We have appointed Neill Ovenden as Technical Specialist/External Verifier (EV). In his new role, where he’ll chiefly be supporting LCL centres, Neill will also be involved in developing qualifications, writing assessments and examinations and working as a technical reviewer.

At the end of 2018 there were some important updates to domestic ACS assessments covering changes to the Gas Safety Regulations and standards. In addition, the guidance to the ACS scheme rules have been amended and now stipulate that newly qualified learners need to gain at least 6 months’ experience on the Gas Safe Register before they extend or the scope of their professional work.

The 18th Edition Wiring Regulations, which were published in July 2018, came into force in January - all new electrical installations must now comply with BS7671:2018. The 18th Edition book was updated in December, including eleven corrections.

We recommend centres familiarise themselves with these changes by accessing the Corrigendum document here.

Ofqual has commissioned Pye Tait Consulting to conduct research into what learning providers and learners think about vocational qualifications, in order to help Ofqual understand how best to meet employer needs. The focus of the research is on Vocational and Technical Qualifications (VTQs) typically, but not exclusively, NVQs.

Antony O’Neil of Trades Training in Edinburgh knows what it’s like to ride through tough times and is now reaping the rewards of his hard work and determination. He set up the training centre in 2007, just three months before the recession began. Economic downturns are always tough on the construction trade, but he began small, focusing on tiling and plastering in the early days and moving into plumbing as nearby training centres fell by the wayside and he spotted new demand.

LCL has set up a series of CPD workshops to run across the country through January – March 2019.  Approved centres will be sent booking forms in early December.

On 1^st November, Gas Safe Register brought in new requirements for dealing with non-standard installations and changes to the inspection process, in the form of a Technical Bulletin.

For centres delivering apprenticeships and those who plan to do so, there’s news from the Education & Skills Fund Agency (ESFA) on changes to the registration process and access to funding.

Nagib Farjani joined LCL, as Quality Assurance Co-ordinator, this August. Working closely with the Tracy Harker, stake holders, EVs and technincal managers, this is a new role within the company and involves:

Worcester Community Trust is a charity that was set up in 2010 to manage six community centres and other community projects in the most deprived parts of Worcester. Part of the Trust, The Building Block, was created to help locals develop their DIY skills and integrate and socialise with those with similar interests. Its aim is to build confidence, help people learn new skills and even start out on a new career.