The charity Gate Safe reports that enquiries are on a par with traditional training for its Gate Safe Aware Distance Learning module, launched in April, after the need to cancel face-to-face training due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The online course is now fully digital, allowing the training pack and follow-up test all to be issued and marked via specialist software. The distance learning module aimed at installers covers automated gate – and barrier – safety, via an interactive on-line two-hour tutorial led by Gate Safe Technical and Training advisor Rob Williams. Gate Safe is recommending that all delegates taking the distance learning should follow up with a (free) face-to-face training session within six months to access the full suite of Gate Safe Aware installer benefits and a one-year listing on the Gate Safe Aware Installer Register.
The course also is for installers who may find it difficult to attend regular face-to-face training, regardless of coronavirus.
Feedback from some who have taken the course:
‘The training was good, and I found the fact that it was delivered on a 1-1 basis particularly helpful. This made it easy to ask questions as and when they cropped up and if any technical terminology was used that I wasn’t familiar with, it could be explained straight away, something that is not so easy to achieve in a classroom setting. Now I know what safety issues I should be looking out for on an automated gate or barrier, I’d definitely recommend to anyone involved in installing / maintaining gates and also sales staff associated with this industry. As a practicing electrician, this provided a good foundation knowledge for me to work from.’
– Lee Straney, Straney Trix Group
‘The Distance learning training was very informative, and I feel that I gained a lot from taking part in it. The trainer, Rob Williams, explained everything to me in an easy to understand manner and he had a nice, friendly approach. The training pack was sent out to me in advance so I could prepare ahead of the actual training date. Rob then went through all of the information with me before I was asked to take the test, answering all of my questions along the way.’
– Russell Phillpotts, Pepmore Ltd
‘At SAS Projects, we are committed to always delivering a superior service – and that means adhering to the highest standards of safety and best practice. The Gate Safe Aware Distance learning provided an ideal opportunity to improve my knowledge and understanding of this specialist sector. I liked the fact that the training was actually more like a one-to-one session with your own tutor. Unlike some distance learning experiences, this felt very real and it was great to talk and interact with a real person! The training was very professional and has given me more confidence when it comes to installing and maintaining gates. And if I ever do have any queries, I now have peace of mind that I can access the Gate Safe technical helpline for specialist guidance and advice.’
– Owen John, SAS Projects
Gate Safe Founder Richard Jackson said: “Of course the current social distancing restrictions have been a major catalyst in terms of fast-tracking the launch of this training, but in reality, this is an initiative that has been on our radar for some time. Following the success of the current Distance Training module, we have plans to extend this learning to other modules, so watch this space!”
Details of upcoming distance training event dates can be found at https://gate-safe.org/training/. Training is charged at £225 + VAT per delegate, which also includes further face-to-face training later.
