Say hello to Stuart Reilly, HV/LV Electrical Trainer

14 March 2024     News

Say hello to Stuart Reilly, HV/LV Electrical Trainer

Introducing Stuart Reilly who has joined Develop as an HV/LV Electrical Trainer. 

Stuart began his career journey as an electrical apprentice at the age of 16, going on to amass over 30 years of experience in the electrical industry. His professional background includes working in various capacities, from NHS Trusts to building sites and contracting roles. 

Having been a former delegate of Develop Training, Stuart actively participated in several HV/LV courses, notably our Electrical Authorised Person courses. This training propelled him within the NHS Trust, where he assumed the crucial role of Authorised Person: Electrician. A pivotal moment in his career came when five hospital buildings lost power and, as the Authorised Person, it was down to him to resolve the issue and get the power turned back on. Thankfully Stuart was quickly able to resolve the issue and then over the following five weeks he painstakingly installed a range of tools and systems to ensure power incidents would not be an issue for the hospital again. 

After years of guiding apprentices in the electrical field, Stuart parted ways with the NHS and moved to a role focused on training apprentices at Oxford Advance Skills. Later on, he moved over to another training provider. However, seeking a role closer to home, Stuart has embraced the opportunity at Develop. 

Expressing his enthusiasm, Stuart said, “I’m happy, excited, and eager to get stuck in at Develop. As a former delegate, I know the quality Develop provides, and I am looking forward to being a part of the team!” 

A fun fact about Stuart – in his teenage years, he was an advanced snorkeler, although he couldn’t take the exams to become a trainer at the time because he was too young.  

Stuart moved out of London 8 years ago and married his now wife in August 2022. Since moving out of the big city Stuart has found enjoyment in fishing and spending time in the countryside. 

Nicola Smith: Powering the Way for Women in Utilities

13 March 2024     News

In a remarkable journey from stockbroker to utilities trailblazer, Nicola Smith has shattered barriers and is now a vital member of Develop Training’s Internal Quality Assurance and Audit team. Her story is not just one of personal success but also an inspiration for aspiring female engineers to follow in her footsteps.

The Women’s Engineering Society’s latest data reveals that despite some progress, only 16.5% of the UK’s engineering workforce consists of women. The utilities industry tells the same sorry story, with the Energy & Utility Skills Partnership reporting that just 17% of employees in the energy and utilities industry are female, with fewer than 1% in the craft-level workforce. While these figures are an increase on previous years, it’s clear that there’s still much work to be done to achieve gender parity within these typically male-dominated industries.

Nicola’s journey stands as a beacon of hope for change

Nicola embarked on her journey with Develop in February 2017, where she started as a Lecturer in Smart Meter installation. Drawing on the skills she cultivated during her time as a hands-on installer, she quickly embraced her new role and has since transitioned to a vital position within the Internal Quality Assurance and Audit (QAA) team, showcasing her adaptability and commitment to the industry.

So, how did Nicola, a former stockbroker, end up in the realm of engineering and utilities?

Her trajectory reflects the timeless theme of personal growth and reinvention. Nicola recalls her initial entry into the workforce, where she started as a cashier with West Bromwich Building Society. However, she knew deep down that her path lay elsewhere, “It wasn’t really for me,” she admits. “But once you start moving along a particular career path, it’s difficult to get off it.”

Driven by a thirst for knowledge and personal growth, Nicola rapidly climbed the financial ladder, eventually becoming a stockbroker based in Canary Wharf. Despite her success, a lingering feeling that she was meant for something more led her to venture into retail banking and eventually she sought a complete career transformation.

Nicola’s innate curiosity and hands-on nature steered her toward engineering, and an apprenticeship opportunity at British Gas provided the perfect avenue for her to make the leap.

Gender roles in engineering & utilities

Breaking gender norms, Nicola became the sole female Engineer in her area. While her experience was largely positive, she notes that misconceptions about gender roles in engineering still persist.

Right up until the day I left, customers would say ‘but when will the engineer be here?’ and I’d have to explain that I was the engineer.”

Nicola’s determination to challenge these preconceptions, combined with her passion for learning and development, led her to her current role as an Internal Quality Assurance Auditor.

She explains, “I’ve discovered my real passion working at Develop. I’ve been able to learn and do things I never imagined I could. Going from being a stockbroker to a Quality Assurance Auditor has been really rewarding, and I can honestly say I’m happier in this job than ever before.”

“I would encourage all women to consider a career in the training industry. It’s an industry that welcomes diversity and fresh perspectives, and there’s a wealth of untapped potential waiting to be unleashed. Don’t be afraid to break those barriers, challenge the norms, and join us in shaping the future of training in the utilities industry.”

A supportive employer

Now, as part of Develop’s QAA Team, Nicola is responsible for auditing a wide range of gas and utilities-based training courses. This means that she’s involved in checking everything from pre-course communications and materials a delegate receives, to the content of the training course itself all the way through to the assessments and certification. The role carries a high weight of responsibility as if an External Quality Assurance Audit takes place and finds that the organisation is not meeting the standards set by the external Awarding Body then this could mean that Develop is no longer able to offer the qualifications.

Nicola elaborates on why she enjoys working for Develop,

Develop has been more than just a workplace for me; it’s a fantastic support system. They’ve not only supported my career growth but have also been incredibly understanding of my personal circumstances, including maternity and the need for flexible working around family life. Their support has given me the confidence excel in my different roles while still having a good balance between work and family.”

Nicola’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of determination, resilience, and a passion for breaking down barriers. As she continues to make her mark, she paves the way for more women to follow suit, inspiring change and progress in an industry that sorely needs it. Her story is a testament to the fact that, with the right mindset and opportunities, individuals can defy convention and excel in any field, regardless of gender or background.

To find out more about the QAA Team, please visit: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/quality-assurance/

Creating A Bespoke Learning & Assessment Portal For SCS Joint Venture

The Background

HS2 is Great Britain’s new high-speed railway. Once operational, HS2’s British-built bullet trains will provide zero-carbon journeys between the UK’s two largest cities, Birmingham and London.

The HS2 London tunnels team is a joint venture of Skanska, Costain and STRABAG.  The joint venture is delivering the High Speed Two (HS2) Main Works Civil Contract in London, between West Ruislip and Euston.

Joanne Green is the Head of Training and Onboarding for SCS Joint Venture (SCS JV).

The Challenge

SCS JV did not have a training management system before Joanne Green was asked to step in and help. For the first two years of the SCS JV project, the training needs of staff were managed via spreadsheets. While this approach might suffice for smaller businesses, the sheer volume of staff involved in the SCS project made it highly impractical.

When Jo Green was invited to join the project, there were no established training processes, and training records were scattered without a centralised repository. This lack of organisation made it challenging for line managers to determine which staff members required training or identify if mandatory training was up to date.

Drawing on her extensive experience, Jo recognised the need to avoid reinventing the wheel, she had previously collaborated with Develop during her work with tRIIo, therefore swiftly implemented a solution she was familiar with.

The Solution

Jo’s pre-existing collaboration with Develop granted her insight into the extensive array of features offered by Develop’s Learning & Assessment Portal (LAP) known as ‘BookIT.’ Recognising the unparalleled flexibility of ‘BookIT,’ which surpasses the capabilities of many off-the-shelf systems, Jo leveraged her knowledge to the benefit of SCS.

Ben Jobson, IT Business Partner at Develop, collaborated closely with Jo, ensuring that all her requirements were meticulously addressed, and the system was user-friendly for line managers.

Ben said –

It’s been a great experience working with Joanne again, this time to customise BookIT for the SCS JV. We feel really proud at the way BookIT has been embraced by SCS and the positive impact it has had for them. We look forward to continuing our journey with the project and further enhancing BookIT in line with their changing needs.

BookIT, although initially designed for training purposes, has transcended its original scope. It is now integral to various aspects of SCS operations, including workforce planning, recruitment, headcount management, redeployment, and even annual talent management initiatives.

“I had a fantastic working relationship with the Develop team in my previous role and the BookIT system worked really well for our business. I had no hesitation in recommending Develop and BookIT to SCS and, once again, the team have been accommodating to our requests and have been able to provide incredible functionality that we just wouldn’t be able to get with an ‘off-the-shelf’ piece of training management software.” Joanne Green, Head of Training and Onboarding, Skanska Costain STRABAG (SCS JV)

A warm welcome to Derby-based Sales Advisor, Sophie Mlot

7 March 2024     News

A warm welcome to Derby-based Sales Advisor, Sophie Mlot

Introducing Sophie Mlot, the latest addition to Develop’s sales team in the role of Sales Advisor, where she will be working alongside Daniel Laird. 

Sophie’s professional journey commenced in the retail sector, starting at Showcase Cinema in Derby and steadily progressing to the position of team leader. Transitioning to her first sales role, she joined a local talent agency, where her responsibilities spanned event planning, telesales, and outbound sales. While she found the diverse tasks enjoyable, the inherent stress led her to make the decision to move on. Returning to the retail realm, Sophie assumed the role of manager at the bakery chain, Greggs. 

Excited to re-enter the sales profession, Sophie found the ideal opportunity at Develop. Her responsibilities include handling customer enquiries via email, telephone, and live chat. 

Reflecting on her first week at Develop, Sophie expressed, “I’m really enjoying Develop so far; everyone has been so welcoming and patient when teaching me. I’m really looking forward to the future here and I can’t wait to start speaking to customers.” 

Beyond her professional life, Sophie has a passion for music and can also play the piano. Outside of work, she shares a love for travel, exploring new destinations each year. 

Zahir Uddin joins Develop as an Electrical Trainer

6 March 2024     News

Zahir Uddin joins Develop as an Electrical Trainer

Introducing Zahir (Zed) Uddin, the newest member of Develop’s Estates and Facilities Management team based in York. 

Zed has joined the team as an Electrical Trainer, but he began his professional journey several years ago as an Engineering Apprentice at Harrisons Engineering. Over the years, he has acquired certifications in gas, electricity, plumbing, and, more recently, a number of technical qualifications in renewable energies such as solar PV, air source and ground source heat pumps, and battery storage systems. 

As he moved up the ranks, Zed found the most fulfilment in mentoring his young colleagues, offering them the valuable advice and guidance he once received as a junior staff member. Eventually he felt a calling to impart his knowledge on a broader scale, prompting him to establish his own training business. 

Devoted to ensuring high-quality training for the industry, Zed ran his courses from a training centre in Huddersfield, whilst also working with Develop as an associate self-employed trainer. It was this exposure to Develop’s values, training standards, and opportunities motivated him to pursue a full-time position with the company when one became available.  

Outside work, Zed holds qualifications as a bodyguard and bouncer. His experiences range from managing club doors to safeguarding prominent figures in the music industry, and even Queen Elizabeth II. He also enjoys spending time with his family, particularly family holidays. 

Water Network Training Facilities Unveiled at Derby Training Centre

20  February 2024     News

Following a £500k refurbishment at its Derby training centre last year, Develop is proud to unveil its latest enhancement – an upgraded water networks training area. The Derby training centre, widely renowned as as centre of excellence for utility training in the Midlands, was strategically chosen for its central location and accessibility, and is now equipped with the latest technology and a secure practical training area for delegates to safely refine their skills and practice real-world scenarios in water networks management.

The inaugural course, a 5-day Network Construction Operations Water Level 2 Service Laying programme, concluded last week and was expertly led by Develop Associate, Mick Reading.

Training activities that the facilities can cover include:

  • Live main laying techniques; able to configure multiple design configurations due to multi-valve set ups.
  • Live service laying techniques
  • Live valve training
  • Small live flushing exercises
  • Under pressure drilling, using talbot drill and now with the multi fit self-tapping ferrule for use on Ductile iron and Cast Iron mains. This new method provides a simple and easy way to connect service pipes to differing main sizes
  • Flushing activities
  • Mains commissioning including chlorination and pressure testing.

Commenting on the new facilities, Daryll Garavan, Interim Head of Operations & Training, stated,

We are thrilled to introduce these new and improved water networks training facilities, setting a new standard for professional development in the utilities industry. As the demand for skilled professionals in water networks maintenance continues to grow, Develop remains at the forefront of delivering high-quality utility training to the majority of the UK’s leading water suppliers.”

This latest investment in its utility training infrastructure underscores Develop’s continual commitment to the development of a highly skilled water networks workforce. The aim is to equip professionals to tackle the evolving challenges in water networks management and maintenance effectively, and Develop is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of utility training, meeting the increasing demands of the industry and ensuring the highest standards of excellence.

For more information about the utility training courses available at Develop, please visit our website: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/training/utilities/

From sewage to superheroes: the unsung heroes of the Antarctic

   05 March 2024         Blogs

In the vast expanse of the Antarctic wilderness, where isolation and extreme conditions are the norm, a small group of individuals stands out as unsung heroes. They are the maintenance technicians responsible for maintaining the sewage treatment plant at Rothera Research Station, a vital outpost managed by the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). These individuals endure the harshest of living conditions, with winter temperatures plunging to bone-chilling levels and the sun barely making an appearance. Yet these dedicated individuals are the silent guardians ensuring the station’s smooth operation and the preservation of the pristine Antarctic environment.

The Polar Regions may be at the ends of the Earth but what happens there affects us all. The BAS is a Government backed initiative and their vision is to be a world-leading centre for polar science and polar operations, addressing issues of global importance and helping society adapt to a changing world.

Home to around 20 individuals during the long winter months and swelling to almost 100 in the summer, the Rothera Research Station is both a centre for groundbreaking science and a testament to the tenacity of its staff. Long-term science projects, international collaboration, and supporting deep-field operations are all part of Rothera’s mission. The unsung heroes who choose to spend their time at Rothera endure extreme conditions, separation from family and friends, and the challenges of isolation.

Sewage maintenance in the Arctic Circle

Key to this mission is the team responsible for maintaining the sewage treatment plant, a crucial part of the station’s infrastructure. It is a task that demands unwavering commitment and expertise. This is where Develop Training’s British Water Wastewater Treatment Plant Maintenance course comes into play.

Every year, the BAS sends 1-2 of their maintenance technicians’ to Develop’s Derby centre to participate in this training programme. The course covers an array of topics, from understanding different sewage treatment plant types to diagnosing and rectifying common faults. This training is not merely a matter of compliance but an absolute necessity for those working in the Antarctic environment. The sewage treatment plant is not only an integral part of the station’s infrastructure, it is critical in preventing pollution and safeguarding the Antarctic ecosystem – a vital component of BAS’s environmental responsibility.

A critical part of infrastructure

The course equips BAS technicians with the knowledge and skills to tackle the complexities of wastewater treatment. They alone ensure that the sewage treatment plant operates effectively, even in the harshest of conditions.

As Rothera transforms from a remote outpost to a hub of scientific exploration each summer, the technical staff’s ability to ensure the smooth running of the sewage treatment plant becomes even more critical. These sewage saviours aren’t just keeping the toilets flushing, they’re quite literally providing the support that enables scientists to conduct studies that expand our understanding of the Antarctic environment and its global impact.

They might not wear capes, but they’ve earned their status as the unsung heroes of the Antarctic!


Get in touch

If you have any questions about our waste water and environmental training then please contact our Customer Service team on 0800 876 6708 or email enquiries@developtraining.co.uk

Alternatively, you can view the full range of available courses here: www.developtraining.co.uk/training/utilities/water-utility

 

Exclusive 10% discount off all training courses for NHS staff

04 March 2024     News

At Develop, we understand the importance of continuous learning and professional development for those working in healthcare and the NHS.

We recognise the investment you make in training, and as a thank you, we’re excited to announce an exclusive offer to help you stretch your training budget even further. For the months of March, April, and May, we’re extending a 10% discount on our entire range of open programme and bespoke training courses to those working in the NHS.

To claim this discount, all you need to do is book your preferred training course before 31st May 2024. The best part? The course itself can take place at any time throughout the rest of the year, offering you the flexibility to choose a course that suits your needs (subject to availability).

How to claim the discount

Step 1: Browse our website to find the course you require.

Step 2: When you’re ready to book, contact us on 0800 876 6708 or email enquiries@developtraining.co.uk.

Quote “NHS10” to receive the discount.

 

Online booking not available with this code.

 

Full T&C’s available here.

Hygiene. Cleaning Hands. Washing hands with soap
Legionella

Why legionella awareness is key to tackling outbreaks

   01 March 2024         Blogs

Legionella continues to dominate the news and every year hundreds of cases of Legionnaires’ Disease are reported in the UK alone. The World Health Organization reports that “the death rate may be as high as 40–80% in untreated immuno-suppressed patients [but] can be reduced to 5–30% through appropriate case management and depending on the severity of the clinical signs and symptoms. Overall the death rate is usually within the range of 5–10%.”

A recent outbreak at a plastics manufacturing company in West Bromwich resulted in five members of the public becoming infected with Legionnaire’s Disease after Legionella bacteria grew in their water cooling towers and pipes. One of the five people infected was taken to intensive care and put on a ventilator after being infected – highlighting just how serious the disease can be. The company were subsequently investigated by the HSE and fined £50,000 and ordered to pay £11,000 in costs. Further information on the news story can be found here.

What is the fine for legionella in the UK?

Due to outbreaks such as these, The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) is extremely active, and regularly goes ahead with criminal prosecutions against those failing to adhere to the law. Sanctions and prosecutions vary but will occur if the law isn’t adhered to, and in extreme cases can even result in imprisonment.

One of the largest fines of £1.8m was given to G4S Cash Solutions (UK) after they failed to maintain their water systems in compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act, Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002, and ACOP L8, the Health and Safety Executive’s approved code on the control of Legionella in water systems.

What are the symptoms of Legionnaire’s Disease?

The early symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease are similar to those of the common flu and include muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, dry cough and fever. Some make a full recovery but there is increasing evidence that long term symptoms for many will include breathlessness, fatigue and impact on the neurological and neuromuscular system.

Does my business need to be concerned about legionella?

Legionella can be found in any premises/water system. Along with potentially fatal consequences, a Legionella outbreak can have serious legal and financial implications for an organisation/individual. It is recommended that anyone responsible for a facility or maintaining a water system has an awareness of legionella at the very least.

Some industries/water systems may be more at risk, such as:

  • Healthcare settings i.e. Hospitals, nursing and care homes
  • Evaporative cooling systems
  • Spa pool systems
  • Older, larger and complex hot and cold water systems
  • Industrial and manufacturing water systems

Building and business owners and managers are responsible for their work premises under;

  • Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (sections 2, 3, 4)
  • Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 (Regulations 6,7,8,9 &12)
  • Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

It is their principal legal responsibility to uphold a duty of care, ensuring the safety of your business, properties, and water systems by guarding against potential legionella growth and disseminating/inhalation of water aerosols.

The Health and Safety Executive’s Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) L8 serves as a crucial guideline for preventing and controlling legionellosis in water systems. This document holds a unique legal status, making employers susceptible to prosecution, fines, or even imprisonment if it is demonstrated that the relevant provisions of the Code were not adhered to.

Legionella Awareness training in-line with ACoP L8

Develop Training provides a range of Legionella awareness and more advanced training courses to reduce the risks associated with Legionella bacteria and support compliance with the L8 Approved Code of Practice (ACoP).

Our Legionella and ACoP L8 Awareness course covers a background on legionella and the risks it offers, introduces water systems, legal requirements and controls including risk assessment, management pathways, ACOP L8/HSG274 and monitoring / maintenance duties for hot and cold water systems.

An awareness of Legionella (as a minimum) is needed for those who implement and monitor precautions such as little used outlet flushing and temperature monitoring. The more informed your workforce is on the dangers associated with legionella bacteria and the conditions under which they thrive, the more competent individuals will be in taking preventative action and recognising warning signs.

To view the full list of available Water Systems & Legionella training offered by Develop, click here: https://www.developtraining.co.uk/training/estates-and-facilities-management/water-systems-legionella/

Contact us

If you have any questions or are unsure which training course is right for you, please contact our Customer Service team on 0800 876 6708 or email enquiries@developtraining.co.uk

IQA Team

Meet the Team: Graham Long

   28 February 2024         Blogs


In the world of education and compliance, there exists a silent hero, quietly ensuring that the wheels of knowledge keep turning smoothly. His name? Graham Long, a Quality Assurance Auditor at Develop Training. With a twinkle in his eye and a passion for precision, Graham is the backbone of our Quality Assurance and Audit Team, dedicated to ensuring Develop stays compliant with legislation, keeps pace with awarding body changes, and ensuring that the business continues to deliver high-quality learning experiences to our delegates.

But there’s more to Graham’s role than meets the eye. Beyond the confines of Develop, he serves as an external consultant, a wizard of compliance, working tirelessly on two significant external quality assurance projects with Develop’s sister company, CompEx, and Network Plus.

A week in the life of a Quality Assurance Auditor

Picture an average week in Graham’s life – a dynamic mix of assurance activities. On some days he can be found meticulously monitoring courses, both within Develop and externally, to ensure that they are executed flawlessly. On others, crucially, he checks that paperwork is filled out correctly and every exam meticulously marked, maintaining the highest standards for accreditation.

As Develop’s Operational Training Managers collaborate with Graham to develop new courses, he ensures these courses align with the exacting requirements of awarding bodies. And when those awarding bodies decide to update their courses, Graham is on the frontline, ready to adapt and refine our offerings.

But what makes Graham Long the go-to guy for all things quality and compliance at Develop?

It’s not just his passion and dedication; it’s his impressive arsenal of qualifications. He boasts a range of certifications, including AET, IQA, Auditor Qualification, Compex – EXF+, 18TH Edition, Water Jetter, First Aider, Mental Health First Aider, Safeguarding and Prevent trainer, Engineering Quali, NEBOSH, and Streetworks supervisor. He’s a one-man army of expertise!

An impressive career journey

Graham’s journey to becoming Develop’s Quality Assurance Auditor aficionado is equally impressive. He kick-started his career as a Mechanical Apprentice at Anglian Water, and over 21 years, he honed his skills as an Operational Mechanical Engineer in both Wastewater and Drinking Water divisions.

His next step was as a Trainer Assessor in their training unit, which later became Develop Training. After stints in the delivery team and as a dedicated IQA lead, Graham found his true calling in the Internal Quality Assurance & Audit team when it was established two years ago.

A moment to be proud of

Among his many accomplishments, Graham’s proudest moment arrived in 2022. The Quality Assurance and Audit team clinched the coveted ‘Team of the Year’ award at the Develop Employee Conference. Achieving this accolade within just nine months of the team’s formation was a testament to Gary Fisher’s leadership and the entire team’s unwavering commitment to excellence. It also shows the respect that the wider business have for the team and the work they do.

Outside of work

Beyond his professional achievements, here’s a delightful tidbit about Graham: In 2005, he received a royal invitation to attend the Queen’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace!

As Graham continues to play an integral role in maintaining quality and compliance at Develop Training, delegates and their employers can rest assured that our courses will always be delivered with precision, passion, and the IQA seal of approval.

To find out more about Develop’s Internal Quality Assurance & Audit Team, visit our dedicated webpage here.

Professional accreditations