This is a guest post by Aedin O’Toole. This article first appeared in Vet Gazette.
![Vet Gazette Issue 1](https://www.ddletb.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Vet-Gazette-Issue-1.png)
Vet Gazette Issue 1
DDLETB’s Balydoyle Training Centre successfully developed and delivered Ireland’s first work-based learning programme for the motor industry in enhanced health and safety working practices in electric and hybrid vehicle maintenance, following rapid technological advances in electric (EV) and hybrid vehicle (HV) technology.
DDLETB’s instructor for this new course, David Casey, along with his colleagues Aidan Owens the current training centre manager, and Ken Seery the former manager in Baldoyle, saw the need for upskilling qualified motor mechanics and technicians as the critical safety requirements for EV and HV are very different to older and more traditional ways of motor servicing and repair. In addition, the voltages of the new generation of electric and hybrid vehicles are much higher than previously and require updated knowledge, skills and competences for mechanics and other motor professionals to be able to work safely.
The rollout of this new course as part of Ireland’s new national Skills to Advance (visit STA) programme also offered another advantage, as the cost of the course was heavily subsidised for the employee. This was a major incentive for employers to release their staff for training, in addition to the benefits of the course itself to the workplace, such as enhanced health and safety work practices, decreased potential for workplace accidents or incidents and increasing workforce capacity in EV/HV new technologies.
This new course is delivered over three (3) full days and equips learners with the practical knowledge and skills to identify potential health and safety hazards of electric and hybrid vehicles, component and operation systems and to work safely, minimising risks to the individual and others in the workplace in safely preparing electric or hybrid vehicles for routine maintenance. This is a “hands-on” course, with two practical exams, one online theory test and is certified as a Level 2 Certificate by the UK’s Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).
Given the pace of technological development for electric and hybrid vehicle and the policy drivers for cleaner transport and decarbonisation from both the Irish Government (visit) and the European Union (visit), the number of electric hybrid vehicles on Irish (and European) roads is expected to rise significantly over the next decade, with a corresponding increase in the demand for EV/HC repair and maintenance. Perhaps what is not so obvious are the new training needs for employers and qualified motor mechanics for the enhanced health and safety work practices that inevitably are going to be required with higher voltage vehicles with highly developed electrical systems, such as the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS).
FOR DDLETB STAFF TO BE ABLE TO BOTH IDENTIFY AND RESPOND TO TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS SHOWS THE IMPORTANCE OF WORK BASED LEARNING, AND ACCESS TO THAT LEARNING BY BOTH, EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES THROUGH THE SKILLS TO ADVANCE PROGRAMME.
It also shows the expertise, foresight and innovation of Ireland’s statutory Education and Training Board (ETB) sector in translating technological developments into the continuous professional development needs of the motor industry, employers, mechanics and technicians.
DDLETB’s Baldoyle Training Centre staff were not the only ones to identify this need. The UK has also been at the forefront in highlighting the potential health and safety risks of rapid technological developments and the need for additional training and in upskilling the motor industry both through the IMI (visit) and the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (visit). Crucially, UK insurance companies (visit) have also recognised the risks and potential liabilities in the industry and allied occupations, such as roadside assistance technicians. Given the implications of Brexit on industry standards, there are new considerations for DDLETB in the development of this course, but also Brexit opportunities, too.
While many car manufacturers have also developed EV/HV training programmes for their own dealerships, many motor industry employers in Ireland, typically small to medium-sized enterprises, are independent, i.e. not franchised to a manufacturer. These employers will need their mechanics and other staff to understand the potential hazards and be able to work safely with this new and rapidly developing technology.
DDLETB’s David Casey explains the potential for the wider European VET and Ireland’s Further Education and Training (FET) sector to lead further developments: “It was important to be able to certify the course as it’s a real achievement for our learners in developing new skills to meet the rapidly changing industry and many of our learners are interested in progressing. So, certification also supports labour market mobility and career development. The IMI was the best certification available to meet this need and also offers progression routes for more advanced qualifications and career progression. While we are planning on delivering the IMI qualification into 2021, it would obviously be better not to have to rely on UK validated qualifications in the longer term. Qualifications that are developed and validated by the Irish or European Qualification Frameworks for the motor industry’s training needs for enhanced health and safety working practices on the new EV and HV technologies would be ideal, post-Brexit.”
DDLETB’s Baldoyle Training Centre has harnessed its industry links with professional and trade organisations, such as the Mechanics Association of Ireland (visit) in marketing and promoting the course. The course has garnered very positive feedback from experienced and qualified motor professionals and employers, who now have a greater appreciation and respect for enhanced health and safety working practices. Tara Mines (visit), one of the companies whose employees participated in the course gave this testimonial: “Thank you for an extremely well put together, interesting course and would highly recommend it to my crew in work and other work colleagues. Hopefully, we can stay in touch and that you will keep me updated on any progress regarding the level 3 course for Electric/Hybrid vehicles. Once again thank you for the excellent level 2 course.”
As David Casey outlines, the course is improving standards in the industry and could potentially avoid injuries or accidents in the workplace: “It’s a practical course and its main aim is to make sure motor professionals can work safely with electric and hybrid vehicles. It’s been great to be able to deliver this course, knowing it could prevent someone from getting hurt in the future.”
Links/hyperlinks from the article:
DDLETB
Baldoyle Training Centre
Skills to Advance
Irish Government’s Climate Action Plan
European Union “Clean Vehicles” Directive Consultation
Institute of Motor Industry
UK Health and Safety Executive
UK Insurance Companies
Mechanics Association of Ireland
Tara Mines
Mitigating Against Educational Disadvantage Fund (MaEDF) 2021– Call For Applications
/in Corporate News /by Jennifer FarleyFollowing the success of projects funded through the Mitigating against Educational Disadvantage Fund (MaEDF) in 2020, we are pleased to advise that €10 million in funding to support a new open call has been confirmed for 2021. Please note the closing date for applications is Monday 13th September
The Mitigating Against Educational Disadvantage Fund (MaEDF) aims to provide funding to support educationally disadvantaged learners in accessing and participating in community education. The fund was launched by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD, and is administered by SOLAS, the further education and training authority, and the 16 local Education and Training Boards.
DDLETB is now inviting applications from Community Education providers for funding from Mitigating Educational Disadvantage Fund 2021.
This fund places a strong focus on
Categories eligible for funding consideration are:
Administration of the MAEDF grant
Funds are allocated by SOLAS to DDLETB, who is responsible for the administration and management of funding within its region.
Expenditure
Approved funding allocation for any activity under the MAEDF must:
(a) Be used for the specific purpose intended
(b) All expenditure to be completed by 2021 year-end
(c) Not to be used for any pay costs or costs of a recruiting nature
Application Forms & Guidelines
Click here for the DDLETB External Application Form MaEDF 2021
Click here for the MAEDF 2021 ETB Guidelines
Closing Date: Monday 13th September
Contact aedinotoole@ddletb.ie for more information
The fund was first made available in 2020 with over 500 community education projects funded through the 16 Education and Training Boards. The projects funded varied from projects to help support online leaning, connect communities and providing social supports to the most disadvantaged.
Click here to watch the Youtube video
Text 50808 For When You Need To Talk
/in Corporate News /by Jennifer FarleyDDLETB has become a keyword partner with Text 50808, a free 24/7 anonymous text support service.
50808 provides everything from a calming chat to immediate support for people going through a mental health or emotional crisis – big or small. From breakups or bullying, to anxiety, depression and suicidal feelings, Crisis Volunteers are available 24/7 for anonymous text conversations.
Text ‘ETB’ to 50808 to be connected with a trained volunteer. 50808 aims to provide immediate support in the short term and connect people to resources that will help them in the future.
For more information please visit: https://text50808.ie/
Tá DDLETB ina chomhpháirtí eochairfhocal le Text 50808, seirbhís tacaíochta téacs gan ainm 24/7 saor in aisce.
Soláthraíonn 50808 gach rud ó chomhrá ceansaithe go tacaíocht láithreach do dhaoine atá ag dul trí ghéarchéim sláinte meabhrach nó mothúchánach – mór nó beag. Ó mhiondealuithe nó bulaíocht, go himní, dúlagar agus mothúcháin féinmharaithe, tá Oibrithe Deonacha Géarchéime ar fáil 24/7 le haghaidh comhráite téacs gan ainm.
Cuir téacs ‘ETB’ go 50808 le bheith ceangailte le saorálaí oilte. Tá sé mar aidhm ag 50808 tacaíocht láithreach a sholáthar sa ghearrthéarma agus daoine a nascadh le hacmhainní a chabhróidh leo sa todhchaí.
Le haghaidh tuilleadh faisnéise, téigh chuig: https://text50808.ie/
Baldoyle Training Centre’s Innovative Work-Based Safety Training For The Motor Industry Electric And Hybrid Vehicles
/in Corporate News /by Jennifer FarleyThis is a guest post by Aedin O’Toole. This article first appeared in Vet Gazette.
Vet Gazette Issue 1
ONLY THE BEST
INNOVATIVE WORK-BASED SAFETY TRAINING FOR THE MOTOR INDUSTRY’S NEW ELECTRIC AND HYBRID VEHICLES
DDLETB’s Balydoyle Training Centre successfully developed and delivered Ireland’s first work-based learning programme for the motor industry in enhanced health and safety working practices in electric and hybrid vehicle maintenance, following rapid technological advances in electric (EV) and hybrid vehicle (HV) technology.
DDLETB’s instructor for this new course, David Casey, along with his colleagues Aidan Owens the current training centre manager, and Ken Seery the former manager in Baldoyle, saw the need for upskilling qualified motor mechanics and technicians as the critical safety requirements for EV and HV are very different to older and more traditional ways of motor servicing and repair. In addition, the voltages of the new generation of electric and hybrid vehicles are much higher than previously and require updated knowledge, skills and competences for mechanics and other motor professionals to be able to work safely.
The rollout of this new course as part of Ireland’s new national Skills to Advance (visit STA) programme also offered another advantage, as the cost of the course was heavily subsidised for the employee. This was a major incentive for employers to release their staff for training, in addition to the benefits of the course itself to the workplace, such as enhanced health and safety work practices, decreased potential for workplace accidents or incidents and increasing workforce capacity in EV/HV new technologies.
This new course is delivered over three (3) full days and equips learners with the practical knowledge and skills to identify potential health and safety hazards of electric and hybrid vehicles, component and operation systems and to work safely, minimising risks to the individual and others in the workplace in safely preparing electric or hybrid vehicles for routine maintenance. This is a “hands-on” course, with two practical exams, one online theory test and is certified as a Level 2 Certificate by the UK’s Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).
Given the pace of technological development for electric and hybrid vehicle and the policy drivers for cleaner transport and decarbonisation from both the Irish Government (visit) and the European Union (visit), the number of electric hybrid vehicles on Irish (and European) roads is expected to rise significantly over the next decade, with a corresponding increase in the demand for EV/HC repair and maintenance. Perhaps what is not so obvious are the new training needs for employers and qualified motor mechanics for the enhanced health and safety work practices that inevitably are going to be required with higher voltage vehicles with highly developed electrical systems, such as the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS).
FOR DDLETB STAFF TO BE ABLE TO BOTH IDENTIFY AND RESPOND TO TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS SHOWS THE IMPORTANCE OF WORK BASED LEARNING, AND ACCESS TO THAT LEARNING BY BOTH, EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES THROUGH THE SKILLS TO ADVANCE PROGRAMME.
It also shows the expertise, foresight and innovation of Ireland’s statutory Education and Training Board (ETB) sector in translating technological developments into the continuous professional development needs of the motor industry, employers, mechanics and technicians.
DDLETB’s Baldoyle Training Centre staff were not the only ones to identify this need. The UK has also been at the forefront in highlighting the potential health and safety risks of rapid technological developments and the need for additional training and in upskilling the motor industry both through the IMI (visit) and the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (visit). Crucially, UK insurance companies (visit) have also recognised the risks and potential liabilities in the industry and allied occupations, such as roadside assistance technicians. Given the implications of Brexit on industry standards, there are new considerations for DDLETB in the development of this course, but also Brexit opportunities, too.
While many car manufacturers have also developed EV/HV training programmes for their own dealerships, many motor industry employers in Ireland, typically small to medium-sized enterprises, are independent, i.e. not franchised to a manufacturer. These employers will need their mechanics and other staff to understand the potential hazards and be able to work safely with this new and rapidly developing technology.
DDLETB’s David Casey explains the potential for the wider European VET and Ireland’s Further Education and Training (FET) sector to lead further developments: “It was important to be able to certify the course as it’s a real achievement for our learners in developing new skills to meet the rapidly changing industry and many of our learners are interested in progressing. So, certification also supports labour market mobility and career development. The IMI was the best certification available to meet this need and also offers progression routes for more advanced qualifications and career progression. While we are planning on delivering the IMI qualification into 2021, it would obviously be better not to have to rely on UK validated qualifications in the longer term. Qualifications that are developed and validated by the Irish or European Qualification Frameworks for the motor industry’s training needs for enhanced health and safety working practices on the new EV and HV technologies would be ideal, post-Brexit.”
DDLETB’s Baldoyle Training Centre has harnessed its industry links with professional and trade organisations, such as the Mechanics Association of Ireland (visit) in marketing and promoting the course. The course has garnered very positive feedback from experienced and qualified motor professionals and employers, who now have a greater appreciation and respect for enhanced health and safety working practices. Tara Mines (visit), one of the companies whose employees participated in the course gave this testimonial: “Thank you for an extremely well put together, interesting course and would highly recommend it to my crew in work and other work colleagues. Hopefully, we can stay in touch and that you will keep me updated on any progress regarding the level 3 course for Electric/Hybrid vehicles. Once again thank you for the excellent level 2 course.”
As David Casey outlines, the course is improving standards in the industry and could potentially avoid injuries or accidents in the workplace: “It’s a practical course and its main aim is to make sure motor professionals can work safely with electric and hybrid vehicles. It’s been great to be able to deliver this course, knowing it could prevent someone from getting hurt in the future.”
Best Wishes For The Leaving Cert To All Of Our DDLETB Students
/in Corporate News /by Jennifer FarleyThe Leaving Cert exams start today! After two long and unusual years of study, the final tests are here.
We wish you all the very best of luck.
Remember to:
* Stay calm
* take deep breaths
* do your best
* don’t compare yourself to others
* whatever happens, there are many options available to you in the future!
Good luck!
DFEI Student Wins TV Production Of The Year Award
/in Corporate News /by Jennifer FarleyCongratulations to DDLETB DFEI Student Daniel Byrne on his win at The National Student Media 2021 Award last night. Daniel’s film ‘Life in Lockdown’ won the TV Production of the Year award at the “Smedias”.
The Smedias allow students to showcase their work in journalism, radio and TV production, broadcasting and writing to prominent figures from the Irish media industry to judge.
This year’s judges include award-winning director and screenwriter Robbie Walsh, social media star James Kavanagh and various editors and producers from Ireland’s leading media organisations and high profile presenters such as Angela Scanlon, Maura Derrane, Muireann O’Connell, and Richard Chambers.
Ciara Mahon, manager of Oxygen.ie. said: ‘We are delighted to have another successful year of the Smedia’s, even in an unprecedented situation that we are all living in today.
This year’s Smedia Awards took place virtually via a YouTube and Facebook live stream celebrating the hard work and efforts of over 240 nominees in 43 highly contested categories.
Despite a global pandemic, the awards went ahead for the 21st year with great enthusiasm and a 60% increase in student applicant entries.
Youthreach Wins EU in My Region 2021 Postcard Competition
/in Corporate News /by Jennifer FarleyCongratulations to Youthreach who have had not one, but TWO of their images selected by an EU Committee in the EU In My Region Postcard Competition.
The competition celebrates the work done in communities all over Europe.
The images below from Clondalkin and Blanchardstown Youthreach will now be printed on postcards and will be promoted on the EU In My Region website. A fantastic achievement to see Youthreach promoted internationally!
Well done to both centres.
Skerries Community College Raises Over €3000 With Virtual 5K
/in Corporate News /by Jennifer FarleySummer Connect Event 17th – 21 May
/in Corporate News /by Jennifer FarleyThis week we are celebrating the ‘Summer Connect Charity Week’. From Monday 17th May – Thursday 20th May, DDLETB is celebrating with an exciting program of events to raise awareness and donations for AsIAm, the charity supporting people with autism.
There are three elements to next week’s events;
1) Raising #AutismAwareness through a series of education webinars and events,
Highlights include;
a) Live into the classroom ‘Autism Awareness’ with Adam Harris (CE, AsIAm)
b) ‘Doggy Doodles’ drawing workshop for 5-10 years (CNS) with our very own Jennifer Farley.
c) ‘Autism Awareness’ – A Senior Leaders Session with AsIAm
2) Raise much-needed funds for our charity partner #AsIAm, click here to donate (online only);
We are hoping to raise as much money as possible for #AsIAm in two ways;
a) Ask your school/college/centre/service to participate in a fundraising event.
b) Attend one of our online sessions and donate to the #AsIAm donation page.
3) Celebrate our successes this year in @DDLETB through our ‘A Year in the Life’ video montages.
Thanks so much for all the photos we have received for ‘A Year in the Life’. We will play the videos live on Thursday 20th May during our ‘Main Event’. You will receive a specific time for your video playback in the coming days. We would ask that your school/college/centre/service would tune in live to the event.
We look forward to seeing you all online and get involved via social media;
1) Use social media to follow and capture all activities using @DDLETB @AsIAm #TeamDDLETB #AutismAwareness
2) Show your support using a ‘Twibbon’, click here for further details.
Ignite – Youth Development Through Sport
/in Corporate News /by Jennifer FarleyIGNITE is a super programme for people aged 18–24 years old with an interest in Sport. It’s a full-time course, Monday – Friday and a training allowance is provided. It takes place at Brookfield Youth & Community Centre in Tallaght, Dublin 24.
IGNITE is designed to engage young people by combining the key elements of sport, youth work and education. The programme will enable participants to gain the skills and confidence to return to education or further training or progress to employment by learning new skills that will help them progress on this pathway. It will also empower the young people to become more involved in sporting opportunities in their own local communities.
On completion of IGNITE young people will receive accreditation from at least five sporting bodies in a variety of sports, complete a QQI level 3 module in interviewing skills & have an increased awareness of key skills including communication, problem-solving & teamwork.
The young people participating in this programme will have an opportunity to learn and grow in a safe but challenging environment within their own community
Elements of IGNITE include:
Coaching Certificates
– Rock Climbing Indoor Assistant Cert
Other Certificates
Workshops
To find out more about the exciting opportunity in sports development, Contact
Darren Bruton,
Sports Officer
DDLETB Youth & Sport
Development Services
Mobile 087 218 0941
When You Need To Talk – 50808
/in Corporate News /by Jennifer FarleyDDLETB is delighted to partner with 50808 which provides a free, 24/7 listening service. Text ETB to 50808 to start a conversation.
50808 provides a safe space where you’re listened to by a trained Crisis Volunteer. You’ll text back and forth, only sharing what you feel comfortable with. By asking questions, listening to you and responding with support, they will help you sort through your feelings until you both feel you are now in a calm, safe place.
ISSUES 50808 CAN HELP WITH
We are here to listen to you about any issue you want to talk about. Some of the most common reasons people reach out to us include:
Anxiety
Abuse
Bullying
Depression
Loneliness
Panic attacks
Relationship problems
Self-harm
Stress
Suicidal thoughts
Remember – we’re here to listen to whatever is going on for you.
Text ETB to 50808 to start a conversation
50808 is anonymous, free and here for you 24/7.