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M I L I TA RY R E S E T T L E M E N T C A R E E R S T R A I N I N G Established 1991

july2009

I N T E R N a T I O N aL

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See Back page

Hone your competitive edge with an MBA from The Open University Business School See Page 10

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS

See Page 2

See our advert on page 7

BECOME A DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

See Page 51

See Page 38

THEORIGINALRESETTLEMENTMAGAZINE

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TAKE YOUR CURRENT SKILLS INTO YOUR BRAND NEW CAREER

AS A PLUMBER, ELECTRICIAN OR GAS ENGINEER Ex-military and forces personnel possess vital skills that make the transition to becoming a qualified plumber, electrician or gas engineer, easier than you thought. And with OLCI Construction Training helping you, there’s never been a better time to become a plumber, electrician or gas engineer. Do you have these skills? You take advantage of situations You assess facts fast and reap the benefits. Did you know that every 35 minutes someone needs to join the UK plumbing* or electrical industry to keep up with demand**? You are determined to succeed Your determination will help during your training. OLCI gives you the flexibility to train when and where you want – and you can choose from 13 fully-equipped training centres nationwide. You get things done You have the desire to achieve your goals and OLCI is there to help you set up your own business or join the OLCI Job Placement Service.

You want to be the best OLCI help you become the best and gain industry recognised qualifications including City & Guilds, EAL, NVQ and ACS for registration with Gas Safe Register. You work hard and play hard A strong work-life balance is achievable. At work you can enjoy interesting work whilst in life you have the security of a lifetime skill. You cease opportunities Easy Payment Options could allow you to train sooner. You could also benefit from Enhanced Learning Credits, available to Armed Forces personnel for Plumbing 6089 NVQ Level 3 and Electrical 2356 NVQ Level 3. You take action when required Call OLCI for free careers advice on Freephone 0800 048 2848. Trained OLCI advisors are waiting for your call. Please see their advert on page 5. *: Plumbers or HVAC trades **: Source: Construction Skills Network – Blueprint for UK Construction Skills 2008-2012

THE EUREKA! ENIGMA - 7 KEYS TO REALIZING YOUR DREAMS "Left to its own devices the human mind can be likened to an Enigma machine. Properly programmed it can then be likened to a Colossus computer! We just need to crack the code to colossal thinking and tap into our full mind power potential! "My total research over a period of 30 years has been geared around how to use our minds fully to accomplish success, make money, achieve happiness and reach our goals in the shortest possible time. Now, with The Eureka! Enigma I believe I have found the code!" Ron G Holland Why is that some people seem to always come up with better ideas than others? Why do some people generate ideas that actually earn them fabulous wealth and abundance of opportunities, when others don't? What is it that successful people actually 'do' to realise their dreams? How do others turn failure to their advantage? How can you create Eureka! Thinking? Self-help guru and author, Ron G Holland believes he has cracked the code of the human brain and reveals all in his latest book releasing in September 2009 - The Eureka! Enigma 7 Keys to Realizing Your Dreams, (Morgan James Publishing). Holland, a wealth generation, self-help expert reveals the keys to generating creative ideas and solutions to all kinds of problems with infallible

regularity using our cerebral computer - our unique bio computer - with advanced visualization techniques. More than ever, people around the world are seeking ways to tap into their full potential to create financial success, independence, find work they love, achieve happiness, health and fulfilment. The Eureka! Enigma is the biggest buzz in self-help since The Secret! The Eureka! Enigma code breaker will teach you how to create big ideas which can be applied to literally anything! Ideas that can be life-changing and wealth-creating - turning luxurious thinking into reality using MIND POWER through cracking the code of the human brain. The mission of this extraordinary codebook is to equip you with the skills, knowledge, methods, inspiration and courage to increase exponentially the capacity and output of your mind - to become a regular performing colossal bio-computer! Whether you want to climb Mt.Everest, patent an invention, achieve success in the arts, write a best seller, create a global charity, lose excess weight for good, secure a dream job, start a new business or achieve great wealth - The Eureka! Enigma will show you how! "The human brain is an extremely powerful biological computer if we allow it to do its work and encourage it to support us," comments Holland.

"Our mind power has the potential to create Eureka! moments and situations to flood into our daily lives! Applying an extension of visualisation methods, known as BasicVisual InAdvance, where mental pictures and words join up in our brain, allows you to tap into billions of possible permutations of great ideas and solutions. People don't spend nearly enough time having downtime. The brain needs to process so much information daily. Allowing the mind to quieten as a regular practice, in conjunction with BasicVisual InAdvance will flush out your Eurekas!" Holland is a man on a mission. His is enjoying his own latest Eureka! with his applied mind power. Using BasicVisual InAdvance techniques he is aiming to raise a billion dollars every year through mind power! His own Eureka! is known as the Billion Dollar Biker initiative. www.ronhollanddirect.com Ron wants to raise a billion dollars every year for charity! The world is buzzing about The Billion Dollar Biker! Chapters include: The First Key - Cracking the Code, The Second Key - Software for The Brain, The Third Key - Bespoke Input, The Fourth Key - Gestation & Computation, The Fifth Key - Colossus Output, The Sixth Key - ACTION - The Master key and The Seventh Key - BasicVisual InAdvance – the Advanced Manual.

PATHFINDERJULY09 | 03

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international

PaTHFINDER

JULY2009

CONTENTS REGULARS 6

Forces Pension Society

21 Employment News 38 Franchising – exhibition latest 41 Training – courses galore! 55 Recruitment – all the latest jobs! FEATURES 8

Business Schools

14 Professionalism and why it matters 18 Accountancy careers 22 Trade Skills – building your future 26 The Land-Based Sector 32 Road Transport 34 Housing – HomeBuy latest

PaTHFINDERinternational Published under licence by Baltic Publications Ltd Baltic Business Centre Saltmeadows Road Gateshead Tyne & Wear NE8 3DA Tel: 0191 442 0197 Fax: 0191 442 4002 Email: [email protected]

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M I L I TA RY R E S E T T L E M E N T C A R E E R S T R A I N I N G Established 1991

july2009

I N T E R N a T I O N aL

See Page 55

Hone your competitive edge with an MBA from The Open University Business School See Page 10

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS

See Page 2

See our advert on page 7

BECOME A DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

See Page 51

See Page 39

THEORIGINALRESETTLEMENTMAGAZINE

WWW.PATHFINDERINTERNATIONAL.CO.UK

04 | PATHFINDERJULY09

While the publishers have taken all reasonable care to ensure that all material is accurate at the time of going to press, they can accept no responsibility for errors or omissions. No liability is accepted for omission or failure from any cause. Opinions expressed are those of the individual contributors and not necessarily those of Pathfinder(UK). Professional advice should be sought before making any commitment to business transactions detailed within Pathfinder. All advertisements are accepted only on the grounds that they comply with the terms of the Trade Descriptions Act 1968 and all other relevant legislation. Inclusion of an advertisement cannot be construed as an endorsement of the advertiser or the product by the publishers, their employees or agents. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for any transaction between readers and advertisers. No material in this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publishers.

www.pathfinderinternational.co.uk

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WHAT’S MY PENSION WORTH AND

WILL I NEED TO WORK AGAIN? Lieutenant Commander David Marsh, Pensions Secretary of the Forces Pension Society, writes for Pathfinder… You may have read recent newspaper articles portraying an envy the private sector has towards perceived ‘gold plated’ public sector pension schemes. This envy grows ever greater as more and more private sector companies close their final salary pension schemes, not just for new recruits, but for existing employees too, and substitute them for either a defined contribution scheme or offer a group ‘private pension’ scheme with some form of contribution by the company into the employee’s plan. This growing envy is compounded further as members of defined contribution pension plans and private pension plans have, over the past 15 months or so, watched in horror as their pension-pot values have reduced significantly because of the current world financial crisis and the crashing markets in which their pension funds are invested. Given the manner in which ‘final salary’ pension schemes are falling by the wayside in the private sector, I suspect most of you, after leaving the Armed Forces, will not be lucky enough to find an employer with such a pension scheme in place, and will end up in either a defined contribution company pension scheme, a group company pension scheme, or having to set up your own private pension plan. None of these three options is anywhere near as valuable as a final salary pension scheme. Today everybody is allowed to be in possession of a pension(s) valued at £1.75m (this excludes the State Pension) before they begin to incur a penal rate of income tax, over-and-above the tax they can expect to pay on their pensions anyway. To do this with a defined contribution pension, group

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company pension or private pension is very simple – it is the amount of money in the fund at the point of cashing it in to buy your pension. Your Armed Forces pension does not have a fund and so there has to be a formula constructed to assess its value. Luckily the Inland Revenue’s formula is easy – it is the value of your annual pension multiplied by twenty, plus your gratuity; in effect, you pension multiplied by twentythree. Putting this into practice, let us take a look at a Warrant Officer leaving the Armed Forces at age 55 having completed at 37 years’ service on AFPS75. The pension awarded on exit is £20,300 per year; applying the formula of multiplying the pension by twenty-three, the value of this pension is (£20,300 x 23) £466,900. How does that compare with a defined contribution scheme’s fund; group company pension scheme fund; or private pension scheme fund? To obtain a comparison of value we have to assume that any one of these funds holds an identical sum of £466,900. However, having accumulated such vast sum of money, we now have to see if it is sufficient to buy, on the open market, an identical pension to that which the Armed Forces Pension Scheme is offering – an annual pension of £20,300, plus a lump sum of £60,900, plus a dependant’s pension worth 50% and all fully index linked. After deducting £60,900 from the pension pot to give an equivalent tax free lump sum as the Gratuity (we could have taken as much as £116,725 tax free – 25% of the value of the fund, but that would leave less to buy our pension), we are left with £406,000 with which to buy our pension. At the time of writing this article (22nd June 2009) the best deal I could find was £11,313 per year. To be able to buy an identical pension award that is being offered by the Armed Forces Pension Scheme (having removed £60,900 for the Gratuity), we would need to have a fund valued at £736,000.

If you are wondering what makes such a vast difference, I can sum it up in succinctly by merely saying “RPI increases”. If we took our £406,000 with which we are going to buy our pension, and decided to opt for a dependant’s pension worth 50%, but decided not to have index linking, the best deal we could get is an annual pension worth £22,529 - £2,229 more than the Armed Forces Pension Scheme pays out. You can appreciate, therefore, the value the pensions industry places on having a fully index linked pension is huge – more than double its value. “Will you need to work again?” If you calculate that your Armed Forces Pension is going to be sufficient to meet the standard of living you hope to attain on leaving the Services, the answer is ‘No, you will have to work again’. If you believe that your Armed Forces Pension and State Pension, when added together will not give you sufficient income on which to retire at State Pension age, you have probably gathered by now that to bridge the gap you are going to have to work for longer and harder than you might originally have envisaged!

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GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS More and more Service Leavers are recognising the career development benefits of studying with Business Schools across Britain… In recent years there has been a discernible increase in the numbers of military personnel who have utilised their resettlement and learning allowances to engage with providers of business and management education, prior to returning to the civilian workplace. While he was Minister of State for the Armed Forces, Rt Hon Bob Ainsworth MP noted: "Service personnel are highly skilled individuals who can transfer valuable 08 | PATHFINDERJULY09

qualities to the civilian world of work. Business and Management qualifications provided build on the training, education and experience gained while serving and are therefore highly valued by many Service personnel. These skills can bring considerable additional benefit to performance in service, and for those looking to work in management or to set up and manage their own businesses after leaving the Forces."

Learning Through Work Gives RAF Officer A Lift Robert Worthington-Harris had already devoted half his life to the Royal Air Force when he decided the University of Derby was the right choice to help him prepare for his future in the Service and beyond it. The teenage Robert (now 36) had no qualifications when he joined the RAF as an Aircraft Mechanic in 1989. It was while in the Service his passion for learning Ian West/PA Wire

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feature returned; gaining five GCSEs, NVQs, attending numerous work related courses and finally gaining an HND in Engineering.

course, challenging yet rewarding, and a great stepping-stone into the commercial management world.

He faced a different challenge when he was then posted to an RAF Recruiting Office. Robert said: “Being someone from a technical background moving to an administrative environment was quite a change for me. After getting to grips with the new computer system and procedures, I felt that I was ready for my next challenge. I spoke to the Education Centre that covered my area and was informed of something called Learning Through Work, a qualification that you gained through the workplace. I thought to myself that this might be what I’m looking for and asked for more information.”

Next I attended some MBA fairs, and went to visit some business schools in and around London, where I wanted to be based. I decided that the best school for me was Henley Management College for a few reasons:

It was suggested that a Foundation Degree in either Business or Leadership and Management would be Robert’s best option. Of the four universities suggested that ran the courses, the University of Derby was the clear winner. Robert added: “I spoke to personnel from the University of Derby and after giving them some of my previous qualifications and experience, was advised to go down the Leadership and Management route. I thought that with the new role I have in the RAF, I would be able to use the previous experiences and new skills to gain a worthwhile qualification that would not only benefit me now but boost my career potential for when I leave the RAF.” To gain a Foundation Degree, the student is required to submit work that totals up to 240 points. By using previous experiences and qualifications, it is possible for them to gain units through Accredited Prior Learning. The student also designs the Learning Contract with guidance and advice from its staff, so in effect they tailor the Foundation Degree to their working life. This is done online through learndirect, which oversees Learning Through Work nationally. If problems occur you can email your tutors and ‘talk’ to them through the learndirect website. Courses must cover some core themes but students also have optional units they can introduce. Robert found the Derby tutors’ ready online advice, assistance and encouragement helpful considering his own ‘hectic family life’. Full-Time MBA – A Personal Perspective: Adam Day After 9 years in the British Army, serving in the Royal Engineers I felt the time had come for a change of career. Having served in the UK, Germany and overseas and finishing as an Adjutant I felt it was time to move into the ‘real world’. About 9 months pre-leaving I started to do some homework to decide what I wanted to do, and I came to the realisation that I really had no idea. However I realised I needed to be best prepared when the moment for a decision came. At the time a good friend of mine was about half way through an MBA and it sounded like a great

• It offered an International Programme, both with international and UK students and it has three study trips during the year (Hungary, China and South Africa for us). • Henley’s MBA is triple accredited. • It is heavily focused on group work and practical projects. • Henley Management College has a very good reputation in the business world. • It felt right when I visited (I cannot over emphasise the importance of the school feeling right). • It is based in the most glorious part of the UK, just outside Henley-upon-Thames right on the river. So over half way through and what is my verdict? So far so good! I have found the course very hard work, but very enlightening. If I were to pick three highlights from the course so far they would be: • The study trip to China was very eye opening. We visited four cities including Beijing and Shanghai, visiting companies as varied as a small bakery firm to one of China’s largest steel manufacturers. • Working with colleges with hugely varied work backgrounds, cultures and experience (e.g. a Russian management consultant, a director in a Danish wind power firm, an Australian from their MOD, UK students from manufacturing, product development, online services and sales) • Coming top of my course in the finance assignment and the first exam (very unlike me). The MBA is certainly meeting my objectives of being a great stepping-stone into the commercial world. I intend to move into the Financial Services Sector and I am confident the MBA will set me up for success. Already I have generated interest in some prospective employers who can see the real value of an Ex-Army Officer with an MBA from such a well-reputed college. Open For Business The Open University (OU) has been a valuable education partner to members of the armed forces for years, as it is ideally set up for those who can’t take time out of work to study. The flexibility of OU studies means that Armed Forces personnel can fit their studies around shifts and postings, even in active duty. Around 4,000 service personnel and their dependents take advantage of more than 550 Open University courses on offer each year. UK domiciled personnel serving with the Merchant Navy are also accommodated

in this scheme. Members of this global scheme also benefit from essential student services available to them through collaborative arrangements with the MoD. In particular, study centres have been established in Germany and Cyprus within existing Army and RAF education centres. These contain a range of resources e.g. course materials, course videos and email facilities, and are visited by OU staff to meet new students and to hold tutorials. The Open University recently launched two foundation degrees as partner in the RAF Foundation Degree Consortium, a unique partnership of four universities and the RAF with support from Foundation Degree Forward. Under the scheme, foundation degrees in business or leadership and management are presented by The Open University, Staffordshire University, the University of Chester and the University of Derby. Squadron Leader David Freak, RAF accreditation staff officer, commented at the launch: “We are very excited about this opportunity for our staff to obtain a university qualification. Not only will the degrees develop knowledge, understanding and skills directly relevant to an RAF career, but they are also transferable to civilian employment when staff finally leave the Service.” RAF Corporal Chris Hull from the Air Warfare Centre at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire embarked on a leadership and management degree. He said: “The Open University has allowed me to credit previous courses, so my efforts were not in vain! I have always been keen to put my long Service experience and hard-earned knowledge to good use. The degree fulfils this need and also supports my role as a mentor. The work-based bias has even benefited my office role!” The success of the scheme has meant that the RAF and Open University are now looking at expanding it to cover engineering. With flexible starting dates, study material and methods to support demanding lifestyles and the option to gain credits for work experience and relevant previous studies. The Association of Business Schools The membership of the Association of Business Schools (ABS) represents almost all UK Business Schools in Higher Education, encompassing over 7,500 academic staff who contribute to the education of over 250,000 students annually. For further information about the work of the ABS please visit: www.the-abs.org.uk Pathfinder credits the ABS as the source of the above and thanks for them for their cooperation and assistance. PATHFINDERJULY09 | 09

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News New ruling extends disability discrimination powers More people with disabilities will now receive protection from discrimination after a landmark ruling from the House of Lords, in which the Equality and Human Rights Commission intervened. The Lords found that people with a physical or mental condition which varied in its severity over time should still be termed disabled if it was likely their condition would become substantial again in the future. The ruling extends the scope of the term “disability” meaning more people will be entitled to legal protection. The Commission intervened in the case to argue that people with medical conditions that they managed themselves but varied in severity over time, should be entitled to the same legal protection as those whose conditions were more stable. The case was brought by Elizabeth Boyle who 12 | PATHFINDERJULY09

alleged she had been discriminated against by her former employer of 32 years, SCA Packaging. She had developed vocal nodules which she managed with a strict regime including speech therapy and only speaking very quietly. Mrs Boyle began her legal action nine years ago after some partitions near her desk were removed against her wishes and the advice of her surgeon. It meant she had to speak more loudly than usual and potentially risked causing her condition to return. The company argued Mrs Boyle was not disabled as her condition no longer had an adverse effect on her life. Susie Uppal, Director of Legal Enforcement at the Commission, said: “Many people have chronic medical conditions, such as epilepsy, rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes. Often, they do not define themselves as disabled as they can manage the symptoms or their condition may be in

remission. However, it is important that these people are recognised as being disabled under the law so they get the protection they need to prevent their conditions recurring and their quality of life suffering as a result. Lord Hope said the case was important for people with intermittent conditions who needed protection under the law. He said that these people included “those suffering from conditions such as diabetes or epilepsy whose disability is concealed from public view so long as it is controlled by medication. Their disability is insidious. The measures that are taken to treat or correct it, so long as they are effective, enable them to carry on normal dayto-day activities just like everyone else. But the disability is there nevertheless.” The case will now return to the Northern Ireland Employment Tribunal to consider if Mrs Boyle has been subjected to unlawful discrimination based on her disability.

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STUDENT CASE STUDY Elly Edmondson Course: Mathematics Enhancement Course and PGCE Mathematics I am going into teaching as a second career; however, it is something I have always had in mind to do throughout my adult life. Whilst at school, I studied Mathematics to A-Level and then went on to complete a three-year degree in Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College in London. At the same time, I joined the Royal Air Force, who sponsored me through university, and served for 20 years as an Engineer Officer. Although, I had many great experiences in the RAF, I realised I was entering a phase in my career where I was going to be increasingly desk bound and removed from the front line which did not appeal so much. The time was right to move on and try something new, and hence I committed myself to the challenge of entering the teaching profession. Having always enjoyed and been enthusiastic about maths, and I knew that it the subject I wanted to teach. Obviously, having been out of the

academic world for many years and not having a degree in Mathematics, I was initially very concerned that I might not have the right qualifications in order to pursue this route and that my maths would be very rusty. That is where the Mathematics Enhancement Course (MEC) came in! The MEC was absolutely the best preparation I could have done for the PGCE Mathematics. The sessions are delivered by tutors with a wide mix of experience as school teachers and as current university lecturers. The course gave me confidence in my mathematical abilities and reinstilled in me an enthusiasm for the subject. Also, the opportunity to study with other likeminded students has been immensely enjoyable and invaluable. On starting the PGCE, I already had a network of support around me from students and tutors to the learning centre and café staff! This is a real advantage over other PGCE subject courses and means you can ‘hit the ground running’ right from the outset.

I recommend the MEC highly to any prospective teacher of mathematics. Even if you feel really confident in your subject knowledge, doing maths is one thing but teaching it is quite another! I am convinced that if I had not done the MEC before embarking on the PGCE, I would be really struggling at this stage, especially having not worked in a school environment before.”

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PROFESSIONALISM

AND WHY IT MATTERS

Susie Kay, Managing Director of The Professionalism Group gives us her expert advice… The Armed Forces are home to individuals with a vast range of technical skills and abilities, from apprentice to professional level, and who are more than familiar with the concept of continuing professional development in order to keep those skills fresh. There is also encouragement to enhance that professional development by taking courses and undergoing training which should assist you in finding and potentially flourishing in a new role after you leave. There are, of course, many aspects of military training that will never be applicable after you leave the Forces (except in certain aligned professions) but these more obvious skills are embedded in individuals who have something much more interesting to offer to future employers and which is a much scarcer commodity. The members of the Armed Forces intrinsically understand and continually demonstrate in their working lives the finer points of professionalism – without these essential attributes of your character you would not be effective as part of the overall structure. Your dedication to duty and the service ethic you have demonstrated bears testimony to your skills in a way that would be very difficult to mirror elsewhere – and you should not lose the opportunity to make this work for you. Professional and professionalism There is a never ending argument which rages around the difference between the terms ‘professional’ spelt with a little ‘p’ and ‘Professional’ spelt with a big ‘P’. The former is deemed to describe knowing one’s job and doing it well and can apply to any job at all. The latter is usually about belonging to a particular grouping, a kind of professional club, whose members all excel in the same way. It is also about status and a cultural ethos which is shared with those at a similar level in other professions. There have been many attempts to define the term “professionalism”. The main definition looks at how professionalism applies to an individual practitioner. This is the concept that membership of a particular

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profession assumes that an individual has an internalised set of values which will be reflected in the way they work and the ethical standards that they adhere to. It is complicated by the idea that there are characteristics which all Professionals display. One of these characteristics is of particular interest to those who have spent time in the Armed Forces – that the individual provides a service based on a special relationship with those whom he or she serves. This relationship involves a special attitude of doing good tempered with integrity, including aspects of fairness, honesty and a bond based on legal and ethical rights and duties authorised by the professional institution and legitimised by public esteem. Desirable attributes Although it is difficult to reach agreement on defining the word, there is broad agreement on what the desirable attributes of professionalism look like. Increasingly, those who are the guardians of standards within the professions have been laying out detailed competence frameworks which itemise all of the various knowledge, skills and attributes required for an individual to be successful and demonstrate competence in that profession. Apart from the obvious technical, functional or contextual knowledge and understanding, a critical chunk of each of those frameworks looks at what is required to demonstrate leadership potential and interpersonal skills. These frameworks describe in detail those attributes which identify

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individuals with the capacity to demonstrate leadership and management capability. They also seek to describe the more elusive elements of interpersonal and behavioural skills which are considered desirable. The list is one which those in the Armed Forces should recognise instantly and without effort: communication, teamwork, leadership, conflict management, negotiation, human resource management, attitude, common sense, open mindedness, adaptability, inventiveness, prudent risk taking, fairness, commitment. My own view of the missing items in the list above, which would be recognised by most professions, but which distinguishes you in the marketplace, would include much rarer traits and includes courage, strength of character, reliability, initiative, quick thinking, responsibility, allegiance, staying power and support systems. These behaviours complement your knowledge and experience and are about your values, beliefs and identity. In other words who you are and what you are largely dictates how you behave. How you behave will ultimately display your professionalism to the people around you. Being able to demonstrate this level of professionalism is what makes you valuable. Conduct and Ethics Alongside these competence frameworks sit Codes of Conduct and Codes of Ethics which go a little further in describing the responsibilities that an individual has in delivering his professional services. The elements of these codes talk about an individual’s responsibilities to himself in delivering his services; his responsibilities to his employer or clients while delivering those services and the overall effect on

society as a whole as a consequence of delivering those services. Those in the Armed Forces live these ideals every day and this, over and above any qualifications that you might gain, should set you apart from the mass of applicants for any job role. These are attributes which any future employer should value highly. Each member of each of your teams, large and small, is powerful not only because of their own values but also because of the values and support around them. These are lessons and attributes which can be elusive in civilian environments. Your ethical and behavioural code is part of you and determines how you relate to those around you. As a final thought, your ability to be flexible and accept current circumstances in the hope of better to come is also something which the current market should value! Talk it up! So, any individual leaving the forces should emphasise not play down these attributes which are such an important part of your competences and skill set, alongside the more practical training and skills that you have acquired. Think laterally when considering how to sell yourself to a potential employer and apply your very obvious talents and skills to a different market which should appreciate you and what you have to offer. CVs and application letters should always declare your personal attributes and professionalism in detail and should prove to be a distinct advantage in the marketplace if pitched right. Further Information www.theprofessionalismgroup.co.uk

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ACCOUNTANCY

WORLDWIDE CAREERS

Finance professionals are in demand from the Bahamas to Beijing…

A

ll organisations, large or small, all over the world, in each and every employment sector and in every kind of business, need someone that can understand and manage the finances. So choosing a career as a professional accountant will put you in global demand and provide you will excellent job prospects. A career in finance will not put you in a box or limit your options, and with the right qualification, you could work in any country – accountancy is one of the few professions that transcends national borders. Finance professionals are in demand in places far afield – from the Bahamas to Beijing – so once you have obtained the appropriate paperwork, it's less a case of 'where can you go?', and more 'where do you want to go?'

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application, ability and ambition around the world who seek a rewarding career in accountancy, finance and management. ACCA has been around for over 100 years, which means their growth is backed by a solid history. ACCA’s reputation for excellence in qualifications and training is acknowledged around the world, which will have a positive impact on your reputation in the profession. ACCA qualifications are examined in over 170 countries and based on international accounting standards. But going global doesn’t mean that one size has to fit all as ACCA offer adapted papers in financial accounting and auditing, and variant papers that test local law and tax. So you can feel confident knowing that you will have a globally-recognised qualification that will also be relevant locally too. As a professional you will be expected to ensure your knowledge and skills are relevant to the constantly changing needs of the market. Professional development will play a major part in your career, giving you opportunities to further enhance your skills and knowledge. The ACCA Qualification is your route to professional status and is designed to provide the accounting knowledge, skills and professional values which will deliver finance professionals who are capable of building successful careers across all sectors. There is a strong focus on professional values, ethics, and governance. These skills are essential as the profession moves towards strengthened codes of conduct, regulation, and legislation – with an increasing focus on professionalism and ethics in accounting. These are examined at the highest level in the ACCA Qualification and are a core element of your practical experience requirements. In order to qualify as an ACCA member, you will need to complete: • 14 exams (nine of which are eligible for exemption) • relevant practical experience, with a minimum of three years • a Professional Ethics module. Various entry points on to the ACCA Qualification are available, depending on your previous academic qualifications: • Minimum entry requirements: two A Levels and three GCSEs or equivalent in five separate subjects, including English and Mathematics. • Mature Student Entry Route (MSER): normally over age 21; no academic qualifications required; must pass the equivalent of Papers F2, Management Accounting and F3, Financial Accounting within two years before further progression to the ACCA exams is permitted. • Graduate-entry route: relevant degree holders from ACCAaccredited institutions may be exempted from all nine exams within the Fundamentals level and register directly at the Professional level. Degrees with some relevance may also qualify for exemptions. • Access to ACCA via CAT qualification: no academic qualifications required; sit Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) qualification first and then transfer to the Skills module of the ACCA Qualification by claiming exemption from the first three papers in the Knowledge module.

Experience Whatever your career aspirations, if you are serious about a career as a finance professional, you need to think seriously about a professional accountancy qualification. There’s a lot to choose from. And the choice you make now will affect your career options in the future. ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is the global body for professional accountants who aim to offer business-relevant, first-choice qualifications to people of

To be prepared for a challenging and often demanding career as a professional accountant, it is not sufficient to solely rely on theoretical knowledge developed through an exam process. Therefore a key component of the ACCA Qualification is gaining relevant practical experience. The ACCA Qualification closely links practical experience to the exam syllabus, reinforcing that any capabilities you develop through the exam process will have a clear application in your workplace. And this in turn provides potential employers with PATHFINDERJULY09 | 19

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feature independent reassurance that you are the right person for the job. It’s up to you to choose the right employer to work for and gain your practical experience, but there are lots of resources available to you to make sure you get the right type of training and development. You will need to complete three-years’ relevant practical experience in addition to achieving 13 performance objectives, details of which can be found on the ACCA website (see below).

Study options The length of time it takes to qualify as an ACCA member depends on you, but on average, an individual registering with the minimum entry requirements, working full-time and studying on a part-time basis would take approximately three to four years to gain their ACCA Qualification. Although ACCA would always recommend you to complete the practical experience along with passing the exams, it’s up to you to decide how you study, how often you sit exams and where and how you gain your relevant practical experience. So in addition to registering with ACCA you will also need to decide how you wish to study and prepare for the exams, which will vary in cost. You can choose from a variety of different worldwide study options. These include full-time courses, parttime day or evening courses, correspondence/distance learning, weekend courses and revision courses. ACCA works with two official publishers – BPP Learning Media and Kaplan Publishing – who publish a range of materials to support students studying to take the ACCA Qualification, including interactive training material delivered on CD-ROM and a full Internet tuition service. As a registered student, you will be sent copies of student accountant magazine in the post and by e-mail which is full of exam tips, technical articles, career guidance and advice and is essential reading to help you progress through your exams, ethics module and practical experience requirements. You can also access syllabus and study guides, past exam papers, examiners’ approach presentations, and examiners’ reports online so that you can fully prepare for each paper before being assessed. There is also access to online guides to help you through your practical experience, and student blogs to give advice and keep you motivated throughout your time as an ACCA student.

Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) A popular way to begin a career in accounting is by studying with the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT). The AAT is the UK’s leading qualification and membership body for accounting staff. It awards around 90% of all nationally accredited vocational qualifications in accounting in the UK, offering a recognised – and popular – non-graduate entry route to the accountancy profession. The qualifications it offers – the AAT Accounting Qualification, the NVQ/SVQ in Payroll Administration and the AAT Bookkeeping Certificate (ABC) – are designed to be work-relevant and practical. Students are assessed on their application of skills, knowledge and understanding through a combination of exams and skills tests. The AAT’s Accounting Qualification is widely respected and often preferred by employers from both the public and private sectors, such as Rolls-Royce, the NHS and Pricewaterhousecoopers. This is because AAT qualified staff have hands-on experience in doing the job. Sponsored and supported by four of the UK’s leading chartered accountancy bodies – CIPFA, ICAEW, CIMA and ICAS – the AAT offers a fast-track progression route to all the UK’s chartered and certified accountancy qualifications, with successful students eligible for exemptions with each body. Those who choose this route are able to qualify faster than if they had gone to university, with one in 12 UK chartered accountants now qualifying via this route. Nearly 30 years since it was set up, the AAT has gone from strength to strength – it currently has more than 120,000 students and 20 | PATHFINDERMARCH08

members in 90 countries worldwide. The AAT aims to work with all of its members to support them throughout their accountancy journey – from being students then throughout their careers whether employed or running their own business. There have been success stories along the way too. Several AAT members have gone on to become leading figures in the UK Civil Service and managing directors of well-known companies and high street retailers. You can apply to do an AAT qualification irrespective of your age, experience or previous qualifications – and you can study full time, part time at a training centre or at home. So whether you’re thinking about a career in accountancy or already work in accountancy and want greater recognition, an AAT qualification can really boost your career.

Case study The AAT offers a first step to a career in accountancy, whether you have worked in the finance field before or not, as Damian Hemsworth MAAT can testify. “After serving in the Armed Forces for a decade I decided that it was time for me to leave the Army and pursue a career elsewhere. The problem was, I didn’t have a clue what to do” Damian says. After time spent looking after his two young children, Damian decided to enrol on an AAT Foundation course. “I found it very strange and quite challenging to be back at school at 32 years old, especially when most of the other students had a background in finance already. I am now working for a great company as an accounts assistant and have since passed Technician level. I would like to reassure those people who are worried about getting a foot in the door - if I can do it, you can too!”

Further Information www.accaglobal.com www.aat.org.uk

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News PERTH FAIR BUCKS RECESSION

Photograph courtesy and (c) D.C.Thomson & Co., Ltd, Dundee Scotland

Despite the doom and gloom in the press and the seemingly endless use of the ‘R’ word on news programmes, the CTPorganised Employment Fair at the Dewars Centre in Perth on 3rd June was a huge success. A wide variety of employers were present on the day, offering careers across a broad spectrum of industries and sectors – from the emergency services to universities and from hotels to offshore oil and gas organisations, there truly was something for everyone.

Pathfinder’s favourite success story from the day (and there were many to choose from) involved an RAF paint finisher who had gone along to the event fresh from painting his house. An eagle-eyed representative on the Gleneagles Hotel stand happened to notice some paint on the RAF man’s sleeve and engaged him in conversation – the net result being that a job offer to work as a painter and decorator at Scotland’s top hotel was made! For further information on upcoming Employment Fairs and other CTP events please visit www.ctp.org.uk

Forgotten Pensions In the current climate of credit crunches and the rising costs of living, are you getting all they are entitled to? If you have served in the Armed Forces since 1975 and did not qualify for an immediate pension you may now be entitled to a Preserved Pension.

reduced from 5 to 2 years and the age criterion was dropped, in 1978. Preserved pensions have to be claimed at age 60 or at age 65 if service began after 5 April 2006.

Prior to 6 April 1975 there was no provision for a preservation of pension benefits and service personnel who left the Armed Forces had to have completed 16 years from age 21 (Officers) or 22 years from age 18 (Other ranks) to be eligible for a pension. Those who left before that date, without completing the above criteria, had no pension entitlement unless they were medically retired.

Preserved Pensions may be paid early, subject to consideration by the Service Personnel and Veterans Agency (SPVA), if a Veteran has become permanently unable to work full-time, in any capacity, through ill-health, and this condition will continue until preserved pension age. Early payment of the pension may be subject to review and stopped if it is considered that the criterion for payment was no longer met.

The rules changed on 06 April 1975 for pensions to be preserved for payment at age 60 for all those discharged over the age of 26 with a minimum of 5 years service. On 06 April 1988, the qualifying period was

For more information on preserved pensions visit www.veterans-uk.info To find out if you are entitled to a pension, call the JPAC Enquiry Service on 0141 224 3600 or email [email protected] PATHFINDERJULY09 | 21

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TRADE SKILLS

Electrician

BUILDING YOUR NEW FUTURE

As a qualified electrician, you would fit, test and repair the electrical circuits and wiring found in homes and businesses. Your work might range from fitting a bathroom shower circuit in a customer's home to laying equipment cabling in a major new office development. Your duties would include: • working from plans to fit wiring, sockets and points • carrying out an initial installation, known as the 'first fix' – fitting wiring along wall cavities and through ceilings and floors • fitting fuse boxes, circuit-breakers and earth terminals • mounting back-boxes on walls to take plug sockets and points

The UK construction industry comprises some 250,000 companies, employing 2.1 million people. Here we examine some of the trade options that the industry offers…

• carrying out a 'second fix' – connecting wiring to sockets, switches, light fittings and appliances. On commercial projects your tasks would be on a larger scale, for example: • laying the cabling connecting office equipment to power supplies and computer networks

Bricklayer

NVQ in Trowel Occupations levels 1 to 3.

Bricklayers build and repair walls, chimney stacks, tunnel linings and decorative stonework like archways. They might also refurbish brickwork and masonry on restoration projects. Typical jobs can range from a house extension to a large commercial development. As a bricklayer, your work would include:

• installing fire alarms and security systems like CCTV

Carpenter/Joiner

• inspecting and testing wiring systems and equipment

• measuring the work area and setting out the first rows (courses) and damp course • mixing mortar by hand or with a mechanical mixer • laying the bricks on top of each other and applying the mortar with a trowel • shaping and trimming bricks using hammers, chisels and power tools • checking courses are straight using water or laser spirit-levels and plumb lines. On larger jobs, your gang would work on a particular section of a building alongside other bricklaying gangs. You may also be able to specialise in stonemasonry work. You do not need formal qualifications to become a bricklayer, but employers tend to want people with some on-site experience. If you have not worked in construction before, you could think about working as a labourer to get site experience. Once working, your employer may be willing to offer you training in bricklaying. Alternatively, you could take a college course in bricklaying. This would teach you some of the skills needed for the job but employers may still want to see some site experience. College courses include: • BTEC First Diploma in Construction (bricklaying options) • City & Guilds Basic Skills in Construction award: Bricklaying (6217) • Intermediate/Advanced Construction Award (Trowel Occupations – Bricklaying). Once you are working as a bricklayer, you could take NVQ qualifications, normally the

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Carpenters and joiners make and install the wooden fixtures and fittings found in household and commercial construction projects. These include floorboards, kitchen and bathroom units, window frames and doors, roof trusses and wall partitions. As a carpenter or joiner your work could fall into one or more of the following areas: • formwork – building temporary shuttering to support setting concrete, for example on motorway bridge supports or building foundations • machining – cutting and shaping timber for floorboards, skirting boards and window frames • bench joinery – making and assembling doors, window frames, staircases and fitted furniture • first fixing (site work) – fitting the wooden structures, such as floor and roof joists, roof timbers, staircases, partition walls, and door and window frames • second fixing (site work) – installing skirting boards, door surrounds, doors, cupboards and shelving, as well as door handles and locks • shopfitting – making and fitting interiors for shops, hotels, banks, offices and public buildings. You could be skilled in all of these or you may specialise in just one or two. College courses include: • BTEC First Diploma in Construction (carpentry options) • City & Guilds Basic Construction Skills award: Carpentry and Joinery (6217) • Foundation/Intermediate/Advanced Construction Award (Wood Occupations). Once working as a carpenter or joiner, you would take on-the-job training leading to NVQ qualifications, such as Wood Occupations levels 1 to 3.

• fixing faults highlighted by inspections – known as remedial repair work. To qualify as an electrician, you must have the Electrotechnical Services NVQ at Level 3 (course code 2356), which is awarded by City & Guilds and EMTA Awards Limited. If you are not employed in the industry, you could take the City & Guilds (2330) Technical Certificate in Electrotechnical Technology levels 2 and 3 at a college. The Technical certificates cover the theory and some of the practical skills needed for the NVQ. However, to become fully qualified you must complete the workbased NVQ. Plasterer As a plasterer, you would mix and apply different kinds of plaster to internal walls, floors and ceilings so that they are ready for decorating. You could also cover outside walls with coatings, such as sand and cement, pebble-dash and stone-effect materials. You would normally be part of a small team, and work in one of the following: • solid plastering – applying wet finishes to surfaces and putting protective coverings like pebble-dashing on external walls • fibrous plastering – creating ornamental plasterwork, such as ceiling roses, cornices, and architraves, using a mixture of plaster and short fibres shaped with moulds and casts • dry lining – fixing internal plasterboard or wallboard partitions by fastening them together on a timber or metal frame ready for decorating. You could work on small-scale domestic jobs, repairs and restoration or on big commercial developments. You could learn some of the skills needed for the job by taking a college course in plastering, but employers may still want to see some site experience. Relevant college courses include:

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feature • City & Guilds (6217) Basic Construction Skills: Plastering • CSkills Diploma in Plastering • ABC Certificate in Preparation for Employment in Plastering • Open College North West Preparation for Employment in Construction (Plastering). Once in employment you could work towards NVQ levels 2 and 3 in Plastering. After completing the Level 3 NVQ, you could take further specialist training for an NVQ Level 3 in Heritage Skills (Construction). This is designed to meet the demand for traditional craft skills used in the repair and conservation of historical buildings. Plumber As a plumber you would install, service and repair plumbing systems in homes and businesses. For example, you might be responsible for making sure a public building gets clean drinking water, or you may be called out to fix a central heating boiler in a house. Depending on whether you work in domestic, industrial or commercial premises, your duties could include:

• cutting tiles to size and shape with hand-cutters or bench-mounted tools • preparing surfaces by levelling off with plaster, sand or cement • fixing the tiles and applying grout before finishing off. On a restoration job, you may have to repair or remove the previous surface before the setting out stage. You would work with various building materials, including ceramics, glass, terracotta, stone, granite and marble. Employers may expect you to have some on-site experience, which you could get by starting out as a site labourer. Once working, your employer may offer you training in tiling. Alternatively, you could take a college course like the Intermediate Construction Award (Tiling). This would teach you some of the skills needed for the job, but employers may still want to see some relevant experience. Once you are working as a tiler, you can train on the job, with day or block release at a local college or training centre. You could work towards the NVQ in Wall and Floor Tiling at levels 2 and 3, by combining your training with assessments in the workplace.

• installing and repairing water supplies, heating systems and drainage

Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS)

• servicing gas- and oil-fired central heating systems, boilers and radiators

Many building contractors now insist that you have a CSCS card to work on their sites. The card is proof of your skills and competence. To get your card you must:

• installing and fixing domestic appliances like showers and washing machines

• pass a health and safety assessment

• servicing air-conditioning and ventilation units

• have an NVQ or equivalent qualification.

• fitting weather-proof materials, joints and flashings to roofs, chimneys and walls.

If you are working without qualifications, you may be able to use OnSite Assessment and Training (OSAT) or Experienced Worker Practical Assessment (EWPA) to get your NVQ and card. Contact CSCS or SkillsDirect for further details.

On all jobs, you would use hand and power tools, which could include welding equipment. As an experienced plumber, you might specialise in sheet metal work on industrial, commercial or historical buildings. To become a qualified plumber you will need the full NVQ Level 2 and 3 in Mechanical Engineering Services – Plumbing (Domestic). If you are not working in plumbing, you will need the following qualifications: • City & Guilds (6129) Technical Certificates Level 2 Basic Plumbing Studies and Level 3 Plumbing Studies • City & Guilds (6089) NVQ Level 2 and 3 in Mechanical Engineering Services – Plumbing (Domestic). Only the NVQ qualification at level 3 will fully qualify you as a plumber. However, the Technical Certificate covers the theory and some of the practical skills you will need before you can move on to the NVQ. A number of organisations offer short intensive training courses, some with home-study options. To make sure that these are industryrecognised and accredited, you should contact your regional City & Guilds office with the course provider's details. You should also find out from the provider what would happen if you fell behind or dropped out of an intensive course. If you are already working in the industry, you could fully qualify as a plumber by taking the following NVQs: • NVQ in Mechanical Engineering Services - Plumbing (6089) at Level 2 and • NVQ Mechanical Engineering Services - Plumbing (6089) at Level 3. The NVQs are normally available on a part-time or day-release basis through colleges and training centres. The Level 3 NVQ contains three extra assessments for: • Water Regulations • Unvented Hot Water Systems • ACS gas safety for Gas Safe Register™ (formerly CORGI Registration) approval. Tiler Tilers cover walls and floors with tiles, on jobs ranging from tiling a kitchen or bathroom to fitting out a shop, hotel or restaurant. Some tilers also carry out specialist work, for instance on swimming pools and mosaic walls found in landscape gardening. As a tiler, your work would typically include: • marking out an area to estimate the amount of tiles and adhesive needed (known as setting out)

Further Information SkillsDirect: www.citb-constructionskills.co.uk/cardschemes Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS): www.cscs.uk.com ConstructionSkills: www.cskills.org

Builder Training Centres Ltd SHORT PRACTICAL COURSES Electrical • Inspection & Testing • Plastering Advanced Plastering • Tiling • Advanced Tiling Bricklaying • Carpentry Roof Construction • Roof Tiling Home Maintenance • Plumbing • Kitchen Fitting

QUALIFICATION COURSES EAL Part P (VRQ Level 2 Domestic Installers Certificate) C&G 17th Edition (2382-10 and 2382-20) C&G Inspection and Testing (2392-10) C&G PAT Testing (2377) Top Quality training at our Approved Centre

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY Weekend Courses Available We also offer excellent resettlement packages which include accommodation

Over 10,000 testimonials from satisfied students FOR A FREE COLOUR BROCHURE CONTACT

0800 3892775 /0208 649 9340 www.thebtc.co.uk PATHFINDERJULY09 | 23

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NEED ELECTRICAL TRAINING?

Situated in Tring, Hertfordshire, Proactive Technical Training is establishing an enviable reputation for excellence. We are meeting a growing need for high quality electrical training in the southeastern region. Our courses are competitively priced and although intensive, the small class sizes and relaxed atmosphere of the training centre facilitate learning; helping students to achieve above average pass rates. Our courses cover a wide range of training; from absolute beginner courses for those wishing to change careers, or to perhaps tackle wiring in their own homes, to certificated City & Guilds courses that enable electricians to become qualified, perhaps register for Part P, or to move onward in their career. We also offer refresher and practical courses to reinforce the skills necessary to carry out the requirements of a modern-day electrician. By arrangement, we can also run in-house courses at our client’s premises.

For more information, check out our website at www.proactivetechnicaltraining.co.uk or telephone us on 01442-828754. 24 | PATHFINDERJULY09

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Military Provost Staff (Volunteers) The Territorial Army is an integral part of the British Army, fulfilling a vital role in the nation’s defence and peacekeeping operations, both at home and abroad. It is staffed by spare-time, voluntary personnel, representing one quarter of the Army’s total capability.

The Military Provost Staff (Volunteers) MPS (V) is a relatively new unit having been formed in 2007 to work alongside the Regular MPS to deliver a Prisoner of War (PW) handling capability on operations. Personnel currently serving with No 1 Coy MPS (V) come from a diverse range of professions; Police Officers, Prison Officers, Police Detention Officers, BT Engineers, College Lecturers and Driving Instructors. What they all have in common is the enthusiasm and energy to commit to a rewarding spare-time career that offers them a challenging and rewarding path that they can pursue up to 55 yrs of age. The majority will have previous military experience of some form or another; some will be working in a custodial setting or have a life skill that will add value.

Commitment is what makes the Territorials a vital part of the British Army. As a nationally recruited unit, the minimum MPS(V) training commitment is 19 days (8 hrs per day or more) per training year. The training year runs from 1st Apr – 31st Mar. The training is broken up into Annual Camp and Mandatory Military Training; the camp lasts 15 days and the other training takes 4 days.

Basic Military Training, if you have no military experience, it will be delivered alongside those pursuing other Territorial Army careers at a centralised location away from Colchester. This training is delivered in 2 parts; the Trained Soldier Course (TSC) parts A & B. This might take you a year to complete: the TSC (A) lasts 6 weekends, while the TSC (B) is conducted in a 2 week residential package.

Transferring into the MPS (V) is for those individuals already serving with TA units. The criteria are as follows: Substantive Cpl with 2 recommendations for promotion to Sgt, at least 3 yrs residual service, fully fit and able to deploy if required. All applicants meeting these requirements will be interviewed to assess their suitability to transfer.

Custodial Training is undertaken at the Military Corrective Training Centre (MCTC), Colchester and delivered over two 2 week courses. These courses are designed to give you knowledge and experience to

Opportunities. The opportunity to attend additional training for professional development exists, and military courses can form part of the training commitment. Also, unit members are actively encouraged to work and train alongside their regular peers whether at the MCTC on Exercises or on Adventurous Training.

work in custodial environments both at home and on operations. The first course will deliver a foundation in military custodial procedures to equip you to handle Service Personnel under Sentence (SUS) within the MCTC and the second course focuses on PW Handling. The aim of both courses is to ensure that you have the requisite knowledge and experience to deliver custodial surety to the MoD and HMG.

Rank and Pay is decided on enlistment, depending on previous military service and experience. All members of the MPS are promoted to the rank of Sergeant (Sgt) on completion of basic military and custodial training and are paid accordingly. The current rate of pay for a level 1 Sgt (Lower Band) is £74.20 per day rising to £84.33. A Staff Sergeant (SSgt) starts at £82.14 and rises to £94.58 per day. Tax Free Bounty is payable on completion of the minimum training commitment each year. It rises incrementally from £416 in the first year to £1641 in the fifth and subsequent years.

Joining the MPS (V) If you have got this far, why not give it a go and apply to join. Either e-mail [email protected] for more information, or write to MPS (V) Recruiting, MCTC, COLCHESTER, CO2 9NU. Or you can telephone on 01206 543591.

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THE LAND-BASED SECTOR Pathfinder begins a two-part guide to careers in the land-based sector… Each of the 17 different industries that make up the land-based sector offer you the chance to develop skills in practical, technical and specialised areas with opportunities for career progression and promotion. Careers can range from hands-on practical work through to demanding management opportunities even the chance to diversify into your own business or work abroad. And as new technology within the sector advances, the opportunities continue to grow.

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Agricultural Crops The crops industry offers a huge range of opportunities for anyone of any age. Crop farms and businesses vary enormously, so you could find yourself producing and managing food groups such as vegetables, cereals and root crops. You could also be producing non-food and industrial crops such as energy crops, crops for paper and materials like hemp, specialist oils like lavender and pharmaceuticals. The UK crops

industry contributes £3.6 billion to the country's economy. People working in the crops industry are also responsible for managing the land in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way. Arable farmers spend an average of eleven hours a month carrying out environmental work. Farms vary enormously, so there are plenty of opportunities to pursue a particular interest. Businesses can be small, so each

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feature employee has an important role to play. The more skills you can develop, the more you will be able to contribute.

Animal Care

Crops businesses need employees who can combine technical knowledge with practical skills. There are a range of courses available that will help you achieve the skills and knowledge you need to work at different levels in the crop industries.

If you love animals and would like to be part of a dedicated team of professionals that care about their welfare, then a career in animal care could be for you. The industry offers a wide range of opportunities in handling, supervising and caring for animals from small domestic and exotic pets to wildlife and zoo animals.

Work-based or vocational trainings combine practical work-based experience with classroom-based training. Some enable you to earn while you learn. They will give you the skills and knowledge you need to do a job effectively and show that you can actually do it - not simply that you know how to do it in theory. They include:

Pet ownership in the UK is predicted to grow, with a positive knock-on effect for animal care industries like pet shops and dog groomers. But unfortunately, animal charities have a big job to do too – the PDSA treats 4,500 animals daily – and they need skilled and dedicated professionals to help with their work.

• Apprenticeship in Agricultural Crops and Livestock

There are plenty of animal care opportunities in areas including pet shops, boarding kennels and catteries, pet breeders, dog training and grooming, animal welfare charities and zoos and wildlife parks. There are even opportunities to start your own business.

• NVQs/SVQs If you would rather do a college or university-based course to give you the skills and knowledge you need, there are also lots of options available to you at different levels depending on your abilities and your aspirations. They include: • First Diploma, National Diploma and Higher National Diploma • National Certificate, Higher National Certificate, Advanced National Certificate • BSc, MSc, PhD Once you are working in the crops industry, if you want to improve your skills and knowledge in a specific area, you could do additional technical courses and professional qualifications. There are many ways to enter a career in the crops industry. If you have no formal qualifications but can demonstrate your enthusiasm for working in crops, there are opportunities for you. Opportunities exist for qualified people to progress to careers in areas linked to the crops industry, such as sales, research and policy development. Work on larger farms offers the opportunity to specialise in a particular area. Agricultural Livestock The livestock industry offers a huge range of opportunities for anyone of any age. Livestock farms and businesses vary enormously, so you could find yourself working in areas as diverse as dairy, beef, sheep, pigs or poultry. Many lowland farms combine livestock production with growing crops. Farmers Markets are increasing, providing farmers with a direct route to market for their products and creating a shopping experience that is vibrant and upbeat. Farms vary enormously, so there are plenty of opportunities to pursue a particular interest. Businesses can be small, so each employee has an important role to play. The more skills you can develop, the more you will be able to contribute.

Animal care businesses need employees who can combine technical knowledge with practical skills. There are a range of courses available that will help you achieve the skills and knowledge you need to work at different levels in animal care. Work-based or vocational training qualifications combine practical work-based experience with classroom-based training. They include Apprenticeships and NVQs/SVQs If you would rather do a college or university-based course to give you the skills and knowledge you need, there are also lots of options available to you at different levels depending on your abilities and your aspirations. They include: • National Certificate, Higher National Certificate and Advanced National Certificate • First Diploma, National Diploma and Higher National Diploma • BSc, PgDip and MSc There are many ways to enter a career in animal care. If you have no formal experience but are able to demonstrate an interest and enthusiasm for working with animals, there may be opportunities available. But training and qualifications are increasingly important for people considering a career with animals. Experience can be obtained by working voluntarily or assisting in pet shops, zoos, and so on. Larger pet shops may offer full or part-time paid opportunities. Animal Technology Animal technology is the specialist profession responsible for the care and welfare of laboratory animals. Animal technicians are responsible for the care and welfare of animals used in bio-medical research. All animal research is controlled by strict laws – learning about the law is part of an animal technician’s training. It is also the responsibility of animal technicians

to find ways of using fewer animals and of improving the quality of life for the laboratory animals in their care. There is always more to learn in a career caring for animals. Animal technicians are dedicated to advancing and promoting excellence in animal care and so training is a continuous commitment. In conjunction with technical and FE colleges, the Institute of Animal Technology offers or moderates a selection of courses (employers will normally help with fees and expenses and provide day release). You could consider the NVQ route too: NVQ/SVQ in Animal Technology at Levels 2 and 3 (Level 2 is equivalent GCSEs, a Standard Grade Credit, a First Diploma or a National Certificate. Level 3 is equivalent to A-levels, an Advanced Higher, a National Diploma or a National Certificate). If you would rather do a college or university-based course to give you the skills and knowledge you need, there are also lots of options available to you at different levels depending on your abilities and your aspirations. They include: • First Certificate, Ordinary National Certificate, Higher National Certificate • BSc Entry requirements are not standardised but generally employers will be looking for GCSE maths, English and one or more science subjects (grade D and above). Post `A` or `AS` level entry is common. Anyone wishing to be an animal technician must convince a potential employer of their genuine and committed interest in animal care and welfare. Applicants will be at an advantage if they have direct experience of looking after animals (pets, dog walking, kennel work, school clubs, etc). Aquaculture If you like the idea of planning your own workloads and being your own boss, then a job in aquaculture could be for you. In this diverse industry, you could be involved in breeding and rearing anything from shellfish to finfish, either for sale or for restocking lakes and rivers for angling. The work of a fish farmer varies considerably and requires a wide range of skills. This includes knowing how to maintain equipment and cages, and ensuring the health and welfare of fish. You could find yourself breeding or rearing stocks of fish for wholesale or retail trade or for restocking lakes and rivers used by anglers. You could also be involved in habitat management, ensuring the health and welfare of stock, and poaching control. Aquaculture businesses need employees who can combine technical knowledge with practical skills. There are a range of courses available that will help you achieve the skills and knowledge you need to work at different levels in the aquaculture industry. As above, work-based or vocational training PATHFINDERJULY09 | 27

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as well as NVQs are available in this area as well as a range of courses and qualifications at colleges and universities ranging from HNC through to BSc. There are many ways to enter a career in aquaculture. If you have no formal qualifications but can demonstrate your enthusiasm for working with fish, there are opportunities for you. Environmental Conservation If you care about environmental issues and want to make a difference to the environment you live in, a career in environmental conservation could be for you. Professionals in this industry are involved with the conservation of rural and urban landscapes, birds, animals and plants, countryside recreation, and waterway conservation. Environmental conservation overlaps with areas such as heritage conservation, archaeology and environmental management. A career in this profession is not only about ‘green’ issues, but is also about making the best use of your knowledge and understanding to provide solutions that will lead to a more sustainable environment for us all. There are environmental conservation opportunities in areas including community recycling, habitat management, countryside recreation, planning and parks, the protection of animals and plants, and even dealing with international issues such as global warming. These opportunities exist in a range of organisations from government departments to the voluntary sector. It is really useful to gain experience through voluntary work, as competition for jobs in this profession has increased Conservation organisations and businesses need employees who can combine technical knowledge with practical skills. There are a range of courses available that will help you achieve the skills and knowledge you need to work at different levels in conservation. There are many ways to enter a career in environmental conservation. If you have no formal qualifications but can demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm for working in this area, you could develop your skills and 28 | PATHFINDERJULY09

knowledge through voluntary work with a relevant environmental organisation. As above, work-based or vocational training as well as NVQs are available in this area as well as a range of courses and qualifications at colleges and universities ranging from HNC through to BSc and PhD. Equine If you love horses, care about their welfare, and would love a job where you could work with them everyday, then a career in the equine industry could be for you. Opportunities to work with horses are incredibly diverse, so you could be working in areas ranging from riding schools and livery yards to racehorse training. The UK spends over £2 billion on the equine industry each year. There are approximately 900,000 horses and ponies in the UK and 2 million riders, which demonstrates the country’s love of horses and the potential for making money in the equine industry. Riding lessons alone are worth over £500 million. Horses are a major asset for their owners, and need the skilled attention of devoted and well-trained staff. There are opportunities to work with horses in areas including riding schools, livery yards, events and competitions, clubs and hunts, and racing yards in careers ranging from grooms, to riding instructors, to horse breeders and jockeys. Many equine establishments have multiple functions e.g. riding schools can also be livery yards, and breeders can also be trainers. Equine businesses need employees who can combine technical knowledge with practical skills. There are a range of courses available that will help you achieve the skills and knowledge you need to work at different levels in the equine industry. As above, work-based or vocational training as well as NVQs are available in this area as well as a range of courses and qualifications at colleges and universities. Additionally there are a number of qualifications offered by the British Horse Society. It is a good idea to get some experience by taking riding lessons or assisting at stables or on a farm. This could be followed by full-time work experience, training, or a course leading to a qualification.

Farriery Farriery is concerned with the shoeing of horses and other animals. A farrier is a skilled craftsperson who makes shoes for all types of horses’ and animals’ feet, according to the needs and welfare of the animal. Farriers are increasingly becoming involved in remedial work with veterinary surgeons and equine hospitals, providing corrective shoeing and surgical farriery. The industry contributes an estimated £100 million to the UK economy. There are opportunities to make a lucrative career out of shoeing horses and other animals. You could get the chance to work around the country, and even set up your own farriery business. You could also move into working with veterinary surgeons and equine hospitals, or into the farriery supplies business. The only way to become a farriery is to complete a four-year training course with an approved training farriery leading to a Diploma examination in the last year. The entry requirements are 4 GCSEs (grades A – C including English) or the farriery entrance exam. Training consists of planned experience gained with the approved training farrier and periods of college-based training. On completion of your course you will have gained a number of qualifications. After registration and a required period of practical experience, you could go on to become an Associate or Fellow of the Worshipful Company of Farriers. There is also the opportunity to become an Approved Training Farrier once your own training and development is complete. Some farriers become involved in the farriery supplies business, or work with veterinary surgeons and equine hospitals. Lantra Lantra is the Sector Skills Council for environmental and land-based industries and their website is an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn about a career in this field: www.lantra.co.uk Pathfinder credits Lantra as the source of the above information.

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SOMERSET TRAINING 16 Wellesley Way, Churchinford, Taunton, Somerset. TA3 7RB Telephone/Fax: 01823 601438 Mobile: 07885 512949 E-mail [email protected] www.somerset-training.com

Quality short course training for Agriculture & Rural Industries. Chainsaws, Forklifts, Pesticides, MEWPS, Food Hygiene, Tractor Handling, 4 x 4, Risk Assessment, Pole Pruners, Hedgelaying, First Aid, Abrasive Wheels, Brushcutters, Vermin Control, ATVs, Health & Safety, Livestock Handling, Diggers & Excavators & many more. The majority of courses lead to certification by professional bodies such as LANTRA AWARDS, NPTC, CPCS, ROYAL SOCIETY OF HEALTH.

Training for a career in Ecology

We offer a selection of intensive one day courses led by experienced professionals who are experts in their field. The courses are suitable for anyone seeking employment in ecological consultancy, conservation and related fields. Subjects covered include • Using bat detectors • UK wildlife legislation • Basics of ecological surveying • Habitat surveying skills • Surveying for badgers Resettlement packages tailored to the individual Accomodation details available upon request Courses involve a blend of classroom and practical sessions in a relaxed and interactive atmosphere. Further details are available at www.biocensus.co.uk, or contact us at [email protected] or call 01453 790643.

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Fancy going it alone, working outdoors in Forestry or Arboriculture? Get the Lantra & NPTC certificates you need. Short courses of 1 to 6 days in Chainsaws, Woodchippers, Fencing, Quads, Tree Climbing, Pesticides Application, Hedgerow management & more. Resettlement Packages tailored to the individual - Devon /Cornwall based Accommodation details available upon request

www.lynher.com or phone 01822 832232

Pathfinder Interested in advertising in Pathfinder? For a media pack and more information call

01 91 442 01 98 or email: Helen Smith

[email protected]

REPORT REVEALS SIGNIFICANT REGIONAL VARIATIONS IN SALARIES FOR TRAINING PROFESSIONALS A new report commissioned by permanent recruitment specialist GPRS Recruitment reveals that a majority (56%) of qualified professionals employed by businesses providing training in the workplace would consider moving to another employer, while a quarter (26%) believe they could earn more working elsewhere. Other key findings point to the reasons for this widespread dissatisfaction: 81% of those surveyed receive no regular performance related bonus, 19% have received no pay increase in the past 18 months, and 40% said that their salary reviews are currently on hold. Worse still, when it comes to training the trainers some British businesses are falling short. 31% of qualified NVQ assessors and verifiers surveyed have funded their own training and qualifications, whilst 25% have not been provided with work based training or induction by their current employer. The findings come from a nation-wide salary and benefits survey of more than 4,000 workbased learning and further education professionals - the first of its kind in the UK. The results reveal key regional salary and benefit trends, and provide statistical evidence to explain why staff retention is such a challenge in the sector.

The regional differences in the report are striking: 83% of those surveyed in the northern region thought they could earn more with another employer, compared to 64% in the central region and just 28% of those in the southern region. These perceptions are borne out by the report's salary findings, with northern respondents earning the least in all the positions surveyed, followed by their peers in the central region, with southern training professionals coming out top for pay. And regional differences are more pronounced at the top of the salary scale: training directors in the south earned an average of £6k more than their northern peers, with their average annual bonuses also trumping those awarded in the north by more than £5k. Some northern professionals at the lower end of the pay scale, however, bagged bigger annual bonuses: NVQ assessors and skills tutors both received more on average than their peers further south. The freeze on salaries also seems to be disproportionately affecting northern training professionals. The majority (57%) of those surveyed in the north will not have their salaries reviewed in the foreseeable future, compared to

36% in the central region and 28% in the south. However, when it comes to benefits, professionals in the north come off better, with more than half (52%) reporting that they receive a pension contribution from their employer, compared to a third (32%) of those surveyed in the central region and only a quarter (24%) of those in the south. Commenting on the findings, Debra McCallumCleghorn, Head of Staffing at GPRS Recruitment, said: "This survey should provide a wake-up call to work based learning organisations both small and large. Many companies focussing on NVQ achievement are under-supporting their staff regarding training and benefits, and the findings crystallise the need for re-alignment of salaries, specifically with regard to bonuses, if companies want to not only recruit but retain the best talent." "Investing in the training professionals that comprise your workforce makes good business sense - remaining competitive when it comes to staff skills is crucial during the downturn, and firms that stayed on track with staff learning during the last recession emerged in a stronger position than those that cut back." PATHFINDERJULY09 | 31

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ROAD TRANSPORT The road freight industry is worth approximately £55bn to the economy, employs 1.7 million people, approximately one third of whom are drivers, in over 63,000 companies… Occupations in the sector include drivers of goods vehicles, transport managers, drivers of lift and reach trucks, pickers and packers in warehouses, rail freight staff, motorcycle despatch riders, drivers of vans, and the many administrative, human resources, health and safety and financial specialists in the sector.

provisions of the working time directive on professional drivers in 2005 made matters worse. When the Directive was implemented, drivers were restricted to an average 48 hour week, without the opportunity to opt out. This created an overnight demand for even more drivers, across the European Union, not just the UK.

Driving is a highly regulated, skilled occupation requiring expensive training, assuming a great deal of responsibility in managing expensive vehicles, often with high value cargoes, and increasingly heavy road safety obligations.

Although the majority of driving jobs are full time and the majority of drivers are male, employers are working hard to recruit from untraditional sources of drivers and to consider flexible ways of working, to promote professional driving to ethnic minorities and the female workforce. As the right to “flexible working” was introduced in April 2003, allowing workers with children under the age of six the right to formally request flexible working arrangements from their employer, the numbers of part time LGV drivers and unconventional working patterns are already increasing.

At the same time, drivers are expected to manage customer service demands, and strict delivery dates and times, with minimal supervision and may have much of their time away from home, either in the UK or driving to the further flung parts of the European Union, and, on occasions, beyond. The driving occupation, like so many occupations in the UK, currently faces an acute shortage of new entrant and competent drivers. The effects of the Road Transport Directive, which implemented the 32 | PATHFINDERJULY09

As the aging profile of the workforce continues to increase, many drivers work part time after retirement, indicating the willingness of employers to consider

alternative ways of working. Much research and work is being undertaken to recruit, train and quality new drivers, through collaborations between the leading trade associations such as the Road Haulage Association and unions, the Department for Transport, Scottish Executive, Skills for Logistics and through the Road Haulage Modernisation fund. Truck simulators are currently being evaluated as a way of training and assessing drivers

Obtaining An LGV Licence The first step to getting an LGV licence is to apply to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in Swansea for the provisional entitlement to drive an LGV. An application form D1 is available from post offices. In order to drive an LGV an individual must: • Have a full driving licence • Hold a provisional LGV driving licence in the category they wish to drive • Meet the eyesight and medical requirements

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T • Normally be over 21 years old, unless the individual is a member of the armed forces, authorised by the Ministry of Defence or a registered trainee within the Young LGV Driver Training Scheme. • Pass a Driving Standards Agency (DSA) practical and theory test. The theory test must be passed before taking a practical test

Young Drivers Scheme (YDS) The YDS is managed by Skills for Logistics on behalf of the Department for Transport. The scheme allows a young person to obtain their full Category C licence at the age of 18 rather than 21 and a Category C+E before their 21st birthday. Details about the YDS scheme can be found at www.skillsforlogistics.or

Standards Agency are used – see www.dsa.gov.uk or call DSA on 0115 901 2500. 2007 saw the introduction of the provisions of the Vocational Training Directive, and this included a detailed statutory training regime with a syllabus including technical characteristics of vehicles, prevention of accidents, respect for other road users, professional manoeuvres, protecting the environment, social regulations, ergonomic principles and adopting a healthy lifestyle including detailed examinations, for new entrant drivers and 5 days compulsory training every 5 years for existing drivers.

Where To Get Training

The benefit of this directive will be better qualified drivers with higher levels of competence although the length of time and direct training costs and exams may deter individuals from pursuing the training, unless sponsored by employers.

There are many training providers across the UK who specialise in LGV instruction. Details of many training providers can be found at www.skillsforlogistics.org and it is recommended that training schools whose trainers are registered with the Driving

The introduction of the digital tachograph raises a number of resource and training issues for employers as, in addition to the working time changes, as drivers and employers need to be able to use both digital and manual tachographs.

Drivers do have opportunities to develop their careers and move into management, often by becoming a transport manager or setting up their own business and becoming a self employed owner-operator. For those wishing to progress further in their careers, qualifications such as the Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC), Certificate or Diploma in Management Studies (CMS/DMS), and/or a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) or Logistics will be useful, or in some cases essential. There are many management training courses available, along with professional bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport for individuals to join, or trade organisations such as the Road Haulage Association which owner operators, and employers – large and small can join for professional advice and support. Details of the various types and levels of training courses available can be found at www.careersinlogistics.co.uk and www.rha.net PATHFINDERJULY09 | 33

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HOUSING A round-up of HomeBuy options and related shared-equity products… First Time Buyers' Initiative

Rent to HomeBuy

This option is offered by private developers on selected new homes. You buy a brand new home with a mortgage for a minimum of 50% of the market value of the property. The government then provides a shared equity loan to help you to buy up to the full purchase price. There are no interest charges for the first three years. After three years there is a fee of 1%, rising to a maximum of 3% after five years in the property.

This option offers new build homes to rent for a pre-defined period of time with the expectation that you will buy a share of the property at the end of the rental period.

You can buy additional shares at a later date until you own 100%. The cost of these is calculated on the current market value at the time that the additional shares are purchased. If you wish to sell your property, the equity loan is repaid as a percentage of the market value at the time of sale. Further information is available at www.homebuy.co.uk/pdfs/HCA_FTBI%20April%2009.pdf

Ownhome This option offers shared equity loans towards the purchase of a home on the open market. Ownhome is offered by Places for People with the Co-operative bank. You choose a suitable property (usually through an estate agent) and apply for an equity loan of in between 20% and 40% of the property's market value. There are no interest payments for the first five years. After five years there is a fixed rate interest charge on the loan of 1.75% per annum. After a further five years this increases to a fixed rate of 3.75%. You will need to raise a mortgage through the Co-Operative Bank to purchase through Ownhome. You can also use any savings you may have to contribute as a deposit towards your share.

Homes are available through a range of housing associations on assured shorthold tenancies with an affordable rent of 80% (or less) of market rents. The rent is payable for a pre-defined and limited period, after which time there is an expectation that you will purchase the property on the terms of New Build HomeBuy. The rental period provides you with the opportunity to save for a deposit towards buying a share in the home, enabling you to access mortgage availability. Some housing associations offer variations of Rent to HomeBuy. Some of these schemes are marketed with different names, for example "Try Before You Buy" or "Rent Save Buy", etc. Please enquire with the relevant housing association to clarify the terms under which the scheme you are interested in is being offered. You will have the opportunity to purchase a share in the property throughout your tenancy. At the end of the rental period, you will be assessed to determine your affordability and eligibility to purchase a share in the property. If your circumstances have changed and you are no longer able to afford to buy, your landlord may review your tenancy. Please note that there is no guarantee that your tenancy will be renewed after each of the agreed periods.

You can redeem all of part of the equity loan at any time during your mortgage term. At the end of your mortgage, the equity loan must be redeemed in full. If you wish to sell your property, the loan is repaid as a percentage of the market value at the time of sale.

Further information is available at www.homebuy.co.uk/new _build_homebuy.aspx

Further information is available at www.ownhome.co.uk or 0845 607 0110

This option offers new build homes to rent at 80% (or less) of typical market rents. Homes are

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Intermediate Market Rent

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available through a range of housing associations on an assured shorthold tenancy, usually for an initial period of six months. This is reviewed regularly. Many housing associations that let properties through this scheme also offer an option to buy a share in the property on a New Build HomeBuy basis at a later date. Some housing associations may ask you to agree to purchase the property after a pre-defined rental period. This is called Rent to HomeBuy. Please see above and your local HomeBuy Agent's website for more information.

If you wish to sell your property, your share is marketed for sale by your housing association to allow other people in housing need to benefit from low cost home ownership. The property is resold at the market value of the property at the time of resale.

HOLD - Home Ownership for people with Long-term Disabilities HOLD is a specially tailored option to assist people with long-term disabilities to purchase a share in a property. It is offered by a small number of housing associations, with limited availability. Please contact your local HomeBuy Agent and they will direct you to a provider of HOLD properties in the area where you wish to live.

Resales When any existing part buy / part rent home becomes available for resale, you can buy the share from its current owner. The homes vary greatly in terms of age, size and type. Just like New Build HomeBuy, homes are available through different housing associations. You can buy shares worth between 25% and 75% of the property's market value and you pay a subsidised rent on the remaining share. You may need to raise a mortgage to purchase your share. If you have a large deposit or equity from the sale of a property, this can also be used towards purchasing your share. You can buy additional shares at a later date until you own 100%, if you wish to. This is called staircasing and the cost of the additional shares is based on the market value of the property at the time that you purchase the shares. If you increase your share in the property, your rent is re-calculated and reduced proportionately. PATHFINDERJULY09 | 35

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TIME TO FLY THE NEST Home2own, the south west HomeBuy agency, has just completed its first HomeBuy Direct. This means that another household in our area have been helped onto the housing ownership ladder. Lee Curtis and Jo Messenger had been living with Jo’s parents for a while. They, like many others, aspired to owning their own home, but knew that without a large deposit, it was just a pipedream. As eager potential home owners they were fully aware that they would need a large deposit before a lender would consider them for a mortgage. Jo said, “It would have taken us a long time to save for a deposit for our own home but with government help it has been possible for us to step onto the property ladder. Lee commented, “Without this help we would be saving for a long, long time!” They had an equity loan of 30%. The HomeBuy Direct scheme means purchasers will be offered an equity loan of up to 30% of the open market value on selected new build properties. The loan is co-funded by Government and the developer, and is interest free to the purchaser for the first 5 years. Lee said, “We heard about the scheme when we happened to be driving past the Orchard Leaze development in Stroud, 36 | PATHFINDERJULY09

Gloucestershire, “We saw the signs displayed on the roadside about the scheme.” Jo said, “Our new home is a second floor two-bed apartment with a spacious living/dining area and en suite in one of the bedrooms.” Weighing up the pros and cons between buying and renting was easy, Jo said, “Buying a home using this scheme is more affordable than renting and the bonus is that it's your own home and your not wasting your hard earned money on renting a property.” Lee said, “Our mortgage payments are around £550 per month which is the same as renting.” “Moving day wasn’t too stressful,” commented Jo, “as we only had to move our belongings two miles down the road.” Lee said, “Krystyna from Home2own has been very helpful and even tried really hard to achieve an earlier completion date for us.” Home2own is the gateway to affordable housing in the south west (including Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Bristol, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire). More information on how to access HomeBuy Direct and the other HomeBuy schemes is available from Home2own on 0300 100 0021 or [email protected] or www.home2own.org.uk

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NETWORKING OR NEPOTISM? Research by London advertising agency MBA has shown that there is a marked increase in the number of businesses recruiting personnel without using the processes that seem to have become standardised over the last 20 years.

recession. In addition, it was apparent that businesses often felt more than happy to hire those people whose background they were more familiar with. It appeared less of a chance to employ someone this way.”

33% of businesses questioned said that they had recruited someone within the last 12 months who had been introduced to the company either through a friend or a colleague. This is up from only 17% a year earlier. These personnel had been offered jobs either before they had been formerly advertised, prior to briefing a recruitment company or, as in 51% of the cases, when the next available opportunity arose. 20% of the businesses said that they had more personnel introduced by friend or colleagues still waiting placement opportunities with them.

Over 500 businesses were questioned which in total employed nearly 2,000 new staff over the last 24 month period.

When questioned whether employing staff this way was considered nepotism, networking or neither the results were 14%, 59%, 27% respectively. However, nearly all agreed that whatever the reason the person still had to meet the employment criteria for the vacancy.

When questioned as to the reasons for taking on personnel via introductions the findings were as follows: cheaper than advertising the vacancy, 24%; cheaper than using a recruitment company, 33%; abundance of quality personnel freely available, 57%; aware of background of personnel introduced through friends and colleagues, 43%; favour to friend or colleague, 7%.

41% of those introduced via colleagues or friends worked as a free intern for at least a week; 21% for two weeks and 16% for a month. This is in stark contrast to those who are employed through traditional routes where the percentage figure of those who work as interns for no salary is negligible.

James Middlehurst, Managing Partner of MBA says: “It would seem that there are a variety of reasons for companies to choose less conventional methods to recruit new staff. However, many cite the economic benefits of not having to pay for the cost of advertising, which is consistent with findings during any

When asked as to whether a new employee recruited as a result of an introduction from a friend or a colleague was more likely to be promoted the results showed an unequivocal ‘no’. Every business questioned said that any advancement within their organisation was purely on a merit basis only. Those businesses questioned were in the following sectors: advertising & marketing, retail, leisure, financial services and manufacturing. MBA also interviewed 1,000 people between 18 and 25 years old and found that 53% had found a job through a contact: 63% as a temporary job and 26% as a permanent employee. Girls were more likely than boys to find jobs placements through recommendation, 60:40 respectively and those aged between 22 and 25 were twice as likely to find permanent employment this way than their younger counterparts. James Middlehurst adds: “It would seem that the higher your educational level the more likely an employer is to take you on permanently through a reference. It could be construed that the ‘old boy network’ is alive and kicking; however, the research also shows that merit still plays a significant roll, it is just that in these economically uncertain times employers are looking to save money where they can.” PATHFINDERJULY09 | 39

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franchise

NATIONAL FRANCHISE EXHIBITION SHOWCASING THE INDUSTRY WEATHERING THE RECESSION STORM The National Franchise Exhibition will be held on 2 and 3 October 2009 at the NEC in Birmingham… Franchising, which contributed £11.4 billion to the country’s GDP in 2008, provides investors with the additional security of an already established brand, proven business model and support network on-hand. One of the few sectors to hold its own over the past year – with 90 percent of franchises reporting profitable trading in 2008, as they did in 2007 – the franchise market continues to contribute significantly to the nation’s economy. The National Franchise Exhibition provides a comprehensive snapshot of this prospering industry and gives visitors the opportunity to learn about the structure behind some of the country’s most well-known brands and meet the people behind them and existing franchisees. Offering the most diverse range of proven franchises, The National Franchise Exhibition provides an opportunity for the aspiring self-employed to learn everything they need to know about franchising. Whether looking to franchise an existing company, or becoming a franchisee, the event will be the ideal one-stop shop for anyone’s business needs. The exhibition, supported by the Daily Express and Sunday Express, will showcase over 150 proven franchise concepts, from health and fitness, motoring and recruitment to cleaning, food and drink, and home improvement. With a franchise concept to suit every budget, lifestyle and skillset, people looking for their next career can’t afford to miss the event. “The National Franchise Exhibition is opportunity not to be missed for any budding entrepreneur out there. My time spent there really helped me kick start my new career direction,” said Mark Allies, a sales manager from Shrewsbury, after attending the 2008 event. Year after year, the National Franchise Exhibition delivers a dynamic range of franchise concepts to potential franchisees, and 2009 is no exception. This year, exhibiting companies include Agency Express, Cash Generator, ChipsAway, Computer Xplorers, Diet Care, Ecoclean, Energie Fitness, Go-Kart Party, McDonalds, Papa John’s, Prestige Nursing, Snappy Snaps, Subway and WPA. “This event is a showcase of proven 40 | PATHFINDERJULY09

business opportunities that are ready to be bought and launched,” said Mike Seaman, Franchise Sales Manager at Venture Marketing Group, organisers of The National Franchise Exhibition. “We know franchising boasts particular elements of security that independent business start-ups don’t offer, and people are really starting to take notice of that especially due to the economic downturn. They are learning more about franchising and confidence in the business model is spreading to all demographics, so we’re anticipating a healthy number of knowledgeable visitors who are serious about the investment opportunities presented to them.” An extensive conference programme comprising of a series of seminar tracks on key franchise-related topics will also be available to visitors. The tracks include: the British Franchise Association (bfa) seminars; women in franchising; and growing your own business. In addition there are new topics including high level investment franchising, which is directed at those visitors who have a large amount of capital to spend on a franchise; franchise resales, a case-study and educational session looking at how to sell a franchise and the advantages of buying an existing franchise outlet; management in franchising, defying the misconceptions on the day-to-day running of a franchise; and couples in franchising, which will identify how couples can successfully strike a work-life balance with a franchise business. These are traditionally highly popular with visitors and attract lively capacity audiences to the presentation theatre, keen to listen and ask questions. The renowned Growing Your Own Business seminars will also be held again at this year’s event. As usual, an impressive list of entrepreneurs and specialists will speak about all aspects of business that an entrepreneur needs to know to be successful, from how to raise finance to marketing. The Franchise Starting Point, based on the Business Franchise Magazine stand, will be dedicated to helping visitors completely

new to the concept of franchising learn the basics of the business model. Franchisees and franchisors will be on-hand to offer advice and guidance and shed light on the realities of working within a franchise network. The ever-popular Franchisee Panel will return due to popular demand, offering visitors the opportunity to hear from franchisees about their success, failures and transition periods from employee to a selfemployed franchise owner. Encapsulating the ‘working for yourself, but not by yourself’ mantra of franchising, speakers on the panel are renowned for providing matter of fact stories, anecdotes and advice which no handbook can offer, proving to be invaluable for anyone looking to enter the franchise market. The National Franchise Exhibition is exclusively supported by the bfa and only features franchise companies that have met the Association’s code of ethics. This means visitors can be confident in the franchise opportunities presented to them as they are an ethical entity within the UK market. The well-established Growing Your Own Business exhibition will again feature leading specialists in small business management with superb solutions to help businesses increase their efficiency and, most importantly, improve their profitability and develop sustainable growth. Professionals including marketing advisers, accountants, lawyers and small business support services will advise visitors on all aspects of developing a successful business.

The exhibition is open from 10am each day, closing at 5pm on Friday 2 October and 4pm on Saturday 3 October. To register for The National Franchise Exhibition in Birmingham, call +44 (0) 870 777 1048 or visit www.franchiseinfo.co.uk or www.smeevents.com. Callers can purchase tickets by credit card for £8 each or £7 each for two or more. Admission on the door is £13.

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franchise

Charity Branded Sweet Franchise An Ethical Way To Make Money This is a simple business to run requiring no selling or business experience and a low investment. The pre-requisites are enthusiasm, commitment and a desire to be successful. You will of course need to enjoy meeting people; running this business is all about building long-term relationships with your customers. Boxes of sweets are left in places of work, requiring no commitment or obligation from the participating customer; because funds are being raised for BLISS, customers are only too pleased to take a box. Your customers choose their sweets from the 20 or so different varieties and the cash is placed in the honesty box incorporated within the display unit. Every two weeks, the money box is emptied and the display unit is re-stocked with more sweets – it couldn’t be easier!

Tel: 01665 57131 Email: [email protected] www.sweetsellers.com

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training

Boat Building and Woodworking Skills Courses 38 week City & Guilds Level III 2451 certificate Boat Building, Maintenance & Support

8 week City & Guilds Level 1 6217-05 or 6217-06 certificate Carpentry & Joinery or E L C Furniture Making PROVIDER NUMBER

1813

Contact Us:

+44 (0) 1297 445545 [email protected] www.boatbuildingacademy.com

Forensic Accident Investigation Considering a new career? Thought about accident investigation? Want to know more? Investigation work includes in brief: Interviewing injured parties, visiting accident sites and gaining evidence in personal injury claims. Funding Available Approved by MOD in support of the ELC Scheme provider number 1712. For full information pack on the training course (£1290.00 plus VAT) contact us on

0161 428 7658

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training

LYNCEUS: YOUR No.1 ELCAS ACCREDITED TRAINING PROVIDER CHOICE OF GREAT COURSES

CALL US NOW ON : 01452 856040 or VISIT OUR WEB SITE : www.lynceustraining.com

TRAIN TO TEACH ➢ TRAINER PACKAGE PACKAGE (Includes PTLLS, First Aid Trainer, ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

Automated External Defibrilator Trainer, Casualty Simulation) Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS) Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS) First Aid trainer A1 Assessor Award V1 Internal Verifier Award NVQ Level 3 Direct Training & Support NVQ Level 3 Learning & Development NVQ Level 4 Learning & Development NVQ Level 4 Management of Learning & Development Provision CIEH Professional Trainer (Train the Trainer)

➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

NEBOSH General Certificate NEBOSH Fire Safety Risk Management IOSH Managing Safely IOSH Working Safely HSE First Aid at Work Emergency First Aid at Work CIEH Risk Assessment

HEALTH AND SAFETY COURSES

Plus Many more, for further information Call Lynceus CERTIFICATION : Lynceus courses are accredited by HSE, CIEH, EDI, EDEXCEL, NEBOSH and IOSH. Lynceus courses are accredited by HSE 63/05. Graduates are registered with the Institute for Learning. ELC 3034

PROVIDER NUMBER

Lynceus Training SE18, Gloucestershire Airport, Staverton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL51 6SR, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 1452 856040 Fax: +44 (0) 1452 856121 Website: www.lynceustraining.com Email: [email protected]

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ARE YOU SERIOUS ABOUT JOINING THE POLICE? • • • • •

How to Pass the Police Application and Assessment Centre 3 day Intensive Course Forces Personnel Only All Course Materials Provided Leave with completed Application Form and thorough understanding of Assessment Centre Process Role Plays and Interview • Home Office Police Trainers • Ongoing Support UK Police Pass delivers specific courses designed to facilitate your transition into an exciting career with the Police Force. Get your new career off to the best possible start. Contact us today to speak to an experienced advisor who will be happy to answer your questions and advise you of our course dates for 2008/2009 Visit www.ukpolicepass.co.uk/military-resettlement.html e-mail [email protected] Phone (0560) 3131490 (local rate)

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WANT TO WORK AS PRIVATE SECURITY? Our courses give you real operational skills, based on real operational experience.

Private Security is a growing sector that offers the same unique travel and work opportunities as the Forces. Our Company and Group and group ethos is “Insight, not hindsight; be forward thinking. We offer courses that are taught by the best possible instructors, with Special Forces, Police and Military Intelligence experience, or courses make a difference...

Defensive Driver Training 7 day residential course RoSPA certification This course is aimed at those who wish become a professional and certified driver within the security or public sectors and is designed to supplement SIA Close Protection training. An intensive course that covers police advanced driving, SAS techniques and security driving training, including: • IED’s • Route Planning • Convoy Drills • Anti Ambush Drills

SF Driving Skills • Fishtailing • J Turns • Y Turns • Handbrake Turns • Braking out drills • Ramming Course location: Gloucestershire Course dates: 14-20 September 09 2- 8 November 09

Many insurance firms will offer a discount for holders of RoSPA Driving Advanced Gold certificate.

Course cost: £2000.00 in VAT ALL INCLUSIVE For details on our courses or more information on our company, please visit our website.

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training

Courses : • CIE Principles in Manual Handling • CIE Certificate in Risk Assessment Principles and Practise (General) • IOSH Managing Safely • NEBOSH: National General Certificate in Occupational Safety & Health • Level 2 Award in Health & Safety in the workplace. Basic Fire & Safety and full range of Fire training courses Service Leavers very welcome

Call 01257 266611

www.washingtonhall.co.uk

Our training team is made up of expert Close Protection Officers with many years of worldwide operational experience. Fully inclusive package includes: • Unarmed Combat • Anti-Ambush Training • Vehicle Manoeuvres & Extraction • Firearms Training in Switzerland • BTEC level 3 Award • Full Board Accommodation • Career support, pre & post course guidance & assisstance Next available course dates:

10th - 30th August 2009 7th - 27th September 2009

Call 0845 009 5647 wilplantraining.co.uk

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training

LYNCEUS: YOUR No.1 ELCAS ACCREDITED TRAINING PROVIDER CHOICE OF GREAT COURSES

CALL US NOW ON : 01452 856040 or VISIT OUR WEB SITE : www.lynceustraining.com

TRAIN TO TEACH ➢ TRAINER PACKAGE PACKAGE (Includes PTLLS, First Aid Trainer, ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

Automated External Defibrilator Trainer, Casualty Simulation) Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (PTLLS) Certificate in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector (CTLLS) First Aid trainer A1 Assessor Award V1 Internal Verifier Award NVQ Level 3 Direct Training & Support NVQ Level 3 Learning & Development NVQ Level 4 Learning & Development NVQ Level 4 Management of Learning & Development Provision CIEH Professional Trainer (Train the Trainer)

➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

NEBOSH General Certificate NEBOSH Fire Safety Risk Management IOSH Managing Safely IOSH Working Safely HSE First Aid at Work Emergency First Aid at Work CIEH Risk Assessment

HEALTH AND SAFETY COURSES

Plus Many more, for further information Call Lynceus CERTIFICATION : Lynceus courses are accredited by HSE, CIEH, EDI, EDEXCEL, NEBOSH and IOSH. Lynceus courses are accredited by HSE 63/05. Graduates are registered with the Institute for Learning. ELC 3034

PROVIDER NUMBER

Lynceus Training SE18, Gloucestershire Airport, Staverton, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL51 6SR, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 1452 856040 Fax: +44 (0) 1452 856121 Website: www.lynceustraining.com Email: [email protected]

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training

'Assisting the Investigator World Wide for Over 11 Years'

Focus Training (UK) Ltd, offer a range of services and products that meet the needs of clients in all areas of fraud prevention, detection, intelligence, investigation and prosecution both in the UK and overseas. Our Accredited Counter Fraud Officer qualification run in conjunction with Portsmouth University is an ideal way to re-qualify as an investigator to work privately or with many Government and Commercial agencies. Email [email protected] Tel 00 44 (0) 870 919 4745 Fax 00 44 (0) 870 919 4743 web: www.focustraining.co.uk

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training

Over 400 elearning courses are available to you in our Walk-in DELCs, as well as ECDL, PRINCE2 Foundation, ITIL and MSP training and examinations. Log on is simple and our Facility Managers will be on hand to offer assistance and mentor you through your course. For further information please contact our Service Desk on 0845 330 9643 or visit our website www.delc.co.uk.

Is your aim to be an Airline Pilot? MULTI CPL/IR at Bournemouth

• Well established • Quality training • Excellent pass rates www.pat.uk.com [email protected] Tel: 01202 593366

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ELCAS REGISTERED

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training

BECOME A DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

EARN £32K A YEAR DRIVING INSTRUCTOR TRAINING CENTRE

No Experience Needed Fast Track Courses Available or Train Around your existing Job Door to Door Pickup

We are committed to delivering a high level of training therefore all of our courses are on a one-to-one basis. We don’t car share so you can be sure you will receive the best training possible. Our experienced trainers offer UNLIMITED TRAINING with no hidden costs Trainers are with you all the way!

Tel: 0844 800 7876 www.passngo.net

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Are you looking for something extraordinary? To do something most people can only dream of? To help people transform their lives? All of this, and more, awaits you as a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor. Overland Underwater Ltd can help you to discover a great new career as a PADI Instructor. We are a PADI 5 Star Instructor Development Centre based in York, North Yorkshire and can provide all the training you will require to become a PADI Instructor whatever your current diving experience. We are committed to making your diver training an enjoyable and rewarding experience and our flexible approach to course scheduling means that you can be sure you will get a course that fits with your needs. Exact course requirements will vary depending on your current dive experience, so contact us for details of what you will need to do to launch yourself on this new and exciting career path.

ELC 3059 PROVIDER NUMBER

[email protected] www.overlandunderwater.com Tel: 01904 799778

GOVERNMENT AIMS TO INVEST £1BN IN HIGH-TECH START-UPS The Prime Minister has announced the creation of the UK Innovation Investment Fund to invest in technology-based businesses with high growth potential. The new fund will focus on investing in growing small businesses, start-ups and spin-outs, in digital and life sciences, clean technology and advanced manufacturing. The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, with the Department of Energy and Climate Change and the Department of Health, will invest £150 million alongside private sector investment on an equal basis known as paripassu. It is the Government's belief that this could leverage enough private investment to build a fund of up to £1 billion over the next 10 years. The UK Innovation Investment Fund forms part of the Government’s strategy for Building Britain’s Future. Gordon Brown said: “This fund will help build Britain’s future by investing in key sectors. It will provide crucial support for our most promising start-ups and existing small companies just when they need it most. Venture capital finance is the lifeblood of innovation and crucial to ensuring the commercialisation of the discoveries coming out of our research base.

The fund will boost future UK competitiveness.” Lord Mandelson, Secretary of State for Business, added: “In our New Industry New Jobs strategy we identified access to venture capital as one of the critical factors in developing innovative new companies in Britain. The UK Innovation Investment Fund will be a shot in the arm for the British venture capital industry. It is also a challenge to UK venture capitalists to follow the Government’s lead in backing British entrepreneurs in building exciting new companies, investing in new technologies and creating jobs.” Science and Innovation Minister Lord Drayson, who has been a champion for the fund, added: “We must safeguard the Government’s record investment in the science and research base over the past decade. We cannot afford to lose out on the wealth this investment can yield and we will need this wealth to continue our sustained investment in research.” Simon Walker, CEO of the British Venture Capital Association (BVCA), said: “The BVCA is immensely encouraged by this venture capital initiative. The model that has been adopted is one which we have championed in our work with the Government leading up to this announcement. The UK Innovation Investment

Fund offers an exciting economic incentive for more than a thousand young venture-backed companies and the ideas and jobs which they represent.” Richard Pelly, Chief Executive of the European Investment Fund (EIF), said: "EIF has been working together with the UK Government, the BVCA and other significant players in the Venture Capital sector in the preparation of this welcome new initiative, and is delighted to support its launch today. “At a difficult time for the VC industry the UK Innovation Investment Fund will underpin a next round of critically important fundraising for Fund Managers, and EIF looks forward to continuing to contribute its extensive experience to the development of this process." The UK Innovation Investment Fund will operate on a Fund of Funds structure which means it will not invest directly in companies, but rather invest in a small number of specialist technology funds that have the expertise and track record to invest directly in companies. The fund will provide a cost effective solution that provides a market return to both private sector investors and HM Government. PATHFINDERJULY09 | 53

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recruitment

Electrical Engineers for International Roles Basic Package: Excellent tax free package plus annual bonus and daily allowances

Electrical Engineers needed! Are you a hands on Team Player? Our client provides rental power, temperature control & compressed air systems to companies around the world. The demand for their extensive services is increasing daily, and they are presently looking for qualified Electrical Engineers to join their teams worldwide. A homebased role, this position will have you working on a rotation of 12 weeks on 3 weeks off. You will be able to undertake repairs, maintenance and fault finding with extensive knowledge and experience with P 11-33Kv Transformers and working with HV power in general including switchgear. You must have a minimum of 10 years hands on experience, have pro active approach to minimise downtime and to work to very exacting standards. This role is hands on but will also see you being responsible for logistics, communications and dealing directly with the Company's customers. It also includes working closely with Military Projects. International experience is preferable for these positions. In return our Client offers a Tax Free salary, with an excellent benefits package. For more information, or should you wish to express an interest please contact Christian Sharpe on +44 (0) 1799 531121 or email your CV to [email protected]

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feature

C-MAR ENGINEERING ANNOUNCES ENGINEERING DIVISION

Aberdeen head-quartered C-MAR Group has strengthened its service offerings to the marine & oil and gas industries by announcing a new engineering division. C-MAR Engineering brings together the Group’s key engineering disciplines: subsea and well control, classification (C&A) and assurance, and electrical & instrumentation (E&I). The Group has formed C-MAR Engineering in response to increased challenges faced by the oil and gas industry in extracting the world’s remaining hydro-carbon reserves from more marginal fields. The division will allow C-MAR to capitalise on the increasing demand for more complex integrated engineering services in the global energy and marine markets. It will be led by recently appointed divisional chief operating officer of C-MAR Engineering, Dan Endersby. C-MAR states that employment opportunities will emerge for a wide range of disciplines such as mechanical engineers, project engineers and electrical/electronics specialists. 62 | PATHFINDERJULY09

The specialist classification & assurance division provides services that assist with the design and integration of component parts of the DP system. This team also takes responsibility for the classification or assurance of vessel wide systems for DP vessels. General work Scopes can include compilation of reports or specifications relating to design schematics, switchboard layouts, stand-by work for equipment installation and preparation of Failure Mode and Effect Analyses (FMEA). Capabilities and work scopes for the Subsea & Well Control stream covers traditional exploration drilling equipment such as BOP’s, (blow out preventers), accumulators, surface and subsea control systems Commenting on the Group’s new division and the increased employment opportunities it will offer, group operations director, Andrew Macdonald said: “We recognise the need for our clients to access our range of specialist and expert services around the world around the clock. Our structure enables us to deliver a truly global service on a seamless basis in a cost effective manner. The way the engineering

division is now manned and managed will allow us to provide better customer services using the power of integrated engineering solutions in a very focussed way. We look forward to adding yet more highly skilled professionals to our already impressive line up.” C-MAR Group provides a wide-ranging service to the marine and energy sectors which includes marine operations, management and consultancy, recruitment services, subsea and electrical engineering, training and marine consultancy. If you require any further information concerning the DP Centre's Worldwide or the DP services we supply please E-Mail [email protected]

Tel: 01224 352000 Email: [email protected]

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