Pneumatics training gains NVQ status

City and Guilds has awarded SMC Pneumatics (UK) with approved centre status for its pneumatics training programmes for industry.

City and Guilds, the leading provider of vocational qualifications in the UK, has awarded SMC Pneumatics (UK) with approved centre status, for its pneumatics training programmes for industry.

The programmes cover pneumatic technology, electropneumatics and PLC technology, and are held at a number of centres (and at customer premises), around the UK, and will now offer, in addition to the CVA (Certificate of Verified Achievement) a contribution towards N/SVQs.

The N/SVQs (National Vocational Qualifications and Scottish Vocational Qualifications) assess the skills, knowledge and ability needed by people working in industry.

They are generally undertaken at work, or between the workplace and a local accredited centre, and a suitably qualified tutor usually acts as the assessor.

The qualifications comprise a number of core and optional units so that the employee can choose the route best suited to their particular ambitions, or their company requirements.

NVQs are available at five levels and include qualifications for those who are just starting their careers, to those at supervisory and management level.

Government organisations, such as the Learning Skills Council, recognise that employers need to take a closer look at training programmes offered for their workforce, and in a recent report states: "For the individual organisation or firm, the evidence reveals that investment in workforce development is repaid with higher levels of organisational performance".

"While the relationship is undoubtedly a complex one, subject to many caveats and qualifications, the finding that investment in workforce development improves organisational performance remains a robust and valid one".

SMC has invested heavily in training, and as the world's leading manufacturer of pneumatic components and automation equipment, the company has the resources, skills and expertise in providing an exceptional standard of training.

The training courses are presented by professional, experienced, and qualified trainers, and cover both theory and practical within the range.

The format of the courses includes interactive workshop, real-life problem solving, practical circuit design and construction, as well as the use of state-of-the-art modules for each delegate.

Venues currently include Milton Keynes, Cumbernauld, North Tyneside College and Egham (Brunel University), and courses vary between 3 and 5 days, depending on the level chosen.

In addition, the company offers bespoke training, for customers needing a focused approach to their pneumatics training, pertinent to their own business.

SMC will tailor and ensure an exact fit to customer needs.

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