Pathfinder International Magazine – the leading UK Military Resettlement Magazine

Category: Education and Training

Gain insights into educational advancements and professional training opportunities, including project management, leadership, and teaching strategies for career growth.

  • Developing Leaders In The Armed Forces Community

    Developing Leaders In The Armed Forces Community

    Forces in Mind Trust has pledged support for six funded Specialist Fellowships on Clore Social Leadership’s 2020 Experienced Leader Programme. The one-year programme, starting in January, is open to individuals with six or more years’ experience as a social sector leader…

    Building on the success and learning from five years of partnership with Clore Social Leadership, the Forces in Mind Trust (FiMT) Fellowships will promote leadership within and connections between the military and social sectors. The programme is aimed at those who have ambition to drive social change in their communities and organisations and have an interest in the Armed Forces Community.

    Anna Wright, CEO of Naval Families Federation is an FiMT-funded Fellow: “I found [the Experienced Leader Programme] to be really inspiring and enjoyable. I met some wonderful people also in leadership roles but operating in different spheres to the military charity sector. It was fascinating and very informative to hear how things are done differently.

    “My two deputies participated in [another Clore Social Leadership Programme]. I believe that we have all ‘grown’, as a result, to the benefit of our organisation. We are certainly more outward-looking and more collaborative with other organisations. I believe we are more ambitious in terms of setting goals that will benefit our beneficiaries.”

    The programme helps build social leadership capabilities, confidence, effectiveness, self-awareness, resilience and overall impact through working with others. It comprises a number of activities including executive coaching, action learning and a secondment.

    Shaks Ghosh CBE, Chief Executive of Clore Social Leadership, said: “We are delighted to announce our continued partnership with Forces in Mind Trust to support our 2020 Experienced Leader Programme. Through investing in the development of their leaders, the Armed Forces and Service Charities sector highlights the importance of like-minded organisations working together to address shared challenges.”

    Ray Lock CBE, Chief Executive of Forces in Mind Trust, said: “We are delighted to continue to support Clore Social Leadership’s Experienced Leader Programme. We have seen how the programme has continued to deliver excellent results which have benefited the Fellows, their respective organisations and most importantly, the people with whom they work, namely the Armed Forces Community.

    “This is a unique funding model that enables the sub-sector to mutually support individual organisations to become collectively stronger. It’s another example of the collaboration between the Armed Forces charities which is at the forefront of civil society. By investing in the leaders of today, we are increasing the capability of the military and social sectors to make lasting change.”

    Applications close on 18 November 2019. For more information and to apply, visit the website here.

  • Soldiering On Awards Deadline Approaches

    Soldiering On Awards Deadline Approaches

    2020 is the 10th anniversary of the Soldiering On Awards, designed to honour and recognise many truly inspirational people and teams, highlighting the outstanding achievements of current and former service men and women, their families and all those who support the Armed Forces Community…

    Please consider the categories below and think “Who do you know?” that is worthy of honouring within the community?

    1 Family Values Award – sponsored by The Garnett Foundation
    Honouring a person, family or group whose selfless commitment, dedication and support for others in the Armed Forces Community ensures that they are cared for, supported or helped. This selfless act is therefore a shining example to society and should be recognised.

    2 Working Together Award – sponsored by Forces in Mind Trust
    Honouring a person, team or organisation that has demonstrated an enduring commitment and a collaborative approach, engaging with external organisations to support the sector within the wider community.

    3 Education, Training and Development Award – sponsored by Capita
    Recognising excellence in the provision of vocational education, training or skills in support of preparatory, ongoing or transitional development for members of the wider Armed Forces Community.

    4 Healthcare & Rehabilitation Award – sponsored by Redwood Technologies Group
    Honouring a person or team that has demonstrated a major commitment and contribution in support of the physical or mental welfare of serving or former members of the armed forces community. This may be through healthcare, therapeutic treatment or rehabilitation services and support.

    5 Sporting Excellence Award – sponsored by Spectra Group
    Honouring a person or team that has overcome challenges, inspired others and demonstrated outstanding achievement in the field of sport.

    6 Inspiration Award – sponsored by NatWest
    Honouring a person or group that has overcome significant challenges, injury or disability, and whose ongoing or past outstanding achievements are an inspiration to others.

    7 Animal Partnership Award (Public Vote) – sponsored by Pets At Home
    Honouring the unique relationships and companionship provided by animals, and/or the achievements of individuals or organisations engaged with animals that support and/or empower members of the Armed Forces Community.

    8 Defence Inclusivity Award – sponsored by Landmarc
    Recognising the commitment and achievements of individuals and organisations in achieving greater diversity and inclusion throughout the Armed Forces Community.

    9 Lifetime Achievement Award – sponsored by Greenwich Hospital
    Honouring a person or group whose lifetime of dedicated service has provided a significant contribution in support of the Armed Forces Community.

    10 Business of the Year – Start Up Award – sponsored by GKN Aerospace
    Honouring a new business that was started by an individual linked with the armed forces who still retains a minimum of 51% interest in the venture, and that has been in business for less than two years (after 1 Oct 2017).

    11 Business of the Year – Scale Up Award – sponsored by The London Stock Exchange
    Honouring a business that was established over two years ago (before 1st Oct 2017), started by an individual linked with the armed forces who still retains a minimum of 51% interest in the venture.

    12 Business of the Year – Community Impact Award – sponsored by Cisco
    Honouring a business that was started up by an individual linked with the armed forces, that has a made a real impact within the Armed Forces Community.

    13 People’s Choice Award – sponsored by Oracle
    Selected by the Independent Judging Panel from the nominations across all Award categories, to represent the diversity and capture the spirit of the Armed Forces Community’s Soldiering On Awards.

    You can register your interest and start your nomination here at any time, however, it must be completed and submitted with the full knowledge and approval of the nominee by midnight on 30th September 2019.

  • Minister Extends Language Training To Senegalese Forces

    Minister Extends Language Training To Senegalese Forces

    During a recent visit to West Africa, Armed Forces Minister Mark Lancaster announced that the UK has extended its English language training for members of the Senegalese Armed Forces…

    The programme will continue to ‘train the trainer’, with further groups of Senegalese troops upskilled so they can lead language courses for other Senegalese Armed Forces personnel. Over the last three years, the UK has so far trained 680 Senegalese personnel, readying them for deployment to international peacekeeping operations.

    Armed Forces Minster Mark Lancaster said: “The UK has always been a key partner in West Africa and we have maintained strong, generational relationships across the area. It is beneficial for all our friends and partners in the region that we continue to support peace, development, and prosperity.

    “Senegal plays a vital role in peacekeeping missions across Africa and soon our troops will work side by side with them as part of the UN mission in Mali. By extending this training, we’re supporting our Senegalese partners to fulfil their important international commitments.”

    Lancaster travelled to Senegal for a meeting with his Senegalese counterpart, Mr Sidiki Kaba. He welcomed the growing UK and Senegal defence relationship, demonstrated by the Royal Marines providing important training to the Senegalese Navy’s Marine Special Forces.

    The Minister also commended the vital role that Senegal plays in the UN Mission in Mali, supporting some of world’s most vulnerable people. The UK has recently announced that it will be committing an additional 250 troops to the operation. The British troops will work alongside the 1,200 Senegalese troops and over 300 police officers currently deployed.

  • Recognising The Contribution Of The Armed Forces Community

    Recognising The Contribution Of The Armed Forces Community

    Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Johnny Mercer MP, joined individuals and organisations from across the Armed Forces community to launch the opening of nominations for the 10th annual Soldiering On Awards…

    The event, attended by previous winners, finalists and charity and sponsor supporters from across the whole community, highlighted the importance of recognising the ongoing positive contribution made to society by those who have served, their families, organisations and fellow members of the Armed Forces Community who support them.

    Key note speaker, Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Johnny Mercer MP spoke about his commitment to the Armed Forces Community, the importance of recognition and the simple act of saying “Thank you” to those who serve their communities.

    The event, hosted by The Royal British Legion, was an opportunity for guests to hear from previous nominators, finalists and winners. Also to gain hints and tips from members of the independent judges panel about how to prepare a nomination. Fellow speakers included Co-Chair of the Awards Advisory Board Lt. Col Ren Kapur MBE, Wing Commander Tal Lambert MBE, and Charles Byrne, Director General The Royal British Legion.

    The 2020 Awards taking place on 24h April 2020 will mark the 10th anniversary of the Soldiering On Awards and the first full awards cycle since becoming part of X-Forces Enterprise. During those 10 years over 120 Award Winners, teams, charities, businesses and animal partners, across a range of categories along with countless more finalists, have been recognised for their outstanding contributions.

    All nominators whose nominee reaches Finalists stage are invited to the Finalists Reception, House of Lords in February 2020.

    2020 Awards nominations are open until 30th September 2019 under the following categories:

    1. Family Values Award – sponsored by NetApp

    2. Working Together Award – sponsored by Forces in Mind Trust

    3. Education, Training and Development Award – sponsored by Capita

    4. Healthcare and Rehabilitation Award – Sponsored by Redwood Technologies Group

    5. Sporting Excellence Award – Sponsored by Spectra Group

    6. Inspiration Award – Sponsor ed by NatWest

    7. Animal Partnership Award – Sponsored by Pets at Home

    8. Defence Inclusivity Award – Sponsored by Landmarc

    9. Lifetime Achievement Award – Sponsored by Greenwich Hospital

    10. Business of the Year – Start Up Award – Sponsored by GKN Aerospace

    11. Business of the Year – Scale Up Award – sponsor London Stock Exchange Group

    12. Business of the Year – Community Impact Award – Sponsored by Cisco

    13. People’s Choice Award – Sponsored by The Garnett Foundation

    CEO of X-Forces Enterprise and Co-Chair Soldiering On Awards Lt. Col. Ren Kapur MBE said: “The Soldiering On Awards highlight how the can-do attitude and spirit of Armed Forces community members continues to contribute to society whether you have served or part of services community.

    “These remarkable role models deserve all the recognition and are an inspiration to society at large. In addition, all award-winners will receive tailored support through the XFE ‘3:6:12’ programme for the next stage of their journeys, including promotion, knowledge exchange or connections. Who do you know who deserves to be recognised?”

    Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Johnny Mercer MP said: “Every year the Soldiering on Awards mark the extraordinary stories and achievements which are taking place across the armed forces community. Whether it’s ex-forces personnel starting a new business, or the important contribution military charities make, these awards always show off the best of Britain”.

    The Director General of the Royal British Legion Charles Byrne said: “The Royal British Legion is a huge advocate and supporter of the Soldiering On Awards. The UK’s military personnel and their families are some of the most dedicated in society, and it is wonderful for people to have this opportunity to recognise their outstanding achievements.

    “The awards do a great job of highlighting all the individuals and organisations that deliver support to the Armed Forces community, whatever their contributing role. Together we can ensure that this year’s event is a tremendous celebration of those who have served and those who support them.”

    To make a nomination, or find out more about the Awards go to www.soldieringon.org

  • Frontier Risks Adds To Growing List Of Exhibitors At Nottingham Expo

    Frontier Risks Adds To Growing List Of Exhibitors At Nottingham Expo

    Security Risk Management experts, Frontier Risks, has signed up as one of the latest exhibitors for the Pathfinder International Armed Forces & Veterans Resettlement Expo in Nottingham.

    Taking place at the Albert Hall Conference Centre on Thursday October 3, the free event sees an array of advice on offer for the service leaver, veteran and families of both. Now Security Risk Management can be added to that list, with the inclusion of Derbyshire based Frontier Risks.

    Home of the world’s leading practical training course in Security Risk Management Consultancy, the SRMC ™. Frontier Risks Group is an amalgamation of a number of leading companies in their fields, guided by a team of equal experience and expertise in their respective domains; from Security and Crisis Management, Corporate Risk, Intelligence and Analysis, Compliance, Workplace Investigations, Trauma Response and Training Consultancy.

    Entry to the expo is free, with doors open from 0930 until 1330. Registration for the event can be made via this link.

    For more information on Frontier Risks please see their website at: https://www.frontierrisks.com/

     

     

  • Who Do You Know?

    Who Do You Know?

    The organisers of the Soldiering On Awards are hosting a ‘Who Do You Know?’ event on 28th August at The Royal British Legion HQ in London where they will provide information and guidance to help write a winning nomination for the 2020 awards…

    The event will take the form of a late afternoon workshop, aimed at providing groups, organisations and other potential nominators with information and guidance that they will need to make their Soldiering On Awards 2020 nominations effective.

    The organisers are particularly keen to engage with Case workers, Social Media and Communications teams from supporting sponsors, charities and groups within the wider Armed forces Community, as well as previous nominators, finalists and winners, to drive publicity and extend the reach of the Awards as widely as possible.

    The event will briefly comprise:

    • 15.45 Registration. Tea and coffee on arrival
    • 16:15 Start – presentations / workshop.
    • 17:30 Networking and refreshments.
    • 19:00 Close

    Attendees will hear from previous Awards nominators and Finalists to give insight into what it has meant for them, as well as from the Judges, to explain the Awards categories and judging criteria, and give guidance on what makes for a good and effective nomination submission.

    Please visit the Soldiering On Awards website for more information. If you would like to attend, please contact Jan Taylor here.

    Soldiering On Awards nominations are open until 30th September.

  • Get Recognition For Someone Who Inspires You

    Get Recognition For Someone Who Inspires You

    Nominations for the 10th anniversary Soldiering On Awards are well underway and the organisers have been thrilled with the response so far…

    The quality of the nominations received so far is such that the judges are going to have a tough time deciding who to shortlist this year when they convene in September. Make their job even harder by nominating a special person or organisation that inspires you.

    If you think that someone has done a fantastic job of supporting the military community and deserves to be honoured, this is your chance!

    Over the next few weeks Soldiering On Awards will be showcasing previous winners and finalists on their website so you can see how the benefits of being nominated can reach farther than simply receiving a trophy.

    Neil Deaville is a brilliant example of a Lifetime Achievement Award Winner – a Royal British Legion Standard Bearer for 55 years! And since winning, he’s even had a beer named after him! Read his story here.

    There’s a whole host of opportunities for winners – including a business support package from X-Forces Enterprise that will really help to increase your nominee’s visibility and help them to spread their important message.

    This is a real chance for you to help someone you admire to shine! Whether it’s a person, group, organisation or business, you’ll definitely find a category that suits – see them here!

  • Spotlight On Veterans With VAPC Appointment

    Spotlight On Veterans With VAPC Appointment

    Janis Mumford, Head of Integrated Services based in Leicester, has been appointed to the role of Chairperson of the East of England Veterans Advisory and Pensions Committee…

    After a rigorous selection process, which involved being interviewed by the Head of Veteran’s UK, Janis received the appointment by the Secretary of State.

    The role of the committee is to provide assistance to veterans and create awareness of their needs. They also review government initiatives regarding the veteran’s community and provide informed, factual advice to the ministry. The ultimate aim is to respond to veterans’ needs and issues within their particular region whilst at all times retaining their independence and integrity.

    HEE has a mandate to support both veterans and reservists armed forces, so this appointment is pertinent to the work that we do. Veteran’s health is also close to Janis’s heart, after spending 7 years in the Women’s Royal Naval Service and as a member of the Royal Naval Patrol Service Association. Janis is also still in touch with friends and family who served with the Royal Navy for long periods of time.

    There is ongoing research into veterans and the issues that they, and their families, face and the Forces in Mind Trust Research Centre affiliated to the Veterans and Families Institute for Military and Social Research is a good place to start for anyone who might be interested in finding out more.

    On her appointment, Janis said: “I was absolutely delighted to be offered this opportunity and I really do see us making difference to the lives of veterans. Veterans are not a homogenous group. We have veterans from World War 2, the Falklands, the Gulf War, and Afghanistan/Iraq. The demographic and needs of these groups differ widely, as one might imagine.”

  • Trauma Awareness Training For Charities

    Trauma Awareness Training For Charities

    PTSD Resolution offers half and one-day workshops nationwide to introduce charity HR and line managers to the issue of trauma: what it is, how to recognise it, and pathways to resolve it…

    The course is invaluable in enabling forces’ charities to help veterans, reservists and families who may be suffering from mental health issues caused by military trauma. PTSD Resolution offers free therapy to forces’ veterans and families through a nationwide network, and has had over 2,500 referrals to date.

    The TATE (Trauma Awareness Training for Employers) course enables attendees to:

    • Recognise post-traumatic symptoms
    • Understand the effects of trauma on human behaviour
    • Engage with traumatised people to explore practical options
    • Identify a clear route to resolving difficulties caused by trauma

    Click here for more information.

  • Legion Elects First Female National Chairman

    Legion Elects First Female National Chairman

    The Royal British Legion has announced the appointment of its new National President, Lieutenant General James Bashall CB CBE, and the election of the charity’s first female National Chairman, Una Cleminson BEM TD, both of whom took up their roles at the end of this year’s Royal British Legion Annual Conference…

    The figurehead role of the Legion’s National President is the most senior representative of the charity, it is normally held by a senior retired officer, and rotates every three years between the military services. Lt Gen James Bashall took over the role in mid-May and immediately assumed duties for the commemorations of the 75th anniversary of the D-Day Landings, marked during the week of 6 June 2019.

    Following 34 years service, Lt Gen James Bashall retired from the Regular Army in October 2018. During his career he commanded the 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment, the 1st Mechanised Brigade, and the 1st (UK) Armoured Division, deploying to Germany, Afghanistan, South Armagh, Iraq and Libya to name a few. He later held positions as Chief of Staff at Permanent Joint Headquarters, Director Personnel at Army Headquarters, Commander Home Command.

    Lt Gen James Bashall CB CBE said: “Throughout my military service the Legion has been a constant, championing the unique contribution of the Armed Forces community, providing life-changing support, and ensuring the sacrifice and service of those who have gone before is honoured and remembered. I am very much committed to and enthused by serving the charity during its centenary and supporting its staff while we look ahead to the next 100 years.”

    The role of National Chairman of The Royal British Legion is elected by its membership once every three years. The National Chairman is an active position, leading the Board of Trustees and representing the Legion’s interests both internationally and across the UK. Having served for three years as the Legion’s National Vice-Chairman, Una Cleminson started her duties as Chairman at the close of the organisation’s Annual Conference this year.

    Una has a long and rich history with Legion, and started her involvement collecting for the Poppy Appeal at the age of 16. She was aware of the Legion’s welfare work, especially at that time with First World War veterans, and subsequently joined the organisation’s membership in the 1970s. During her military career Una was a Major in the Territorial Army’s unit field hospital and worked for 18 years as a sister at the Hospice of St Francis in Berkhamsted.

    Una Cleminson BEM TD said: “I am immensely proud to be the first female National Chairman of The Royal British Legion. The Legion is a hugely progressive organisation, with women holding roles of influence and responsibility on our Board of Trustees and Executive Board for decades, and I am pleased we can continue to demonstrate equality in our most senior roles with my election to National Chairman.

    “I look forward to the challenges involved in the role. I feel a special connection with the Legion’s work in the field of mental health and wellbeing, and I am particularly keen to ensure we continue to break down stigmas and reach out to those most in need of our support.”

    The newly appointed National President and elected National Chairman will serve in their roles until May 2022, and throughout the Legion’s centenary in 2021.