considered somewhat niche within the wider building products and construction industry – but it is a niche that requires a particular set of skills and learning to demonstrate competency and meet exacting standards. “The nature of our business means that we have traditionally found it hard to attract new talent. Indeed, before starting their apprenticeships, some of the candidates commented that they’d been unaware that PPD technicians ‘were a thing’. “Automatic doors, gates and entrances may be widely used within commercial and public buildings, enabling convenience and accessibility but awareness of the businesses that make, install and maintain them may not have been as prominent as it might, which has led to a skills gap within the industry. ADSA’s efforts to professionalise it through the provision of end-to-end learning and development opportunities should help attract and retain talent for the future.” In addition to the success of the apprenticeship in the mainland UK, a new apprenticeship course is being launched in Northern Ireland, through South Eastern Regional College (SERC). The college will act as the industry delivery partner for the new Automated Entrances Apprenticeship which is being funded by the Department for the Economy NI. The college is now recruiting students for an expected 15-strong cohort which will be introduced as part of a rolling programme, beginning this September. Qualifications include: • EAL Level 2 Diploma in Engineering Technologies • EAL Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Performing Engineering Operations Modules will comprise engineering environment awareness, electrical installation methods, wiring and circuit protection, working safely in an engineering environment and maintaining electrical equipment/systems. Modules will be tailored to meet the needs of the industry. Level two maths and English will also be provided for apprentices that do not already hold these qualifications. Apprentices for the SERC course will need to be working for a company based in Northern Ireland or a UK company that works predominantly in NI. Visit https://www.serc.ac.uk/course/2223/Automated-Entrance-Systems-Apprenticeship-NILevel-2 for more information. Employers can arrange apprenticeships direct with the college by emailing: apprenticeships@serc.ac.uk For more information about ADSA membership or services visit: www.adsa.org.uk or email: rachel@adsa.org.uk . Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 13 THE door industry journal summer 2022 Interested in appearing in the Winter Edition? SAVE THESE DEADLINE DATES: Features Editorial Advertorials 15th October 28th October 10th November Industry News
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