbsp;<a href="http://makeitingreatbritain.bis.gov.uk/">www.makeitingreatbritain.bis.gov.uk&nbsp;and explain what your exhibit is and how you feel it meets the key objectives of Make it in Great Britain. This includes explaining how your product or process could be displayed so it engages an audience.&nbsp; The deadline for completed Expression of Interests is by midday on the 6th of January 2012.&nbsp;&nbsp; On registering interest, organisations or companies will be sent a submission pack, which will request more information about your exhibit as well as explain the themes of the exhibition and necessary timings. The closing date for completed submissions is midday 31 January. &nbsp; /news-events/news/make-it-in-great-britain.aspx04/01/2012 The&nbsp;Composites Skillls Alliance will be joining Oxford &amp; Cherwell Valley College (OCVC) on stage as part of Autosport International this month. OCVC's Performance Engineering Centre at Bicester is a founding training provider for the new Composites Skills Alliance and has been accredited as a centre of excellence for the sector. The Composites Skills Alliance is a partnership of employers and training providers committed to working together to improve the skills of the UK composites industry - a key technology area for a range of sectors including, automotive, marine and aviation. OCVC will act as a central hub for a range of composites training, and support other colleges and providers in their course delivery. The programmes run at OCVC's Bicester Performance Engineering Centre are aimed at technical staff in the sector and range from 1-week courses to 3-year Advanced Apprenticeships. The OCVC team will be presented with their Composites Skills Alliance accreditation during a seminar they're leading at the high profile 4-day Autosport International Motorsport Show (January 12-15) at the NEC in Birmingham. OCVC Head of Engineering Andy Thomas says: "We have an exciting opportunity to create bespoke composite training packages to meet the needs of the industry whilst recognising the national skills shortage in this field. It's a great honour to receive the accreditation as it recognises the high quality delivery and training that OCVC has to offer." The Composites Skills Alliance was formed by the National Skills Academy for Process Industries and Semta, the sector skills council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies. It aims to develop training delivery standards to support a growing range of composites qualifications and courses. Through its training providers the Alliance develops training courses aligned to industry needs. OCVC are one of the Founder Providers that have completed the rigorous accreditation process to be part of this network. In addition to technical courses the Composites Skills Alliance recently launched Awareness &amp; Introduction to Composites courses for people entering the industry or working in it in a non-technical capacity. The Autosport International Motorsport Show features every level of motor racing - from karting to Formula 1- and with exhibitors ranging from specialist engineering companies to major manufacturers and everything in between <a href="http://www.autosportinternational.com/public/about-show" target="_blank">www.autosportinternational.com/public/about-show There's more on the wide range of courses available for students of all ages, interests and skill levels at OCVC via&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ocvc.ac.uk" target="_blank">www.ocvc.ac.uk /news-events/news/composites-skills-alliance-and-ocvc-present-to-motorsport-industry.aspx09/01/2012 National Strategy Launch 15 March 2012 Church House Conference Centre, Westminster To book your place today email: <a href="mailto:industry@nsapi.co.uk">industry@nsapi.co.uk or call the conference booking team on 0845 607 0140. <a href="/media/12845/raising_the_bar_on_process_safety_management.pdf"> View the agenda&nbsp; <a href="/media/12848/raising_the_bar._booking_form.pdf">Download the booking form This one-day conference will see the launch of the National Strategy for Process Safety Management, with a chance for you to explore the issues most relevant to your business. Additionally, you will be provided with a unique opportunity to influence the next phase of training standard development. Judith Hackitt CBE, HSE Chair, will make the keynote speech together with other high profile speakers throughout the day. Workshops will provide you with an opportunity to drill into the detail of the strategy, highlight your own process safety management (PSM) priorities, and learn how you can become more involved in setting the future direction of the PSM training standards. The conference will be supported by members of the PSM Project Board and the Expert Panel who have provided invaluable support towards the development of these training standards. Tickets for this one-day conference are £250 (£190 for individuals who have undertaken the Skills Academy's Process Safety Leadership training). /news-events/news/raising-the-bar-on-process-safety-management.aspx13/01/2012 Apprentices at TTE Technical training Group have found an innovative way to promote their skills to new employers. Students aged between 16 and 18 and working towards their NVQ qualifications at TTE's trading centre in South Bank Middlesbrough have taken to YouTube to illustrate their experiences in the workplace. The video, which can be viewed&nbsp;below has been sent to employers across the region, and highlights the apprentice's passion for engineering and ambitions for the future, as well as their practical skills. Steve Grant, Managing Director of The TTE Technical Training Group, said: "TTE has an excellent reputation with employers for delivering skilled, enthusiastic apprentices who are ready to enter the workplace. Competition for jobs and sponsorship has increased, which has led to our students using YouTube to showcase themselves to potential sponsors." "The video is just a taste of the quality young people we have at TTE who are earning the skills, qualifications and abilities to meet the skills requirements of industry and skills shortages facing many sectors, not only on Teesside and in the North East, but around the world." Apprentices at TTE spend two years as part of their sponsoring company's workforce, which allows them to gain on-site experience and further qualifications. At the end of the period they are all "industry-ready" for the workplace. <a href="http://bdaily.co.uk/news/industrials/06-02-2012/tte-apprentices-go-online-to-showcase-skills/"> Source article &nbsp; <object width="533" height="335" data="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xcs6JoYomHE" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xcs6JoYomHE" /> /news-events/news/tte-apprentices-go-online-to-showcase-skills.aspx07/02/2012 TAS removes barriers and makes it easy for employers to take on Apprentices TAS is a support service from Cogent, that can help you understand how Apprenticeships work for the Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, Process, Polymer, Life Sciences, Signmaking, Nuclear, Oil, Gas, and Petroleum Industries. We are here to help employers in these science-based industries to address their workforce development needs, so that they can compete and develop successfully. TAS will support employers to write job descriptions, advertise, source, screen and employ apprentices. How we can help: We can employ apprentices on behalf of employers, for example those who need to manage 'head count' issues. We will source suitable colleges to deliver the apprenticeship and help develop new provision where there is none. TAS can support existing HR facilities and offer guidance and mentoring for the duration of the Apprenticeship. TAS will also offer progression routes to Higher Level Education to apprentices who complete their frameworks. If you would like to know more about this service please contact TAS: <a href="mailto:info@the-tas.com">info@the-tas.com Tel:&nbsp; 01925 515217 /news-events/news/introducing-the-technical-apprenticeship-service.aspx24/02/2012 A top level delegation of Teesside business chiefs has been to London to plead the case for the extension of a hugely successful apprenticeship scheme. Funding for the Tees Valley Apprenticeship Programme (TVAP) - responsible for creating and safeguarding almost 300 apprenticeships in the area in less than two years - finishes at the end of March. TVAP, employer-led but managed through the National Skills Academy for the Process Industries (NSAPI) based in Darlington, cost just £1.8 million in total but led to 134 Tees Valley employers being persuaded to take on an apprentice. That figure included not just recognised firms in the process industries, but also 80 from small and medium sized businesses, 43 of whom had never taken on an apprentice before. Now, Skills Minister John Hayes has heard how - with a further injection of a similar amount of public money - the scheme has the potential to be extended to benefit the wider North East and be self sustaining in two years time. TVAP Chairman George Ritchie, Senior Vice President for HR with Sembcorp Industries and chair of the north east regional ambassadors of the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) led the delegation to London. The party included Stan Higgins, Chief Executive of NEPIC, Ian Mains, Business Development Director of NSAPI, Allan Wallace, Employer Services Director of NAS and Heather Smithson of NSAPI who is Project Director of TVAP. They were supported at the meeting in the Minister's office in the Houses of Parliament by an all party delegation of local MPs. Hartlepool MP Iain Wright, a former junior minister for apprentices in the previous Government, led the Tees Valley MPs who included Redcar MP Ian Swales, Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland MP Tom Blenkinsop and Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham. All recognise the phenomenal success of TVAP in the short time it has been in existence. After the meeting Mr Hayes said: "I was delighted to meet the delegation led by my friend Iain Wright MP. The North East has seen record growth in apprenticeship numbers in the&nbsp; past year and I listened carefully to the case made by MPs and local businessmen." Mr Ritchie said: <span class="blue">"The Minister was very gracious with his time and he and his team listened intently to what we had to say. He was clearly extremely impressed with the success of the scheme in an area where jobs creation is absolutely vital and we showed him how this fits the Government's agenda on apprenticeships perfectly. "The thrust of our case was that there is a real opportunity to build on TVAP's success and firmly cement the idea into employers' minds that apprenticeships like this, which give young people fantastic skills, are producing people who have the ability to grow their businesses. Many of those on the TVAP scheme have now been taken on as full time employees by their sponsoring companies because they are bringing real value to those businesses. That message is particularly important for those employers who perhaps don't have access to the support resources that bigger businesses have or the same confidence to take on an apprentice. "The smaller and medium sized firms who have engaged in this process have in fact become the best ambassadors for apprenticeships - particularly those who have never had an apprentice before - and we know they can be extremely influential over the next few years in persuading others throughout the wider region to display the same faith in our young people as we have in the Tees Valley. The delegation was told it should hear within the next five weeks whether their bid for additional funding has been successful. /news-events/news/tvap-extension.aspx29/02/2012 Focus Management for Business can now offer, Lincolnshire based companies, FREE Level 3 Certificate in First line Management or FREE Level 5 Certificate in Management and Leadership for up to 8 members of staff subject to meeting criteria. These are 'Real Training' courses, classroom based training and set assignments, which can be delivered on site or at a venue near you. The Level 3 is an ideal opportunity for junior managers to acquire the tools and techniques to increase their effectiveness and gain an accredited qualification, or for good operators aspiring to become junior managers/supervisors in the future, this is excellent for succession planning in that it ensures they have the right skills prior to being considered for advancement. The Level 5 is an ideal opportunity for middle to senior managers to acquire greater tools and techniques and gain an accredited qualification. Again, also suitable for junior managers who aspire to become middle or senior managers in the future. Please drop me a line if you are interested and would like more information. Sandra Ozturk: <a href="mailto:s.ozturk@process.nsacademy.co.uk">s.ozturk@process.nsacademy.co.uk or phone Sandra on 01325 740 902. Results of research carried out by the Chartered Management Institute: <a href="http://www.focus-mfb.com/blog/2012/03/nearly-50-of-uk-line-managers-are-ineffective/" target="_blank">Click for interest - "Nearly 50% of UK managers are ineffective" /news-events/news/free-management-training-for-lincolnshire-based-companies.aspx07/03/2012 TTE would like to invite you to an open event on Tuesday 20th March at 8:30am (Breakfast Provided). TTE specialise in delivering engineering apprenticeships for a number of employers across the engineering sector. The aim of the event is to: Raise awareness of the programmes we deliver and provide information to employers about apprenticeships. Discuss new cash incentives available to employers to help with apprentice wages etc Let you have your say about what challenges you are facing. TTE have arranged for one of the employers we work with to share with you the benefits of having an apprentice, the practicalities of employing them and how they work with TTE to deliver the Apprenticeship. We have also a short tour of our facilities to show you the skills and knowledge that apprentices learn whilst at TTE RSVP TTE on 0151 357 6100 or email <a href="mailto:katev@ttetraining.ltd.uk">katev@ttetraining.ltd.uk /news-events/news/engineering-apprentice-event-for-nw-employers-at-tte.aspx07/03/2012 The Composites Skills Alliance will officially launch at a high profile event on 26th April at the National Composites Centre in Bristol. Employers and training providers are invited to hear about the progress the Alliance has made since its formation in 2011 and the plans for the future. Speakers from the Technology Strategy Board, Semta (the sector skills council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies), the National Skills Academy for Process Industries and the National Composites Centre will come together to discuss the themes impacting sector growth in the future. The event will be of particular interest to employers in the manufacturing and engineering industry and those in HR/ training roles. It will cover: the growth of demand for skilled and educated people driven by current projects and programmes; the changing technology raising future thresholds of skills and understanding; the challenge of advanced materials and manufacturing providing exciting prospects for young people at all academic levels; the working partnership of industry, skills and technology organisations to ensure success; the opportunity to fully complement economically driven policy technology&nbsp;agendas with structured, demand led response; and the global competition already in position. Places are strictly limited so if you would like to register your interest please email <a href="mailto:helen.cross@cogent-ssc.com" target="_blank" title="interest in composites launch event">helen@composites-skills-alliance.com /news-events/news/creating-the-composites-workforce-of-the-future.aspx08/03/2012 17 - 18 October 2012, Institution of Mechanical Engineers, London Book now or for further information: <a href="http://www.imeche.org/events/S1660">www.imeche.org/events/S1660 ****CALL FOR PAPERS DEADLINE 2 APRIL 2012**** **As supporting organisations members of the National Skills Academy and Cogent get to attend at the reduced IMechE member rate** The purpose of this seminar is to prepare companies for the imminent introduction of commercial-scale CCS technologies to meet the fast approaching energy crunch caused by retiring plant, extended decision periods, slow deployment of replacement plant and the intermittency of renewable energy. Suggested areas to be covered: The latest EU &amp; UK Government decisions relevant to CCS State funding and other sources of finance for CCS research and project development Business development and investment opportunities in CCS An update on the legal and regulatory issues surrounding the developing market Interactions between the Electricity Market and CCS Ensuring safety of the CCS process stream How the costs of CCS will be reduced from FOAK to NOAK Uses for the CO2 What other emitters may need from CCS process technology EU initiatives An update for the leading edge projects across the globe *The Call for Papers deadline for the 'Air Capture: Negative emissions and carbon recycling' seminar is 2 April 2012. This seminar is taking place on 16 October 2012 and is being held in conjunction with the CCS2012 seminar. Attendees who wish to attend both events will be able to register at a discounted rate. Details: <a href="http://www.imeche.org/events/S1706">www.imeche.org/events/S1706 Call for papers: If you would like to present at this event please send a title and short abstract outlining the expected content of your presentation to Taz. Event enquiries: Contact Taz Khatun at E: <a href="mailto:t_khatun@imeche.org">t_khatun@imeche.org or T: 020 7973 1306 /news-events/news/carbon-capture-and-storage-ready,-steady,-go!.aspx09/03/2012 If the civil service is to be fit for purpose in the 21st century then it must value the skills of specialists, co-ordinate policy making across departments and public bodies and recognise the importance of government's role as an intelligent customer. Those are just some of the changes identified in a new report by Prospect. Government that can - needs people who know how is the union's response to the challenge presented by civil service reform. The union agrees with the House of Commons Public Administration Select Committee that concluded in 2010: "The need for frequent civil service reform programmes over the years can be attributed to failure to consider what the civil service is for, what it should do, and what it can be reasonably expected to deliver." General Secretary Paul Noon said: "Our report sets out our vision for the future of the civil service. It is clear that new approaches are needed to deliver quality services, set standards for ethics and accountability, and ensure fair employment practices. But these will not be achieved without clear strategic vision and sustained political leadership." The report will be launched on Wednesday, March 14 at the Royal Society, 6-9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AG, from 9.45-11am. The launch is to be followed by a round-table discussion led by Martin Narey, formerly Chief Executive of the National Offender Management Service and now with Barnardo's, Peter Riddell, former Times and Financial Times journalist and now Director of the Institute for Government; and Sue Ferns, Director of Research at Prospect. It will be chaired by Joanna Woolf, Chief Executive of Cogent Sector Skills Council. <a href="http://www.prospect.org.uk/news/id/2012/00382" target="_blank">LINK /news-events/news/prospect-union-urges-professional-vision-for-civil-service-reform.aspx09/03/2012 Latest vacancies with the Skills Academy: <a href="/media/15020/sme_tele_marketing_officer.pdf" target="_blank">SME Tele Marketing Officer - Darlington Closing date 26th March 2012 <span class="orange"><a href="/media/14968/employer_engagement_specialist.pdf" target="_blank">Employer Engagement Specialist <span class="blue">- North East Fixed Term until 31st March 2013 Closing date 29th March 2012 <a href="/media/14978/provider_specialist.pdf" target="_blank">Provider Specialist - To cover the Midlands, Southof England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Closing date 29th March 2012 <a href="/media/14973/process_skills_specialist.pdf" target="_blank">Process Sector Skills Specialist <span class="blue">- Midlands/South England Closing date 2nd April&nbsp;2012 &nbsp; /news-events/news/jobs.aspx22/03/2012 We have extended the entry deadline for the Chemical Industry Awards to Easter, full details at www.ciaawards.co.uk. In particular I would like to bring to your attention the Chemical Industry Gold Standard Skills Award &nbsp; The purpose of this Award is to recognise the employer who has done the most to contribute to the acquisition of skills by the company's workforce through working towards the Cogent Gold Standard. <a href="http://www.cogent-ssc.com/Gold_Standard/index.php">http://www.cogent-ssc.com/Gold_Standard/index.php &nbsp; Winning or being shortlisted for this award will be great for your staff and could result in lots of beneficial free publicity. The Award Ceremony will be held in Newcastle on 21 June. &nbsp; I hope you will consider entering this award, nomination form can be found at <a href="http://www.ciaawards.co.uk">www.ciaawards.co.uk or contact <a href="mailto:Lancasterm@cia.org.uk">Lancasterm@cia.org.uk /news-events/news/chemical-industry-gold-standard-skills-award.aspx27/03/2012 The UK Strategy for Skills in Process Safety Management 2012 - 2014 We would like your feedback on Process Safety Management (PSM) training standards activity &amp; increasing the opportunities for employers to share good practices in PSM training. To assist you in completing this consultation exercise please refer to the Process Safety Management Strategy document. By reading this document the proposals outlined throughout this exercise will have more clarity. The information provided in this survey will be treated in the strictest of confidence according to the Cogent Research Charter. <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/nsapi_psm" target="_blank">Start the survey /news-events/news/process-safety-management-consultation.aspx29/03/2012 The Composites Skills Alliance joined forces with its new partners Composites UK and the National Composites Centre at the JEC Europe exhibition in March. JEC Europe claims to be the largest composites exhibition in the world. It's an important show for all those connected to composites, a global figure of 550,000 professionals employed in the sector. The three organisations who have recently formed the Composites Hub shared a purpose built stand on the UK pavilion at the show in Paris. The UK was the country of honour and had additional exposure during the 3 day event. The Skills Alliance, itself made up of 2 organisations - the National Skills Academy for Process Industries and Semta, the sector skills council for advanced manufacturing and engineering sectors - works with training providers and employers to develop composites training aligned with industry requirements. 'Co-locating with our Hub partners at the exhibition showed the physical reality of our virtual working relationship' said Philip Jones, CEO of the Academy; 'Any non-skills enquiries we got, we were able to walk the enquirer over to the relevant partner to be assisted rather than say we would pass on their information. We also benefited from a reciprocal arrangement' The Hub idea - bringing together the technology from the National Composites Centre, the trade association representation of Composites UK and the skills body for the sector, in the form of the Alliance - drew interest from a number of overseas visitors to the stand. Most notably delegates from the United States and Australia were interested in setting up similar partnerships in their countries and could really see the benefit of the organisations sharing resources and intelligence, while being able to remain focused on their individual remits. Following a successful few days at the exhibition, The Alliance is now focussing on its next event 'Creating the composites workforce of the future' at the end of April. For anyone interested in more information about this event please contact <a href="mailto:helen@composites-skills-alliance.com">helen@composites-skills-alliance.com. /news-events/news/composites-hub-in-action.aspx05/04/2012 Over the next few weeks, the National Skills Academy Process Industries will be contacting&nbsp; employers in South Wales in the first phase of a rolling UK-wide survey looking at how companies ensure their workforce- from CEOs to operators- has the skills and knowledge to manage and operate efficiently and safely. In the wake of major incidents&nbsp; across the process industry from extraction, manufacturing to storage, employers and professional and regulatory bodies have worked with the National Skills Academy to develop both a strategy for Process Safety Management, and a Competence Assurance&nbsp; approach to&nbsp; ensure the UK industry sets the benchmark for&nbsp; best practice. The South Wales survey will provide us with valuable data on how different companies approach organisational competence assurance and process safety, and how they assess the skills of their workforce. It will also test the extent to which employer are benchmarking against the Gold Standard competency framework&nbsp; developed&nbsp; Cogent the Sector Skills Council for the Science Based Industries. Process industry skills experts , Dr Ian Mains, Roger Langford and Andrew Evans&nbsp; from the National Skills Academy&nbsp; will be visiting&nbsp; companies and key partners from Pembrokeshire to Newport and are available for interview.&nbsp; For media enquiries contact <a href="mailto:matthew.lowe@cogent-ssc.com">matthew.lowe@cogent-ssc.com or <a href="mailto:Mervin.dadd@cogent-ssc.com">mervin.dadd@cogent-ssc.com Tel:&nbsp; 0845 607 0140&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; or email <a href="mailto:enquiries@process.nsacademy.co.uk">enquiries@process.nsacademy.co.uk /news-events/news/south-wales-process-industries-competence-assurance-and-process-safety-campaign-begins.aspx13/04/2012 This course is for Duty Holders, Directors and Senior Managers with the overall responsibility and authority to shutdown a site in the event of an emergency.&nbsp; Covering the over-arching role of the nominated Responsible Person, this course also provides the opportunity for the attendees to discuss their specific role with the facilitator. HSE The Law and Legionella This course is not to be confused with lower level training courses for legionella awareness, management or control methods. Who should attend? Staff with overall responsibility and authority, both operational &amp; financial, regarding compliance with legionella control Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) &amp; Guidance including: Site/building Senior Managers (Duty Holder) Appointed "Responsible Persons" and Deputies Other Site &amp; Department Managers. Topics covered: This one-day course aims to give sufficient detail for you to be confident in managing service provision and is designed to help support you in conveying the need for the site to fulfil their responsibilities: 1. Legionella risk assessment - The basics 2. What to expect from a risk assessment &amp; risk assessment review 3. Impact of BS8580: Risk Assessments for Legionella Control 4. What needs to be included in the written scheme 5. What to expect from your service provider 6. What records should be maintained, and by who 7. What training should the various levels of site staff have received 8. Responsibilities of all parties involved in control of the risk. Outcomes: All delegates will be expected to complete a knowledge assessment and will receive certification of training bearing the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) logo and a statement that training is recognised by the RSC for the purposes of Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Legionnaires Disease: A guide for employers,&nbsp; <a href="http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/iacl27.pdf">www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/iacl27.pdf CPD points: As an Academy Accredited Training Provider and an approved Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) Centre with RSC recognition for CPD, we would state that this course reflects the requirements of 'The Institute of Risk Management', where attendance at a risk management training course is required and will contribute 10 CPD points. Testimonials: "I feel the tutorial has helped me to understand the levels of responsibility within my organisation and will allow me to ask the right questions of my staff and contractors with regard to our overall legionella management programme"&nbsp;&nbsp; G.Breedon, Moss Plastic Parts, Oxon - - 6th Oct 2011 "I now understand what a written scheme should contain, what should be produced within a Legionella Risk Assessment and what to expect from my service providers"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; HCC - - 25th Nov 2011 Book now: This course is managed by the National Skills Academy Process Industries and is available in Darlington, Warrington and Solihull from March 2012.&nbsp; The Academy has negotiated a competitive rate for the process industries at £350 per person plus VAT (normally £500). The groups are limited to 15 per session and we welcome in-house bookings from multi-site organisations. Please confirm your interest to: <a href="mailto:industry@nsapi.co.uk">industry@nsapi.co.uk.&nbsp;If you would like to discuss options in more detail, please call our Course Booking Team on 01325 740 902. /news-events/news/water-treatment-training-(1).aspx16/04/2012 3rd May - Philip Jones, Chief Executive of National Skills Academy for Process Industries, has highlighted the role of the Composites Skills Alliance as a one stop shop for skills and training in the UK composites sector. Speaking at an event at the National Composites Centre in Bristol, Jones explained to an audience of 80 employers and training providers how the Composites Skills Alliance, a partnership between the National Skills Academy for Process Industries and Semta, the sector skills council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies, was working to address the industry's training and skills needs. Over 40,000 people work in the UK composites sector, making it an important emerging technology but one that is hampered by a lack of quality assured training providers. According to industry research, demand for composites skilled people at all levels is forecast to at least double by 2015. Meeting this demand will require a four-fold increase in composites skills provider capacity in the short term. Since its creation a year ago, the Composites Skills Alliance has established a group of five founder training providers comprising technical colleges from across the UK, namely: Burnley College, Belfast Metropolitan College, City of Southampton College, Oxford and Cherwell College and Yeovil College. The Alliance has plans to recruit a further ten providers from among colleges, private and higher education. In addition to identifying providers capable of delivering training, the Composites Skills Alliance has developed strong links with composites businesses in the aerospace, automotive, construction, marine, renewable energy and advanced engineering sectors to ensure that the courses offered are relevant to employers. Commenting on the progress made over the last twelve months, Philip Jones, National Skills Academy for Process Industries Chief Executive, said: <span class="blue">"When we created the Composites Skills Alliance just over a year ago our vision was that it would become as a one stop shop for employers looking for composites-specific training and skills in what we recognise is a very complicated skills landscape. "I'm delighted to say that we have made significant in-roads towards this goal but this is by no means the end of the road. The next twelve months will be crucial as we look to build on the foundations we have laid by ensuring that all course modules are available by October and by increasing our engagement with employers and providers." Also speaking at the Bristol event were: Iain Gray, Chief Executive of the Technology Strategy Board, Allan Cook CBE, Chairman of WS Atkins and Semta, and Peter Chivers, Chief Executive, National Composites Centre. Semta Chairman, Allan Cook, said: "The collaborative nature of the Composites Skills Alliance makes it rather unique in the UK. If we can ensure that the qualifications on offer are relevant and receive continued backing from industry, then we can create a UK composites workforce that has the skills it needs to be competitive - now and in the future." /news-events/news/national-skills-academy-for-process-industries-outlines-composites-skills-alliance-progress.aspx03/05/2012 This survey will only take a few minutes of your time and consists of 5 multiple choice questions which will lead to new way of accessing funding for skills development. The information provided will assist the future development of a Gold Standard Investment Framework. The National Skills Academy for the Process Industries (NSAPI) in partnership with Cogent Sector Skills Council will offer employers the opportunity to maximise their current investment in training by linking it to government funding and creating an employer led funding framework - The Gold Standard Investment Framework. The framework will enable employers to draw down public funds alongside their own training internal budgets. Employers will be able to include internal training in the framework. Business benefits include: Access to Public Funding for employer internal training A sector funding pot for employers to fund modules of skills development as well as qualifications Quality Assured training (both national and in-house) Employer led pathways to develop technicians <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/GSIF" target="_blank">Start the survey /news-events/news/ever-wondered-how-to-use-government-funding-to-get-the-best-from-your-training-budget.aspx04/05/2012 Book your places for The Responsible Person (Legionella Control) 10 CPD This course is for Duty Holders, Directors and Senior Managers with the overall responsibility and authority to shutdown a site in the event of an emergency.&nbsp; Covering the over-arching role of the nominated Responsible Person, this course also provides the opportunity for the attendees to discuss their specific role with the facilitator. HSE The Law and Legionella This course is not to be confused with lower level training courses for legionella awareness, management or control methods. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? Staff with overall responsibility and authority, both operational &amp; financial, regarding compliance with legionella control Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) &amp; Guidance including: Site/building Senior Managers (Duty Holder) Appointed "Responsible Persons" and Deputies Other Site &amp; Department Managers. TOPICS COVERED This one-day course aims to give sufficient detail for you to be confident in managing service provision and is designed to help support you in conveying the need for the site to fulfil their responsibilities: 1. Legionella risk assessment - The basics 2. What to expect from a risk assessment &amp; risk assessment review 3. Impact of BS8580: Risk Assessments for Legionella Control 4. What needs to be included in the written scheme 5. What to expect from your service provider 6. What records should be maintained, and by who 7. What training should the various levels of site staff have received 8. Responsibilities of all parties involved in control of the risk. OUTCOMES All delegates will be expected to complete a knowledge assessment and will receive certification of training bearing the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) logo and a statement that training is recognised by the RSC for the purposes of Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Legionnaires Disease: A guide for employers,&nbsp; <a href="http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/iacl27.pdf">www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/iacl27.pdf CPD POINTS As an Academy Accredited Training Provider and an approved Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) Centre with RSC recognition for CPD, we would state that this course reflects the requirements of 'The Institute of Risk Management', where attendance at a risk management training course is required and will contribute 10 CPD points. TESTIMONIALS "I feel the tutorial has helped me to understand the levels of responsibility within my organisation and will allow me to ask the right questions of my staff and contractors with regard to our overall legionella management programme"&nbsp;&nbsp; G.Breedon, Moss Plastic Parts, Oxon - - 6th Oct 2011 "I now understand what a written scheme should contain, what should be produced within a Legionella Risk Assessment and what to expect from my service providers"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; HCC - - 25th Nov 2011 BOOK NOW FOR THE NORTH EAST Register for the next available date: Wednesday 30 May 2012 North East Venue - (to be confirmed) This course is managed by the National Skills Academy Process Industries who have negotiated a competitive rate for the process industries at £350 per person plus VAT (normally £500). The groups are limited to 15 per session - places still available.&nbsp; We welcome in-house bookings from multi-site organisations. Please call our Course Booking Team on 0845 607 0140 (local rate) or 01325 740 902 or send an email to:&nbsp; <a href="mailto:industry@nsapi.co.uk">industry@nsapi.co.uk.&nbsp; &nbsp; /news-events/news/are-you-hse-ready-in-the-north-east.aspx11/05/2012 To-date, our main focus has been on-site training. But experience shows many companies like to have just two or three staff trained - so there's strong demand for an open approach. CATCH is the perfect breeding ground to respond to this demand. Process units, control facilities and process areas are ideal for our Permit to Work and risk assessment programmes, providing delegates with realistic, hands-on experience and better results. With our old home at Europarc Innovation Centre now firmly in the rearview mirror, pop along to CATCH where we are currently holding open courses for fire safety training and are busy developing future material for Permit to work, process safety and risk assessment. Course Dates at CATCH Stallingborough: &nbsp; Thursday 21 June 2012&nbsp; 0830 - 12:30 Thursday 21 June 2012&nbsp; 13:00 - 17:00 Thursday 30 August 2012&nbsp; 0830 - 12:30 Thursday 30 August 2012&nbsp; 13:00 - 17:00 Thursday 25 October 2012&nbsp; 0830 - 12:30 Thursday 25 October 2012&nbsp; 13:00 - 17:00 /news-events/news/opening-the-door-to-workplace-safety.aspx11/05/2012 Are you worried about: Minimum 12 month delivery? Functional Skills? Learner Engagement? Your solution: Apprenticeship Framework e-learning resources from Virtual College, home of the Apprenticeship e-Academy. If you are delivering apprenticeships, the Apprenticeship e-Academy has developed tried and tested e-learning resources to help you to support your learners in: Providing robust apprenticeship induction and IAG Learner profiling ERR, PLTS, E&amp;D, H&amp;S online material Functional Skills diagnostics with support materials Technical certificate content&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Business Administration Business Improvement Techniques Health and Social Care Further frameworks to follow just speak to us E-portfolio solution All content has been mapped to the Qualifications Curriculum Framework (QCF) and is delivered in your own corporate branded learner management system. &nbsp; Click <a href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?VirtualCollegeYorksh/03ffed575e/TEST/a38261ce5a" target="_blank">here for a short demo with examples of the content provided. &nbsp; Priced competitively we operate "pick and mix" and bundle deals. These resources represent a cost effective solution to the delivery of all apprenticeship programs and can provide a tremendous tool to: Ensure your apprentices' knowledge meets the required standards and Guided Learning Hours are recorded Reduce the cost of delivery Provide a quality delivery method branded to your corporate look and feel Provide transparent tracking for progress reviews, individual learner plans and SMART objectives&nbsp; Like to find out more about the Apprenticeship e-Academy! See our demo - or, better still, call me for a hands on <a href="http://cts.vresp.com/c/?VirtualCollegeYorksh/03ffed575e/TEST/e839177ed9" target="_blank">demo and the opportunity to get answers to your specific questions. /news-events/news/apprenticeship-framework-e-learning-resources-from-virtual-college.aspx11/05/2012 Focus Management for Business after lengthy discussions with the UKTI and the Institute of Exporting have answered the call for a new approach to Leadership in Exporting (Exporting Excellence). We have worked in partnership with a recommended export specialist to identify the knowledge and skills required exporting, we also identified issues and barriers to exporting and we have successfully mapped these subjects across to a Leadership and Management qualification at Level 5. Yes, a Degree Equivalent vocational qualification in Management and Leadership in Exporting, which allows companies to develop their approach to exporting or enhance their leadership skills in exporting, whilst gaining a fully accredited Diploma. This package is part of our 'Focus on Export' initiative, it is deliverable over a 6 month period and includes 6 individual class room training days, separated by one month for set assignments, based on the companies export activities. The first course starts on the 28th June 2012 and will take place in our training centre at Ransom Wood Estate, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG21 0HJ. We are also running short bite sized Mater Classes on specific exporting issues, were we are working with specialist partners to provide a 'Meet the Experts' morning session, where advice and support in key exporting areas is presented: i.e. Exporting to the Middle East, Europe or the Americas including understanding the culture, language and business etiquette. The mine field of export Law and Finance etc. This is a totally new approach to export training and is currently only available through many short courses, which over all is very expensive. To support companies during these difficult financial times we have reduced the cost of this new approach to export training to only £1,800 plus vat per person and later in the year we will be offering this course delivered in other areas around the country. Companies who are interested in hearing more on this opportunity contact our Skills Coach - Neil Wilkinson on Tel: 0845 490 0236, Mobile 07584 190137 or e-mail: <a href="mailto:neil.wilkinson@focus-mfb.co.uk">neil.wilkinson@focus-mfb.co.uk&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; /news-events/news/focus-on-export.aspx11/05/2012 TTE specialise in delivering engineering apprenticeships for a number of employers across the engineering sector. The aim of the event is to: Raise awareness of the programmes we deliver and provide information to employers about apprenticeships. Discuss new cash incentives available to employers to help with apprentice wages etc. Let you have your say about what challenges you are facing. TTE have arranged for one of the employers we work with to share with you the benefits of having an apprentice, the practicalities of&nbsp; employing them and how they work with TTE to deliver the Apprenticeship. We have also a short tour of our facilities to show you the skills and knowledge that apprentices learn whilst at TTE RSVP TTE on 0151 357 6100 or e-mail <a href="mailto:katev@ttetraining.ltd.uk">katev@ttetraining.ltd.uk /news-events/news/tte-would-like-to-invite-you-to-an-open-event-on-thursday-14th-june-at-830am-(breakfast-provided).aspx11/05/2012 The University of Chester HESTEM project 'Employer Networks' is nearing the end of the first phase. The video recordings highlighting careers in our Science industries and the skills and qualifications preferred by employers are in the process of being edited ready to be placed on the U-Explore careers website and the University of Chester&nbsp;websites. Included will also be an interactive display of a technical laboratory showing equipment and testing procedures as part of daily working activity. The final stage of the project will include three workshops during the summer term, to provide opportunity for science teachers in local schools and colleges to meet the people working in our science industries and make links with local employers to encourage more young people to consider a career in science. I will be sending out the dates for these during April and would like to ask employers for their help with these workshops. I would like to say thank you to all those who have taken time out of their busy schedule to record the information for the young people in schools and colleges. Individual recordings will be sent to each person who has taken part and the completed careers information will also be available to anyone who would like it. /news-events/news/the-university-of-chester-hestem-project-‘employer-networks’-is-nearing-the-end-of-the-first-phase.aspx11/05/2012 We are proud to announce that since the new Polymer Training &amp; innovation Centre was officially opened in May 2010, over 1,000 candidates have attended training courses from our schedule of available events. Our 1,000th candidate was Alan Marrison, who is a trainee injection moulding machine setter employed by UCP Zeller, Norwich. Alan received his Certificate from Charmaine Bowers, our Operations Manager during his 2-day Injection Moulding Appreciation course attended at the end of February, 2012. In honor of this milestone P.T.I.C. refunded the FULL COST of Alan's course to UCP as they continue to make further course bookings. /news-events/news/polymer-training-innovation-centre-milestone-achieved.aspx11/05/2012 Competence Assurance is something that only seems to crop up when something goes wrong, business ticks away as normal and then&nbsp; something happens that highlights an issue be that training or process that has been there all along. Being aware of areas of improvement and having a plan in place that continually evolves to address these areas is something that all business should have but not many do. Competence Assurance makes real business sense from both an operational and financial view. And it is not as daunting as it sounds. As part of our competence assurance services we offer a health check that is complimentary if booked before 30th June 2012 to help you on your way by: • Identifying your approach to Competence Assurance • Identifying business critical activities • examining your job roles and standards •&nbsp;highlighting where there are areas for competence improvement The health check takes no longer than an hour and will provide you with a snapshot of your current competence performance against our competence model which is underpinned by HSE guidance on inspection of competence management systems. So give it a go today, you've got nothing to lose and everything to gain. Call 0845 607 140 or <a href="http://mce_host/mailto;industry@process.nsacademy.co.uk">email&nbsp;for more information and get confident with competence. &nbsp; N.B.&nbsp;The health check only has to be booked before the 30th of June but can actually take place at a later date. /news-events/news/is-your-business-confident-in-competence.aspx14/06/2012 The NEBOSH newsletterespecially for students and employers is ready to download&nbsp; This edition features: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Where to find a health and safety job ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NEBOSH reveals its most popular qualification worldwide ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Qualification in the process industries- for a global market ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Registrations grow by over 770% in just 12 months ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Plus much more… &nbsp; <a href="http://www.nebosh.org.uk/newsletter/archive/default.asp?cref=1062&amp;ct=2" target="_blank" title="NEBOSH Newsletter">Click here to download the seventh issue of our Newsletter. /news-events/news/nebosh-newsletter-issue-7.aspx18/06/2012 The CIA hosted the Chemical Industries Awards in Newcastle on the 21st June 2012. Steve Elliott, Chief Executive of CIA paid tribute to the work of chemical businesses across the UK "Despite all the justified concerns over the economy, earlier this year, the UK produced record exports by volume and leading that achievement was the chemical sector - making your companies who's exports have doubled in a decade, the nation's number one manufacturing exporter". Amongst the many awards of the night Cogent and the National Skills Academy for Process Industries sponsored the Gold Standards Skills Award. This award recognises the employer who has done the most to contribute to the acquisition of skills by the company's workforce through working towards the Cogent Gold Standard. And the award goes to… SABIC UK Petrochemicals SABIC have developed "Activity Based Learning", a competence based learning system. This involved a complete analysis of all competences needed for every single role within the business; achieved via consultation with a large percentage of workforce, in each particular role, and their line management. SABIC also invest heavily in training and have initiated a new Management Development Program to allow technicians to bridge the gap to management positions, and have developed an online learning training system which helps provide a blended learning approach recognising not everyone learns in the same way. SABIC's Learning and Development Manager Kathryn Harper, who received the award on the company's behalf, congratulated her colleagues who put so much effort into establishing the Gold Standard, describing the award as "a great honour" for all at SABIC. Cogent CEO, Joanna Woolf commenting on the Gold Standard Skills Award said: "We're delighted to see this important award go to SABIC UK Petrochemicals. The company's comprehensive training and development programs are benchmarked to the highest standards and importantly provide robust competency-based career pathways for employees.&nbsp; This Award is well-deserved, reflecting a highly innovative learning approach at SABIC." Special Awards Another winner on the night was George Ritchie, SVP Regional HR for Sembcorp Industries who was recognised for lifetime of work in promoting apprenticeships particularly to the leadership and direction he gave to the widely regarded Tees Valley Apprenticeship Programme (TVAP), run by the National Skills Academy for Process Industries and responsible for creating and safeguarding more than 300 apprenticeships over the past two years. Mr Ritchie commented "One thing that never ceases to inspire me is the skills and talents of the young people we have in this industry and the region - people grasping the nettle and taking advantage of the many opportunities that are out there. These are the people who will be driving our business growth in the coming years and from those I have seen I think our future is in safe hands. But we need many more employers to give the young people more opportunities and engage more with apprenticeships than they are doing today" NSAPI CEO, Philip Jones commented "The Academy is delighted to see George Ritchie and the TVAP programme honoured at these awards.&nbsp; The huge success of TVAP has been down to the dedication and passion of all the team involved and it is great to see this recognised by the CIA. " <a href="http://www.cia.org.uk/Newsroom/PressReleases/PressRelease/tabid/114/pwnid/113/Default.aspx" target="_blank" title="CIA Awards Winners 2012">All awards winners More information on <a href="http://www.SABIC.com" target="_blank">SABIC More information on <a href="http://www.sembcorp.co.uk" target="_blank">Sembcorp  /news-events/news/the-chemical-industry-awards-2012.aspx29/06/2012 Wirral Metropolitan College will be delivering, from September 2012, a professional development program for laboratory, scientific and technical employees. Delivery is through the Higher Apprenticeship for Chemical Science and Life Science Professionals - &nbsp;with pathways for chemical science, life science and healthcare science. The Apprenticeship supports professional recognition as a registered technician or scientist and is an alternative work based training route to the traditional academic route to graduate status. Our program offers an opportunity to recruit ambitious people committed to developing their career in your company and is a route to grow your own talent pool and build an elite cohort to work alongside your graduate intake. Alternatively the program can be used to recognise the current skills of your laboratory, scientific and technical employees providing motivation to achieve professional status. With level 4 (HNC) and Level 5 (HND) taking between 2 and 3 years to achieve, the Higher Apprenticeship has been designed to allow progression at level 6 through to a BSc Honours degree. For more information and to learn how the Apprenticeship can contribute to the future growth of your business, please contact: Dr Ellen Patrick <a href="mailto:Ellen.patrick@wmc.ac.uk">Ellen.patrick@wmc.ac.uk /news-events/news/wirral-metropolitan-college-to-deliver-higher-apprenticeship.aspx10/08/2012 The focus of the project was to widen participation in STEM by engaging those school and college students in Cheshire and Warrington, initially, who may not have considered higher level study in STEM subjects or a career in Science related industries. The overall aims of the project were to: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Evaluate the extent to which industry-school links in Cheshire and Warrington have increased as a result of the project. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Measure any increase in student numbers progressing from school and further education into higher education courses in STEM subjects. ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Assess any increase in recruitment in to STEM industries as a result of increased student contact. The success of the STEM Networks project in achieving the specified outcomes has resulted in a greater commitment to STEM work both within the University and outside the University in collaboration with external partners. Finally the main output of the Self Sustaining STEM Networks project, namely the recorded information on STEM careers and skills is available for dissemination by other HEI's. If you would like a copy of the full case study please contact <a href="mailto:process@nsacademy.co.uk">process@nsacademy.co.uk /news-events/news/university-of-chesther-national-he-stem-programme-case-study-self-sustaining-stem-networks.aspx14/08/2012 Competence has always been essential to safe operation in the process industries and the benefits of investing in a competent workforce, such as increased productivity and improved resource efficiency, are generally well understood. Many employers in the industry have incorporated competence into their strategy and are committed to it in the long term.&nbsp; We are currently facing new challenges to &nbsp;develop and maintain high levels of competence from external sources, such as, the demographic 'grey wave' that is beginning to bite across the sector. Employers are having to recruit new employees to replace those retiring and need systems to retain their current high levels of competence.&nbsp; The Competent Authority's introduction of a Competency Management System inspection regime in April 2012 has added another dimension for sites falling under the COMAH regulations. In fact, the HSE's Inspection of Competence Management Systems at COMAH Establishments Guideline is an excellent model for competence development within any company and enables employers to embrace both performance improvement and compliance in an effective and robust way. Yet, &nbsp;worryingly, a recent straw poll across a group of SHE Managers from the chemicals sector suggested less than 20% had actually reviewed the guidance and only 10% felt they would pass muster. Developing and maintaining competent employees requires an understanding as to what competence is within each job role, and commitment of resource and investment in training and systems that allows you to monitor and track employee competence. The Academy's effective competence assurance system has been mapped against the HSE's Competency Guidelines and Human Factors Guidelines. Used in conjunction with the Gold Standard Framework and the Cogent Competency Management System Guidelines,&nbsp;it enables employers to ensure their employees have the necessary level of competence to drive up business performance in a safe and compliant manner. Larger organisations may have these processes in place, but is it always useful to benchmark internal systems against an external standard. The industry must accept that competence is vital, it requires a long term approach and done properly, it is an investment not a burden.&nbsp; Each business may approach it differently, but it is worth knowing there is help and guidance out there readily available to all. Roger Langford Key Account Director /news-events/news/competence-a-long-term-commitment-not-a-quick-fix.aspx14/08/2012 Your solution: Apprenticeship Framework e-learning resources from Virtual College, home of the Apprenticeship e-Academy If you are delivering apprenticeships, the Apprenticeship e-Academy has developed tried and tested e-learning resources to help you to support your learners in: Providing robust apprenticeship induction and IAG Learner profiling ERR, PLTS, E&amp;D, H&amp;S online material Functional Skills diagnostics with support materials Technical certificate content&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Business Administration Business Improvement Techniques Health and Social Care Further frameworks to follow just speak to us E-portfolio solution All content has been mapped to the Qualifications Curriculum Framework (QCF) and is delivered in your own corporate branded learner management system. Click <a href="http://www.apprenticeshipea.co.uk/">here for a short demo with examples of the content provided. Priced competitively we operate "pick and mix" and bundle deals. These resources represent a cost effective solution to the delivery of all apprenticeship programs and can provide a tremendous tool to: Ensure your apprentices' knowledge meets the required standards and Guided Learning Hours are recorded Reduce the cost of delivery Provide a quality delivery method branded to your corporate look and feel Provide transparent tracking for progress reviews, individual learner plans and SMART objectives&nbsp; Like to find out more about the Apprenticeship e-Academy! See our <a href="http://www.apprenticeshipea.co.uk/">demo - or call Roger Moore on 01943 885088 for a demo and the opportunity to get answers to your specific questions. &nbsp; /news-events/news/are-you-worried-about-minimum-12-month-delivery-functional-skills-learner-enagement-read-on.aspx14/08/2012 What a CATCH: RTS moves home Reynolds Training Services (RTS) are excited to announce our recent relocation to premises at CATCH in Stallingborough. The fabulous array of facilities make the move a no-brainer and, most importantly, will be of huge benefit to clients and industry. Classrooms, conference facilities and simulated industrial environments pave the way for an expansion of our range of accredited qualifications. We've also parachuted more 'open' courses into the mix alongside client specific programmes. Opening the door to workplace safety To-date, our main focus has been on-site training. But experience shows many companies like to have just two or three staff trained - so there's strong demand for an open approach. CATCH is the perfect breeding ground to respond to this demand. Process units, control facilities and process areas are ideal for our Permit to Work and risk assessment programmes, providing delegates with realistic, hands-on experience and better results. With our old home at Europarc Innovation Centre now firmly in the rearview mirror, pop along to CATCH where we are currently holding open courses for fire safety training and are busy developing future material for Permit to work, process safety and risk assessment. Course Dates at CATCH Stallingborough: <table border="0" align="left" style="width: 473px; height: 104px;"> Dates Time Thursday 30th August 2012 08.30 - 12.30 Thursday 30th August 2012 13.00 - 17.00 Thursday 25th October 2012 08.30 - 12.30 Thursday 25th October 2012 13.00 - 17.00  &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; For more details please contact <a href="mailto:industry@process.nsacademy.co.uk">industry@process.nsacademy.co.uk &nbsp; /news-events/news/what-a-catch-rts-moves-home.aspx14/08/2012 A teacher from Wirral Metropolitan College has won a prestigious WISE award for her motivational work inspiring female pupils into engineering. Heather Aspinwall received the WISE Advisor Award from Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at a prestigious awards ceremony on Wednesday 19 October at London's Institute of Engineering and Technology. The WISE (Women into Science, Engineering and Construction) Awards, in association with the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company &nbsp;EADS, &nbsp;celebrate those who inspire young women into the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.&nbsp; &nbsp; Ms Aspinwall, Curriculum Leader in Applied Science and Mathematics at Wirral Metropolitan College, became passionate about promoting engineering because of her own negative experience.&nbsp; She said: "My careers advisor was very dismissive, saying that girls don't and can't do that. I want Wirral Met to be a place where we say, 'Yes you can be an engineer'. Engineering is a creative, exciting and financially rewarding profession that is open to everyone. Girls and women can be part of designing and creating the future too." Ms Aspinwall was nominated by David Ozholl, Project Officer at The Royal Academy of Engineering, for her work as the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) North-West regional STEM champion and the LSIS funded projects 'Getting Girls into Engineering'. The LSIS STEM support works to increase the participation rate of girls in post-16 engineering courses. Mr Ozholl said: "Heather is brilliant at creating a 'girl friendly' culture to attract and engage young women. She is a consistent mover and shaker and has been an inspiration to others unselfishly giving much of her time to enthuse and motivate students. I'm absolutely delighted; she's a very worthy winner of the Advisor Award." Teacher Marianne Hill was also recognised as a runner-up for the Advisor Award. Marianne, a Curriculum Leader in Science, Mathematics and Physics at the City of Sunderland College, was commended for her motivational work addressing the gender imbalance. Professor Peter Smith at the University of Sunderland who nominated Marianne, said: "I don't believe that I have met anyone as passionate about physics, and why girls should study physics, as Marianne Hill. She has truly devoted her life to her students and to expanding the horizons of the girls who study with her. If you met Marianne, you would study physics - believe me! She is relentlessly motivational, knowledgeable, and positive." A spokesperson from Intel UK, who sponsored the WISE Advisor Award, said: "Intel is very happy to be supporting this year's WISE awards. Intel is committed to investment in gender diversity in STEM and believes the awards are an invaluable opportunity to recognise successful young women and those who are advocating the STEM industries. A cultural change to make these subjects and careers more open to women is exactly what is needed and these individuals are playing a vital role which will positively influence others in the future." Jane Butcher, Director of The UKRC, said: &nbsp;"The WISE Awards are an annual celebration of endeavour, inspiration and commitment - and this year more than ever. A record number of entrants of outstanding quality have demonstrated the importance of working creatively to inspire, advise and enable girls and young women to study and pursue careers in science, engineering and technology. "The 2011 WISE Awards highlight what can be achieved. At WISE and The UKRC we thank our judges, sponsors, distinguished speakers and of course all the nominators and nominees for the vision they share with us: of building a diverse and talented future SET workforce, where girls and young women have worthwhile and rewarding careers." /news-events/news/wising-up-to-women-in-science.aspx14/08/2012 The Composites Skills Alliance has launched its new training courses for the composites industry. The Alliance which is a partnership of the National Skills Academy for Process Industries and Semta, the sector skills council for advanced manufacturing and engineering, is working with training providers and employers to ensure that composites training is fit for purpose and in line with industry needs. The 'Awareness in Composites' course has been developed with the Founder Providers of the Alliance and is targeted at non-technical employees and new starters in composites organisations. Accredited providers Belfast Metropolitan College, Burnley College, Oxford &amp; Cherwell Valley College, City College Southampton and Yeovil College all contributed to the development of the courses. They also supplied best practice course materials and have since been the delivery partners. Courses have been delivered at both in-house and public locations around the UK since the start of the year. Bookings are now being taken for these one-day courses from May onwards following the April courses being oversubscribed. The content covers composites materials and processes, applications, H&amp;S issues, working around composites materials, handling and damage.&nbsp; Stuart Carter, Skills Development Manager at Aircelle Ltd attended a course delivered by Burnley College and said it was "A thoroughly enjoyable introduction to the importance of composite manufacture and processes within our industry."&nbsp; The National Composites Centre (NCC) has been a venue for both in-house and public courses. Michelle Armitage is the Head of HR at NCC and said "The course was hands on and a fascinating introduction to composites pitched at just the right level. I have since used the information gained in the course to help me to do my non-technical role. Absolutely recommended."&nbsp; The Founder Providers are now assisting the Alliance with shaping the 'Introduction to Composites' courses which are aimed at a more technical audience. For further information on courses or to book your place please email <a href="mailto:h.jenkinson@process.nsacademy.co.uk">h.jenkinson@process.nsacademy.co.uk /news-events/news/awareness-in-composites-courses.aspx14/08/2012 PICME have a number of seminars available which have been developed specifically for those middle / senior managers with an active responsibility for competency management within your organisation, for example; Site Managers Group Managers Operations/ Production Managers Health, Safety &amp; Environmental Managers Engineering &amp; Maintenance Managers Laboratory Managers/ Supervisors Human Resources and Training Personnel Why Attend? Assessing and assuring competence can be a large task, but one that is essential to maintaining site and process safety, particularly on high hazard sites. People at all levels of the organization are central to controlling Major Accident Hazards. When things go wrong and systems and processes break down, it is only competent people who can return the situation to normal. By thinking about people as an asset - not just a potential source of failure - we can maximize business and safety performance. The HSE Chemicals Sector Strategy, developed in early 2011, identified that maintaining competence was a "key challenge for industries within the sector" and as a result Competency Management has been identified as one of the key HSE inspection topics for 2012-2015. This seminar will discuss the HSE's expectations and inspection programme whilst delivering practical best practice advice in managing competence for high hazard industries. Date Location 18th September 2012 North West 9th October 2012 London 8th November 2012 North East For more information or to book please email <a href="mailto:sgrindrod@hflrisk.com">sgrindrod@hflrisk.com  &nbsp; /news-events/news/competence-management-a-practical-approach.aspx14/08/2012 Lancaster University currently have places of availability on the following courses: <a href="http://www.cetad.lancs.ac.uk/courses/view/79-Personal-effectiveness-and-team-working.html"> Personal Effectiveness &amp; Team Working 21/08/2012 <a href="http://www.cetad.lancs.ac.uk/courses/view/62-Laboratory-practice-essential-practical-skills-and-techniques.html"> Laboratory Practice: Essential Practical Skills &amp; Techniques 03/09/2012 &amp; 10/09/2012 <a href="http://www.cetad.lancs.ac.uk/courses/view/56-Applied-mathematics-and-statistics-for-the-Biomedical-sector.html"> Applied Mathematics &amp; Statistics for the Biomedical Sector 17/09/2012 &amp; 24/09/2012 Each course is a 10 credit postgraduate level course that can stand alone or build to a Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Bioscience &amp; Business Management. For more information please click on the course links above or email <a href="mailto:cetad@lancaster.ac.uk">cetad@lancaster.ac.uk &nbsp; /news-events/news/lancaster-university-course-availability.aspx14/08/2012 17th September - The <a href="http://www.composites-skills-alliance.com/">Composites Skills Alliance, the partnership between National Skills Academy Process Industries and <a href="http://www.semta.org.uk/">Semta which was formed to improve the quality and accessibility of composites skills and training, is launching a number of new courses throughout autumn. Working with accredited training providers, the Alliance has developed an <a href="http://www.composites-skills-alliance.com/training/introduction-to-composites-materials-courses.aspx"> Introduction to Composites Materials and Properties course and a series of <a href="http://www.composites-skills-alliance.com/training/using-composites-materials-and-processes.aspx"> Using Composites Materials and Processes that aim to fill some of the skills and knowledge gaps prioritised by industry employers over the last 12 months. The Introduction course is suited to individuals in entry level jobs as well as more experienced composites personnel who are looking to broaden their understanding of the subject matter. It builds on the concepts explored in the Alliance's existing <a href="http://www.composites-skills-alliance.com/training/awareness-of-composites-course.aspx"> Awareness of Composites course which has had over 80 participants since it launched earlier this year. Industry employer, <a href="http://www.aircelle.com/">Aircelle, a provider of nacelles for jet engines, was selected to pilot the Introduction course among its workforce. Stuart Carter, the company's skills development manager, said: "We welcome the new courses that the Composites Skills Alliance is bringing to the marketplace and recognise the value that they add to our people and to our business. "The hands-on nature of the Introduction course gives learners an opportunity to touch and test materials, which we've found really helps to assist learning and increase understanding." Following delivery of the first Introduction course in September, the Alliance will begin rolling out its programme of practical and technical courses in November. Said Semta's UK Operations DirectorLynn Tomkins: "Composites are a key technology across advanced manufacturing and engineering, with a value of around £20 billion a year.&nbsp; These new programmes are therefore vital to competitiveness and meet industry needs because they are intense, hands-on courses that teach the practical and theoretical knowledge behind the production techniques commonly used by the composites industry." Tom Preece, composites business manager, comments: "So far this year, a lot of our time and resource has been invested in course development and making sure that our products fulfil the needs that employers have been highlighting to us. "Over the coming months, our focus is shifting towards delivery as we look to give as many employers as possible access to quality assured composites skills training at a competitive price." /news-events/news/quality-assured-training-courses-boost-skills-in-the-composites-industry.aspx18/09/2012 The Academy has featured in the following articles in October: <a href="http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/business/2012/10/24/you-don-t-have-to-be-a-doctor-to-save-a-life-51140-32096936/" target="_blank">http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/business/2012/10/24/you-don-t-have-to-be-a-doctor-to-save-a-life-51140-32096936/ &nbsp; <a href="http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/business/2012/10/24/demographic-time-bomb-is-still-ticking-51140-32096940/" target="_blank">http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/business/2012/10/24/demographic-time-bomb-is-still-ticking-51140-32096940/ &nbsp; /news-events/news/nsapi-in-the-news.aspx25/10/2012 An engineering apprentice who has won a prestigious award is looking forward to an exciting career after studying at Redcar &amp; Cleveland College. Craig Wilson, 21 from Marske, received his Tees Valley Production Technician (TVPT) Studentship award after undertaking a four-year Apprenticeship on the programme, and completing his Higher National Certificate in Chemical Engineering at the College. Craig was sponsored by SABIC, a chemical manufacturing company on Teesside, and has managed to secure a full-time job working for them. Craig said: "My Apprenticeship has given me the skills and knowledge that I need to progress into my future, and I'm so glad that all of my hard work has finally paid off. "Winning the award has been well worth all of the effort and determination that I put into my course at the College, and I can't wait to begin my work at SABIC." He completed his National Certificate with a double distinction award, and achieved the highest points score ever for a TVPT apprentice. Chris Coupland,&nbsp;Director of Engineering, CIT, International &amp; HE at Redcar &amp; Cleveland College said: "We are all so proud of Craig for winning the TVPT award and are thrilled that his sponsoring company have offered him full-time employment. "His determination and passion were shown through his studies at the College, and his Apprenticeship has made him a conscientious student who is bound to succeed in his chosen pathway - I wish him all the best for the future." Staff at SABIC are pleased to welcome Craig into the team, where he uses his newly obtained skills and understanding associated with chemical plant and process plant operations. Kathryn Harper, Learning and Development Manager at SABIC said: "SABIC are delighted that Craig was awarded TVPT of the year, making it the second year running for a SABIC apprentice to win the award. Craig has worked very hard both on his course work and whilst doing his on-site experience. He has quickly become a popular and valued member of the team. "SABIC are committed to the Apprenticeship programme as a key part of its manpower planning strategy for the future. We recognise the need to develop and grow young people such as Craig to be the skilled employees of the future who will make a sustainable chemical industry on Teesside." Craig's hard work and dedication have meant that he is able to look forward to a successful future in the industry, and he has also signed up to study a Chemical Engineering degree at Teesside University which is sponsored by SABIC. He has set the standards and goals to inspire other apprentices within the field to aim higher for their future. /news-events/news/redcar-cleveland-apprenticeship.aspx13/11/2012 The University of Chester is hosting a Science conference on Friday 8th March 2013 for girls in years 11, 12 and 13 in local schools, to celebrate International Women's Day. We are looking for inspirational women speakers working in science as role models and &nbsp;to encourage more girls to study Science subjects. For more information please email <a href="mailto:a.lupton@chester.ac.uk">a.lupton@chester.ac.uk /news-events/news/the-university-of-chester.aspx13/11/2012 In business today, the concept of team is changing and more teams are being pulled together across departments or organisations to focus on specific projects.&nbsp; Selected for their skills and expertise and often working remotely, individuals need the support of their whole team to meet overall objectives.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;However, to be effective and to work efficiently, teams need a leader, so what steps can you take to ensure you're an effective team leader that successfully engages their team? &nbsp;Whether you are a permanent team leader, or you have been pulled into a project to manage a team, this article outlines some of the steps you can take to make your role as team leader more satisfying, engaging and productive. &nbsp; 1. Understand the role of team leader- an effective team leader brings people together to promote creativity, improve performance and support collaboration to deliver consistently strong results and high levels of engagement. &nbsp; 2. Remember that all eyes are on you- an effective team leader does not have the attitude of 'do as I say not do as I do'. Your team needs you to lead by example, so if you're disengaged and demotivated, your attitude and behaviour is likely to be reflected in your team and their performance. &nbsp; 3. Accept that you don't have all the answers- an effective team leader is open to ideas, contributions and suggestions from all members of their team. It's important not to dismiss any suggestions or feedback from your people so be open to ideas and encourage two-way, constructive discussion. &nbsp; 4. Know when to back off- an effective team leader allows their team members to do their jobs, so show faith in your people. This doesn't mean you shouldn't be on hand to manage your team, but there's every chance your people will perform to a higher level if they believe you have confidence in their ability. &nbsp; 5. Get ready to get stuck in- an effective team leader realises they can energise and engage their team if they show they're prepared to get involved and get the job done, which is particularly important at times when the team needs to meet tough deadlines or targets. This doesn't mean getting bogged down in the 'day to day' work of the team, but does mean being sensitive to the pressure and needs of your people. &nbsp; 6. Be prepared to coach your people- an effective team leader helps their people to learn and develop. Although deep down you may have the attitude of 'if you want something doing properly, do it yourself', it's important you support your team to learn and perform to the best of their ability. &nbsp; 7. Appreciate the responsibility that comes with your role- an effective team leader accepts that they may need to take tough decisions from time to time. As leader you're no longer 'one of the gang' so whether you're managing performance or conflict, you'll need to have a strategy in place to identify issues and negotiate a balanced, swift and lasting resolution, should the need arise. &nbsp; 8. Communicate in a variety of ways- an effective team leader encourages open, two-way communication within their team. It's vital to ensure your team knows you're approachable, are prepared to listen and are willing to offer constructive, reasoned responses. Alongside this though, it's important to be open to the range of ways that your team will communicate with you. In addition to face-to-face, verbal communication, you'll also need to get to grips with virtual and electronic communications, as well as non-verbal messages from your people. &nbsp; 9. Reward and recognise your team- an effective team leader invests time finding out the personal 'needs' of each team member so that you know what motivates your team and what doesn't. Use this understanding to recognise or 'reward' individual accomplishments based on the needs of the individual. Regardless of the approach you take, there are many ways to reward performance and some of the best ones can cost nothing! &nbsp; 10. Have one eye on the future- an effective team leader looks to the future of the team and the organisation they're working. Whether it's developing talent within your team or offering people opportunities to develop new skills, an effective team leader isn't afraid of nurturing new leadership talent. &nbsp; Gary Wyles, managing director of Festo Training &amp; Consulting (<a href="http://www.festo-didactic.co.uk/">www.festo-didactic.co.uk) who run a range of short courses and bespoke programmes on the topics of management, leadership, teambuilding and coaching. /news-events/news/how-to-be-an-effective-team-leader-festo.aspx13/11/2012 Two UK composites businesses, <a href="http://www.aim-aviation.com/composites/composites-overview/">Aim Composites in Cambridge and <a href="http://epmtechnology.com/">epm: technology group in Derby have given their backing to the training courses offered by the Composites Skills Alliance in a new video published online. Commenting on the benefits achieved as a result of engaging with the Alliance, Andy Carroll, technical manager at Aim Composites, said: "The training has given our employees a broader understanding of the industry and helped ensure that the development of workforce skills is built on a common foundation of knowledge." Watch the video <a href="http://www.composites-skills-alliance.com/">here. /news-events/news/employers-speak-out-about-thebenefit-of-composites-training.aspx13/11/2012 The National Skills Academy has launched a Petroleum Safety Training course for contractors working at top tier COMAH Petroleum sites such as Refineries, Bulk Storage Facilities, Terminals and Jetties. The course was developed using the Petroleum Safety training standard developed by Cogent in response to a request from the Cogent&nbsp;Downstream Advisory Council (DAC) who perceived a training gap in this area. Reynolds Training Services, an Academy accredited training provider developed the course which was&nbsp;piloted across the UK at four events and has been signed off by&nbsp;the DAC whose membership includes the UK Petroleum Industry Association (UKPIA). The course is designed to supplement generic safety training and provide contractors with a good understanding of the hazards or refineries and terminal sites, and knowledge of safety and safe systems of work on these sites. Feedback from attendees at the showcase&nbsp;events was extremely positive and resulted in the roll out of the course with a pilot scheme at the Essar Refinery in Ellesmere Port. The first commercial course ran on the 12th November 2012 in the North West and was delivered by TTE North West, an Academy accredited provider. The course received excellent feedback. A further three courses, all of which are at capacity, are set to run in the North West before the end of the year. Further courses will be rolled out across the UK at the end of 2012 and beginning of 2013. For more information about the Petroleum Safety Training course please click <a href="/process-safety.aspx?tab=5" target="_blank">here /news-events/news/petroleum-safety-training-gets-the-green-light.aspx14/11/2012 LINPAC Packaging has set itself a new record for its health and safety success by racking up more than 8,700 lost time accident free days in its manufacturing and sales and distribution sites across Europe, South America and China. As of the December 31, 2011, the food packaging company had achieved a total of 8727 lost time accident free days for its 3000+ people employed throughout its 18 manufacturing sites and numerous sales and distribution facilities - several sites alone each achieved 1,000 lost time accident free days. John Jones, Group HR and HSHE (Human Resources and Health, Safety, Hygiene and Environment) Director at LINPAC said: "The dramatic decline in accidents and incidents over the past three years has fed through straight to our bottom line for our investors but best of all we are keeping our people safe." Mark Reynolds, Group HSHE and Energy Manager,added: "We began by gradually moving away from the idea that LINPAC Packaging simply had to deliver statutory requirements throughout the world to meet its targets, to a position where every LINPAC employee is fully aware of their roles and responsibilities to protect themselves and others. We have driven our core strategy of continuous improvement to ensure that all accident, incidents and near misses are fully investigated and closed out through a seven step programme which is subsequently communicated to, and adopted by all our sites worldwide." LINPAC Packaging has transformed the company's safety record by delivering a rigorous strategy that encourages behavioural change and their mandatory 30-second risk assessment programme, which quickly identifies hazardous situations. "This pre-task risk assessment is now embedded into the safety ethic of the whole work force," said Mr Reynolds. Other key milestones of the company include: Year-on-year decline on accidents well ahead of the industry average. Overall equipment effectiveness pushing above world-class levels. Employee involvement in improvement projects increased by more than 70% Best in class attendance levels for a manufacturing, sales and distribution business.&nbsp; John Jones said: "Our health, safety, hygiene and environment (HSHE) performance would have been 'business as usual' with year on year incremental improvement, had we not taken a proactive approach to implement a 'step change' programme for safety improvement in all of our business. "HSHE is at the top of the operational excellence objectives for LINPAC Packaging across the globe. Within the deployment of our strategy, HSHE is the 'first in line' when it comes to setting corporate and personal objectives and we have delivered this strategic approach to improvement through direct action in all of our factories, distribution centres and sales offices." Mr Jones added that: "As well as introducing significant cultural change in our multi cultural working environment, LINPAC Packaging has also witnessed an improvement in productivity following the reduction in down time associated with accidents. As an added value for our investors, we have also reduced our "risk profile" and this has helped us to reduce insurance costs significantly in a 'rising cost' market." For further information about LINPAC Packaging visit <a href="/www.linpacpackaging.com" target="_blank">www.linpacpackaging.com /news-events/news/linpac-packaging-celebrate-8727-accident-free-days.aspx19/11/2012 On the back of the successful Process Safety Leadership for Senior Executives course the second course in the Process Safety Management portfolio has been launched this quarter. Process Safety Management Foundations (PSMF), a two day course designed to support those individuals responsible for the day to day management of process safety, is now being delivered UK wide. To date five courses have been delivered (all led by Process Industry Consulting), with both closed and open courses being highly commended by those who have attended. The benefits highlighted by a number of those attending this course include: The opportunity to engage in guided discussions and achieve a wider group understanding of critical Process Safety and site safety concerns. Getting to see the 'bigger picture' for Process Safety Management Understanding the applicability of Process Safety Management principles to non-COMAH major hazard operations Gaining an insight into the history of major accident hazards and the reasons for management systems /news-events/news/process-safety-management-foundations-hits-the-ground-running.aspx20/11/2012 The National Skills Academy Process industries is working with two Higher Education Institutes to develop a meaningful awareness program on polymer processing but need employer input. The&nbsp;link below&nbsp;takes you to an outline program and we need to know if it is fit for purpose, is anything missing, should we remove something? Click <a href="/media/18005/training_modules__basic_polymer_science_and_engineering_.pdf" target="_blank">here and&nbsp;let us know your views email <a href="mailto:r.langford@process.nsacademy.co.uk">r.langford@process.nsacademy.co.uk &nbsp; /news-events/news/polymers.aspx06/12/2012 Released 12 noon Thursday 13th December 2012 Last night in Westminster NEPIC the Process Industry Cluster body based in Sunderland and Wilton, Redcar held its regular discussion with NE MPs to brief them on issues that are concerning the NE region's biggest industrial sector. Dr Cable Minister of State for Business Innovation &amp; Skills (BIS) also attended yesterday's meeting and directly addressed questions raised by the NE industrialists. Mark Williams Site Director of SABIC asked how new feedstocks, such as societal waste, frac gas and underground coal gasification, which have made a step change to manufacturing economics of the industry, in for example the USA, are being considered during the development of the Governments energy and manufacturing policies? Dr Cable responded by stating that he hoped they would be considered in the comprehensive energy policy that is being developed and that energy intensive industries would be a special case within any new regulation that is developed. Dr Cable also understood the industrial issues around the Carbon Capture &amp; Storage projects and that industrial requirements need to be considered in any energy based CCS infrastructure project that is implemented. The EU funding to support such projects was discussed but this is however complicated. He pointed out that the east coast projects are still in the frame for future development. The region's skills issues were addressed by George Ritchie of Sembcorp &amp; Ian Mains of NSAPI. They described the Employer Ownership Pilot (EOP) that Sembcorp are leading on behalf of the sector including 100 employers, NEPIC, the National Apprenticeship Service, Tees Valley Unlimited with the National Skills Academy (NSAPI) as the delivery partner. The first programme has taken on the challenge to not only bring a significant number of out of work young people into the work place it also aims to shorten the duration of the technical apprenticeship programmes.. It was pointed out that a second EOP bid is to be made for an industrial partnership for the science based industries across the UK including the NE.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Other issues discussed at the meeting include growth of the sector, supply chain development, the NEPIC SME growth programmes, anti-dumping regulations, promotion of the sector internationally including pharmaceuticals. The innovation discussion was led by Nigel Perry CEO of CPI who outlined the latest investment into the innovation facilities at CPI, including the micro-biological facilities announced this week.&nbsp; New investors to the region Air products and SNF were represented at the meeting which also had input from Banner Chemicals, Growhow, Huntsman, MSD, ENSUS, and Jacobs Engineering. The meeting was jointly chaired by Mike Huggon CEO of BOC-Linde in the UK and Ian Swales MP for Redcar who also chairs the all-party parliamentary group for the chemical industry. NE MPs in attendance included James Wharton Stockton South, Alex Cunningham Stockton North, Ian Wright Hartlepool, Helen Goodman Bishop Auckland, and Nick Brown Newcastle. Lord Foster of Bishop Auckland, on behalf of his parliamentary colleagues, commended NEPIC for the continued dialogue with the local MPs and pointed out how valuable these regular briefings were to all his parliamentary colleagues from the region. One of the prominent players in the development of this event was former MP Dr Ashok Kumar RIP. This has become one of the most prominent calendar events for NE industry leaders and regional MPs. An annual parliamentary scholarship for young engineers and scientists was established in Dr Kumar's name and this is jointly funded by NEPIC and the Institution of Chemical Engineers. This year's scholar James Lawrence a biochemical engineer told the meeting about his experience in Parliament and the technology paper he has written for the Parliamentary Office for Science &amp; Technology (POST). He thanked NEPIC and IChemE for this once in a lifetime experience. Stan Higgins CEO of NEPIC said "This meeting creates essential dialogue between industry and our Parliamentary representatives. It allows full and frank opinions to be expressed in an informal setting. I don't know of another meeting of its type that takes place. We have seen some excellent results arising from these discussions, not least the EOP skills project that has arisen from the support of our MPs arising from last year's meeting." &nbsp; /news-events/news/dr-cable-addresses-nepic-parliamentary-group.aspx13/12/2012 Employers in the chemical-using and process industries have been telling us that it is critically important to make sure that their formulation scientists and technologists have the skills they need to do their job properly. Formulation skills and understanding are critical to the companies in many sectors who are conducting laboratory R&amp;D, process development as well as pilot and full-scale manufacture of complex formulated products such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, detergents, paints, inks, agrochemicals and processed foods. Additionally the lack of a systematic framework for line-managers to help develop their employees has also been identified as one factor which hinders innovation in formulated product design and manufacture. To help employers identify and develop the necessary competencies in formulation science and technology we've consulted extensively with employers during 2012 and produced three draft "Gold Standards" for typical job roles relevant to companies engaged in formulation. The Gold Standard sets the national standard for Continuing Professional Development across key job roles. It operates across four key areas of competency: technical, business improvement, compliance and functional and behavioural. Your employees can begin a journey that will see them work their way towards a world-leading skills set. They can start this at any point on the Gold Standard, depending on development needs. Before we issue these Gold Standards, we'd like to give industry a final chance to comment on them and to suggest improvements. To find the draft Gold Standards for Formulation, as well as further information on Cogent's Gold Standards, just go to <a href="http://www.cogent-ssc.com/Gold_Standard/Quals_reports.php">www.cogent-ssc.com/Gold_Standard/Quals_reports.php&nbsp;and download the documents in question. Then please send any comments you have on the Gold Standards by Friday January 11th at the latest by e-mail to our partners at iFormulate Ltd who are assisting us with Gold Standards for Formulation (E-mail address: <a href="mailto:info@iformulate.biz">info@iformulate.biz). &nbsp; We look forward to your feedback on these draft Gold Standards as well as to working with you further on skills development. /news-events/news/skills-for-formulation-scientists-and-technicians-–-your-final-chance-to-comment-on-cogent’s-gold-standards.aspx17/12/2012 NSAPI director Neil Smith has been quoted in a recent article in Process Engineering <a href="http://processengineering.theengineer.co.uk/losing-sight-of-safety/1015246.article"> 'Losing sight of&nbsp;process safety' on the top down, management led&nbsp;approach to process safety as demonstrated by the Process Safety Management&nbsp;(PSM) initiative the Academy is currently involved in. He&nbsp;reports that this standards-based approach is "really starting to resonate," with around 600 industry leaders and senior managers from 100 of the most hazardous sites in the UK investing time in process safety leadership training courses in 2012. For the full article please click <a href="http://processengineering.theengineer.co.uk/losing-sight-of-safety/1015246.article" target="_blank">here /news-events/news/losing-sight-of-process-safety.aspx18/01/2013 Highlights from the evening: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 450 process industry executives attend awards night held by NEPIC ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; £18,000 awarded to the region's outstanding young people, contributors and companies ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; £8,000 donated to local primary school science projects ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; £7,000 awarded to apprentices &amp; young achievers - inspiring future leaders ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fujifilm dominate night scooping four awards including the prestigious Outstanding Contribution Award Friday 18 January 2013 - Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield. Witnessed by some 450 industry executives, despite the blizzard-like weather conditions, thirteen awards were presented to the regions brightest youngsters, best companies and tireless contributors within the process sector at this year's NEPIC Annual Awards evening.&nbsp; Eighteen thousand pounds in prize funds was donated over the course of the evening to the award winners, in support of future career development and local science related school projects. Billingham based biotechnology firm, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, dominated this year's award ceremony, which was held at Hardwick Hall in Sedgefield and sponsored by ABB Consulting. Fujifilm Diosynth are global manufacturers of key active ingredient in biotech based pharmaceuticals and employs 550 regionally, scooped two Young Achiever awards and the award for Sustainable Manufacturing.&nbsp; Fujifilm's evening was topped off as MCC Venture Leader, Subhash Chaudhary, walked away with the prestigious Outstanding Contribution award. Steve Bagshaw, Managing Director, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies commented on a very successful evening: "I am thrilled and very proud that we have achieved such success in this year's NEPIC Awards. To be recognised with awards ranging from Young Achievers through to Outstanding Contribution and Manufacturing Sustainability is testament to the skills and talent of our employees. &nbsp;We look forward to building on this in the future as our business continues to grow on the Billingham site.&nbsp; Seven of the regions rising stars were recognised from companies across the Northeast following a flurry fantastic of entries. Apprentice of the Year Awards, in the areas of manufacturing and supply chain, were awarded to Craig Wilson of SABIC UK Petrochemicals and Mathew Pollock of CPI respectively. Young Achievers from across the industry sectors that NEPIC represents were awarded for their outstanding achievements, in what are relatively early stages for their careers. Congratulations to Dan Purvis of SABIC Petrochemicals UK, Rebecca Hill &amp; Lindsay Amos of Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, Jenny Thompson of Biochemica and Sembcorp Utilities, Francis Kay who all picked up awards this evening and walked away with their £1000 prizes. The Primary School Environmental Award was this year won by Middlesbrough based Kader Primary School, for their proposal to develop large areas of school grounds into a learning environment and wildlife area in order to provide curriculum enrichment for all children. The school took way with them a cheque for £2000 to make the children's project proposal become a reality. Representatives from NEPIC and award sponsors, BOC, will support the school through this process. Northumbrian Water Limited (NWL) received the Industrial Environmental Award for its innovative large scale use of Advanced Anaerobic Digestion, which converts 100 per cent of its sewage sludge into renewable electricity.&nbsp; NWL are sharing their prize fund between two schools -Castle View Enterprise Academy in Sunderland and Durham based Framwellgate School. &nbsp;Each will receive £1000 and work with NWL on a STEM* related project. Also collecting awards, which had been produced from locally manufactured acrylic at the Lucite International site Billingham, are successful exporters Chemoxy International and Exwold Technology.&nbsp;&nbsp; These awards, sponsored by UKTI, praised Chemoxy International for demonstrating that SMEs are capable of achieving world-wide sales of innovation products and services and experienced exporters, Exwold Technology, commended for their continued desire to aggressively grow their export business through development and training. During the evening Paul Booth, NEPIC Chairman and European Director at SABIC UK Petrochemicals addressed the guests reflecting on the Clusters position twelve months prior and the outlook for the future. "For most of us it has been another year of change and also a tough year. The downturn continues with Europe in the doldrums, whilst the US and Asia continue with their economic recovery. "Having recognised the challenges that lay ahead for the Cluster this year with the withdrawal of public funding and despite a tough year, we have seen the attraction of new business. Thanks to the hard work of Stan and the NEPIC Team, future financing now looks to be on a secure footing. "Over the last five years we have had some £3bn of process sector investment in the Northeast, the latest of these being Akzo Nobel, Air Products and Lotte Chemical UK. But what is most encouraging for the future, are the 18 process sector projects that have had Regional Growth Fund bids approved.** Booth concluded by offering his grateful appreciation to the contributors, members, support organisations, and the NEPIC team.&nbsp; Stan Higgins, NEPIC CEO commented, "This annual event is probably the biggest such event in the region and NEPIC's administration and support team take great credit for staging it so successfully. We must also thank our sponsors and all the award entrants for enabling the standard of award winners remaining so high". The NEPIC Annual Awards Dinner has now been running for six years. During this time the event has donated a total prize fund of £127.000. Local schools have received £78,000 in support of 40 STEM* related projects and the region's young stars - 46 in total to date - receiving £46,000 between them. May we once more pay tribute to the night's sponsors - ABB Consulting, Lotte Chemical UK, Redhall, BOC, UK Trade &amp; Investment, Middlesbrough College, Sembcorp Utilities UK &amp; Lucite International, to whom without their continued support, this event would not be possible.&nbsp; &nbsp; /news-events/news/fujifilm-diosynth-dominates-prestigious-process-industry-awards-evening.aspx21/01/2013 The Business of People - For someone who's never lived in North East England, Phil sure is a fan of the area. He's been heavily involved in its growth and development for many years during his time at BASF and now as CE for the National Skills Academy Process Industries (NSAPI). So, just what is the attraction? "I really enjoy working in the North East and with the people there. The commitment to making the region a better place to work and the focus on young people comes through all the time - and it's very inspiring," enthuses Phil. Phil was brought up in the Midlands, and studied at Coventry University. He worked in HR - his abiding passion - for 15 years at Austin Rover's Longbridge plant (a baptism of fire, as it was during the big industrial disputes) and within various roles at BASF, before moving into consultancy and then General Management. "In my time in HR I saw the transition from Personnel Management to Human Resources, and it was NOT just a name change. In many companies the Personnel Department was a 'tea and sympathy' and grievance and discipline department, sitting between employees and the management, with very little influence on the strategy and direction of the business. The move to HR saw an influx of new talent. Often these people came from other disciplines, which brought a new perspective and strength to the HR function." For the full article please click <a href="http://www.firstforpharma.co.uk/people/in-the-spotlight/item/241-philip-jones" target="_blank">here  /news-events/news/first-for-pharma-phililp-jones-profile.aspx05/02/2013 A new Partnership has been confirmed today between the National Skills Academy Process Industries (NSAPI), Cogent Sector Skills Council and the National Skills Academy Materials, Production and Supply (NSAMPS); it is aimed at a simplification and enhancement of skills delivery into the process manufacturing sector. The collaboration means a joint approach to employer ownership on skills across the breadth of process manufacturing, with particular focus on formulation. &nbsp;It presents a real opportunity for employers across the sector to take the lead on the development of skills for their businesses. Process Safety As part of the collaboration NSAMPS will work with NSAPI to support and roll out the Process Safety Awareness initiative - a suite of courses based on world class training standards and supported by the Health and Safety Executive. Jonathan Ledger, Director of NSAMPS commented, "We are delighted to be entering this new partnership, where there are great opportunities to deliver real results for industry while minimising bureaucracy and costs. This&nbsp;&nbsp; partnership for the process manufacturing industries will help employers to shape the future of training and create a sustainable skills partnership that will to drive activity across other projects as they emerge. &nbsp;&nbsp;It's an exciting time for our employers and for the partners involved in setting up the schemes, and I'm looking forward to developing new ways of working that will facilitate real change." John Holton, Strategy Director at Cogent SSC commented, "this is an excellent step for Cogent and its partner the National Skills Academy Process Industries to work with new industries across the sector developing key initiatives to drive investment in skills and deliver business growth. The right skills equip people across the science-using sector with the ability to have a broader dialogue with each other, and to understand the wide potential for new ideas or technologies." Philip Jones, Chief Executive Officer, National Skills Academy Process Industries reiterates, "we very much welcome this partnership with the National Skills Academy for Materials, Production and Supply. This coming together of key strategic skills bodies will be a crucial factor in developing skills in support of all elements of the science-based industries. We look forward to tackling the challenges and opportunities together." /news-events/news/a-new-skills-partnership-for-the-process-manufacturing-industries.aspx19/02/2013 January saw the launch of the Academy's new Ppovider offer at the Menzies Strathallan hotel in Birmingham. The event, which brought together over&nbsp;twenty providers from the Academy's existing network, provided an overview of the new tiered system that will offer the network&nbsp;three new levels of membership - <a href="/media/18664/affiliate_factsheet.pdf">Affiliate , <a href="/media/18673/member_factsheet.pdf">Member and <a href="/media/18670/delivery_partner_factsheet.pdf">Delivery Partner.&nbsp; The new offer is a simple to use system with each level having a variety of inclusive and additional extras to give providers flexibility in their <a href="/media/18676/membership_levels_factsheet.pdf">membership . With 600 leaders trained in Process Safety in 2012, via the accredited provider network, Allan Laing, Academy Chairman commented "The provider network is key to the Academy meeting the training needs of employers in 2013. Employers value the access to good quality accredited providers that the Academy delivers." John Reynolds, Director of Reynolds Training Services Ltd and an Academy accredited provider who attended the event said "The provider day was an opportunity to look forward with the Academy and plan for the future, whilst acknowledging areas to build on. The building has begun with the new range of provider offers that give a unique blend of service variables with the opportunity to build closer relationships with the Academy from Affiliate through to delivery partner.&nbsp; As a Centre of Excellence Reynolds Training Services Ltd has worked closely with the Academy and Cogent over the last four years and values the relationship we have developed, the new offer provides a route to strengthen that relationship as a delivery partner". The event included workshops which provided the&nbsp;members with the opportunity to feedback on the network and the areas they see as most beneficial to their business. This feedback will be used to ensure that the new offer meets with the needs of the network moving forward. Claire Green, Provider Manager for the Academy commented; "It is a very exciting time for the provider network with the new changes being rolled out during the course of 2013. The provider team are committed to the network and believe that this offer delivers what providers need in terms of support and business development in the Process Industries." For more information on the new offer to find out how you can become an accredited&nbsp;member of the Academy network please call the team on 0845 607 0140 or email <a href="mailto:providers@process.nsacademy.co.uk">providers@process.nsacademy.co.uk. Full details on the new offer and member ship levels can be found <a href="/training-providers.aspx">here /news-events/news/academy-launch-new-provider-offer.aspx25/02/2013 TOPRA, The Organisation for Professionals in Regulatory Affairs, has been accredited as a National Skills Academy Process Industries Centre of Excellence specialising in the delivery of training for individuals working, or with an interest in, regulatory affairs in the healthcare sector. Neil Fisher, Director of Education &amp; Training, TOPRA, said "The Skills Academy's recognition of TOPRA as Centre of Excellence for Healthcare Regulatory Affairs training is a reflection of the quality and depth of the education and training courses that we presently provide. Kevin Thrower from the Academy said: 'We are delighted that TOPRA is now part of our accredited network, delivering high-quality regulatory affairs training for employers in the pharmaceutical and related sectors.' About TOPRA TOPRA is the global organisation for regulatory affairs professionals and for those who have an interest in regulatory affairs in the healthcare sector.Our vision is to enable and promote excellence in the healthcare regulatory profession. Our current membership is drawn from over 40 countries and members worldwide are actively involved in delivering the services needed by busy regulatory specialists. Members are drawn from industry, the regulatory agencies and the consultancy community and work in all sectors including medical technologies, biotech, borderline products and pharmaceuticals. What we do:&nbsp; We represent and promote the global healthcare regulatory profession, enabling legislators and other opinion leaders to access the best possible information and advice from among our diverse membership, which in turn strengthens healthcare regulation for everyone. We provide our members with top-quality, relevant support with a European focus.&nbsp; We support them throughout their careers to help them perform to the highest level and to help retain the brightest and the best within the profession. The training courses we provide include foundation courses for new entrants into the industry, as well as continuing professional development for experienced professionals. Introductory Courses If you want to build a solid and comprehensive foundation in regulatory affairs, our Introductory Courses are for your employees. These popular intensive residential courses have been established for 35 years and are presented by over 50 speakers and facilitators from industry and agencies, all respected authorities in their fields. Each five-day residential course covers all aspects of the product development process and provides a sound overview of EU legislation and regulatory procedures. We look at the central role Regulatory Affairs plays in a modern pharmaceutical company and the development cycle of new drugs. The Introductory Course takes place twice a year and the next one, the Spring Introductory Course, is on 15-19 April in Dorking, UK Basics of Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs This course will provide new employees with a clear and concise understanding of the role played by regulatory affairs in obtaining and maintaining Marketing Authorisations for pharmaceutical products. The one-day course is for very new recruits, PAs, administrators and support staff in regulatory affairs and other related areas such as medical, manufacturing and marketing. It is suitable for staff in agencies and companies. This course has been supplied to UK delegates seeking employment via Job Centre Plus, part of the Department for Work and Pensions. Basics of Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs courses take place throughout the year. Please check www.topra.org/events for all upcoming Basics courses. CRED: Continuing Professional Development Regulatory Affairs Professionals will gain new responsibilities or change direction throughout their career, requiring additional or updated knowledge. The TOPRA Continuing Regulatory Education and Development (CRED) Programme is designed to meet this need. The programme comprises a series of one-day interactive workshops, run over a two-year cycle.&nbsp;&nbsp; Structured, but flexible, continuing regulatory education, allowing regulatory professionals to design training programmes to suit their individual needs A choice of 16 interactive workshops, covering eight core topics, providing regulatory professionals with the opportunity to build up a portfolio of training demonstrating technical and practical knowledge A balance of theory and practice, equipping participants with practical skills that can be applied immediately Speakers drawn from both regulatory agencies and industry, offering different perspectives Interactive sessions (often case studies) where participants and experts share ideas and experiences and address common problems faced in everyday situations &nbsp; If you have queries about the CRED programme, please email <a href="mailto:meetings@topra.org">meetings@topra.org Please check <a href="http://www.topra.org/events">www.topra.org/events for all upcoming CRED courses. For further information on TOPRA, go to <a href="http://www.topra.org">www.topra.org For the latest TOPRA courses please&nbsp;click <a href="/media/19216/topra_-_campaign_-_february_2013.pdf" target="_blank">here &nbsp; /news-events/news/topra-accredited-as-a-centre-of-excellence-for-healthcare-regulatory-affairs-by-the-national-skills-academy-process-industries.aspx25/02/2013 Belfast Metropolitan College have recently opened their composites workshop in their new 'e3' Campus. The e3 Campus is designed to assist businesses in the areas of employability, entrepreneurship and economic engagement. The composites workshop provides easy access to businesses looking to develop products, materials or ideas with an 'easy-access' policy. Equipment at the campus includes: ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Scholz 1.5m dia x 2m length autoclave ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; WIS Pre-former / Hot Drape Former ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; MVP single part epoxy RTM pumps ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; MVP dual part epoxy/polyester RTM pumps ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; MVP Infusion pumps and materials ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Olympus Omniscan MX2 phased array inspection ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Standard wet lay-up and vac bagging ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Freezer room ·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Trim area The 'easy-access' policy promoted by the College enables use of advanced manufacturing equipment for businesses without the high initial investment costs. In many cases, the College sources grant assistance for such work, resulting in minimal expenditure to the company concerned. For more information, please see <a href="http://www.belfastmetcomposites.com">www.belfastmetcomposites.com or contact Findhan Strain on 028 9093 9390 /news-events/news/belfast-metropolitan-college-open-new-composites-workshop.aspx25/02/2013 PROCESS SAFETY All employees in any organisation need to be competent in the role they perform and be fully aware of both personal and process safety requirements. This is vital in high-hazard industries such as refining, chemical manufacturing and storage terminal operations, as continuing incidents prove &nbsp; The UK Health &amp; Safety Executive (HSE) expects all companies subject to the provisions of the Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) Regulations to be able to demonstrate competence at all levels of the organisation. Process and personal safety management and awareness is currently a key initiative, prompted by the results of the investigation into the December 2005 explosion at the Buncefield oil depot in Hertfordshire, and confirmed by a number of other major incidents. But even if an organisation is aware of the need for process safety leadership, how should it ensure that such awareness is shared at every level, to an appropriate extent? The answer, as in all safety-related matters, rests with training. &nbsp; Why we need safety The concept of Process Safety Management (PSM) had entered into the hazardous process industries before the turn of the century. However, with the major 2005 explosions at Buncefield and at the Texas City refinery in the US, as well as the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, the same ideas have been applied to other high-hazard operations. In particular, in the UK the Buncefield Major Incident Investigation Board (MIIB) identified a lack of process safety leadership as a key factor in the explosion. This was followed up by the Buncefield Standards Task Group (BSTG), set up to bring together competent authorities, relevant trade associations and unions, and by the Process Safety Leadership Group (PSLG), which took on BSTG's work and produced its final report in 2009. A key recommendation from these bodies was the absolute requirement to ensure demonstrable competence at all levels of an organisation; it is equally important that there is leadership from the top on PSM. However, despite a number of initiatives, not lease HSE's 'Leading from the Top' conference in April 2008 and published guidance on PSM and associated performance indicators, HSE continues to express concern and dissatisfaction with standards of process safety in COMAH-regulated process industries as well as the large number of loss-of-containment incidents in the storage terminal sector. Judith Hackett, HSE chair, recently highlighted the need for sustainability in PSM; companies "need to get on with it", she said, noting that only 65 companies are actively involved with the PSM initiative, out of around 1,000 that can be considered to be in scope of its applicability. Hackett further emphasised the need for greater awareness of personal and process safety, saying that the number of loss-of-containment incidents is still running at around 100 per year, half of which have the potential to cause a major accident. She believes that only by showing leadership and providing process safety training for all employees can organisations demonstrate competence in PSM. And a faster pace of PSM training is needed urgently. To read the full article published in Hazardous Cargo please click <a href="/media/20060/hc_article_martyn_lyons.pdf">here &nbsp; &nbsp; /news-events/news/lead-from-the-front.aspx25/02/2013 Legionella control &amp;&nbsp;management and water treatment training &amp; QCF Qualifications Levels 2 &amp; 3 are provided by Hydroviron Ltd,&nbsp;a National Skills Academy Centre. These Qualifications are applicable to all staff involved in the management, control and operation of water systems e.g. steam generation, cooling &amp; effluent plant; and or staff involved in the control of Legionella bacteria in water systems. Hydroviron's Technical Director John Smith currently Chair of The Legionella Control Associations Standards Committee has during 2012 been working very closely with The Academy in providing a series of open and on-site delivered tutorial style training courses for Duty Holders, Responsible Persons &amp; Deputies involved in the management and implementation of Schemes of Control re prevention of Legionnaires disease. The feedback from the participants has been extremely positive &amp; encouraging and has resulted in further on-site sessions being planned for specific employers.For further information '<a href="http://www.nsapi.co.uk/ListingDetails.aspx?SelectedListing=265" target="_blank" title="The Responsible Person">The Responsible Person (Legionella Control) Hydroviron training in all areas of water treatment &amp; Legionella control/management can be provided on-site and tailored to meet specific outcomes via NSAPI. For further information please call 0844 812 4000 or email <a href="mailto:info@hydroviron.com">info@hydroviron.com&nbsp;.&nbsp;Alternatively you can contact <a href="mailto:john.s@hydroviron.com">john.s@hydroviron.com /news-events/news/hydroviron-ltd-legionella-and-water-treatment-training-qcf-qualifications.aspx25/02/2013 Hartlepool College of Further Education has expanded its range of programmes to include a collaborative joint venture with Fine Industries, increasing its footprint in theTeesValleyprocess sector. This innovative joint venture has seen the creation of a process industry specific apprenticeship training programme. The practical aspects of the apprenticeship will be delivered on site by Fine Industries' qualified trainers/assessors with the underpinning knowledge delivered on a day release basis byHartlepoolCollege. The programme will take approximately three years to complete and will provide the company with the next generation of trained and competent process operators. The apprentices will complete a number of sector specific qualifications including an NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Processing Industries Operations and a City &amp; Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Process Technology. Simultaneously the College is opening the City and Guilds Process Technology course to other interested learners on a day release basis. Steve Catchpole, Director of Operations at Fine Industries commented, 'We are delighted to be working in partnership withHartlepoolCollege. With our business growing rapidly and with succession planning very much in our minds, we looked to the College to help us develop the next generation of process operators. Needless to say we were greatly impressed with the team, support functions and facilities that are available to our initial eight new apprentices '. /news-events/news/engineering-expands-at-hartlepool-college.aspx25/02/2013 This year sees the launch of the new Cogent&nbsp;Life Science Skills Awards scheme, which will culminate in a dinner on 16th May 2013, at the Grand Connaught Rooms in London. This event is set to reward apprentices, individuals, educators and employers who have excelled in contributing to the development of skills within the life science sector. The Awards will showcase the dedication of those individual candidates who have chosen the Apprenticeship route to enable them to further their career prospects. They will also recognise employers who have demonstrated that they value workforce development. The awards will recognise the achievement of individuals, employers and educators across 9 categories: &nbsp;Advanced Apprentice of the Year &nbsp;Higher Apprentice of the Year &nbsp;Healthcare Science Skills &nbsp;Employer of the Year (global) &nbsp;Employer of the Year (SME) &nbsp;Graduate of the Year &nbsp;Placement/Intern/Work Experience Student of the Year &nbsp;Provider of the Year - colleges, universities and training providers &nbsp;Outstanding Leadership in Skills Cogent CEO, Joanna Woolf said: "our vision is for this new Life Sciences Awards scheme and ceremony to be the industry skills event in Life Sciences, recognising individuals and employers who have shown outstanding commitment to skills and workforce development. "The evening itself will be entertaining and celebratory, and at the same time it will be a significant occasion, recognising achievement." The Awards themselves will be introduced by the Rt Hon David Willetts and Pharma Times is the official media partner for the high profile event - the first dedicated to skills! Sponsors so far include the ABPI, The National Skills Academy Process Industries, The Department of Health, Lonza Biologics, Seralab, Johnson and Johnson, BBSRC, AMGEN, Pharma Times, UCB and The Science Council. To book a place go to <a href="http://www.cogent-lifescienceawards.com">www.cogent-lifescienceawards.com or call Kate Hutchins on 01925 515220 /news-events/news/uk-life-science-awards-2013-–-recognising-and-celebrating-outstanding-skills.aspx25/02/2013 Engineering students at Redcar &amp; Cleveland College are heading to the USA to boost their skills and qualifications in robotics and automation. The group of six engineering apprentices will fly to Tennessee in February, where they will spend a week studying at the Cleveland State Community College. It will be a chance in a lifetime opportunity for the students to experience college life in the States, where they will take advantage of the latest equipment, methods and research in both robotics and automation. Student Daniel Thompson, 20, of Middlesbrough, who works at Lotte Chemical UK Ltd as a Mechanical Engineering apprentice, said: "The trip will be the chance of a lifetime for me. It's a great opportunity to widen my horizons and further develop my skills and knowledge, which will help with my future career. I really appreciate the support Lotte Chemical has shown me through my Apprenticeship." Engineering tutor Neil Walker has been taking students to America since 1999. Every year, students stay with host families and attend Cleveland State Community College for five days, before enjoying some down time by sightseeing and hiking. "Cleveland State Community College has a fantastic robotics workshop, so it's a great chance for some of our engineering students to gain new skills and experience to enhance their studies," said Neil. "They will all study intensively for five days before being assessed. It will be an amazing learning experience and something they will never forget. "Last year we also visited the new Volkswagen factory, and we will probably do the same this year. It was a phenomenal place, full of the latest robots, so that in itself was a real eye opener." All of the students are completing their apprenticeships with local employers, in partnership with Redcar &amp; Cleveland College and TTE. Students going on the trip have been sponsored by their individual employers, with additional funding provided by the Sir William Turner Trust. Student Mark Harrison, 18, of Redcar, who is an apprentice Mechanical Fitter at Grow How, said it would be his first ever trip to the US. "I'm really excited about the trip and the opportunity to gain qualifications in robotics. We will be working hard, but it will be worth the effort. It's a great thing to put on my CV." /news-events/news/engineering-students-head-to-america-to-boost-their-learning.aspx25/02/2013 Safety Lessons - Academy Director, Neil Smith's article on process safety&nbsp;is covered in this months Process Engineering. <a href="http://processengineering.theengineer.co.uk/safety-lessons/1015717.article" target="_blank">Read more /news-events/news/march-2013-news-coverage.aspx14/03/2013 NEPIC was formed by industry to help improve the competitiveness of the North East Process Industries. To this date over £1bn of Gross Value Added (GVA) can be attributed to NEPIC's activities with companies, a further 40 investment projects totalling in excess of £3bn have been delivered and there are 62 projects in the pipeline totalling £8.96bn. Today NEPIC is led by an extremely influential <a href="http://www.nepic.co.uk/home/team.asp?qry=root%3D1460%26prn%3D2023" target="_blank">leadership team, who ensure the activities of the cluster are directed to those which offer greatest potential for improvements. The leadership team is proud of NEPIC's achievements to date but recognises that in an increasingly competitive market we must do more and this needs your company and others to stand side by side and be part of the sector and supply chain that NEPIC represents. As a non-member you have little say in how these issues are addressed and according to Michael Porter, the cluster guru, this will be impacting your company's competitiveness. The benefits of membership are detailed below however simply by joining you are showing a commitment to the future of the process industries and helping increase the influence of the cluster to stakeholders and potential investors. About NEPIC membership NEPIC is a not for profit organisation limited by guarantee and membership is restricted to companies and not personal membership. Fees start from as little as £200 + VAT per annum and based on a company's number of UK employees. As membership runs from 1st January to 31st December, any company joining part way through the year will pay a proportionate fee to cover for the remainder of the year. Membership Benefits In addition to the points already raised there are significant benefits to NEPIC membership including: Networking and promotional opportunities Support for company growth International Trade - benefit from quicker access to key markets through NEPIC's international relationships Developing supply chain connections Increased business through member to member opportunities Increasing profitability through schemes to reduce costs in vital areas such as insurance, energy, currency transactions and common purchasing categories sharing of best practise, energy &amp; resource efficiency and productivity programmes Attracting investment - a collaborative environment creates a more compelling interactive and proactive business community which is more attractive to investors Stakeholder engagement &amp; Corporate Social Responsibility Providing a single unified voice for the North East Process Industries to key stakeholder groups Sourcing more supplies from the North East business community Participating in a cohesive network to secure the future of the regions process industries If you join in the cluster by the end of March your company will also feature in the NEPIC Members Directory 2013 which has the potential to reach over 400,000 contacts globally. For further information please visit our <a href="http://www.nepic.co.uk/members/join.asp?qry=%9AAmB%81%8B%CFI%F6%05bv%E7%0DP%82MF" target="_blank">Join Now webpage or if you would like to join simply download and complete the membership form and either email or fax by return to 0191 516 4414. Should you have any questions or would like to meet a member of the NEPIC team to discuss this opportunity in greater detail then please contact Paul Butler on 07802 255 118 or email <a href="mailto:paul.butler@nepic.co.uk">paul.butler@nepic.co.uk. /news-events/news/nepic-membership.aspx14/03/2013 Science-based companies taking the lead in securing the skills needed in the UK for growth and competitiveness UK science-using employers are leading the way on skills through the development of a&nbsp;Science Industry Partnership. The new Partnership has already signed up around 50 employers: some of the first to become engaged include - GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer, Johnson and Johnson, Amgen, MedImmune, Fujifilm Diosynth, Ineos, Victrex, Takeda Cambridge and Pentagon Chemicals. Together these employers are developing a vision of the skills base needed for global success. The Science Industry Partnership will commission innovative skills solutions which will challenge the status quo and ensure the UK has the technicians, scientists and innovators of the future. To establish the Partnership a range of leading employers from the science-using sector will be submitting a bid into the Government's&nbsp;Employer Ownership of Skills Pilot (EOP). This £340m competitive fund is investing in a range of pilot proposals from employers who are willing to work together in similar Partnerships and take ownership of skills in their sectors. GSK Director Malcolm Skingle, who will Chair the Science Industry Partnership said, "If Britain is to remain at the cutting edge of scientific discovery, it's crucial that we're able to access the right talent and that we know how to nurture this. This partnership will put employers in the driving seat, allowing us to identify ways of attracting the best young people and in turn securing the essential skill base for a prosperous UK science-based sector." The Partnership will focus on the talent needed for the future and places an emphasis on using skills as the vehicle for technology adoption and innovation. The EOP Pilot reflects the Government's ambition to have a much more employer-led training and education system. The Science Industry Partnership's bid into this EOP fund will be fully supported by Cogent. Consultation so far suggests employers are keen to develop solutions around attracting young people into important and exciting science jobs; increasing and supporting Apprenticeships; developing graduate employability and embedding work placements in degrees, ensuring standards-led training for the current workforce, building masters programmes around strategically important technologies and establishing even stronger collaboration between industry, education and training providers. SMEs will also benefit from the Science Industry Partnership which is aimed at supporting the skills development so vital to the scientific supply chain and to the innovative small to medium sized companies crucial to the sector's success. Joanna Woolf, Cogent CEO added, "we are delighted that so many leading employers are signing up to and championing the Science Industry Partnership. Companies from across the sector who rely on science are expressing a clear appetite to have more influence on the UK skills base, so important for their success. "Establishing an Industry Partnership provides employers with an unprecedented opportunity to design and commission what they need through a pilot programme." Cogent has issued an open invitation to employers to get involved, and interested parties should email <a href="mailto:julie.plumbley@cogent-ssc.com">julie.plumbley@cogent-ssc.com &nbsp; &nbsp; /news-events/news/employers-to-lead-the-creation-of-a-new-science-industry-partnership.aspx14/03/2013 The National Skills Academy Process Industries is pleased to announce the launch of its latest process safety training course - Process Safety Management for Operations (PSMO). This course is the third in a series of process safety courses developed by the Academy to meet the requirements of the Process Safety Management (PSM) training standards*. Previous Academy courses for Process Safety Leadership** and Process Safety Management Foundations*** have focussed on building the business case and awareness, and encouraging reflection on the action needed to be taken on process safety with senior executives, managers and supervisors.&nbsp; This new course provides operations and maintenance personnel with a clear awareness and understanding of the principles of process safety, and the associated hazards and controls as it affects them on their site. Neil Smith, Academy Course Director comments, "we are really excited to be launching Process Safety Management for Operations as it now takes our process safety awareness training to the front line.&nbsp; Operators and maintenance personnel have to deal with and manage the risks and hazards on their process or plant on a daily basis, so it is crucial that they build and maintain a high level of awareness of the principles of process safety, and fully understand the significant contribution that they make to effective process safety management." Delivered using clear language and practical workshop activities, the PSMO course allows participants to review actual incidents and near misses and explore how the lessons learned can be applied to their own setting. The course emphasises the value of communication and feedback between operators, maintenance personnel and management and how this contributes to continual improvements in process safety. The delivery of PSMO has also been tailored to meet the requirements of operator and maintenance personnel shift patterns with bite-sized modules delivered through a licenced training package that puts the organisation in control of the training delivery. As part of this licenced option, the Academy provides all the course materials and a trainer familiarisation and approval package to enable employers to get their PSMO training up and running. For more information on PSMO please click <a href="/media/20270/3860fd_psmo_facsheet_final.pdf" target="_blank">here * The PSM training standards have been designed in partnership with senior industry HSEQ representatives, UK trade associations and the Health &amp; Safety Executive, to raise the profile and increase the take-up of process safety awareness training across high hazard industries. ** The Process Safety Leadership for Senior Executives course provides participants with the tools to develop a detailed understanding of the business case for effective process safety management. It offers a clear insight into how to promote a positive safety culture throughout the organisation through the effective engagement of the workforce. *** The Process Safety Management Foundations course provides the fundamental knowledge and understanding of the principles of process safety management. It is aimed at managers, supervisors, designers, safety personnel, and senior contract employees, and suitable for young engineers and anyone who would like to develop a more detailed understanding of process safety management. /news-events/news/process-safety-management-for-operations-launch.aspx02/04/2013 The National Skills Academy Process Industries&nbsp; and the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) have developed a series of training programmes targeting workplace skills in the UK industrial biotechnology (IB) sector.&nbsp; CPI, which runs the National Industrial Biotechnology Facility at Wilton, is authoring and delivering the courses, the first of which will improve general awareness of microbiology among operators, technicians, supervisors and support staff employed in the IB area.&nbsp; The importance of up-skilling the existing IB workforce was highlighted in the industry-led <a href="http://www.berr.gov.uk/files/file51144.pdf">IB 2025 report prepared by the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation and Growth Team (IB-IGT) which is supported by Government.&nbsp; The collaboration between the Skills Academy and CPI responds 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. The agreed outputs from the collaboration will be hands-on practical courses that combine CPI's technical expertise and its <a href="https://catapult.innovateuk.org/high-value-manufacturing">High Value Manufacturing Catapult capabilities with the Academy's skills assurance and links into industry.&nbsp; Kevin Thrower, biotechnology business manager, National Skills Academy Process Industries, said: "In order 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."&nbsp; Sandy Gunn, Commercialisation Manager, <a href="http://www.uk-cpi.com/" target="_blank" title="CPI">Centre for Process Innovation, said:&nbsp; &nbsp;"We work with a number of rapidly growing biotechnology companies and see an urgent 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."&nbsp; The first IB course will run at CPI, Wilton on Wednesday 1st May and costs £799 + VAT per delegate. &nbsp;The course will cover a range of practical and theory elements to broaden participants' knowledge and skills in the field of microbiology. There will also be an opportunity to work on the NIBF plant and learn the basics of fermentation.&nbsp; <a href="http://www.nsapi.co.uk/ListingDetails.aspx?SelectedListing=731" target="_blank" title="Microbiology 1 booking form">Follow this link to the online booking form /news-events/news/cpi-collaboration.aspx10/04/2013 Tom Preece, Business Manager, Composites Skills Alliance, explains how the composites skills shortage in the UK is being addressed in ReinforcedPlastics.com <a href="http://www.reinforcedplastics.com/view/31758/the-uk-composites-industry-bridging-the-gap-between-technology-and-skills/" target="_blank">read more &nbsp; /news-events/news/the-uk-composites-industry-bridging-the-gap-between-technology-and-skills.aspx12/04/2013 Please click <a href="http://createsend.com/t/r-462CF93E27D25F4C">here to read the Academy Provider Spring 2013&nbsp;newsletter /news-events/news/spring-provider-newsletter.aspx23/04/2013 The Academy, Cogent and the Gold Standard is featured in "North East businesses at risk of losing their leaders" article on <a href="http://www.nebusiness.co.uk">www.nebusiness.co.uk <a href="http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2013/04/25/businesses-at-risk-of-losing-their-leaders-51140-33234336/" target="_blank">read article /news-events/news/april-2013-news-coverage.aspx25/04/2013 The National Skills Academy Process Industries has announced that participation in its process safety management training programme*, through either a <a href="/process-safety.aspx?tab=2" target="_blank">Process Safety Leadership (PSL) or <a href="/process-safety.aspx?tab=3" target="_blank">Process Safety Management Foundations (PSMF) course, has now surpassed the 1000 delegate mark. This is a significant achievement considering that the employer-led process safety management training was only launched in November 2011. Neil Smith, Skills Development Director for the Academy comments, "We are incredibly pleased with the response of a significant number of forward thinking employers, in committing to support their senior leaders and managers in building awareness of process safety management within their business.&nbsp; Industry has played a big part in the&nbsp; development of these courses to ensure that they meet requirements, so reaching this milestone is a great step in the right direction." However, there is still a long way to go Neil Smith continues: "although this significant milestone may be seen as a considerable achievement, it still represents only a small proportion of leaders and managers currently working in major accident hazard sites across the UK. &nbsp;We would like to see more of the industry committing to process safety management training over the coming 12 months to help keep these industries safe, and to strengthen the reputation of the UK as a safe place to do business". The process safety management training portfolio continues to grow with the latest course 'Process Safety Management for Operations' delivering the process safety message to operational staff. Neil Smith concludes: "Process Safety Management for Operations takes the next step, embedding awareness and delivering the process safety message across the operations and maintenance functions so all personnel are aware of their contribution to process safety when at work. Businesses who have process safety at the top of their agenda know that identification and control of potential hazards is more effective when everyone on site is aware of the risks and the role they play in minimising them." For more information on Process Safety Management or the courses mentioned above please call 0845 607 0140 or email <a href="mailto:industry@process.nsacademy.co.uk">industry@process.nsacademy.co.uk *Process safety management training has been designed to meet the high standards developed in partnership with senior industry HSEQ representatives, UK trade associations and the Health &amp; Safety Executive, to raise the profile and increase the take-up of process safety awareness training across high hazard industries. /news-events/news/getting-safer-every-day.aspx07/05/2013 &nbsp; The Rt Hon Vince Cable, the UK Business Secretary,&nbsp;has launched an innovative new scheme providing the first steps towards solid careers for an additional 200 young people in the Tees Valley and beyond, including the youth unemployed. The Sembcorp Skills Development Programme (SSDP) is a new apprenticeship and graduate training initiative aimed at 16-24-year-olds. Led by Sembcorp Utilities UK and supported by some of the biggest names in process industry manufacturing, SSDP will make it easier for small and medium sized firms in the sector's vitally important supply chain to take on apprentices and graduates. For the first time it will also include training aimed at giving young people who qualify the skills they need to compete for an apprenticeship. Using £3.4 million of public money made available under the Government's Employer Ownership of Skills Pilot (EOP), employers supporting SSDP include: Wilton-based Sembcorp, SABIC UK Petrochemicals, Huntsman Polyurethanes, CPI and Lotte Chemical along with Chemoxy International in Middlesbrough, Lucite International and Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies at Billingham, Aesica Pharmaceuticals in Cramlington, High Force Research in Durham, Fine Organics and Epax Pharma at Seal Sands and Exwold Technology and&nbsp; Huntsman Tioxide at Greatham, near Hartlepool. SSDP will help address the anticipated skills shortage within industry and will be managed by Sembcorp's nominated delivery partner, the Darlington-based National Skills Academy for the Process Industries (NSAPI). Other key partner organisations include the North East Process Industry Cluster (NEPIC) Tees Valley Unlimited (TVU) and the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS). Features will include: ·&nbsp; A special six-month "Pre-Apprenticeship Programme" for 100 people not in related employment, education and training, giving them the general engineering skills that will enable them to carry on into the new apprenticeship programme or compete with other school leavers for apprenticeships ·&nbsp; A 3-year rather than conventional 4-year Apprenticeship for 100 young people ·&nbsp; A 3-week practical programme for 100 graduates aimed at giving them greater awareness of the wider opportunities in and&nbsp; requirements of the &nbsp;sector and be able to be more productive at an earlier stage in their employment.&nbsp; This would be followed by 20 six-week work placements for selected learners. George Ritchie, Senior Vice President for HR within Sembcorp Utilities UK and the architect of the successful bid, said: "This is a radical new departure from the way apprenticeships and graduate training programmes have been designed and delivered in the past. "It is the first time we have really been given the freedom to design our own apprentice and graduate training and development programme. That means we can shape something specifically meeting our own needs and those of our supply chain partners as we face the challenges of the coming decades." "Also, by giving those not currently in employment, education or training the basic skills they lack we are significantly enhancing their chances of getting meaningful employment in the future, possibly even via one of our apprenticeships." Philip Jones, Chief Executive Officer of NSAPI said: "We are delighted to have been chosen as the supplier of choice by such an elite group of employers. We intend to run a scheme which will meet the 21st Century requirement of manufacturers producing a stream of highly trained and competent people and helping to get hundreds of young people into work." Business Secretary Vince Cable said: "Sembcorp's commitment to creating 200 apprenticeship places through its new development programme is a welcome boost for young people and businesses in the Tees Valley. "Quality apprenticeships are proven ways of gaining new qualifications while opening the doors to enviable, well-paid careers. They offer business benefits too, including skilled workers and increased competitiveness. "This is why Government has committed record investment into apprenticeships and introduced programmes like the Employer Ownership of Skills Pilot to help create the right conditions for growth." Dr Stan Higgins, NEPIC Chief Executive Officer, said: "There has been a real effort by the partner organisations to develop this project. The innovative ideas within it, helping NEETS get into the workforce and reducing the overall time taken to complete a technical apprenticeship, could revolutionise engineering and scientific apprenticeships in the future. He added: "All sectors requiring engineers and scientists need to make ideas such as this work if we are to tackle the skills shortages already upon us in some disciplines. Sembcorp and George Ritchie should be commended for stepping up to the plate and leading this project on behalf of the process sector." Ian Swales, MP for Redcar, said: ''I look forward to seeing this contract get up and running.&nbsp; There has been a lot of hard work from the team at Sembcorp, led by George Ritchie, to get to this point and it is an exciting project.'' &nbsp; ''Apprenticeships are vital for this area, and I am delighted that the Government has backed a further 300 in the Tees Valley for a range of people to access.&nbsp; By up-skilling our workforce, we provide young people with the ability to compete in the workplace and increase the amount of people who want to remain living and working on Teesside.'' Stephen Catchpole, Managing Director of the Local Enterprise Partnership Tees Valley Unlimited said: "As we look to support the growth and development of Tees Valley based companies it is vital that a skilled workforce is available to deliver competitive products to maintain our proud reputation across the process industry. "This is a significant step in creating a better future for young people in the area and a stronger Tees Valley economy long term." Details of the SSDP and how people can apply for the apprenticeship and graduate opportunities are available on &nbsp;<a href="http://www.ssdpnortheast.co.uk/">www.ssdpnortheast.co.uk SSDP will supplement existing four 4-year apprenticeship training programmes supported by firms in the region, including the successful Tees Valley Production Technician (TVPT) apprenticeship created by process industry firms in conjunction with TTE and other training providers ten years ago. TVPT has so far seen more than 150 apprentices land permanent jobs with the main companies. The programme also builds on the success of another recent project led and managed by Sembcorp and delivered by NSAPI. The Tees Valley Apprenticeship Programme (TVAP) was created by the same partner group after the Corus blast furnace announcement in 2009 and closure announcements by INVISTA, Dow and Croda at Wilton. In three years and using £2 million of public money, it rescued 150 apprentices whose futures had been put at risk by these announcements and eventually created more than 150 other apprenticeship opportunities within companies across Teesside including around 80 in the supply chain, 43 of whom had never taken on an apprentice before.. The process industries include manufacturers in the chemical, petrochemical, energy, renewable energy, pharmaceutical, biofuels and oil and gas sectors. To see a full list of companies in the sector and their importance to the regional and national economy visit the NEPIC website <a href="http://www.nepic.co.uk">www.nepic.co.uk &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Back to top-->&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; /news-events/news/sembcorp-launch-the-new-apprenticeship-and-graduate-training-scheme.aspx14/05/2013 Business Secretary Vince Cable will be in the region today to hand over cash from the government's flagship jobs scheme and back an ambitious drive to create more apprentices. <a href="http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/business/news/10413387.Vince_Cable_supports_North_East_growth_and_apprenticeships/?ref=rss" target="_blank">Read more&nbsp;from the Northern Echo /news-events/news/vince-cable-supports-north-east-growth-and-apprenticeships.aspx14/05/2013 Coverage of the launch of the Sembcorp Skills Development Programme by Lookk North East&nbsp;on BBC iPlayer, click <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b01s9dmv/Look_North_(North_East_and_Cumbria)_13_05_2013/" target="_blank">here Northern Echo - Business Secretary, Vince Cable, backs Sembcorp Skills Development Programme to fill skills shortage, click <a href="http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/business/news/10416713.New___3_4m_apprentice_drive_will_create_200_North_East_posts/?ref=rss" target="_blank">here Gazette Live - Vince Cable backs £3.4m Teesside apprentice scheme, click <a href="http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/business/business-news/2013/05/14/vince-cable-backs-3-4m-teesside-apprentice-scheme-84229-33328445/" target="_blank">here Insider News North East - Manufacturing apprenticeship scheme launches, click <a href="http://www.insidermedia.com/insider/north-east/90237-" target="_blank">here BBC Tees Radio click <a href="/media/21126/bbc_tees__13.05.13__1123.wma">here /news-events/news/sembcorp-skills-development-programme-launch-pres-coverage.aspx14/05/2013 Apprentices, graduates, employers, providers and leaders in the spotlight on skills &nbsp; 250 guests gathered at London's Grand Connaught Rooms to witness the inaugural UK Life Science Skills Awards, organised by Cogent, the strategic skills body for the science industries. The event, which took place on Thursday evening, 16th May, saw 30 finalists and 11 winners, take to the stage to receive Awards across ten categories (see below).&nbsp; Plus an extra, special Award for Excellence in Skills. This outstanding talent reflects a sector that unravelled DNA, brought us in-vitro fertilisation and CT Scanners, as well as the myriad of pharmaceutical products and medical devices that improve and prolong all of our lives. David Willetts, Minister for Universities and Science, who launched the Awards, said: "the UK's life science industry is exciting, innovative and ground-breaking, and I'm thrilled to celebrate its continuing success. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the discovery of the structure of DNA by Watson and Crick in Cambridge - a discovery that transformed our understanding of human&nbsp;disease. Now the sector needs to prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the future, harnessing cutting-edge technologies such as synthetic biology and regenerative medicine, and finding ways of using these techniques in the emerging bio-economy." Joanna Woolf, Cogent's CEO added: "we are absolutely delighted to be able to recognise the achievements of apprentices, employers, individuals and providers who have excelled in contributing to the development of skills within the life sciences sector. These Awards also recognise excellence in skills across our NHS scientific workforce and its important collaboration with the industry." She added: "a huge thanks go to all our sponsors - we have been delighted with their phenomenal support for these new Skills Awards." Representing the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI), the evening's main sponsor, CEO Stephen Whitehead, who gave an address to the assembled guests, said: "we are honoured to be the main sponsor of the Life Science Skills Awards 2013, working with Cogent to ensure that skills success receives recognition. We were very pleased to support such an excellent evening, which recognised best practice in education and skills - from Apprenticeships to excellence in training - which is of course part of our own mission. The evening celebrated some of the very best examples of innovative, sustainable training and development initiatives." Professor Lord Robert Winston, gave a highly memorable after dinner address, which also highlighted the importance of growing future life science talent. He went on to host the Awards ceremony which culminated in all the winners taking to the stage, their achievements topped off with a spectacular glitter cannon. The winners were as follows:&nbsp; Advanced Apprentice of the year Award (Award sponsored by Biocatalysts) Diane Skillen, Wirral University Teaching Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust Diane is currently undertaking an Advanced Apprenticeship in Health Pathology Support. Her job requires her to accept and book tissue samples into the laboratory and she is also responsible for the material kept at the off-site storage facility, amongst other things. Diane is going to continue in her current job role, while looking in to the qualifications required for her to apply for a band 4 position. Dr Ellen Patrick, Wirral Metropolitan College said: "Diane is highly motivated and interested in her job role and has a good understanding of the histopathology process." Higher Apprentice of the year Award (Award sponsored by Johnson and Johnson) Andrew Mitchell, Unilever UK Ltd Andrew is currently undertaking a Higher Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering within the Packaging Department of Unilever Deodorant Research and Development Leeds. Andrew was the first person to be employed on the R&amp;D Apprenticeship scheme at Unilever Leeds and is now the ambassador for this scheme. His ambassador role has led to him attending multiple careers fairs; visiting a range of local schools and speaking to potential apprentices showing interest in a career with Unilever. Peter Kenyon, University of Hull said: "he is very approachable and has a very positive mental attitude towards problem solving and towards his academic workload." Employer (small) of the year (Award sponsored by Amgen Ltd) Eden Biodesign Ltd (The Actavis Group) Eden Biodesign is a dynamic business which is growing fast. Eden Biodesign is the foundation and catalyst for Actavis' evolving Biologics strategy in the area of oncology biosimilars, women's health and urology. Eden Biodesign is designated as the Global Centre of Excellence for Biopharmaceuticals R&amp;D and Production. In 2005 they had a total of seven staff; they now employ nearly 150 staff members. Helen Hughes, Associate HR Director UK &amp; Ireland of Eden Biodesign said: "the Company has a commitment to supporting the local community and is actively engaged in projects through Education Business Partnership with primary and high schools to inspire generations." Employer (global) of the year Award (Award sponsored by the National Skills Academy Process Industries) Amgen Ltd Amgen has a Scholars programme which is a large initiative in the U.S. and Europe. In 2008 the Scholars programme was launched in Europe giving students the opportunity to undertake original research in world class academic research labs at the University of Cambridge, Karolinska Institute or LMU Munich. This programme has given students the opportunity to work alongside some of the most influential academic research scientists. Abigail Harris, University of Cambridge (Amgen Scholar at Cambridge) said: "the programme was fantastic because it wasn't just about the lab work itself but allowed you to make fantastic friends with a good bunch of like- minded people." Undergraduate of the year Award &nbsp;(Award sponsored by Clinigen Group) Hannah Compton, UCB Hannah graduated from Birmingham University with a degree in Medical Biochemistry. She has been involved in work to develop a high throughput screen against a membrane bound receptor. Hannah is the first member of the UK-based team to take time to work in Belgium. She played a key role in the business meeting its objectives in the Primary Pharmacology department for 2012 even though she previously had no experience in this department. Tom Crabbe, Director of Primary Pharmacology at UCB said: "The improvements Hannah brought to the team were largely achieved through her ability to understand the problem and rapidly absorb lessons by working in the set." Postgraduate of the year Award (Award sponsored by Clinigen Group) Dario Carugo, University of Southampton Dario graduated from the University of Southampton and has worked on the development of biomimetic artificial models of human organ/tissue functions to be employed as in-vitro platforms for evaluating the performance of medical devices. His research has mainly been devoted to the design and implementation of innovative engineering strategies capable of addressing challenging scientific problems in the field of life sciences and healthcare. Martyn Hill, Professor of Electromechanical Engineering, Head of Engineering, University of Southampton said: "I have been hugely impressed by the way in which Dario takes the initiative, needing very little supervision, generating his own ideas, and implementing them with confidence and intelligence." Healthcare Science Award (Award sponsored by NHS) The North East Pathology Network The North East Pathology Network covers the North East of England and North Cumbria, the population they cover is approximately 3.1 million. They oversee the delivery, development and modernisation of pathology services across the North East SHA area and North Cumbria. The Network provides senior management and executive leadership; approves key service planning issues and strategic decisions. Rob Colclough, Team Leader Biosciences and Environment, University of Sunderland said: "the university benefits directly from the engagement of experienced professional practitioners in the delivery, development of its programmes and infrastructure. Outstanding Leadership in Skills Award (Award sponsored by UCB) Linda Millett, Takeda Cambridge Ltd Linda has influenced Takeda Cambridge to take on the first Higher Apprentice in the Life Science Sector and championed the initiative from day one. Linda believes that awareness building in schools will go a long way to develop life scientists of the future and that sourcing new talent will be what fuels the sector's ability to innovate and collaborate. Linda plans on taking on two further higher apprentices in 2013. She said: "Apprenticeships provide an apprentice a first-class training opportunity in a scientific environment." She has also said that, "Apprenticeships are the way forward for developing future generations of science professionals across the country." Placement of the year Award (Award sponsored by BBSRC) David Blaney, Oxford Gene Technology When Oxford Gene Technology (OGT) moved forward into RNA sequencing, David was assigned the task of developing the RNA sequencing pipeline. After he mastered the basics of the Linux operating system, David was able to apply his skills as part of the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) development team. His newly acquired knowledge gave him the opportunity to take part in knowledge of other programming areas. Dr Daniel Swan, Head of NGS, OGT said: "David was instrumental in redeveloping our most widely used NGS pipeline for some exome analysis which supports the majority of the commercial work in NGS provided by the company." Provider of the year Award, (Award Sponsored The Science Council) Vocational Science Team, Bradford College Bradford College is a further education corporation, providing quality education. In 2007 the Vocational Science Team (VCT) offered NVQs for Pharmacy to twelve NHS Trusts in the South of England. Their three year contract was extended due to the continued achievement of learners. Nicola Crawley, Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust said: "a number of the Vocational Science Team fully participated in writing the new qualifications in collaboration with Edexcel, City &amp; Guilds, sector skills councils and associated professional bodies." Excellence in Skills (Cogent Award) Novartis This last, and somewhat unexpected award of the evening is for Excellence in Skills - a new Award Cogent felt was much needed, given the outstanding contribution of the organisation concerned. &nbsp;This Award went to Novartis, which scored so highly across a number of categories, it became clear its commitment to skills and workforce development was deserving of this extra special accolade. /news-events/news/life-science-talent-shines-at-new-uk-skills-awards.aspx22/05/2013 Since 1965 Coverdale has been working with organisations all over the world. We have built the reputation and experience to enable sustainable improvements in organisational capability, change management and organisational development. Here in 2013 we are now starting to use the internet more and more to promote our brand and values, part of this has been the launch of our new blog <a href="http://coverdalechangemanagement.com/">http://coverdalechangemanagement.com/ Please feel free to stop by and leave us a comment. And <a href="/media/21191/problem_solving_v2.pdf" target="_blank">here's an article by Campbell Young who back 22 years ago was a Coverdale client and became what is now known as an "in house Coverdale Coach". Campbell is now head of business development at Coverdale and can be followed on Twitter @CoverdaleUK &nbsp; /news-events/news/news-from-the-coverdale-organisation.aspx22/05/2013 The newly appointed Apprenticeship Ambassador to Business, Gordon Birtwistle MP, joined over 40 local engineering employers last week at the launch of the Themis Centre of Engineering Excellence. The Centre, housed within Burnley College's iconic campus on Princess Way, has been significantly expanded within the last four years. Themis has worked closely with employers from a variety of engineering specialisms across Lancashire and Yorkshire to build facilities and offer programmes that continue to meet the skills and employability needs of the engineering sector within the short and long term.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; During the event, employers were invited to tour the facilities, including industry standard workshops and equipment, before enjoying breakfast and having the chance to meet the Themis specialist trainers and network with other engineering employers.&nbsp; The employers, including Aircelle, Fort Vale, Futaba Tenneco and WEC, also had the opportunity to hear from the Themis engineering apprentices whilst they demonstrated the Centre's specialist equipment in action.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hugh Bramwell, Chief Executive of Themis says: "The potential skills gap within the UK engineering industry is being addressed by industry and government alike and its predicted that over 656,000 engineering professionals will be required by 2020 - a significant number. "By developing the Centre of Engineering Excellence, we aim to support the potential skills gap within the local engineering sector and provide realistic business solutions that will help employers achieve their business objectives, and thus, contribute towards local economic growth." /news-events/news/gordon-birtwistle-mp-joins-local-engineers-for-themis-centre-of-engineering-excellence-launch.aspx22/05/2013 STAFF and students at Cornwall College celebrated its success at being awarded Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Assured status at an official presentation on Friday 22nd March. Professor Sa'ad Medhat from the New Engineering Foundation (NEF) presented the NEF STEM Assured Award to Cornwall College's Acting Principal and CEO, Raoul Humphreys, after giving a talk on 'The future of STEM in Cornwall and the South West.' More than 30 VIP guests attended the presentation, which included employers and local MP George Eustice, and as part of the event were also able to speak to staff and students about their research and see interactive displays from STEM courses.&nbsp;These included an electric powered car, composite material samples and a&nbsp; demonstration vacuum consolidation panel. Andrew Smart, Head of Cornwall College Newquay, said: "This award is important for Cornwall College as it highlights the level of innovation and good practice that exists within&nbsp;our provision. "Our employer and industry links within our STEM activity are very strong and extremely valuable for our learners and ultimately for the employers that we work with.&nbsp; "The STEM Assured process has now enabled us to move towards the development of a STEM strategy and action plan to integrate existing good practice on our courses across the whole STEM provision. It will also allow us to develop a range of new science foundation degree courses over the next few years, which, along with our existing courses, will provide employer linked degree-level training for science graduates in Cornwall." STEM Assured is standard developed to recognise high quality cross-curricular science, technology, engineering and maths education and delivery. It is unique in the education sector and the achievement&nbsp;of the standard emphasises exceptional strengths and capabilities in this&nbsp;subject area. The application and process for obtaining STEM Assured status is rigorous and demanding, with six categories; strategy and planning, engagement, design and delivery, innovation, standards and impact, that the College had to evidence. Currently Cornwall College is one of only 16 colleges in the country that have successfully achieved this status.&nbsp; "We have seen a clear strategy and commitment from the College," said Professor Sa'ad Medhat. "Cornwall College has innovative teaching and leadership, new programmes and is exploring emerging areas, which is why the NEF confirmed STEM Assured status for Cornwall College." Cornwall College delivers a very diverse portfolio of STEM-related academic and vocational programmes at a range of levels at each of its seven campus sites. The diversity extends to the size and nature of the student population at each site, with some of the campuses now developing mainly higher education provision in collaboration with Plymouth University,&nbsp; while others focus more on A-level provision and vocational qualifications. Raoul Humphreys, Cornwall College Acting Principal and CEO said: "We are really pleased to receive this award as the professor has really pushed and challenged us.&nbsp; It provides recognition for our work in STEM subjects and allows us to showcase what we do in the community and with our partners in schools. "We are developing STEM all the time through the breadth of the courses we offer and we&nbsp; are providing opportunities for students to obtain qualifications to make them employable for the highly skilled jobs available in today's world." The NEF is an independent grant awarding and receiving educational charity and think-tank that supports improvement in science, engineering and technology, visit www.thenef.org.uk for more information. For more information on the STEM courses available at Cornwall College please call 0845&nbsp;22 32 567 or visit <a href="http://www.cornwall.ac.uk">www.cornwall.ac.uk. &nbsp; /news-events/news/cornwall-college-is-acclaimed-for-its-stem-success.aspx22/05/2013 The National Skills Academy Process Industries has recently signed up as a sponsor&nbsp;of the Anaerobic Digestion and Biogas Association (ADBA) awards. The ADBA awards, now in its second year, expects to attract around 300 industry&nbsp;attendees at its event in July. It is being held alongside UK AD &amp; Biogas 2013 trade show at the NEC in Birmingham. The awards cover innovation, best use of resources and the people involved in the&nbsp;industry. The Academy is sponsoring the 'Demonstrating excellence in H&amp;S in AD award' at the ceremony, showing its commitment to this niche but thriving industry. As many as 2,250 new AD jobs could be created by 2020 generating demand for science and engineering related occupations, construction, planning and design, process operation and auxiliary occupations. The skills required for AD range from general awareness to health and safety and detailed process and operations - and they are skills which need updating periodically as the sector develops and legislation changes. The Academy has been working with bioeconomy experts the NNFCC to develop courses&nbsp;designed to up-skill workers in the technical and safety aspects of the AD process. The 'Increasing Methane Yields' course is designed to give technicians operating AD sites a thorough understanding of the chemistry and science that lies behind the anaerobic digestion process. Following the success of the pilot course in Exeter, courses have now been scheduled in venues across England and Scotland over the coming months. Kevin Thrower, business manager for biotechnology at the Academy said "This relatively new industry in undergoing constant legislative review as the Government backs initiatives for green jobs and renewable energy, as well as reducing waste and diverting waste from landfill. Operators and managers need to be equipped with the right skills to carry out the work safely due to the potentially hazardous nature of the industry. We're delighted to support these&nbsp;awards and bring more awareness of the skills and training for the sector." /news-events/news/the-national-skills-academy-process-industries-supports-anaerobic-digestion-industry.aspx23/05/2013 The Composites Skills Alliance has this month been awarded its Renewable Training Network (RTN) Industry Assured kite-mark. The Alliance's Awareness of Composites course is one of a suite of courses leading to careers in the fast-growing renewable energy sector. More than 12,000 people already work in the UK's wind industry - this is expected to increase to more than 76,000 by 2021. The Alliance received its kitemark alongside other recipients Cranfield University, Garrad Hassan, and the Offshore Marine Academy. These organisations join other RTN industry assured courses from Safety Technology and ARMSA Consulting. As the independent and industry-led voice of renewable training, the RTN provides a clear message to employers that courses carrying the RTN Industry Assured kitemark have been developed, scrutinised or used by the renewables sector. This brings an assurance that such courses are relevant for the upskilling of people wanting to move into this expanding industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Head of the Renewables Training Network (RTN), Patricia Knightley, said: "We're delighted to be able to award the industry's kitemark to some very worthy recipients which are helping to tackle the skills gap. The RTN will continue to act as a strong advocate for new forms of much-needed training provision for the dynamic renewables sector. We're actively exploring innovative ways to create routes into careers in all areas of the renewables supply chain for people with transferable skills". /news-events/news/composites-skills-alliace-awarded-industry-kite-mark.aspx29/05/2013 The National Skills Academy Process Industries is pleased to announce the launch of its latest course - Leading in the Process Industries (LIPI). This course has been developed to provide new supervisors in the process sector, with the leadership competencies they require to take the step up from team member to team leader. &nbsp;It is aimed at supervisors working in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, polymers and related sectors. Employers say that new supervisors often have the technical skills to do the job but lack the leadership skills that allow them develop their team to deliver on business objectives. Areas such as HR management, project management and dealing with change are not always familiar ground for new supervisors, but will feature heavily in their new role. Split into 7 modules, LIPI has been developed by industry for industry, to give supervisors the fundamental competencies they require outside of the technical aspects of their job. Clint Devine, Account Manager for the Academy comments, "Businesses require their supervisors to be able to step up to the plate, delivering on business objectives through effective supervision. LIPI gives them the skills required to get the most from their teams and equips them with the tools to handle some of the tough situations they will face in their position". Although the course is aimed at new or recently appointed supervisors, many of the modules are also suitable for existing supervisors looking for a refresh or to improve their own skills where a gap may have been identified. Clint continues, "Many supervisors are promoted to their new position without any formal training on what to expect in their new role and often learn things along the way. For existing supervisors they may feel that they do not have all of the necessary skills to handle a lot of the situations they face in their everyday working life. For example handling difficult conversation while keeping personal emotions at bay is not necessarily a skill that all people possess, but it can be taught, this is what LIPI is all about." The first module 'Stepping up to becoming a supervisor' is being launched with a series of pilot events running across the UK in June. To register your interest or for more information please call 0845 607 0140 or email <a href="mailto:industry@process.nsacademy.co.uk">industry@process.nsacademy.co.uk /news-events/news/leading-in-the-process-industries-–-developing-today’s-team-players-into-tomorrow’s-team-leaders.aspx29/05/2013