New training Cuts with CIWEM and Staffordshire University

CIWEM and Staffordshire University have developed a range of web-based tutor-supported training units to roll out during early 2010. These units will contain one or more assignments aligned to CIWEM's Mandatory Competences. The units fit within an existing company structured training scheme or they can be taken separately as part of an individual CPD plan.

The current units are Municipal Waste Water Treatment; Sludge Treatment and Disposal; Potable Water Treatment; Industrial Wastewater Treatment; Activated Sludge; Drinking Water Disinfection. Further units are planned, covering waste management, water pollution prevention and control, wastewater regulation and water safety plans.

During 2010, the university will be validating these units to enable participants to receive CATS points when they successfully complete them, along with a Professional Development Certificate once they have achieved the appropriate number of credits.

Each tutor-supported unit will include access to online content and support. The time commitment needed to work through each unit will be around three hours per week, depending on prior knowledge and depth of interest in the different aspects of the topic in the unit. The total number of weeks required to complete a unit is likely to be around ten weeks for each of the longer units and three weeks for each of the shorter ones.

Free-standing units containing similar learning material and resources, but without tutor support or any form of formal assessment and feedback, will also be available.

Rosemary Butler, Director of Membership and Professional Development, says:

"CIWEM are delighted to be working with Staffordshire University on this very flexible method of learning, providing members and non members alike, with courses that will truly support their professional development."