The BMF outlines the details behind its new online training programme and explores how online learning can be a valuable tool for merchant staff.
Online learning is a powerful and cost-effective way to take in retain a large amount of information, making it well suited to product and technical training. Some 80% of merchant staff in the UK have access to online learning systems, which are used to build skills and knowledge. The BMF’s latest training offering, which can be delivered either via BMF Campus of via the merchants’ own Learning Management System, will add significantly to this knowledge base and will be accessible from work or from home.
The new BMF Building Blocks series is an online training programme designed to replace the MOL distance learning workbook series which was retired last year. While MOLs had their day as a popular learning form, they had dated both in terms of content and mode of delivery. This provides the BMF and its e-learning partner, Cortexa, with an excellent opportunity to create new rich media content and to collaborate with BMF’s supplier members to ensure the latest technologies and techniques are included in the programme.
The Building Blocks series is designed to introduce apprentices and other new starters to the intricacies of life in a builders’ merchant. It starts with foundation blocks that cover planning, regulations and structural products, then moves on to further blocks that cover key product groups and ultimately builds into a comprehensive guide to the industry and products stocked and sold by every type of merchant.
Fully accredited
Each multi-media training Block combines a range of video, animations and interactive content to bring the subjects to life. The content is further reinforced with programmed learning in the form of downloadable reading/reference material and weblinks. Each e-learning Block includes knowledge checks and practical coursework and is completed with a final assessment. Successful completion will earn credits for the learner towards an online Award.
Cortexa is an approved centre for Occupational Awards and within two years, BMF Building Blocks will be a fully accredited online programme that will define the standard of product training in the merchant industry. 20 new e- learning Blocks or units are planned for introduction during this time and by the end of 2019, there will be sufficient Blocks available for students to combine to create an accredited Merchant Award, whereby candidates have to complete at least four Blocks and pass a final exam to achieve the standard.
Early Programmes
The units will be released in three phases. Phase 1 will comprise seven Blocks, with the first three ready to launch. They are:
- An Introduction to Residential Construction Part 1: Covering planning, regulations, groundwork and the masonry elements of house building. This Block is sponsored by the Concrete Blocks Association.
- An Introduction to Residential Construction Part 2: Covering timber in construction, joinery basics, roofing and fixings. This block is sponsored by the TTF and a number of Supplier Members.
- Heating and Hot Water Comfort: Covering Central heating principles and design, regulations, heating and environmental controls, hot water storage and renewable energy sources. Sponsorship packages for this Block are available.
Phase 1 will be completed with Building Blocks on Below Ground Drainage, Buildings Insulation, Cement and Plaster and Customer Care. Phase 2 will comprise units on Bricks and Mortar, Doors, Windows and Stairs, Landscaping, Underfloor Heating, Roofwork, Above Ground Drainage and Bathrooms. Finally, Phase 3 will cover Aggregates and Blocks, Lightside Materials, Tube Fittings and Flanges, Plastic Pipes and Components, Plumbers Brassware and Commercial Practice.
One of the biggest challenges with any training content is keeping it up to date, so the Building Blocks programme aims to futureproof the content by forming partnership groups and sponsor opportunities for BMF Supplier Members looking to get involved.
If you would like to get involved in the BMF Building Blocks programme — either as a learner or content supplier — contact Richard Ellithorne, BMF Membership Services Director, on 02476 854980 or email info@bmf.org.uk.
