News – Page 2 – Group Horizon

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BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship passes 100 registrations

Group Horizon, the specialist training provider, has announced that more than 100 apprentices have now registered for the Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) Controls Engineer Apprenticeship since it was first launched in April 2021.

The Apprenticeship was launched in partnership with the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) following a culmination of over four years of hard work by the Trailblazer Employer Group to address an industry-wide shortage of BEMS Controls Engineers. The seventh cohort of apprentices began their training in November 2022 taking the total number to 112.

Building Controls is a fast growing market with numerous opportunities for skilled engineers. The BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship offers a balance of technical training and on the job assessments to match the needs and requirements of the apprentice’s employer.

Some of the apprentices on the programme have described how they have found their experience so far. Josh Parkin, Assistant Building Management Systems Engineer at Durham University, said: “What attracted me to the BEMS and controls industry was the ability to manage field equipment such as heating, ventilation, cooling and hot water from an automatic system and how much energy saving it can achieve. I am enjoying the apprenticeship and have found it beneficial in my day-to-day role at work by putting what I learn on my course into action.”

Zach Stanley, a BEMS Apprentice with Kendra Energy, said: “I was very attracted to this industry because it allowed me the freedom and the ability to learn in a way I never had before. The hours of learning are in my hands and I can control it. I am able to attend site with another engineer each day and learn a different skill or different part of the system and it is amazing that I am able to have a job and learn at the same time.”

The training programme for the BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship can be delivered on the apprentice’s company site and through classroom and/or online learning sessions. It can take up to 36 months to complete.

On the Apprenticeship’s success so far, Peter Behan, Director at Group Horizon, commented: “100 registrations in less than two years is a significant milestone and we are delighted that we are helping to address what has been a serious issue for the Building Controls sector for some time.”

BCIA President Graeme Rees added: “The BCIA has long recognised that there has been a significant gap in skills and the BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship was designed to help fill that gap. To have more than 100 people enrolled on the programme already represents a fantastic success on the part of the employer group that put it together.”

Visit Group Horizon at the Smart Buildings Show

Following its launch in 2017, the Smart Buildings Show returns for its fifth successive year and Group Horizon is delighted to be supporting this popular and dynamic show for the very first time following its huge success over recent years.

The Smart Buildings Show is the UK’s leading exhibition and conference dedicated to the smart buildings industry. Enjoy a wide range of CPD-accredited training sessions from some of the top names in the industry and catch up with the latest developments from a wide range of exhibitors.

The two day show will be held on 12-13 October 2022 at ExCeL, London, with this year’s show focusing on sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG).

Smart buildings deliver services that make occupants productive at the lowest cost and environmental impact over the building’s lifecycle. Group Horizon provides a number of courses and apprenticeships that offer a gateway into this rapidly expanding and exciting sector.

Building Controls is a fast growing market with numerous opportunities for skilled engineers and Group Horizon’s BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship Level 4 addresses an industry wide shortage of BEMS Controls Engineers who will use the skills they learn today to keep the buildings of tomorrow running efficiently.

Group Horizon’s recently launched Data Analyst Apprenticeship Level 4 is aimed at both new recruits and existing employees, with the overriding aim to educate individuals on how data can be used to answer questions and solve problems. The data analyst will be responsible for working within the data architecture of the company and ensuring that the data is handled in a compliant, safe and appropriately secure manner, understanding and adhering to company data policy and legislation.

Come and visit us on Stand A23 to learn more about the industry focused training courses and apprenticeships available from Group Horizon.

To book your free ticket(s) for the Smart Buildings Show, click here

Alternatively, you can find out more about the Show on its website

Group Horizon launches new Data Analytics Apprenticeship

National training provider Group Horizon has announced the launch of its latest apprenticeship – the Data Analyst Apprenticeship Level 4.

Aimed at both new recruits and existing employees, the overriding aim of the new programme is to educate individuals on how data can be used to answer questions and solve problems.

With the first cohort set to begin their apprenticeship in July 2022, the course will offer an expert balance of technical training and on-the-job experience.

Data analysis is defined as the process of requirement-gathering, inspecting, cleansing, transforming and modelling data with the goal of discovering useful information, informing conclusions and supporting decision-making. Data analysis has multiple facets and approaches, encompassing diverse techniques under a variety of names.

The data analyst will be responsible for working within the data architecture of the company and ensuring that the data is handled in a compliant, safe and appropriately secure manner, understanding and adhering to company data policy and legislation.

Taking up to 24 months to complete, this newly introduced apprenticeship will include knowledge and assessment units on the following:

Data structures
Data preparation — extract, transform, load
Datamining, forecasting & modelling
Dashboards and infographics
Policy & legislation including GDPR
Analysis—statistics trends and patterns
Reporting and interactivity
Continuing professional development

Peter Behan, Group Horizon Director, comments: “Data analysis now plays a crucial role in making decisions more evidence-based and helping organisations operate more effectively. This new apprenticeship will give trainees the skills needed to identify trends and develop clear business strategies, meeting the exacting requirements of the employer.”

For further information on the course please visit: https://grouphorizon.co.uk/portfolio/data-analyst-apprenticeshp/

Note to editors

A national training provider, Group Horizon offer a range of specialist training programmes which include Apprenticeships, Functional Skills, Jobseeker Short Courses and Workforce Development Programmes.

Their fully accredited qualifications are delivered by specialist assessors who each bring a wealth of experience in their chosen field. Group Horizon invest heavily in research and curriculum development to ensure that all of their programmes are delivered to meet the needs of employers and the market ensuring the best support is given for the professional journey of each individual.

www.grouphorizon.co.uk

For further information about Group Horizon please contact Keystone Communications:

Russell Drury: Tel: 01733 294524 Email: russell@keystonecomms.co.uk

Michael Crane: Tel: 01733 294524Email: michael@keystonecomms.co.uk

Tracey Rushton-Thorpe: Tel: 01733 294524 Email: tracey@keystonecomms.co.uk

Group Horizon wins Contribution to Training Award

Group Horizon has won the highly coveted ‘Contribution to Training Award’ at the 2022 BCIA Awards.

As the leading honours programme in the building controls and BEMS industry, the BCIA Awards culminate in a prestigious ceremony at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole where the industry comes together to celebrate the very best in the business, spread across 10 different categories.

Up against three other shortlisted finalists, Group Horizon took home the trophy in recognition of its work in delivering the Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) Controls Engineer Apprenticeship Level 4 – an expertly designed and skilfully delivered course which features the technical training and on the job assessments required to educate the controls engineers of tomorrow.

Peter Behan, Group Horizon Director, was on hand to collect the award on the night of the ceremony and commented: “We are delighted to win the BCIA Contribution to Training Award in recognition of our work in helping to bring through the next generation of building controls engineers. We are dedicated to empowering our learners to meet their professional goals and the whole Group Horizon team shares the same high levels of enthusiasm and commitment to surpassing learner and employer expectations.”

This years’ celebrations were held on Thursday 5th May and featured a three-course dinner, an awards ceremony and post show entertainment.

www.grouphorizon.co.uk

Apprentices are a “Driving Force” in Building Back Stronger

Apprentices are a “driving force” in building back stronger, says leading training provider

In the wake of National Apprenticeship Week, leading training provider Group Horizon believes the popularity in apprenticeships will continue to surge as more UK employers realise the many benefits of taking on an apprentice. With energy prices on the rise, the leading training provider also said the demand for highly skilled, adaptable engineers familiar with the latest building technologies will increase.

Group Horizon’s Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) Controls Engineer Apprenticeship is run in partnership with the Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) and has been designed to address the well-documented industry shortage of BEMS controls engineers and bring through a new generation of highly skilled operatives.

Peter Behan, Director at Group Horizon, said: “With new efficient building technologies emerging on a regular basis, energy management systems and solutions are no longer viewed as expensive extravagances but are essential long-term investments which help drive down costs and improve the wellbeing of building occupants. A new generation of skilled engineers is needed more than ever before and there is now fresh impetus to deliver the necessary training and ensure we have the talented individuals needed to deliver the buildings of tomorrow.”

The third BEMS Apprenticeship programme is now underway and, with plenty of positive feedback from the first two cohorts, demand for places on the apprenticeship is expected to remain high.

Jake Jarram, an apprentice with Building Control Specialists, said: “I have been very impressed with how well structured the modules are in the BCIA course I am completing. The lecturer is very experienced and skilled in the industry, showing a very positive outlook on HVAC and is very keen to pass on their knowledge.

“When working day to day for BCS I have developed a great variety of skills which are invaluable to someone of my age. Working in various places and contributing towards the completion of the project/maintenance. I am looking forward to my future in the building controls industry.”

The BEMS Controls Engineer Apprenticeship offers a balance of on-the-job assessments and technical training delivered on the apprentice’s company site and through classroom and/or online learning sessions.

Peter Behan concluded: “After a tough couple of years, many businesses now have detailed plans in place as part of a nationwide effort to expediate a return to something approaching normality. Apprentices are a driving force in the campaign to build back stronger, with new starter levels rising steadily and a noticeable uptick in interest from businesses and individuals.”

To find out more about the apprenticeships available with Group Horizon visit: https://grouphorizon.co.uk/apprenticeships/

Group Horizon aims to “fill the void” of trained Energy Managers

Leading national training provider Group Horizon believes the impact of lockdown plus the increasing need for energy efficiency in buildings can inspire a new generation of Energy Managers that will help organisations meet their own sustainability targets and reduce costs.

Peter Behan, Director at Group Horizon, said: “There is a major shortage of trained Energy Managers and we want to help fill the void. The Junior Energy Management apprenticeship programme really is open to anybody and an Energy Manager could come from any previous background, whether you have worked in banking, manufacturing or construction or something else entirely. It will also provide the apprentice with a new set of skills and invaluable knowledge that could potentially open a lot of doors for them later in their career.”

With many commercial buildings left virtually empty during lockdown many businesses have had to reassess their approach to how they manage their premises. As more businesses come to realise that running their building at 100 per cent capacity is neither cost nor energy efficient when it is only partially occupied, there is a growing demand for the deployment of in-house energy managers. What’s more, it presents a fantastic opportunity for anybody who has been considering a change of career – especially during lockdown when the jobs market has been competitive and people have been assessing their career options.

Liam Doughty, from Gateshead, previously worked in Facilities Management before starting a new role as an Energy Technician within Gateshead Council. Liam did not have any previous background within the energy industry, so he took up the Junior Energy Management apprenticeship opportunity with Group Horizon, a move that he is now reaping the benefits from. Liam said: “The qualification has provided me with a massive opportunity allowing me to not only progress with my knowledge and skills in the energy industry but help me move forward in my career.”

Liam is hoping that this is just the start of his career in the industry saying: “The training has provided me with a foundation to start within the energy industry, allowing me to then further my education in this field. My goal is to complete the Junior Energy Manager apprenticeship with sight to go on to a higher-level education within this field.”

Note to editors

www.grouphorizon.co.uk

For further information about Group Horizon please contact Keystone Communications:

Russell Drury: Tel: 01733 294524, Email: russell@keystonecomms.co.uk

Tracey Rushton-Thorpe: Tel: 01733 294524, Email: tracey@keystonecomms.co.uk

Junior Energy Management apprenticeship helps companies meet sustainability targets

Group Horizon, a leading national training provider, has announced the launch of its Junior Energy Manager apprenticeship programme, which it believes will help organisations meet sustainability commitments by reducing energy consumption and reducing costs, as well as contributing towards the UK’s target of net zero carbon by 2050.

Due to the rise of the cost of energy the UK will become one of the most competitive market places for energy management skills over the next five to seven years. With a major shortage of trained energy managers, this apprenticeship will help to address the need for basic in-house energy management skills which can benefit organisations and lead to long term savings.

The apprenticeship takes up to 24 months to complete and can be delivered on an organisation’s own premises or through online sessions. An initial open day enrolment session will allow each learner to familiarise themselves with the aims, objectives, and outcomes of their programme, as well as getting to know the Group Horizon team who will offer support and guidance when needed.

Throughout the apprenticeship, learners will be required to attend a series of classroom/online sessions covering the technical theory and functional skills (English, Maths—if required) elements of their course. These sessions will be planned in advance to ensure minimal impact on day-to-day business.

Energy managers can come from all types of companies and industries, including hospitality, leisure, retail, banking, manufacturing, construction and property. Energy management is going to be crucial for businesses now and in the future. Having somebody trained in-house will be a huge advantage to employers and the apprentice is afforded an opportunity to develop life-long skills and gain valuable, hands-on workplace experience whilst earning a wage.

Peter Behan

Group Horizon Director

Note to editors

www.grouphorizon.co.uk

For further information about Group Horizon please contact Keystone Communications:

Russell Drury: Tel: 01733 294524 Email: russell@keystonecomms.co.uk

Tracey Rushton-Thorpe: Tel: 01733 294524 Email: tracey@keystonecomms.co.uk

House of Lords Launch of the Energy Management Apprenticeship

House of Lords Launch of the Energy Management Apprenticeship

The new Junior Energy Management Apprenticeship was officially launched by npower Business Solutions and Group Horizon at the House of Lords on 30th January 2020. The event was attended by several members of the House of Lords, Ministers of Parliament and representation from the UK’s largest organisations such as Network Rail, Siemens and YPO.

Lord Rupert Redesdale from the Energy Management Association (EMA), opened the event explaining the importance of Energy Management within the government agenda and beyond. Shadow FE & HE Minister Emma Hardy then followed, focusing on Education and the routes of learning to which she stressed the pleasure in hearing that the Junior Energy Manager Apprenticeship was at Level 3 allowing entry point to be based on ability rather than academic achievements. Peter Behan, Chair and owner of Group Horizon, finished the session outlining Group Horizons involvement in energy efficiency and renewable training, our Ofsted result and outlining the Delivery and Partnership Model we can offer.

This Apprenticeship has arrived at a pivotal point with the Government commitment to move to “Net Zero” Carbon by 2050. The Junior Energy Management Level 3 Apprenticeship provides organisations with an in-house energy manager aimed at meeting sustainability commitments which will lead to reducing energy costs, energy usage, carbon emissions, upskilling and retraining their current workforce.

This Apprenticeship provides foundation knowledge across 11 core topics of Energy Management. The Apprenticeship can be delivered nationwide and can take up to 24 months to complete. Entrants can come from all types of companies/industries, including hospitality, leisure, retail, banking, manufacturing, construction and property.

Group Horizon, a National Training Provider offering a specialist range of Apprenticeships and workforce development programmes, originally ran pilots of the Apprenticeship back in April 2019 but due to demand have increased the number of Apprentices enrolled to 45 learners, which have been delivered in various areas across the UK.

To find out more from the day, please read Alison Washbourne’s blog from the launch by clicking here.

For further information on the Junior Energy Management Apprenticeship download the Product Sheet or contact Alison Washbourne and she will be happy to help (alison.washbourne@grouphorizon.co.uk).

SME employers can now access the Digital Apprenticeship Service

From the 1st January 2020 the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) gave access to the Digital Apprentices Service (DAS) to all small to medium size employers.

All employers in England will have better access to buy high quality apprenticeships from January 2020. SME businesses, who don’t pay the Apprenticeship Levy, will take full control over apprenticeships in their business as they will have to register them and bring them on board using the Education and Skills Funding Agency’s digital apprenticeship service (DAS)

Every apprenticeship employer in England will have access to the full benefits of the Education and Skills Funding Agency’s (ESFA) apprenticeship service. With the first employers and providers commencing their use from January 2020.

Previously, only apprenticeship levy-paying employers – those with an annual total pay bill of over £3m – or those in receipt of a transfer of apprenticeship funds – were able to use the full benefits that the apprenticeship service brings.

From January 2020 employers who do not pay the apprenticeship levy will be able to create accounts on the apprenticeship service and begin arranging their own apprenticeships. These employers will be able to:

Choose from a range of apprenticeship standards;
Choose a provider from the Register of Apprenticeship Training Providers (RoATP) to deliver apprenticeship training;
Find an End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO);
Reserve access to funding for apprenticeship training and assessment;
Agree contracts with providers; and
Benefit from collaborative relationships by delegating permissions to providers to service their accounts

To assist you in supporting your partners and employers with the changes Group Horizon have produced this guide, which includes some information received directly from the ESFA and also links to online tools and instructions to help and support. You can download our SME and The Digital Apprenticeship Service Guide by Clicking Here. Our guide includes the following:

How to register and use the apprenticeship service as an employer
Managing cohorts and apprentices
Using your account
Reservation of funds
How will reservations work?
How to make a reservation

Junior Energy Management Apprenticeship – House of Lords Launch

We are thrilled to announce that on Thursday 30th January, we will be officially launching the exciting Level 3 Junior Energy Management Apprenticeship at The House of Lords in London with our business partner npower Business Solutions.

Working closely with the Energy Manager’s Association (EMA), who will be the End Point Assessor (EPA), we have combined Group Horizon’s long history of delivering high quality learning with nBS’s expert knowledge of energy and energy management to meet the specified training standards of the Level 3 Junior Energy Management apprenticeship. The launch will be attended by a number of Members of the House of Lords, Members of Parliament, sector experts and representatives from some of the UK’s largest employers.

We truly believe that this apprenticeship not only fits in with the ESFA “Fire it Up” apprenticeship campaign but also with BEIS campaigns promoting good Energy Management and the wider Government commitment to move to “Net Zero” Carbon by 2050. Businesses who put employees through the “JEM” apprenticeship will start to find opportunities very quickly for reducing their energy costs, their energy usage and their carbon emissions, upskilling and retraining their employees and helping the fight on Climate Change.

This Apprenticeship provides bedrock and foundation knowledge across 11 core topics of Energy Management including Technical; Assessments; Behavioural Change; Regulatory and Legal; Waste Management; Transport; Procurement; Water and many more, all coming together to provide a robust underpinning knowledge. The Apprenticeship can be delivered nationwide and can take up to 24 months to complete. Entrants can come from all types of companies/industries, including hospitality, leisure, retail, banking, manufacturing, construction and property.

On successful completion of this Apprenticeship programme individuals will receive the following;

Junior Energy Manager Apprenticeship at Level 3
Level 2 Functional Skills, English (If required)
Level 2 Functional Skills, Maths (If required) and
Membership of the Energy Managers Association (EMA) or Technical Membership status of the Energy Institute (TMEI)

Group Horizon originally ran a pilot of the Apprenticeship back in April 2019 but due to demand we have increased the number of Apprentices enrolled to 45 learners, delivered in various areas across the UK. One of our Apprentices Liam Doughty of Gateshead Council, who enrolled onto the pilot in the North East, said “The qualification has provided me with a massive opportunity allowing me to not only progress with my knowledge and skills in the energy industry but help me move forward in my career.” Liam added “All the staff at Group Horizon have been fantastic and have clearly put a lot of work into making the programme happen, from the preparation of the classroom days to the reviews and assessment of the assignments.”.

Keep up to date with the launch by following us through our Social Media channels and to read more about the Junior Energy Management Apprenticeship Click Here or download the Product Sheet.

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