Technical Trainer Review

I work within the Learning and Development department at Solenis. My role as Technical Trainer involves creating and delivering training based around competencies and behaviours. Training is either face to face, virtual or created as an e-learning package. I also work with employees on coaching activities, attend interview panels and support apprentice development days.

I have learnt a lot about myself during the qualification, my values, beliefs and personal drivers. I have also learnt where I need to develop skills such as active listening and the value of silence. As well as these skills, I have learnt about how to actively use questioning different techniques to draw information and new thinking out of coachees and mentees.

I understand the value of theory and how I need to put this into practice but I sometimes feel that this course has been heavily weighted towards theory rather than practice. The assignments feel very repetitive and laborious. I don't always feel I get real value out of the learning journeys or that they are in sync with the assignments or workshops at the right time.

I feel that the programme could be more weighted towards the practical elements. I know there has been Action Learning Sets where we could practice, but I would have like to have seen some demonstrations of different coaching scenarios from tutors to show how the different questioning or tools could be used in practice.

I am fortunate that the Apprenticeship Lead for Solenis works in the Learning and Development Department and is also on the qualification herself. We support each other and bounce ideas between us and this has been extremely valuable. Solenis itself allows me the required OJT allowance and encourages development in this area.

I am currently at the stage of my last 2 assignments submitted and awaiting marking. I am focused on completing these and then moving to the next stage of coaching observations and EPA preparation. With regards to Functional Skills, Olivia at Ioda has been very supportive and is in tune with my learning preferences. Olivia's tutoring has been a very positive experience.

As I mentioned before I have learnt a lot about myself which in turn allows me to develop myself but also be aware of other's preferences and drivers. I feel the skills I have learnt around active listening, questioning and coaching are valuable in my day to day role and not just in coaching activities.

We have an onsite free gym which is available to use at any time. A Sports and Social club is also set up at our Bradford & Grimsby site which allows members and non-members to buy tickets for shows, sporting events and other activities. We also have a WINS (Women in Solenis) network which supports women of all ages and a young persons network.

Yes

Solenis provides a competitive salary, free health care, bonus, reward scheme, free gym and a good working environment. For anyone who wants to develop and progress their career there are plenty of opportunities to learn and advance. There is a culture of care and support and you get out what you want to put in.

When applying for a role, I would research what Solenis does and the markets they work in so you can share your knowledge with them and it shows you're interested. Speak to others who work at the site you are applying for if you can. Try to understand their company culture and if it fits with your own beliefs.