The National Polymer Training Network has agreed ambitious plans to expand its product range and strengthen geographical coverage. Since its launch in 2004, original grouping of PTL, South West Durham Training and West Notts College, have focused on the delivery of PTL courses, the development of BTEC accreditation for those courses and the development of the BTEC National Certificate programme.

‘We are delighted by the progress that the partnership has made ‘said Raymond Clarke, Chief Executive of PTL. ‘Each of our partner centres have established excellent facilities for the polymer industry and benefit from a seconded member of PTL staff to lead on training for the polymer sector. We are now expanding the network to further strengthen regional coverage and broaden the product portfolio. The autumn will see new or additional provision for safety, design, composites, engineering skills and Business Improvement Techniques. We also expect to become increasingly involved with recycling issues.’

The future plans for the network include the establishment of video conferencing to increase the viability of low volume seminars and educational courses as well as providing an additional service to companies in the industry. The network will also increase the promotion of its tool trialing, process optimisation and design capability, which is currently available at the centres.

‘Over the past few years, PTL has been quietly revolutionising training delivery in the sector and transforming itself into a provider of a wider range of support services’ said Clarke. ‘We will continue with this approach with the aim of becoming a world class support centre.’