Ofqual swaps regulation for transportation
Wednesday, 17 November 2010 12:16
Senior staff from Ofqual, took a break from regulation recently and turned their hand to transportation instead, as part of a visit to one of Northern Ireland's leading training academies.
Isabel Nisbet, Chief Executive of Ofqual, together with her colleagues from Ofqual's Northern Ireland office, visited Translink, the integrated public transport operation of Citybus, NI Railways, and Ulsterbus based in Belfast.
The visit focussed on the new state-of-the art Rail Operations Training Academy (ROTA) which designs and delivers bespoke training programmes tailored to meet the needs of all Translink operational staff, as well as ensuring that the organisation meets its safety responsibilities.
Among the qualifications offered at ROTA is an NVQ Level 2 in Railway Operations which is delivered through a partnership with a UK supplier and accredited by Ofqual. During her visit, Isabel was able to hear from employees currently studying for this qualification. Isabel also had the chance to test out the new simulated train.
Isabel Nisbet comments: "My visit to ROTA demonstrated first hand just how well this organisation understands that significant investment in effective recruitment, training and competency management is key to delivering a first class rail service.
"I was particularly impressed by the driver/signaller simulator smartboard technology but I have to admit the highlight of my visit was being able to drive a train from Belfast to Whiteabbey; albeit in a simulated train. This innovative driving and signalling simulation equipment which enables NI Railways employees to train in a safe and risk-free environment encapsulates the importance Translink places on training and I am delighted that this investment was rewarded when Translink won the 'Company of the Year' at Goskill's 'Go for Excellence Awards' last year."
Notes to editors:
- Ofqual is the independent regulator of qualifications, examinations and assessments in England and vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland.
- Translink is one of Northern Ireland's largest employers with approximately 4,000 employees and a turnover in excess of £168m. More than 81 million passenger journeys are made on Translink services each year.
- Rota is a £1.7 million training academy, funded by the Department for Regional Development with more than £1.2 million of the investment being put towards the procurement of innovative driving and signaling simulation equipment.
- A photo taken at the visit is attached. From left to right: Isabel Nisbet, Chief Executive, Ofqual, Barry Love, Driver Assessor, Translink and Richard Wheater, Business Adviser, GoSkills Sector Skills Council.
