THE LEARNING LADDER The FBU s WULF project has funding available until 31 st March 2018. It is hoped that there will be a further round of WULF funding launched in 2017 for the period 2018 2020 and that the FBU will be able to secure continuation funding through that process. The project is about to go through a transition period due to staff changes but this should in no way impact on members as the project will continue to deliver both workshops and distance learning opportunities now and in the coming year. The project is currently delivering a series of Mindfulness one day workshops across the three fire and rescue services. So what is mindfulness? Have you ever driven your car somewhere perhaps the daily commute to work and arrived only to realise that you remember nothing about your journey? Have you started eating a packet of crisps or a bar of chocolate whilst watching TV and then suddenly noticed all you had left in your hands was an empty packet? These are not uncommon experiences most of us will have experienced them at one time or another and are common examples of Mindlessness or a state referred to being on Autopilot Research shows that the average person slips into autopilot 47% of the time and in this busy, hyper connected world we live in it s all too easy to lose ourselves in autopilot for much of the day.every day.
What is Mindfulness then it s a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations it can be used as a therapeutic technique. It is a topic that is being embraced by many organisations as well as individuals with the objective of improving health and wellbeing for the benefit of both the individual. Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness can have many benefits include reducing stress and boosting the immune system s ability to fight off illness. Mindfulness has been trialled in the US Marine Corps and it was found that "those Marines who trained in mindfulness experienced improved mood and working memory. Under pressure, they were more capable of complex thought and problem solving and they had better control of their emotions. In the North American Fire services, mindfulness training is being investigated as a resource for dealing with stress, for improving situational awareness and helpful interrelations. In these workshop participants will discuss stress and stress vulnerability and be introduced to the concept of mindfulness, guided in several mindfulness practices and invited to reflect on the experience. The mindfulness workshops will take place at the following dates and venues. If you would like to attend please contact nigel.williamson@fbu.org.uk Friday 10 th March 2017 0930-1600 Caer Suite Fire Service HQ Carmarthen Thursday 23 rd March 2017 0930 1600 Rhyl Community Fire Station Friday 24 th March 2017 0930-1600 Caer Suite Fire Service HQ Carmarthen Wednesday 29 th March 2017 0930 1600 Cardiff gate training and development Centre Details of workshops and distance learning courses plus news can be found by checking out the FBU s website together with information on topics such as dyslexia support www.fbueducation.org Region 8 Wales
Interested in learning Are you interested in learning either to gain a qualification that can be added to your personal CV as evidence of your knowledge and abilities or out of a personal interest in a particular topic? The FBU s WULF Project The Learning Ladder will once again be offering the opportunity to FBU members and other employees of the fire and rescue services to express an interest in study for one of the following distance learning qualifications: Level 2 Certificate Nutrition and Health Level 2 Award in Occupational Health & Safety Level 2 Certificate in the Awareness of Mental Health Problems Level 2 Certificate in Team Leading Knowledge Level 2 Certificate in Equality & Diversity Level 2 Certificate Information Advice and Guidance Level 2 Certificate Working with people with learning disabilities Level 2 Certificate in Common Health Conditions Level 2 Certificate in the principles of Dementia Care Level 2 Certificate in Autism Awareness Level 2 Certificate Customer Service Knowledge Level 2 Certificate in the understanding End of Life Care The distance learning courses are not an on-line or e-learning method of learning, but do offer the same flexibility to students in terms of managing study time and adapting those studies into their work life balance. The principle is similar to that of an NVQ as the student works to build up a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates their competencies against set standards to achieve the qualification. Assessments are based on a combination of knowledge and skills learned on the programme and are submitted for assessment in line with an agreed timeframe. Your allocated tutor will provide feedback and advice and guidance to assist you in completing the course you have chosen. The closing date for that process will be Friday 31 st March 2017. Once the expression of interest period is concluded, courses will be allocated and individuals contacted to determine if they wish to pursue their interest. The next stage is the enrolment process which is conducted by a face to face meeting where the student is provided with the course materials and an explanation of how the information relates to the assessment process and what is required of them in terms of their study commitment. At this stage all the required enrolment forms are completed and signed with the whole process taking in the region of half an hour. Whilst we will do all we can to provide assistance to individuals during the course of their studies students should be aware that although the course comes free of charge to them it is not without cost. Funding is provided by the Welsh Government through the Wales Union Learning Fund programme. In certain circumstances the individual student could be liable for some or all of the course costs if they fail to fulfil their side of the learning agreement by making every endeavour to complete the learning on which they have set out.
Level 1 Award in Exercise Studies This is the only qualification that we are currently able to offer at level 1. This is a basic course and a great way to get into studying via the distance learning delivery style. It is seen as a great way to prepare to study for the level 2 nutrition and health course and although there is no requirement to undertake this course first we would recommend that you do so. The course is divided into three assessments: Unit 1: Understand the principles of exercise and fitness This unit looks at what fitness is, how it is achieved and the importance of correct diet and nutrition. Learners will look at health and fitness, different food groups and the components of a balanced diet plus the effects of exercise on different body systems. Unit 2: Demonstrate an understanding of safety factors relating to exercise This unit covers the elements of planning a safe exercise session and explains how to select appropriate clothing and gym equipment for certain exercise activities. Information about risk assessments and how to avoid injury is also explained. Unit 3: Apply the principles of a training programme This unit explains how to plan and evaluate a personal fitness profile and a personal training programme. Learners will understand how to re-evaluate their fitness levels and plan future exercise sessions by applying specific principles. The student will keep a diary for a three week period in which they set out how they apply what they have learned to attain an objective they have selected for themselves. Study time is allocated at 10 weeks overall with three weeks each for the first two units and then a four week period for the final unit to allow for the maintenance of the three week diary programme. On successful completion student will have achieved a level 1 award with 12 credits value.
Level 2 Certificate Nutrition and Health This course provides an opportunity to improve your knowledge and understanding of nutrition and healthy eating, offering practical advice alongside tips on how to live healthier, develop eating plans and recognising the inclusion of additives in processed food. Throughout the course, you will increase your understanding of the principles of healthy eating and the role of food in maintaining health. This qualification is an insight into food labelling, eating disorders and the role of a healthy diet for weight management. The certificate consists of six units broken down into three assessments the overall time allocated for study is 13 weeks. Assessment 1 consist of Unit 1: Explore the principles of healthy eating and is allocated three weeks study time ( 3weeks) Assessment 2 requires completion of Unit 2: Consider nutritional needs of a variety of individuals and Unit 3: Use food and nutritional information to plan a healthy diet and is allocated four weeks study time and (4 weeks in total- 2 weeks per unit ) Assessment 3 consists of the final three units and is allocated six weeks study time : Unit 4: The principles of weight management Unit 5: Understanding eating disorders Unit 6: Principles of food safety for the home environment. ( 6 weeks in total 2 weeks per unit) The learning materials contain the knowledge needed to meet the assessment requirements for the course and the activities allow you to practice your skills and test your learning. On successful completion the individual will attain a level 2 certificate in Nutrition and Health with 12 credits value
Level 2 Award in Occupational Health and Safety Health and Safety was the first qualification that we offered when we piloted the distance learning scheme and it still attracts students. If you have a limited or no back ground knowledge of health and safety legislations this can be a good course to help you put those foundations in place. If you are interested in becoming a health and safety representative or have taken up the branch position this will provide you with the basic information that will assist you in your role. The emphasis is on making the employee safe and capable of identifying potential hazards to themselves and others in the workplace. Health and Safety takes as its starting point the fact that most accidents are attributable to a lack of knowledge or carelessness and that the key to improvement is increased awareness on everybody s part. The course consists of five units and five assessments and is allocated 12 weeks for study and completion. Unit 1: Health and Safety in the workplace (3 weeks) Unit 2 : Fire Safety Principles (3 weeks) Unit 3: DSE Risk Assessment (2 weeks) Unit 4: COSHH Risk Assessment (2 weeks) Unit 5: Manual Handling Safety at work (2 weeks) On successful completion the individual will attain a level 2 Award in Occupation Health and Safety with 8 credits value
Level 2 Certificate in the Awareness of Mental Health problems This is one of our most popular courses and students have been very positive indeed about the way the course is set out and the standard and breadth of information provided. The course is designed to raise your understanding and awareness of mental health and the problems that can cause mental illness. During your studies you will consider a range of different mental health issues, looking at the causes of the issues as well as how mental health problems can be managed and treated. The certificate consists of four assessments submissions and has thirteen individual units and is allocated sixteen weeks for completion of study. On successful completion the individual will attain a level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems with 13 credits value Assessment A: (4 weeks study time) Unit 1 Understanding mental health Unit 2: Understanding stress, Unit 3: Understanding anxiety Assessment B: (4 weeks study time) Unit 4: Understanding phobias Unit 5: Understanding depression Unit 6: Understanding post-natal depression Assessment C: (4 weeks study time) Unit 7: Understanding bipolar disorder Unit 8: Understanding schizophrenia Unit 9: Understanding dementia Assessment D: (4 weeks study time) Unit 10: Understanding eating disorders Unit 11: Understanding ADHA Unit 12: Understanding OCD Unit 13: Understanding PTSD
Level 2 Certificate Team Leading Knowledge Another popular course that provides an insight into the roles and functions of the team leader. This is not a fire service specific qualifications but a generic course that looks at the concepts of team leading. The course comprises of three assessments covering eight units of work and is allocated a study time frame of 16 weeks duration. This level 2 course will provide you with an insight into the roles and functions of a team leader. By developing the skills you need to deal with key areas revolving around team leading such as; challenges within a team, maintaining a harmonious working environment and supporting effective teamwork. You will develop your understanding of how to be an effective team leader. This programme will teach you how to; support the development of team members, set objectives, improve communication and team motivation. Also maintain the health, safety and security of yourself and your team as well as other core abilities of a team leader. Assessment A: (4 Weeks in total 2 weeks per unit) Unit 01: Principles of team leading Unit 02: Understanding business Assessment B: (6 Weeks in total 2 weeks per unit) Unit 03: Understand how to communicate work-related information Unit 04: Understand how to manage performance and conflict in the workplace Unit 05: Principles of equality and diversity in the workplace Assessment C: (6 Weeks in total 2 weeks per unit) Unit 06: Understand how to develop working relationships with colleagues Unit 07: Understand health and safety procedures in the workplace Unit 08: Understand how to develop and deliver a presentation On successful completion the individual will attain a level 2 Certificate in Team Leading Knowledge with 15 credits value
Level 2 Certificate Equality and Diversity Every year there are approximately 270,000 incidents of hate crime in the UK. These are crimes that usually involve violence and are committed against someone because of their disability, race, sexual orientation, religion or other type of prejudice. This qualification is ideal for an individual who wishes to gain an insight into the issues around discrimination and how anti-discrimination laws relate to equality and diversity. This course will strengthen the learner s knowledge on the best practice and make them more socially aware. Subjects that are covered in the course include personal and social identities, beliefs, values, stereotyping and labelling, prejudice and discrimination. The course is divided into two assessment: Assessment A Unit 1: Equality and Diversity in Society In this unit, learners will understand what is meant by the term equality and explore the effect of stereotyping and labelling Assessment B consists of two units Unit 2: Equality and diversity in the community This unit will help learners identify the extent of diversity that exists within a community and understand the benefits of equality and diversity. Unit 3 Equality and diversity in the workplace. This unit covers how equality and diversity can be promoted and maintained by employees, and will identify the benefits of a diverse workforce. The E&D course has an allocated study time of 10 weeks With 4 weeks being allocated to the first assessment and the remaining six weeks allocated for completion of assessment B s two units. On completion of the course you will have achieved a level 2 qualification Equality and Diversity of 18 credits
Level 2 Certificate Information, Advice and Guidance This is one of the newer range of course that we have been developing and may be of interest to anyone who as part of their role is required to assist colleagues in deciding on the next steps in their career development. The information would be of assistance to anyone who wishes to develop themselves particularly if they are interested in or are already a union learning representative. The Information, advice and guidance programme covers a range of areas, including, providing information, offering advice and signposting and supporting people in their chosen path. This course will help you to develop the skills and knowledge needed to give information, advice and guidance to both individuals and groups. The course consists of two assessment covering five units: Assessment A: (6 weeks study time 3 weeks per unit) Unit 1: Developing interaction skills for information, advice or guidance Unit 2: Information, advice or guidance in practice Assessment B: (6 weeks study time 2 weeks per unit ) Unit 3: Information, advice or guidance work with groups Unit 4: Managing information Unit 5: Signposting and referral information, advice or guidance On successful completion of the course the student will have achieved a level 2 qualification in a Certificate of Information Advice and Guidance with a credit vale of 15 credits.
Level 2 Certificate Working with people with Learning Disabilities This is a fairly recent addition to our portfolio of courses and on post learning evaluation students have been positive about the course content and the information and learning they had achieved during their studies. This qualification is targeted at people whose job role is not exclusively focused around supporting individuals with learning disabilities, but who come into contact with people as part of their job, for example in health, education, housing, leisure or employment. As well as people in community and volunteering roles who work alongside or support people with a learning disability This qualification is designed for learners with an interest in, or who are already working with individuals with learning disabilities in a variety of roles. This course is structured to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of issues surrounding different types of learning disabilities and how these affect individuals in their daily lives, including safeguarding, positive risk taking and an awareness of the autistic spectrum. The course will cover six units which are divided up into three separate assessments Each assessment is allocated 5 weeks study time making a total course duration study time frame of 15 weeks. On successful completion of the course the student will achieve a Level 2 Certificate in Working with People with Learning Difficulties with a value of 17 credits Course Assessments and Units: Assessment A: (allocated study time 4 weeks) Unit 1: Understand the context of supporting individuals with learning disabilities Unit 2: Principles of safeguarding and protection in health and social care Assessment B: (allocated study time 4 weeks) Unit 3: Introduction to personalisation in social care Unit 4: Principles of positive risk taking for individuals with disabilities Assessment C: (allocated study time 4 weeks) Unit 5: Introductory awareness of autistic spectrum conditions Unit 6: Principles of supporting individuals with a learning disability to access healthcare
Level 2 Certificate in Common Health Conditions This course is designed to raise the learner s awareness of some of the most common health conditions among older people in the UK. Learners will explore conditions such as arthritis, dementia, Parkinson s disease, sensory loss and stroke awareness. The candidate will examine the risk factors, signs, symptoms and treatment for each one and will also look at a range of strategies that can help improve the quality of life of someone living with one or more of these conditions. This level 2 course will not only give you an awareness of the signs, symptoms and treatments available for a variety of common health conditions, but you will also learn how to care for individuals and enable them to manage, monitor and control their condition. The course will cover six units which are divided up into three separate assessments Each assessment is allocated 6 weeks study time making a total course duration study time frame of 18 weeks. On successful completion of the course the student will achieve a Level 2 Certificate in understanding Common Health Conditions with a value of 15 credits Course Assessments and Units: Assessment A: (allocated study time 6 weeks) Unit 1: Understand how to contribute to monitoring the health of individuals affected by health conditions Unit 2: Understand cardiovascular disease Assessment B: (allocated study time 6 weeks) Unit 3: Understand stroke awareness Unit 4: Understand arthritis awareness Assessment C: (allocated study time 6 weeks) Unit 5: Understand physical disability Unit 6: Understand Parkinson s disease awareness
Level 2 Certificate Principles of Dementia Care Every four seconds, a new case of dementia occurs somewhere in the world. This not only affects the person themselves, but their family, friends and their entire lifestyle can be devastated by the disease. This qualification gives learners the vital knowledge to begin tackling this health crisis through understanding what dementia is and explaining how to give support to those who are affected by it. This course will ensure learners develop and gain essential knowledge about caring for people with dementia, covering the benefits of positive communication, use of medication and the importance of personcentred care. This course will ensure learners develop and gain essential knowledge about caring for people with dementia, covering the benefits of positive communication, use of medication and the importance of person-centred care. Assessment A: (allocated study time 4 weeks) Unit 1: Dementia awareness This unit explains what dementia is, the most common types of dementia and the causes associated with them. It also at how other people can have an impact on an individual with dementia. Unit 2: The person centred approach to the care and support of individuals with dementia. This looks at the knowledge and understanding required to enable an individual with dementia to experience well-being. Assessment B: (allocated study time 4 weeks) Unit 3: Understand the factors that can influence communication and interaction with individuals who have dementia. Learners will gain awareness of the different communication needs and abilities of individuals with dementia in order to encourage positive interaction. Unit 4: Understand equality, diversity and inclusion in dementia care The learners will be introduced to equality, diversity and inclusion which are all important when practicing the personcentred care approach. Assessment C: (allocated study time 6 weeks) Unit 5: Understand the administration of medication to individuals with dementia using a person centred approach This unit helps learners understand the medication available to and appropriate for individuals with dementia, and explores specific needs that some individuals may have when receiving medication Unit 6: Understand behaviour on the context of dementia Learners will look at the different behaviours of individuals with dementia and how to respond to certain types of behaviour Unit 7: Understand the benefits of engaging in activities in social care This unit explores how engaging in social activities to enhance mental, physical and social well-being can benefit individuals with dementia. The course will cover seven units which are divided up into three separate assessments Each unit is allocated 2 weeks study time making a total course duration study time frame of 14 weeks. On successful completion of the course the student will achieve a Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Dementia Care with a value of 15 credits.
Level 2 Certificate in Autism Awareness The NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Autism Awareness is designed for a wide range of learners who wish to develop their understanding of autism and the principles of supporting individuals with autism covering the person centred approach and influence of positive communication methods, how to support positive behaviour and how individuals with autism can be supported to live healthy and fulfilled lives. Assessment A : ( allocated study time 4 weeks) Unit 1: Introduction to autism Unit 2: Using a person centre approach to support individuals with autism Assessment B : ( allocated study time 4 weeks) Unit 3: Communication and social interaction in individuals with autism. Unit 4: Sensory processing, perception and cognition in individuals with autism Assessment C : ( allocated study time 4 weeks) Unit 5: Supporting positive behaviour in individuals with autism. Unit 6: Supporting individuals with autism to live healthy and fulfilled lives. The certificate consists of 6 units with each unit allocated 2 weeks of study time. The units are divided into 3 assessments papers bring the total study time up to 12 weeks. On successful completion of the course the student will achieve a Level 2 Certificate in Autism Awareness with a value of 18 credits
Level 2 Certificate Customer Service Knowledge This course will develop learners knowledge on customer service, covering areas such as; employee rights, career pathways within customer service, communicating with customers, promoting goods and services and working as a team. Unit 1: Understanding the organisation: The factors that affect an organisation and the customer service role Employee rights, responsibilities and organisational procedures Career pathways within customer service How employees are supported within their customer service roles Policies and procedures of the organisation. Unit 2: Prepare to deliver excellent customer service: The principles of customer service in an organisation How customer needs and expectations are identified Balancing customer expectations against the organisation s offer How complaints are handled Legislation relating to customer service. Unit 3: Communication in the customer service role: Methods of communication used with customers How to handle customer service information How to work as part of a team to provide effective customer service How to meet the needs of customers The importance of promoting and evaluating products and services The programme will teach learners how to successfully engage with a wide range of customers in a variation of different scenarios as well as setting out the legislation related procedures and practices to customer service delivery alongside how to satisfy customer needs and work effectively. Effective customer service skills are vital for any successful organisation dealing with external customers or partners, this course will help you to develop and improve on formal customer service knowledge enabling you to satisfy customer needs The certificate consists of 3 units with each unit allocated 4 weeks of study time. On successful completion of the course the student will achieve a Level 2 Certificate in Customer Service Knowledge with a value of 13 credits
Level 2 Certificate in understanding End of Life Care Everyone facing life-limiting illness will need some degree of supportive care in addition to effective treatment for their condition. This course is designed to provide candidates with a broad understanding of end of life and palliative care, enabling them to provide sensitive and appropriate support to people nearing the end of life and their families. The course aims to develop the learner s knowledge and understanding of: the different perspectives on death and dying; the aims of end of life care; the principles of person-centered care planning; the support needed to manage pain and discomfort; how dementia impacts on an individual s end of life care; the role of the health and social care worker at the time of death, and how to appropriately support the bereaved. This qualification will help learners identify, develop and formally recognise their knowledge and skills surrounding the care of patients, friends and families during this sensitive time of life. The course consist of 2 assessments covering 5 units each assessment is allocated 6 weeks of study time On successful completion of the course the student will achieve a Level 2 Certificate in Understanding End of Life Care with a value of 13 credits The course consists of two assessments covering the following units: Unit 1: Understand how to work in end of life care: The first unit establishes the underpinning knowledge of working around death and dying; by looking at different approaches that are present within society. Unit 2: Understand how to provide support to manage pain and discomfort: aims to inform the learner of the best methods of managing pain and discomfort in end of life care. It includes suggestions of methods the carer can use to assist those affected, alongside ways the person receiving care can be supported to help themselves. Unit 3: End of life care and dementia: focuses on dementia as a life-limiting illness, outlining some of the issues dementia can present when caring for someone at the end of their life. Unit 4: Understand the role of the care worker in time of death: A specific focus on the role of the care worker at the time when death occurs is taken in the fourth unit. It covers the necessary actions to be undertaken to respect the person s dignity, whilst upholding values held by their family and their cultural beliefs. This must all be carried out within the limits of the law and the care environment. Unit 5: Understanding Loss and Grief in End of Life Care: The final unit deals with loss and grief and how this can affect both the loved ones of the deceased and the care worker.