TDR Training

Boom - North East Engineering Show July 2010.

2010-02-17T14:36:07Z

The North East Engineering Show is a free event aimed at young people aged 11-17. The show is an exciting and fast-moving showcase about the world of engineering.

This year the star attraction will be Honda's humanoid robot ASIMO, the culmination of more than two decades of humanoid robotics research and development. boom! provides a fantastic opportunity for youngsters from the North East to be inspired, to see the technology of the future demonstrated now and to find out about the diverse range of rewarding career options available in engineering.

Check out the flyer just click on the link

Flyer.pdf

Science ~ Advanced Apprenticeship Profile ~ Heather Wynn

2010-01-18T12:38:17Z

The advanced apprenticeship attracted my interest as it offered an amazing opportunity to earn qualifications, and money, whilst gaining a quality experience in the workplace. I was completing my A levels when I submitted my application for an apprenticeship with TDR. Once I was accepted, I decided to forego immediately going to University. Instead I opted to take on my placement at TDR as their apprentice lab technician. I knew that the skills I would gain from working in a laboratory for an extended period would enhance my chances of attaining a job after graduating from university.

I had not held a job before beginning my time at TDR. It was often commented that I was shy and withdrawn at school, though I was otherwise a good student. I have come a long way since then. It has been 18 months since I started at TDR and I am much more comfortable in social situations. I can comfortably ask questions of my college lecturers and feel relatively at ease holding conversations with people I've never met before. Working in a professional company, like TDR, brings you into contact with a whole range of people. You can find yourself in all kinds of different situations. For example, I have participated in science team meetings, taken minutes, completed practical demonstrations for students, ordered stock from companies for the lab as well as the office and helped to interview prospective students.

All of the experiences I have had have given me a higher level of self-confidence and maturity. I have met a lot of wonderful people and further developed my scientific knowledge through my work in the laboratory as well as my BTEC qualification. I am now much more assured of my future; I know what I want to do and how to get there. I have gained the qualifications necessary for me to go to Kent University and study Biological Anthropology, which was my plan during sixth form, I now feel much more capable and prepared for the challenge it will pose. I cannot express strongly enough how valuable this period of time has been for me and could be for others.

Heather Wynn

2^nd Year Advanced Apprentice

Educational

North East Management Academy (NEMA)

2009-11-30T14:25:26Z

To find out more ~ please click on the following link

NEMA pdf.pdf

School Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship Vacancy

2009-11-05T12:46:49Z

An opportunity has arisen for an Apprenticeship for a Laboratory Technician to be based in a school in the Gateshead Area. The apprenticeship will be for 2-3 years and involves studying for a BTEC National in Applied Science one day a week whilst being employed by the school to assist the teaching staff in the preparation and delivery of practical sessions. At the same time the successful candidate will also complete a Level 3 NVQ in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities which is a work based qualification.

Ideal candidates will have either GCSE grade C or above in English, Maths and Science or Level 2 Keys Skills in Literacy and Numeracy as well as an interest in science. As the school caters for learners up to the age of 19 the position would best suit a 17+ year old although 16 year olds would be considered.

Minimum salary is £95 per week

Interested candidates should download an application form using the following link Apprenticeship Application Form TDR22.pdf complete and post FAO Linda Croudace at TDR Ltd, Textile House, Dukesway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear NE11 0PZ

For more information contact Linda Croudace on 0191 491 1505 or email information@tdrtraining.co.uk

TDR awarded new Research Development Fellowship Grant

2009-10-12T14:44:50Z

Linda Croudace, Manager Science Faculty, has been successful in being awarded one of 20 new Research Development Fellowship Grants by LSIS and IfL. SUNCETT based at Sunderland University have responsibility for overseeing the research nationally and setting up a research community in Further Education/Adult Learning.

The research project is to look at the specific skills needed by vocational learners, in the science and engineering sectors, in order for them to progress successfully onto Further and Higher Education. Linda will be identifying which skills in particular would be of most benefit to learners and then will develop a programme of delivery to address these skills. The project is due to be completed by March 2010 so that the results can be disseminated nationally.

Anyone interested in knowing more or who would like to contribute to the research can contact Linda at

lindacroudace@tdrtraining.co.uk

Chartered Institute for Environmental Health (CIEH) Centre~Public Courses

2009-09-18T16:39:32Z

TDR Training is now a registered Chartered Institute of Environmental Health [CIEH] centre offering accredited training courses in Health and Safety.

Public Courses for 2009 are as follows:

5^th Nov - 1 Day Personal Safety and Conflict Resolution (Level 2)

CIEH Level 2 Award in Conflict Resolution and Personal Safety.pdf

12^th Nov - ½ Day Stress Awareness

CIEH Foundation Certificate in Stress Awareness.pdf

17^th Nov - Manual Handling Principles and Practice (Level 2)

CIEH Level 2 Manual Handling Principles and Practice.pdf

Cost:

Personal Safety and Conflict Resolution @ £115 per person (including CIEH registration)

Stress Awareness @ £80 per person (including CIEH registration)

Manual Handling @ £115 per person (including CIEH registration)

For bookings or further information please contact:

Karen Allinson

Head of Commercial Training

Courses@tdrtraining.co.uk

Tel: 0191 491 1505

SAS Launch at TDR ~~ Who Dares Wins!

2009-09-02T12:47:37Z

With the anticipated growth in numbers for Apprentice Laboratory Technicians in both the Industrial and Educational sectors and in response to the need for a vocational progression route for the Young Apprentices in Science, TDR are launching a new section called Science Apprentice Solutions (SAS).

Linda Croudace, Manager Science Faculty, will now have responsibility for developing the SAS team to ensure quality delivery for the Laboratory Technician Apprenticeships.

The first TDR apprentice laboratory technician completed his apprenticeship earlier this year and is employed by BAE Land Systems Birtley who are now supporting him through higher education. We currently have apprentices placed within schools and a local university as well as both large and small international and local industries.

Typically an Advanced Apprenticeship in Science will take two years to complete with the apprentice attending college one day a week to complete the BTEC National Certificate in Applied Science. At the same time they will complete an NVQ in Laboratory and Associated Technical Activities which can be tailored to a variety of different scientific industries or educational environments and is assessed in the workplace by qualified TDR training coordinators.

For more information please contact Linda on 0191 491 1505.

Splashdown! Work Experience at the Dove Marine

2009-08-27T13:26:09Z

Eleven students from TDR recently enjoyed a marine environmental work experience at the Dove Marine Laboratories in Cullercoats.

During the 5 day placement the students participated in a range of activities with staff and supervisors from the Dove Marine which enabled them to see the importance of marine science and technology in our everyday lives.

On the first day the students took part in an ocean-wide safari and investigated the classification of organisms from the vast amount of fascinating life in our seas. The learners were then required to identify organisms commonly found in coral weed using microscopes and examples found included marine snails, sea spiders and juvenile brittle stars.

The second day began with at trip to St Mary's Lighthouse where learners were not only introduced to ecological sampling techniques using quadrats and transects but also had the opportunity to use scientific equipment such as pH, temperature and salinity probes. To consider the value of the coastal environment for the provision of renewable energy the students then took a trip to Blyth's wind turbines. After all their hard work the learners were rewarded with a relaxing visit to Druridge Bay.

Bright and early the next day the students put their scientific skills and knowledge into practice in order to plan an independent scientific investigation. Drawing on their earlier work the students picked projects focusing on rock pools which had been their primary study site for all their previous work. Through this practice the students picked up valuable investigation skills relating to the logistics of scientific study including selecting the best equipment for specific tests and reducing bias.

The following day it was time for the students to undertake their planned investigations. Peter Chaniotis supervised the students and said "Groups worked meticulously and as a result produced some excellent pieces of work in the form of scientific investigations".

On the final day the students undertook a number of hands-on investigations and discussions researching the oceans and climate change. The students also came face to face with the Chinese mitten crab, which has been introduced to European waters accidentally, and now causes ecological damage.

To investigate the link between marine technology and marine biology the students were tasked with designing and constructing economically efficient and environmentally friendly ship which they scientifically tested in the mini-towing tank testing facility

To end the week friends, family and TDR staff were invited to the Dove Marine to participate in the presentation of the posters the students produced based on their results from their individual scientific investigations. After the presentations, Peter commented that 'Overall the learners performed exceptionally well throughout all activities undertaken and were a fun and enthusiastic group to work with'.

All the learners will receive their BA Bronze Crest Award, recognising innovation in designing and executing scientific investigations.

Well done to all the students who took part in the placement and a big thank you to all the staff and supervisors at the Dove Marine Laboratories.

TDR Annual Awards Celebration 2009

2009-08-24T08:24:43Z

Our annual awards celebration this year is taking place on Wednesday 21^st October at the Gosforth Park Marriot Hotel. The event recognises the achievements of all those people that have completed a TDR programme this year, and also acknowledges all of the employers, Schools and Colleges that continue to give us their tremendous support.

Last year's event was a huge success, and with even more learners to applaud, this year's event promises to be a memorable occasion.

Invitations arriving through your letterbox soon!

Barkston benefits from Business Improvement.

2009-07-31T08:47:49Z

A recent partnership between Barkston Plastics and TDR Training has been a great success. Eight Barkston employees worked with trainers Darren Bain and Steve Watson from TDR to successfully complete the Business Improvement Techniques (BIT) programme.

Funded through the government's Train to Gain initiative, BIT is an NVQ qualification designed to achieve real business improvements within a short timescale. Using techniques originally developed in lean manufacturing, BIT creates a culture of continuous improvement. Likely outcomes are reduced waste, improved productivity and cost savings.

Team Valley-based TDR is providing BIT for a range of companies throughout the region large and small. Specialising in engineering and manufacturing, TDR is fully endorsed by the Learning and Skills Council, and the Science Engineering & Manufacturing Technologies Alliance (SEMTA). OfSTED Inspectors recently described TDR's adult training as 'outstanding'.

Barkston Plastics in Hebburn is a specialist plastic engineering, fabricator and branded plastic product supplier. It services both industrial and commercial sectors. Barkston specialises in the fabrication and machining of plastics to customer specifications. Barkston supplies products to a wide variety of industries including automotive, retail display, electrical and building products.

Barkston is a busy company with sites in Leeds and Hebburn. The Hebburn factory has eleven multi-skilled employees. Being so busy, there is rarely an opportunity to pause to take an overview or introduce new systems that support continuous improvement.

However, following contact made through the South Tyneside Manufacturing Forum between Barkston's Manager Les Waters and TDR's Adult Learning Manager, TDR trainers were invited to Hebburn to meet and explain the BIT programme to Barkston employees. Enrolment took place shortly afterwards.

The team first gained an understanding of the underpinning knowledge and techniques of BIT including: Health and Safety, '5S', Team Working, Visual Management, Kaizen and Problem-solving. They then identified three key challenges for Barkston: to improve the workflow, recycle waste products more effectively, and to improve CNC programming.

Under the guidance of Darren and Steve they set to work and within two months had made significant and demonstrable changes, especially in workplace organisation and visual management. Significant improvements were achieved in the layout of the shop floor. It now looks very different from how it did six months ago; much better.

Fabricator Marc Waters said that after some initial uncertainty, the team really took to the challenge:

"Once we got into our stride, we began to understand what could be done and how we can continue to improve the business. We found the programme useful and enjoyable."

Manager, Les, recommends BIT to any company.

"We made huge progress in a short timeframe. It was hassle-free and hugely beneficial to the business in ways that we can measure. I would recommend it to any business"

TDR's Managing Director Ian Young is delighted at the outcome:

"We are really pleased to have been able to help Barkston. We want our training to be tailored to fit the needs of local businesses. We are here to help improve business performance"

The next step for Barkston is an Awards Ceremony when all eight employees will be presented with their Level 2 Certificates. Progression to BiT at Level 3 is a possible option for future progression.

With a Train to Gain contract TDR delivers BIT to businesses throughout the region. As well as the shop floor, BIT can be delivered across the whole business including the 'Lean Office'. The programme will always be designed to fit the particular needs of the business.

For more information, contact:

Les Waters at Barkston Plastics on 0191 428 6543, les.waters@barkstonltd.co.uk

or Ian Hunter at TDR on 0191 491 6333.

ianhunter@tdrtraining.co.uk

The successful Barkston Plastics Business Improvement Techniques Team:

Left to right: Chris Batey, Paul Cox, Marc Waters, Andrew Archer, Les Waters, Mark Jerry, Steve Hepplewhite, David Clerkin.

Mortimer School Work Experience~ Action Stations "all hands on deck".

2009-07-21T13:59:47Z

Students from Mortimer School in South Shields enjoyed a nautical work experience recently.

Thirteen Year 10 students spent two weeks at South Tyneside College in South Shields with Project Manager Bill Cook from the nearby Creations Workshops, and were tasked with designing and fitting out two model war-ships.

TDR's business colleagues at South Tyneside College Mr Mike Webster and Mr Walter Rossiter made the arrangements for the students to work in the classroom and workshop and offered advice and assistance throughout the project.

The students were split in to two teams each with a remit to build a warship capable of eventually being launched and put through their paces on the nearby Marine Park lake.

HMS IMMORTAL

HMS INVINCIBLE

A competitive edge was in evidence throughout the two weeks between the teams and with a combination of good team work and guidance from Bill, the students equipped their respective vessels with the technology to enable a race to take place on the final Friday.

Representatives from TDR mingled with curious members of the South Shields public as HMS Invincible and HMS Immortal raced around the lake.

Bill Cook said that all the students had contributed to the successful completion of the war ships and he was very impressed with the student's dedication and application.

Mr Akinclose the Technology Teacher at Mortimer School visited the students whilst they were at College and said that he was delighted with the enthusiasm shown by the students.

Paul Lund from TDR commented that it was pleasing to see the students practicing skills that they had learnt on the Young Apprenticeship programme, and Bill had also taught them lots of new skills relating to electronics, sailing techniques such as buoyancy, steering and engine power.

Zak Fleming one of the students said he had thoroughly enjoyed the experience and has recently visited Bill's Creation Workshops along with his parents to explore more about remote control techniques.

WELL DONE TO ALL INVOLVED IN THE PROJECT~

HIP HIP - HOORAY

Family Learning ~ Fun with Science; Part 2

2009-07-20T12:18:04Z

We have now completed our first 'Fun with Science' programme in partnership with Gateshead Council. The programme has been a massive success. Here are just a few of the photos from the final three weeks.

Week four was health and nutrition, where we looked at what our favourite foods were, made fruit kebabs, played with bones and mimicked the digestive system using stockings and chocolate mousse!

Fruit kebabs

Digestive system

Bones quiz

Week five was our forensic science week. Learners had to gather evidence and use it to solve a mystery; which employee murdered the TDR boss!!

Listening to the murder mystery

Blood splatter analysis

Hair analysis using microscopes

Pen chromatography

Fingerprinting

Chemical analysis

Week six was the final session so as well as making and launching water powered rockets which housed eggs (not hard boiled!) we also had our awards ceremony.

Rocket Building

Rocket Launching

We also had some happy eggs that survived!

Group Team Photo!

Sam and Louise would just like to say a big thank you to all of staff at TDR involved in family learning, the family learning team at Gateshead council and of course all of the families who took part in the programme for making it so wonderful.

Check out the all the Photos in our Photo Gallery at the top of the page.

Myson Retig's ~ Newest Advanced Apprentice in Engineering

2009-07-09T07:45:11Z

Grant Cryer, a Y11 student from Joseph Swan School, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear has become the latest Advanced Apprentice to join Myson Retig as an employee.

Grant has spent the last two years on the TDR Ltd, Young Apprenticeship programme in Engineering. He has successfully completed the Performing Engineering Operations NVQ at Level 2 qualification and the BTEC First Engineering Certificate with Gateshead College. Grant has achieved an attendance of almost 100% throughout the two years of the course and the dedication to learn and succeed whilst being taught new skills increased his ambition to make Engineering his chosen career path.

Grant has recently applied for a TDR Advanced Apprenticeship which entails passing Aptitude tests and interview techniques process at TDR which enabled him to apply for an Engineering apprenticeship position. Myson Retig selected ten suitable applicants from students (including candidates 2 years older than Grant) for a company interview. Grant was short-listed and despite the high standards set by the others, Grant's desire and aspirations shone through and as of the 7th September 2009, Grant will join Myson Retig as an Advanced Apprentice, supported by TDR's Training Solutions team.

Helen Duke of Myson Retig congratulating Grant.

TDR Training ~ From Competence to Excellence ~ A Case Study

2009-07-07T08:20:47Z

Please click on the link below to access the relevant case study.

TDR~FCTE~ Case Study.pdf

Discovering Science at TDR

2009-07-02T18:24:50Z

Over sixty enthusiastic eleven year olds recently enjoyed an explosive mix of science activities at TDR. Pupils of Oakfield Primary School in Gateshead, they were taking part in their Schools Careers Week organised by Gateshead Council's Education Business Links Service.

As part of their work experience, they visited TDR to learn about what it would be like to be a real Scientist.

Here they met the Science team, donned their lab coats and embarked on a programme of kitchen chemistry, slime-making, bath bombs and exploding volcanoes.

At TDR we are convinced that science offers inspirational career paths for young people. And it is a critical time.

Last year, the number of science students continued to fall in the UK, prompting serious fears that the UK will soon lose its place as a centre of high-tech innovation.

Figures show that, in the past 20 years, the number of students studying physics A-level has fallen by 56%, and the number of chemistry students by 37%. High-tech industries will need 2.4 million new workers by 2014 to fill skills gaps, but last year only 32,000 undergraduates achieved degrees in physics, engineering or technology.

So that's why we are working with the region's primary schools to create a lifetime of curiosity and the habit of scientific discovery