New Training Manager Appointment

BWF newly appointed Training Manager Ian Gurling talks about his previous roles and experiences and how he will use these to drive forward the training and skills agenda for BWF members.

I have a wealth of experience in training and development from the education sector, working in areas such as, management, service provision and education strategy. This has enabled me to support business growth in a range of industries and sectors. I understand the needs of both learners and employers and how to use the education of the workforce to build on business success.

Prior to joining the BWF I worked for the Fire Industry Association (FIA) holding various positions starting as the Training Manager and then moving on to Awarding Organisation Manager with responsibilities to the regulators for qualifications across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. As a result, I understand the regulatory requirements placed on qualifications including vocational learning with the Regulated Qualification Framework (RQF) and National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ), Apprenticeships and T-Levels. I have worked as a member of and with the Federation of Awarding Bodies, sharing knowledge and experience of offering qualifications within a regulatory framework, contributed to the Richard review which led to his recommendations for the Apprenticeship Framework. I am a Fellow of the Institute of Continuing Professional Development (Inst CPD) illustrating my commitment to lifelong learning and to helping others in achieving their goals through education.

I understand the importance of developing specialist training needs and have been able to implement managed training programmes where the need has been identified. Previously I introduced a program of Driver NVQ’s to a UK transport logistics company where at the same time I also qualified as an internal assessor.

My role will be to continue to build on the programmes identified by the BWF for development of skills and training within the woodworking and joinery sector, ensuring that the industry needs are met. I will continue to grow the already strong relationship with CITB and all our relevant stakeholders, to facilitate and lead on industry programmes and helping member companies with their training requirements and enquiries.

I am a passionate educationalist and get the most joy from the pin drop moment when a learner realises the applications and benefits of something they are being taught. My aim is to work with you, the BWF members and professionals working in the sector, to achieve the highest professional standards and the personal professional success to which you aim.

For all training queries please contact Ian at ian.gurling@bwf.org.uk