Getting on the technology bus

I have just spent a full day at the Reflections Training Academy in Bristol. It was great to see how an assessment centre operating in a vocational area not renowned for its use of technology has fully embraced the use of computers.


When I first visited this centre there was only a small IT suite and a limited use of laptops, today I visited a centre with computer suites located in between the training rooms and most impressive of all a full bank of computers alongside the student’s chill out area.


Alongside this transformation of the infrastructure of the centre is the adoption of an e-portfolio that is now used by all learners, assessors and verifiers. Reaching this point has not been easy. The training manager Carolyn Spence recently described the learning ‘journey’ in these terms.


‘Reflections Training Academy decided it was important for us to begin our journey on the “Technology Bus” and although it has been challenging with individuals occasionally feeling they would like to get off at the next stop or hide at the back of the bus, particularly at the beginning of the journey, we have continued to listen and respond to all our “passengers” with the invaluable support of the NVQnow team, who continuously improve the comfort of the ride. We very much feel all our staff are now seated comfortably on the bus along with the majority of our Learners. Although it is clear that a remaining few of our Learners and our partner employers have only just boarded the bus and are currently standing up in the aisles, we are continuing to work hard together to get everyone seated comfortably on this ever forward moving journey that Reflections Training Academy are fully committed to making a great success.’


What is clear from my visit today is that they are now transforming their technology bus from an old London double-decker into a fully equipped luxury coach. It is a great tribute to vision and commitment of the whole team.