In 2002, Able Skills launched and we opened a training centre in Dartford in Kent. We taught Plastering courses from a very small unit and had about 3 students in the Building.
Who knew…..
In December last year (2013), Richard Mannell and Kevin MacDonald attended the IET Head Quarters on behalf of Able Skills, and accepted a certificate confirming Able Skills inclusion as an IET Centre of Excellence.
Whilst this may not mean much to some, to those who know and particularly to the staff of Able Skills, this means a great deal.
Able Skills now has the facilities in place to teach around 150 students per week across the 8 subjects that we offer training in and the largest area of our facilities caters for Electrical students.
We were approached by the IET last year (following a recommendation by an Electrical Contractor) to ask if we were happy to be considered as a Centre of Excellence and naturally we jumped at the opportunity.
The IET Centre of Excellence is a brand new scheme designed to ensure high quality provision is recognised and to provide a clear way for those seeking training. This scheme identifies providers who have invested in processes, facilities, staff and quality teaching and ensures centres continue to meet these standards.
In order to become a member of the Centre of Excellence we have been rigorously vetted on a wide range of criteria including but not limited to, organisational procedures, facilities, awarding body reports, achievement rates, health and safety, training staff, technology, equipment as well as existing customer recommendations.
The courses included within the Centre of Excellence are:
· C&G 2357 – Course
· C&G 2365 – Levels 2&3 Diploma in Electrical Installation
· C&G 2377-32 – PAT Testing
· C&G 2377-22 – PAT Testing
· C&G 2382-12 – 17th Edition
· C&G 2392 – 10 Inspection & Testing
· C&G 2396 – 01 Electrical Design Course
· Pre AM2
Able Skills have strived to achieve this recognition through developing best practice procedures and teaching methods with qualified and experienced staff. This accreditation recognises this, and we are very proud and honoured to be associated with the Institution of Engineering Technology. From an industry point of view, this identifies best industry practice, and enhances the training experience for our learners. Also, it is an acknowledgment of the hard work of the electrical team, and support staff who view this as a start for on going development.
Tony Hicks, Learning Development Manager at The Institution of Engineering and Technology said: “I welcome Able Skills to the IET Centre of Excellence network. The selection of Centres of Excellence is a very rigorous process which demands excellence across every aspect of a training provider’s operations. Able Skills have consistently demonstrated excellent management, customer service and training delivery, which ensures their learners are provided with the skills needed to comply with the IET Standards and Technical Regulations publications. Learners taking courses with Able Skills can be reassured that they are getting the best possible level of training.”
Head of Able Skills Electrical Department Richard Mannell and Kevin MacDonald receiving the Certificate from Amanda Weaver, Publishing Director at The Institution of Engineering & Technology.
Centre Manager Angela Wright and Director Gary Measures would like to thank the entire Electrical Department for their hard work and dedication over the last 10 years. The efforts they have made have seen their department grow in size and stature to become the Centre of Excellence that it is today. The fitting recipients of the certificate are clearly identified in the photograph above – representing their department and Able Skills.