Technical Academy

Prospectus
Industry leading training
for your business

1 Wall lining and ceiling systems

2 Plastering and jointing systems

3 Retrofit training

4 Apprentices and upskilling

5 College Partnerships

6 Main Contractors

7 Builders Merchants & Distributors

8 ‘How to’ videos

Foreword
Since British Gypsum opened their first Training Academy
in 1966 at Erith in Kent over 50 years ago, over 500,000
days of training have been delivered through the network
of Academies throughout the UK for Installers, Suppliers,
Clients, Architects and Main Contractors.

As new and innovative products and systems have been

developed to meet regulatory requirements and keep
pace with industry building methods, so too has the need
to continuously develop training content and delivery.

Working with the Sector Skills Council for construction,

the CITB and qualification awarding bodies has been a
key area in developing qualifications that meet employers’ Dave Hall
National Technical Academy
needs in having the right skills to keep pace with change Manager
and modern methods of construction.
“Working with CITB
Consulting with Industry Federations is also paramount and qualification
to ensure Main/Sub Contractors have the flexibility awarding bodies
within their workforce to deliver on new build and has been a key
renovation projects. area in developing
qualifications
Forging close links with further education colleges that meet
throughout the UK to support new tradespeople employers’ needs”
within the Interiors Sector, is crucial to ensure lecturers
and tutors are up to date with knowledge and skills
development to give apprentices and students the best
start to a career within plastering and
drylining systems.

For further details or booking please contact

the Technical Academy:
Telephone: 0844 561 8810
Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com
British Gypsum
Technical Academy Team
East Leake
Loughborough
Leicestershire
LE12 6HX
 Please navigate by clicking on each menu item below

Short duration practical courses

We continue to deliver short duration courses through our network of Academies
throughout the UK. Attendees include tradespeople who are looking to upskill
on a range of interior system solutions to homeowners carrying out self build
projects on their own home or people who are looking for a change in their
working career.

Courses range between 1 and 3 days and equip attendees to develop practical
skills across a range of interior systems.

The range of training, business and education support

GypWall CLASSIC - Wall lining, partitions and ceiling system 4

CasoLine MF - Ceiling system 5
1 Wall lining and
CasoLine QUICK-LOCK GRID - Lay in grid ceiling system 6
ceiling systems
DriLyner - Wall lining system 7
GypLyner UNIVERSAL - Wall lining system 8

Thistle undercoat and finish coat plasters upskilling** 9

Skim finishing and basic trowel skills* 10
2 Plastering and
ThistlePro finish coat performance plasters* 11
jointing systems
Hand jointing and finishing to Gyproc plasterboards 12
Mechanical jointing and finishing 13

Training courses for ECO scheme installers 14

3 Retrofit training What is PAS 2030? 15

Sound Solutions 16

The future of training and apprenticeships in the UK 17

Diploma NVQ Level 2 Interior Systems Drylining Fixer or Finisher 18
4 Apprentices
and upskilling 9 steps to taking on an apprentice 19
Why CITB is changing how it supports the construction industry 20

Thistle Partnership 22
5 College Skill Build and WorldSkills UK 24
Partnerships
WorldSkills competitions 25

Main Contractor training 26

6 Main Contractors Site Manager’s ‘Good Practice Guide’ and mobile site management training 27
Project mock-up support for Main Contractors and Sub Contractors 28

Pure Practical - Builders Merchants and Distributors 29

Developing a blended e-learning approach to training for Builders Merchants and Distributors 30
7 Builders Merchants Advanced - Builders Merchants 31
and Distributors
Advanced - Distributors 32
Supporting business development for Builders Merchant and Distributor branches 33

‘How to’ videos 34

8 ‘How to’ videos
Training centre locations 35

*Denotes attendees need to have basic trowel skills to be able to attend a course.
**This course is aimed at Plasterers with a minimum 3 years experience in the trade who are looking to upskill in the application of 2 coat Thistle plaster systems.
Project specific bespoke courses for Thistle SprayFinish plaster, ShaftWall Systems and Fire Protection to Steelwork can be arranged on request.
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GypWall CLASSIC
Partition system
2 day course

Course objective
Develop knowledge and practical skills in the construction of Gypframe metal
framed partition systems.

Course content CITB training grants

–T
 he importance of Health and Safety including safe – Please check the CITB website for up to date course
systems of work and risk assessments grant information
 nderstand British Gypsum literature and online White
–U
Evidence towards qualifications
Book System Selector Guide in providing specifications
for GypWall partition systems performance – Course attendance certificates are issued on completion
of the course
 evelop an understanding as to the range of GypWall
–D
partition systems used in construction for domestic and – Course attendance can contribute as evidence towards
commercial applications achieving a Diploma NVQ/SVQ in interior systems
drylining fixer qualification
–U
 nderstand drawing plans prior to setting out and
installing the metal stud framework
–C
 onstruct partitions, forming doorways, openings,
T Junction, splayed angles and deflection
head details
–K
 now how to incorporate services within partitions and
maintain the system performance for service penetrations
through partition systems
–D
 evelop an understanding regarding the range of Gyproc
plasterboards used on GypWall partition systems
–U
 nderstand the range of tools required to build
GypWall partition systems

Course timing
–T
 he training course starts at 9.30am on day 1 and 9.00am
on consecutive days concluding at 4.00pm each day

Course dates and costs

– Please
 refer to british-gypsum.com/training
for current course dates and costs

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/how-to-videos

4 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
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CasoLine MF
Ceiling system
1 day course

Course objective
Develop knowledge and practical skills in the construction of
CasoLine MF ceilings.

Course content Course dates and costs

– The importance of Health and Safety including safe – Please refer to british-gypsum.com/training
systems of work and risk assessments for current course dates and costs
– Understand the differences between lay in grid ceiling
CITB training grants
systems and CasoLine MF ceiling systems
–P
 lease check the CITB website for up to date course
–U
 nderstand the methods of suspension and reasons for
grant information
fixing methods for metal furring sections to the primary
grid sections
Evidence towards qualifications
–U
 nderstand drawing plans prior to setting out and
installing the ceiling system –C
 ourse attendance certificates are issued on completion
of the course
–C
 onstruct the ceiling system forming flat ceilings and
return bulkheads –C
 ourse attendance can contribute as evidence towards
achieving a Diploma NVQ/SVQ in interior systems
– Form access hatches using CasoLine MF drylining fixer/ceiling fixer qualification
ceiling components
– Installation of pre-fabricated access panels
–U
 nderstand the principles of boarding for single and
double layer boarding
–D
 evelop an understanding regarding the range and
size of Gyproc plasterboards used on CasoLine MF
ceiling systems
–U
 nderstand the range of sound absorbent Gyptone
and Rigitone boards used with the CasoLine MF
ceiling systems
–U
 nderstand the range of tools required to build
CasoLine MF ceiling systems

Course timing
–T
 he training course starts at 9.30am concluding
at 4.00pm

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/how-to-videos

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 5

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CasoLine
QUICK-LOCK GRID
Lay in grid
ceiling system
1 day course

Course objective
Develop knowledge and practical skills in the construction of lay in grid and
concealed grid systems.

Course content CITB training grants

–T
 he importance of Health and Safety including safe – Please check the CITB website for up to date course
systems of work and risk assessments grant information
 nderstand the differences between CasoLine MF ceiling
–U
Evidence towards qualifications
systems and lay in grid ceiling systems
– Course attendance certificates are issued on completion
–U
 nderstand the methods of suspension for lay in
of the course
grid ceilings
– Course attendance can contribute as evidence towards
–U
 nderstand drawing plans prior to setting out and
achieving a Diploma NVQ/SVQ in interior systems
installing the ceiling system
drylining ceiling fixer qualification
– Determine the perimeter edge profile for rebated tiles
–C
 onstruct the ceiling system forming flat ceilings and
return bulkheads
–D
 evelop an understanding regarding the range and size
of tiles associated with lay in grid ceiling systems
–U
 nderstand the range of sound absorbent Gyptone and
Eurocoustic tiles used with the lay in grid ceiling system
– Understand the setting out for concealed grid systems
–U
 nderstand the range of tools required to build lay in
grid ceiling systems

Course timing
–T
 he training course starts at 9.30am concluding
at 4.00pm

Course dates and costs

– Please
 refer to british-gypsum.com/training
for current course dates and costs

6 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
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DriLyner
Wall lining system
2 day course

Course objective
Develop knowledge and practical skills in the construction of drylining to
masonry backgrounds.

Course content Course timing

– The importance of Health and Safety including safe – The training course starts at 9.30am on day 1 and 9.00am
systems of work and risk assessments on consecutive days concluding at 4.00pm each day
– Determine the suitability of masonry background types
Course dates and costs
for the DriLyner system
– Please refer to british-gypsum.com/training
– Understand the principles of setting out for the DriLyner
for current course dates and costs
wall lining system
– Develop a knowledge and understanding regarding the CITB training grants
importance of applying perimeter seals when carrying
out drylining – Please check the CITB website for up to date course
grant information
– Understand the effects air leakage can have on
a buildings performance due to incorrect Evidence towards qualifications
installation methods
– Course attendance certificates are issued on completion
– Understand drylining technique’s with Gyproc of the course
plasterboards and the ThermaLine range of
insulated plasterboards – Course attendance can contribute as evidence towards
achieving a Diploma NVQ/SVQ in interior systems
– Develop a knowledge and understanding regarding drylining fixer qualification
thermal bridging around openings
– Know how to mix Gyproc DriWall Adhesive to the
correct consistency
– Understand and carry out the boarding procedure to flat
walls, window and doorway reveals
– Develop an appreciation regarding the range and reasons
for various Gyproc plasterboards and ThermaLine boards
used in the DriLyner system
– Understand the range of tools required to install the
DriLyner wall lining system

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/how-to-videos

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 7

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GypLyner UNIVERSAL
Wall lining system
1 day course

Course objective
Develop knowledge and practical skills in the construction of the
GypLyner wall lining system.

Course content Course dates and costs

–T
 he importance of Health and Safety including safe – Please refer to british-gypsum.com/training
systems of work and risk assessments for current course dates and costs
–D
 etermine the suitability of the masonry background for
CITB training grants
the GypLyner system
– Please check the CITB website for up to date course
 nderstand the principles of setting out for the GypLyner
–U
grant information
wall lining system
–D
 evelop a knowledge and understanding regarding the Evidence towards qualifications
importance of applying perimeter seals when installing
the GypLyner system – Course attendance certificates are issued on completion
of the course
–U
 nderstand the effects air leakage can have on
a buildings performance due to incorrect – Course attendance can contribute as evidence towards
installation methods achieving a Diploma NVQ/SVQ in interior systems
drylining fixer qualification
–U
 nderstand the range of Gyproc plasterboards and
ThermaLine range of insulated plasterboards which can
be used on the GypLyner wall lining system
–D
 evelop a knowledge and understanding regarding
thermal bridging around openings
–U
 nderstand and carry out the boarding procedure to flat
walls, window and doorway reveals
–D
 evelop an appreciation regarding the range and reasons
for various Gyproc plasterboards and ThermaLine boards
which can be used on the GypLyner system
–U
 nderstand the range of tools required to install the
GypLyner wall lining system

Course timing
–T
 he training course starts at 9.30am concluding
at 4.00pm

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/how-to-videos

8 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
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Thistle undercoat &

finish coat plasters
upskilling
3 day course

Course objective
Develop knowledge and practical skills in the application of Thistle undercoat
and finish coat plasters.

Attendance requirement Course timing

This course is designed only for plasterers who primarily
undertake skimming work on site and need to understand
the practical application and skills of applying backing coat
and subsequent finish coat plasters to backgrounds.
Course content
– The importance of Health and Safety including safe
systems of work and risk assessments
– Understand the range of backing coat plasters in relation
to background types
– Understand the working method and processes when
skimming out rooms and applying backing coat plasters
– The training course starts at 9.30am on day 1 and 9.00am
on consecutive days concluding at 4.00pm each day
Course dates and costs
– Please refer to british-gypsum.com/training
for current course dates and costs
CITB training grants
– Please check the CITB website for up to date course
grant information
Evidence towards qualifications

– Mix backing coat plasters to the correct consistency – Course attendance certificates are issued on completion
of the course
– Understand the methods for setting up screeds and
applying backing coat plasters – Course attendance can contribute as evidence towards
achieving a Diploma NVQ/SVQ in applying finishing
– Develop an understanding with regards the setting times plasters to backgrounds and surfaces
of backing coats in readiness to apply a mechanical key
by means of devil float/scarifier
–M
 ix and apply Thistle MultiFinish to undercoat
backgrounds
– Understand the importance of applying finish coats on
top of backing coats in a timely manner to eliminate
suction issues
– Understand workmanship issues which can affect the
surface finish of the finish coat plaster
– Understand the range of tools which can be used to carry
out the plastering process
– Develop an understanding with regards the specialist
range of Thistle finish coat plasters

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/how-to-videos

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 9

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Skim finishing and

basic trowel skills
3 day course

Course objective
Develop knowledge and practical skills in the application of skimming with
Thistle finish coat plasters to walls and ceilings.

Attendance requirement CITB training grants

Attendees must have some skills in the use of working – Please check the CITB website for up to date course
with a hand board and trowel and the application of grant information
Thistle finish coat plasters.
Evidence towards qualifications
Course content
– Course attendance certificates are issued on completion
–T
 he importance of Health and Safety including safe of the course
systems of work and risk assessments
– Course attendance can contribute as evidence towards
–U
 nderstand the working method and processes when achieving a Diploma NVQ/SVQ in applying finishing
skimming out rooms plasters to backgrounds and surfaces
–U
 nderstand the range of joint reinforcements which can
be used on flat joints, internal and external angles
–D
 evelop skills in the application and working
characteristics of Thistle BoardFinish and
Thistle MultiFinish
–C
 arry out the mixing of Thistle plasters to the correct
consistency for applying to walls and ceilings
–U
 nderstand workmanship issues which can affect the
surface finish of the plaster
–U
 nderstand the range of tools which can be used to carry
out the plastering process
–D
 evelop an understanding with regards the specialist
range of Thistle finish coat plasters

Course timing
–T
 he training course starts at 9.30am on day 1 and 9.00am
on consecutive days concluding at 4.00pm each day

Course dates and costs

 lease refer to british-gypsum.com/training
–P
for current course dates and costs

10 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
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ThistlePro finish
coat performance
plasters
1 day course

Course objective
Understand the application and types of backgrounds for ThistlePro UniFinish,
ThistlePro Magnetic, ThistlePro DuraFinish and ThistlePro PureFinish in developing
the skills to obtain a suitable surface finish for this specialist range of plasters.
Course content CITB training grants
–T
 he importance of Health and Safety including safe – Please check the CITB website for up to date course
systems of work and risk assessments grant information
–U
 nderstand the working method and processes when Evidence towards qualifications
skimming out rooms to new and existing backgrounds
– Course attendance certificates are issued on completion
 evelop skills in the application and working
–D of the course
characteristics of ThistlePro UniFinish,
– Course attendance can contribute as evidence towards
ThistlePro Magnetic, Thistle DuraFinish
achieving a Diploma NVQ/SVQ in applying finishing
and ThistlePro PureFinish
plasters to backgrounds and surfaces
–C
 arry out the mixing of ThistlePro plasters to the correct
consistency for applying to walls
–U
 nderstand workmanship issues which can affect the
surface finish of the different finish coat plasters
–U
 nderstand the range of tools which can be used to carry
out the plastering process

Course timing
–T
 he training course starts at 9.30am concluding
at 4.00pm

Course dates and costs

 lease refer to british-gypsum.com/training
–P
for current course dates and costs

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/how-to-videos

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 11

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Hand jointing
and finishing
2 day course

Course objective
Develop knowledge and practical skills in the application of hand jointing to
tapered edge joints, butt end joints, internal and external angles. Understand the
reasons for a range of Gyproc jointing materials.

Course content CITB training grants

– The importance of Health and Safety including safe – Please check the CITB website for up to date course
systems of work and risk assessments grant information
– Develop an understanding regarding the range of jointing
Evidence towards qualifications
products and their working characteristics for setting, air
drying and combined setting and air drying materials – Course attendance certificates are issued on completion
of the course
– Understand the range of joint reinforcement to flat
surface joints, internal angles, beads and corner tapes for – Course attendance can contribute as evidence towards
external, obtuse internal angles achieving a Diploma NVQ/SVQ in interior systems
drylining finisher qualification
– Develop an appreciation as to the reasons for combining
1st stage hand jointing with joint finishing with mechanical
jointing box applications
– Understand sanding methods both hand and
mechanical and grit types for sanding paper used in
the sanding process
– Apply and understand the reason for drywall primer
and sealer applications on completion of sanded
board surfaces
– Know how to repair damaged plasterboard surfaces
– Understand the range of tools which can be used to carry
out the jointing process

Course timing
– The training course starts at 9.30am on day 1 and 9.00am
on consecutive days concluding at 4.00pm each day

Course dates and costs

– Please refer to british-gypsum.com/training
for current course dates and costs

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/how-to-videos

12 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
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Mechanical jointing
and finishing
3 day course

Course objective
Develop knowledge and practical skills in using the mechanical jointing tools for
walls, internal angles and applying external angles by hand application.

Course content Course timing

– The importance of Health and Safety including safe – The training course starts at 9.30am on day 1 and 9.00am
systems of work and risk assessments on consecutive days concluding at 4.00pm each day
– Understand the range of Gyproc jointing materials
Course dates and costs
and which products can and cannot be used in the
mechanical jointing tools – Please refer to british-gypsum.com/training
for current course dates and costs
– Understand the methods for mixing powder joint cement
to the correct consistency
CITB training grants
– Applying external angles by hand. Understand the range
of beads and tapes which can be used for this application – Please check the CITB website for up to date course
grant information
– Know how to prime the pump before filling the
automatic taper Evidence towards qualifications
– Develop skills in filling the auto taper and applying tapes – Course attendance certificates are issued on completion
to walls and internal angles of the course
– Develop skills in carrying out the boxing process to walls – Course attendance can contribute as evidence towards
and internal angles achieving a Diploma NVQ/SVQ in interior systems
– Understand the basic maintenance and repairs when drylining finisher qualification
using the mechanical taping equipment
– Develop an appreciation as to the reasons for combining
1st stage hand jointing with joint finishing and mechanical
jointing box applications
–U
 nderstand sanding methods both hand and mechanical
and grit types for sanding paper used in the
sanding process
–A
 pply and understand the reason for drywall primer
and sealer applications on completion of sanded
board surfaces
– Know how to repair damaged plasterboard surfaces
–U
 nderstand the range of tools which can be used to carry
out the jointing process

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/how-to-videos

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 13

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Training courses for companies

and individuals who are carrying
out work under the Energy Company
Obligation (ECO) scheme

British Gypsum have four BBA approved systems Ensuring the required ratio of installers are trained on
for upgrading existing properties under the ECO each internal wall insulation system.
scheme, namely:
Where companies are looking to carry out improvement
DriLyner RF
measures under ECO funded projects, a ratio of workers
Gyproc Sealant is applied to existing plastered walls
must be deemed as competent in line with PAS 2030
as an adhesive for the application of
which outlines the competence requirements for a range
Gyproc ThermaLine boards.
of measures from draught proofing to external and
DriLyner TL internal wall insulation.
Gyproc ThermaLine boards are fixed with Gyproc DriWall
Adhesive to walls that have plaster work removed, The number of employees needing training will depend
generally traditional old lime, sand plaster which has on workload and the geographic spread of work that is
delaminated from the brick background. being undertaken.
GypLyner UNIVERSAL
Gypframe metal framed lining system onto which you
screw fix Gyproc ThermaLine boards.
GypLyner IWL
Independent Gypframe metal framed lining system onto
which you screw fix Gyproc ThermaLine boards.

We have specifically designed training courses and

British Gypsum has four BBA approved systems and
aligned the content to the national occupational standards
offers courses to support the installation of these systems
for building insulation treatments - internal wall insulation.

Practical training areas have been designed to replicate

a typical property with sockets, radiators and external
wall ventilation.

Course dates are set on request for each approved BBA

System at any of our Academy locations around the UK.

Industry awards for internal wall insulation training

14 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
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What is PAS 2030?

PAS2030 (publically available specification) is
published by the British Standards Institute (BSI)
and is aimed at installers of Energy Efficiency Measures
(EEM) for the ECO scheme. This could be anything
from installing draught proofing to doors, windows and
access hatches, to installing internal and external wall
insulation systems.
Nicholas Cook
It sets out the minimum technical competencies you need
to have to be able to install EEM for ECO customers. It also
explains the requirement for companies or organisations
who want to become installers of ECO measures. KT000308

Proof of training - Registered Installer Card Scheme

Following your attendance on an IWI Systems Training

Course a date is agreed for a follow up site visit to
view the systems being installed on site. This approach
provides evidence of what course attendees have learned
in practice while on a course, are being put into use on site
to ensure best practice on installing systems is adhered
to in reducing air leakage and thermal bridging around
openings and between junctions in floors
where applicable.

Registered Installer cards have the four British Gypsum

Systems listed on the back with dates added as and when
a visit takes place on site to provide proof of best practice
on installing each BBA approved system. The Registered
Installer card has a two-year renewal date for each
IWI System.

Manufacturer Installer Support in line with PAS 2030 requirements

Installation guidance documents have been produced for each BBA approved system for installers to use on site.

Homeowner guidance documents

Homeowner guidance documents have been produced
which form part of the handover pack of documents
a contractor will produce following the installation of
improvement measures under the ECO scheme.

The homeowner pack provides guidance on systems

that have been installed and explain some do’s and
don’ts in ensuring you continue to get the best
efficiency out of the installed measures.

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 15

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Sound Solutions
2 day course

Why?
Over 25% of the UK adult population are bothered with noise from neighbours, either
through the walls or floors. This can create a devastating effect for homeowners on
their health and well-being.

Over recent years there has been a growing demand for

tradespeople to install remedial solutions to improve the
sound insulation within the home to address noise
related issues.
As well as giving you the practical skills and knowledge,
the course will also teach you how to understand the
basics of acoustics which can lead to sound related issues.
This course will see you as a knowledgeable expert where
people have sound related issues in their home.

Course objective
Develop knowledge and practical skills on
GypLyner UNIVERSAL walls and ceiling linings, Silent floor
systems which can be used to improve the sound insulation
in a property from adjoining properties.
Course content
–T
 he importance of Health and Safety including safe
systems of work and risk assessments
–D
 evelop a basic understanding of acoustics and how
this can effect home owners from unwanted noise from
adjoining properties
–U
 nderstand the types of plasterboard which can be used
for improved sound insulation

16 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
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The future of training and

apprenticeships in the UK

Trailblazer groups Wage bill under £3 million

In 2017 we had the introduction of employer led Employers will pay 10% towards apprenticeship training and
apprenticeships, something referred to as Trailblazers. the Government pay the remaining 90%, something known
Trailblazer groups are formed through employers and as co-funded.
very often through federation or industry groups. Their
aim is to propose a trade apprenticeship being approved Companies with fewer than 50 employees
as a Trailblazer. Plastering level 3 has been approved
by the Department for Education for apprenticeships If you employ fewer than 50 employees, the Government
and Interior Systems level 2 is in development. will pay up to the funding cap for the apprenticeship.
Any cost above this will have to be paid by the employer.
Apprenticeship Levy
From April 2017 employers with a pay bill of more than
£3 million have to pay a 0.5% levy towards funding
apprenticeships. The funds go into a digital account
and are drawn down as digital vouchers to fund
apprenticeship training.

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 17

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Diploma NVQ Level 2 Interior

systems drylining fixer or finisher
Working in Partnership with Further Education Colleges
to deliver Diploma NVQ Level 2 Interior Systems Dry
Lining Fixers and Finishers.

Following a 2 year review into the training provision for the
Interiors Sector by the Finishing Interior Sector Federation
(FIS) and the sector skills council for construction, the
CITB, a report called ‘The Stockerl Review 2013’ was
published. It identified key recommendations which
needed to be addressed in order to improve formal
routes of training for the Interiors Sector.
The report called for more regionalised training to offer
both block release, and where demand dictates, day release
in larger cities.
and that the course delivery is closely aligned to industry
needs to develop skilled apprentices for the future.
We have worked extensively with industry training
federations, such as the National Interior Specialists
Training Group (NISTG) and the Dry Lining and Plastering
Training Forum (DLPTF) to ensure we have a full
understanding of how we can maximise our support for
training in the Interiors Sector.

In response to the findings from this comprehensive review,

from 2015, British Gypsum are delighted to announce
that our Technical Academies will partner with 4 colleges
nationally. This initiative will increase the level of formal
routes to training for employers and allow apprentices to
get the best start in understanding skills development and
the knowledge required to succeed in their trade.

College partners will attend CPD days at our Technical

Academies to make sure course tutors are kept up to date

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/apprenticeships

18 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
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9 steps to taking on an apprentice

Speak with your local CITB area Apprenticeships
Officer, who can identify students leaving school
or who are in college who want to pursue a
career in the Construction Industry. You may
have already identified a candidate yourself.
Carry out interviews for applicants. Consider
taking on a prospective employee for a few
1 weeks to see that they will like the trade in
drylining and that you are happy with their
development in the job role.

Where travelling a distance is required to attend college, CITB

will arrange lodgings for students if they are on block release at Contact your CITB apprenticeships
college. CITB cover lodging costs as applicable and reasonable 3 officer to explain you want to take
travel costs for apprentices from Monday to Friday each week. on an apprentice.
CITB arrange travel to and from the Academy during the week.

Arrange a pre-start
visit for your apprentice Your apprentice starts
to your chosen 5 their course at college.
college provider.

On conclusion of your Diploma training

After 2 years your apprentice
at college, site visits are carried out to
gains their full qualification and for
gather site evidence for the Diploma
eligible companies, you will have
received approximately £6,000 in 7 NVQ/SVQ Level 2 Drylining Interior
Systems qualification. Site assessments
grants towards developing each
are carried out by college assessors over
apprentice that you employ.
the duration of the apprenticeship.

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 19


Why CITB is changing how it
supports the construction industry
CITB is changing the way it supports training for the
construction industry. Part of this change involves the
launch of new products and services to meet training needs.
Why is CITB doing this?
CITB is leading the creation of a list of training standards
which come into effect from April 2018. This will mean an
individual’s skills will be transferable across the construction
industry. To enable this to happen, CITB is launching new
services for both training organisations and employers.
These services will provide a single place for employers to:
– find industry approved training
– search for their employee’s training achievements
– r eceive automated grant payments to employers
from training providers
What are the new services?
Construction Training Directory
A searchable online directory of construction training
courses, tests and qualifications delivered by Approved
Training Organisations (ATOs) to defined training standards
that have been developed with input from industry.
20 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
Back to contents >
British Gypsum is working with the CITB standards
setting body to write the standards for short
duration interior systems training courses and
Site Manager / Supervisor Courses.
Employers can choose a provider based on location,
price and timing, making it easy to select a course that
best meet their needs.
Construction Training Register
This is an online register that holds individuals’ transferable,
construction training courses and qualifications
achievements. Over time, it will build a comprehensive
picture of skills training across the Country.
Employers will be able to check the skills and competence
of their workforce and new recruits, helping to confirm
they have the right skills and improve productivity.
Approved Training Organisations (ATOs)
These could include commercial training providers,
in-house training departments, and
educational establishments.
 Back to contents >

Automated grant payments New apprenticeship standards

On successful completion of a course, an Approved New apprenticeship standards are replacing
Training Organisation (ATO) will confirm the learner’s apprenticeship frameworks in England, in a phased
achievement, upload the details onto the Construction process ending in 2020. These are know as Trailblazers.
Training Register, thereby triggering the automated where the focus is what is needed in the workforce, rather
grant process. This will speed up the payment process than on qualifications.
and remove the need for employers to
Instead of being assessed throughout training, apprentices
complete paperwork.
complete an independent End Point Assessment (EPA)
when the employer thinks they are ready. If they are
How much grant is available?
successful, they get their apprenticeship certificate.
There are three tiers in the grant rate. The tier is
determined by the duration and content of the course:
– tier 1 is £30
– tier 2 is £70
– tier 3 is £120

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 21

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Thistle Partnership
As a manufacturer we are committed to supporting the
development of new tradespeople into the Construction Industry.
Working with the Plastering Departments in colleges throughout
the UK we support approximately 5,000 students on an annual
basis from Diploma NVQ Level 1 through to Level 3
solid plastering.

Welcoming plastering students into the industry at Kirklees College

We have in excess of 75 colleges within the Thistle
Partnership around the whole of the UK. We also have
four Interior Systems Partnerships nationally.
In 2013 we worked with the National Association of
Plastering Lecturers to understand how we could develop
the support we provided to further education colleges for
their students and lecturers. The result was the Learning
Hub - a dedicated website for students and lecturers.
The Learning Hub contains sections to support student
development with their qualifications and lecturers with
up to date information on products and systems launched
in the market place.
Sections on the Learning Hub include:-
– Presentations mapped to the Diploma NVQ solid
plastering qualifications level 1, 2 & 3
– Projects section covering tasks for students along with a
host of ‘how to’ videos and recapping questions students
can do to further engage learning
– Presentations about our latest products
– Comprehensive literature section
– Stand alone ‘How to videos’ section
– A forum for students to engage with course tutors and
the Academy Team while they are on the course and after
finishing their qualifications, in fact, students are logged
on for life in the trade!

LE
ARNING
m
u

s
Th yp
ist G
le P rit is h
artner
ship by B

22 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
 Back to contents >

Lecturer’s view
Mark Jones, Bolton College

“Having the Learning Hub as a resource has been

of great benefit, not only to the students but to
staff within the department as well. The ‘how to’
videos and recapping questions are a great
addition which gets engagement of students
to support their studies.”

Student’s view
David Simpson, Carlisle College
“I have studied at Carlisle College to gain my plastering
qualifications to Diploma NVQ Level 3 Solid Plastering.
British Gypsum came into the college to give a presentation
and to welcome us into the Construction Industry. How
to access the Learning Hub was demonstrated to us and
since then I have frequently logged on to watch the videos
and check out the presentations which are linked to my
plastering qualification. They really have supported me in
my learning and understanding of plastering products and
British Gypsum systems generally.”

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 23

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SkillBuild
As well as supporting colleges,
British Gypsum are also a main sponsor
for the Regional and National Final of
the CITB SkillBuild Competition.
“SkillBuild is a competition which recognises and promotes
students to aspire to be the best in the UK within their
specific trade, this supports development in self confidence,
communication skills and builds on practical skills ability.

Regional competition heats are carried out at colleges

around the UK with the highest scoring competitors being
invited to the skills show which takes place at the NEC and
attracts over 80,000 visitors every year. This makes the
skills show the biggest careers event in the UK where school
pupils can see at first hand the range of vocational trades
across a wide range of over 60 skills competitions from
construction to aircraft maintenance.”

For more information on SkillBuild competitions visit Oliver Farrell,

citb.co.uk/careers-in-construction/experience-it/skillbuild/ Skills Competitions Manager, CITB

Skills Show Final competitors, competing over 3 days at the NEC, Birmingham

WorldSkills UK - The Skills Show

British Gypsum are a key lead competition sponsor of the Skills Show for
plastering, painting and decorating, wall and floor tiling and plastering and
drywall systems.
SkillBuild provides a focus for students in college to
develop their skills with the aim of making it to the
SkillBuild regional events. Following that they have the
chance to make it through to the Skills Show National
Finals at the NEC with the hope of winning a medal in
being the best in their trade of plastering.

If colleges have students that have real potential in

practical abilities, it is very important that we give them the
opportunities to aspire to be the best they can be, this will
greatly improve personal confidence and further develop
their skills through taking part in competition events.

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/skillshow

24 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
 Back to contents >

WorldSkills competitions
The Skills Show is an event where WorldSkills Squad UK training and technical
experts look for high-calibre competitors who can go forward to form Squad UK
for WorldSkills competitions.

British Gypsum provide consultancy and the use of the network of Supporter
Saint-Gobain Technical Academies around the UK to deliver training
for Squad UK leading up to WorldSkills competitions for plastering
and drywall systems. The next venue for competing is Russia in 2019.

Since WorldSkills Calgary in 2009 where plastering and drywall

was a demonstration event with 6 competing countries, it has now
progressed to a full skill since WorldSkills London in 2011 with 10 Supporting
competing countries and WorldSkills Leipzig with 12 competing
countries. World skills Abu Dhabi had 19 competing countries.
establishing the competition within the WorldSkills events.

David Kehoe - WorldSkills UK Expert in

Plastering and Drywall Systems
“Working with the support of Saint-Gobain within the network of
Technical Academies around the UK has been a fantastic resource
in supporting the development of Squad UK to support skills
development to WorldSkills standards for our competitors.

Recognising high standards of workmanship

Although we did not achieve a podium medal our competitor from
London, Jamie Fineran an apprentice at the British Gypsum Technical
Academy and Leipzig, Ken Wilson an apprentice at Belfast
Metropolitan College, both achieved a ‘Medallion of Excellence’ with
scores well in excess of 500 which is a world benchmark score that
demonstrates high practical skills and ability within a given trade.”

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 25

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Main Contractor training

Course aim - To develop knowledge and understanding around
the installation of interior systems and to maintain system
performance to project specifications.

We deliver a range of courses to meet specific customer needs

and project requirements to ensure attendees get the best
value out of the day while with us in the Academy.

Site Manager’s course Example course content includes

This course is a mix of theory in relation to system
performance, regulatory requirements and extensive
practical demonstrations covering wall linings, partitions,
ceilings, fire protection to steelwork and surface finishes to
Gyproc plasterboard.
Understanding the range of projects attendees are working
on is key to delivering training that specifically meets the
needs of the attendees. Project detailing around internal
systems can be included in the course to replicate what is
installed on site, through practical demonstrations in
the Academy.
– Recapping zone to assess individual knowledge prior and
on conclusion of the day course
– Factors effecting system performance regarding thermal,
fire and acoustics at a practical detailing level
– British and European standards for interior systems
– Deflection head details on GypWall partition systems
– Duty ratings on partition systems and doorway detailing
– How to use the Site Book - ‘Good Practice Guide’ as a
communication tool on site

26 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
 Back to contents >

Site Managers carrying out fault finding on purpose built recapping zones

Site Book ‘Good Practice Guide’

The Site Book ‘Good Practice Guide’ is aimed at supporting quality management on site
through images of systems which are built correctly to meet performance requirements.
The document is widely used and is image based to provide clear communication with
tradespeople on site.

DID YOU KNOW - the guide is also available in a number of foreign

languages - Bulgarian, Polish, Romanian and French.

Mobile site
management training
The Academy can also carry out training at regional offices
with the support of a mobile training rig which allows
practical demonstrations to be carried out while combining
theory in a training room environment.

This course is not a substitute for the 1 day Site Manager’s

course at our Technical Academies but helps to meet the
needs of Main Contractors due to workload and availability
to attend training courses off site.

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 27

 Back to contents >

Project mock-up support for Main Contractors

and Sub Contractors
Where required and to meet the requirements of Clients and Main Contractors,
specific mock-ups of systems to meet project requirements can be installed at
one of our UK Technical Academies, to demonstrate systems being preposed
for specification.

“The BAM Project Team including their designers attended

the Kirby Thore Technical Academy where the Academy
Team had constructed a sample of an ‘acoustic mass
barrier ceiling’ which is to be incorporated into the
Gateway Scheme at the University of Salford.

It was important for the BAM Team to understand the

sequence and methodology of the build-up of this element
of the highly acoustically rated rooms. We also witnessed
various detailing that required further development
moving forward which could then be reviewed by the
Project’s Acoustician.

The visit proved very beneficial to all the team in being

able to develop the details to Construction Status.”
Site Managers attending a course at
Neil Millward - BAM Construction Ltd our East Leake Academy

28 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
 Back to contents >

Pure Practical -
Builders Merchants
and Distributors
1 day course

Course objective
Develop understanding and practical knowledge in the use of British Gypsum
products and systems.

Attendance requirement Course dates

The course is suitable for both new entrants to the industry – Please refer to british-gypsum.com/training
or those with some sales experience who wish to develop a for current course dates
more detailed knowledge of British Gypsum products.
Delegates will receive a certificate of attendance along
with literature to assist with customer queries, and aid
Course content
the offering of solutions to develop sales within branch.
– The importance of Health and Safety, including method
statements for the course
– Thistle undercoat plasters and Thistle finish plaster range
– Drylining with Gyproc plasterboards and
Gyproc ThermaLine laminates
– GypLyner UNIVERSAL wall and ceiling linings for
renovation work
– GypWall partition systems - the alternative to timber stud
– Hand jointing to plasterboard surfaces - the alternative
to skimming
– Fire protection to steel work using Glasroc F FIRECASE
– Areas of use for Glasroc F MULTIBOARD and
Glasroc H TILEBACKER

Practical area work to include

– GypLyner UNIVERSAL
– Thistle undercoat plasters and Thistle finish plaster range
– GypWall partitions
– Taping and jointing
– Course recapping quiz to reinforce learning

Course timing
– The training course starts at 9.30am concluding at 4.00pm

Check out our video at:

saint-gobain-technical-academy.co.uk/purepractical

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 29

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New build flats

Plasterboards

DriLyner TL Terraced houses

MF suspended ceilings (renovation project)

Plasterboard finishing

IWI systems
GypWall partitions

Two-coat plaster

Customer challenge

Developing a blended e-learning approach to

training for Builders Merchants and Distributors

Open e-learning objective

To bring a more flexible approach to learning for resellers we have developed a
number of e-learning modules which you can complete at your own pace, providing
1 hour’s learning content across a range of products and systems. Completing the
e-learning provides a good basic knowledge which builds towards the Diploma in
British Gypsum Products and Systems knowledge once you have attended the
Pure Practical Training Course at one of our Academies.

e-learning modules covered Customer Challenge

– DriLyner TL The Customer Challenge is set on a number
– GypWall partition of real life scenarios you can come across
– Plasterboards with customers in your day to day job.
– MF suspended ceilings Once you have completed the Customer
– Plasterboard finishing Challenge, achieving a pass rate of 80%
or higher, we will award you with your
– Two coat plasters
Diploma in British Gypsum Products and
– Internal Wall Insulation (IWI) Systems knowledge.
– Customer Challenge

30 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
 Back to contents >

Advanced -
Pure Practical
1 day course

Course objective
Build on the knowledge gained by attending the Pure Practical course or
relevant experience/knowledge within the job role. The Advanced Pure Practical
course will focus on building high performance systems and understanding
the importance of building systems correctly. Attendees will also gain an
understanding of all the products a customer needs to meet performance
criteria in relation to sound insulation, fire protection and thermal insulation.

Attendance requirement Practical area work to include

Attendees must have attended the Pure Practical course – CasoLine MF ceilings with Gyptone boards
for Builders Merchants and Distributors, completed the
– British Gypsum ceiling grid with tile range to meet
e-learning programme or have a number of years
different performance requirements
experience within the job role.
– Glasroc F FIRECASE
Course content
– ShaftWall
– An understanding of fire protection
– GypWall partitions with a 15mm deflection head detail
– Provide customer solutions for fire protection
– ThistlePro PureFinish, ThistlePro Magnetic and
to steelwork
ThistlePro UniFinish
– Areas of use for CasoLine MF ceilings, including Gyptone
and Rigitone products Course timing
–U
 nderstand the uses of Gyptone and Rigitone products – The training course starts at 9.30am concluding
and accessories at 4.00pm
–T
 histle performance finish plasters - ThistlePro PureFinish,
ThistlePro Magnetic and ThistlePro UniFinish Course dates

–A
 n understanding of British Gypsum’s range of high
performance partitions including ShaftWall,
GypWall QUIET SF and deflection heads
 evelop an understanding regarding British Gypsum’s
–D
CasoLine grid system and the range of tiles associated
including Gyptone tiles, Eurocoustic tiles and Gyprex
– Please refer to the British Gypsum website for current
course dates british-gypsum.com/training
 elegates will receive a certificate of attendance along
D
with literature to assist with customer queries, and aid
the offering of solutions to develop sales within branch.

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 31

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Supporting business development

for Builders Merchant and
Distributor branches

In supporting business development, the Technical Academy have a network

of Roadshow Trailers around the UK which are designed to deliver practical
demonstrations on both new and existing products and systems within the
British Gypsum range.
British Gypsum system demonstrations
Roadshow Trailers are ideal for Trade Day events and specific
trade days on British Gypsum products. The demonstrations
help tradespeople understand the system solutions that are
on the market for new build and renovation projects, allowing
questions to be asked on real practical problems people
encounter on site.

32 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810

Combining roadshows with staff training development
British Gypsum understand the difficulties branches have in
allowing staff time away from the branch to attend training
courses and while there is no substitute for attending one
of our Academies for training, the Roadshow rig with its
capabilities for delivering practical demonstrations, is the
next best thing to develop knowledge around product and
system solutions for customers.
Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com
Back to contents >
In branch British Gypsum system displays
When business development plans are developed for
branches, being able to see, touch, feel products and
systems is a great way to demonstrate to customers.
This is why we install System Displays to fit in a space that
can be afforded within a branch, whether it is a 2 metres
long or 1 metre long run of wall, a big impact can be made
by installing an in branch display.
A key area to the success of a branch display, is ensuring
the staff from within the branch are trained on what has
been installed so they can then discuss the benefits that
can be afforded to customers from adapting to quicker
ways of completing a job.
It is a prerequisite in agreeing to have training carried out
where branch displays are installed.
Experience tells us, when displays are installed this can
have a significant impact on business development within
a branch.
british-gypsum.com/training 33
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‘How to’ videos

British Gypsum have created a range of ‘How to’ videos,
which provide further guidance on how to install
British Gypsum systems correctly. The range of videos
cover Thistle plasters, wall lining systems, partition
systems and ceiling systems.

System videos include

– GypWall CLASSIC partition system
– CasoLine MF ceiling system
– DriLyner TL

– DriLyner RF
– GypLyner UNIVERSAL
– GypLyner IWL
– Skimming Gyproc plasterboard with ThistlePro DuraFinish
– Hand applied Thistle undercoat and Thistle finish coat plasters
– Spray applied Thistle undercoat and one coat plasters
– Re-skim with ThistlePro UniFinish
–S
 kimming with ThistlePro Magnetic - a plaster that
attracts magnets
– Hand jointing to Gyproc plasterboard
– Mechanical jointing on Gyproc plasterboard
– Sound solutions systems

Check out our video at:

british-gypsum.com/how-to-videos

34 For course dates and further information, contact the Technical Academy Team on 0844 5618810
 Back to contents >

UK coverage of
Technical Academies

1. Clevedon
Unit 1, The Courtyard,
Barnes Ground
Kenn, Clevedon
North Somerset BS21 6TB

2. East Leake
Head Office, East Leake
Loughborough
Leicestershire LE12 6HX

3. Erith
Unit 4, Gyproc Business Park
Church Manor Way, Erith
Kent DA8 1DE

4. Flitwick
Dickens House, Enterprise Way
Maulden Road, Flitwick
Bedford MK45 5BY

5. Dublin
Unit 4, Kilcarbery Business Park,
Nangor Road, Dublin 22 7
Ireland

6. Kingscourt 6
Kingscourt, Co. Cavan CA1
Ireland
5
7. Kirkby Thore 2
British Gypsum, Nr Penrith
Cumbria CA10 1XU
4
1 3

saint-gobain-technical-academy.co.uk

Email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com british-gypsum.com/training 35

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Technical enquiries
British Gypsum
Technical Advice Centre
East Leake
Loughborough
Leicestershire
LE12 6HX

T: 0115 945 6123

F: 0115 945 1616
E: bgtechnical.enquiries@bob.com

Training enquiries: 0844 561 8810

Training email: technical.academy@saint-gobain.com

British Gypsum February 2018

BG-TB-06

british-gypsum.com

British Gypsum
@britishgypsum
Head Office, East Leake,
Loughborough,
Leicestershire, LE12 6HX
T: 0115 945 1000
www.linkedin.com/company/british-gypsum