The Kitchen, Bedroom, Bathroom National Training Group (KBB NTG) is celebrating the success of Aimee Vaughan-Scrimshaw who has just been awarded the Nottinghamshire Pre-16 Apprentice of the Year at a glamorous awards ceremony at Nottingham University.

The KBB NTG recognises that it is essential to introduce the KBB industry as a career option to students and young entrants if the industry is to develop and improve skill levels. Therefore, the KBB NTG has been working with partners to develop and deliver a substantial course that offers the knowledge, practical skills and disciplines required to work within the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom sector and can also meet the stringent requirements of the school curriculum. The course has also attracted support from Magnet Kitchens and Blum who have supported some of the design elements of the course.

Aimee has been completing a Creating Interiors course, which is a two year programme taught at both Big Wood School and Webs Training in Beeston, Nottinghamshire.  The level 2 certificate course is equivalent to 2 GCSE's at grade A*- C and is mapped to the National Occupational Standards in Furniture, Furnishings and Interiors.  Big Wood School is the first organisation to offer this course and such is the success that Webs Training, having been so impressed with the student's commitment and skills, has offered three students an apprenticeship when they leave school at the end of this year.

Renee Mascari Chief Executive (KBB NTG) said "This is great news; the apprenticeship offer is the icing on the cake on what has been a very successful venture. The KBB industry can now show that it has created a career path to encourage talented young people in to the industry."

Three students from the course were selected for the award, two made it through to the semi finals, with Aimee making it through to the final to be awarded a trophy and £300.

Mr Gilkerson (Big Wood School14-19 Curriculum Manager) said, "We are very proud of what Aimee has achieved; she stood head and shoulders above the competition at the awards. Furthermore, the course has been such a success that we now have a very healthy demand amongst our students to enlist on this course."

Aimee Vaughan-Scrimshaw receiving her award

The latest one day sales and customer care course was held at the Whirlpool training centre in Croydon on 20th January 2010. 12 delegates took part in the course which trains delegates on the skills required to increase conversion rates and improve profitability on installations. To date 380 delegates have attended the course which is run by Graham Hayden and this course included delegates from The Myers Touch, Dobsons Home improvements, Tradex and KCA. This course is approved by KBB NTG and CITB Construction skills who sent a delegate Gerald Kelly on the course.  He commented "I enjoyed the course which was very well presented and very interesting"

Full details of training courses from Graham Hayden can be found on his website www.grahamhaydentraining.com. 

Hettich UK based in Manchester is the latest company to become a KBB National Training Group (NTG) Skills Academy Founding Partner.

The NTG Skills Academy provides a platform for those individuals currently working in and entering the KBB industry and is focused on learning and developing skill levels through one day masterclasses.  As a leading supplier of quality furniture hardware and lighting products,   Hettich UK is committed to innovation, quality and to the development of training paths. Renee Mascari, CEO, KBB NTG comments "This ethos coupled with the NTG's dedication to raising standards, developing education and training opportunities is an ideal match."

Mascari continues "We are pleased that Hettich UK has become a Founding Skills Academy Partner, their expertise and philosophy will be invaluable.  As part of their commitment, Hettich UK are also KBB NTG Board members and I look forward to working with them."

Hettich UK managing director Tim Leedham said "This is a great opportunity for Hettich UK and we are delighted to be part of the Skills Academy.  We all stand to benefit from a better educated and knowledgeable workforce: the end result will be customers who are better served and more receptive to added value ideas.  We look forward to working with like minded individuals and other leading industry companies."

To find out more about the NTG Skills Academy and the other training courses available, please visit www.kbbntg.com or contact Renee Mascari on 0115 921 4864.

The one day Sales and Customer Care course was held at the new Whirlpool training centre in Croydon on 18th November and was run by Graham Hayden. The delegates included representatives from Poggenpohl, Roundhouse Design, The Myers Touch, Cambridge Kitchens, Nicholas Anthony and KCA.

This course has now been experienced by 360 KBB delegates and the next course will be delivered on 27th January 2010 at the Whirlpool centre.

The course is approved by the KBB NTG and CITB Construction Skills.

For full course detail and booking form please visit www.grahamhaydentraining.com or contact Graham @ grahamhayden31@yahoo.co.uk or call 07889 692164.

B&Q are the first company to attend the newly launched NTG approved 5 Day Foundation training course in the Principles of Kitchen Design delivered at the KBB School of design and business in Nottingham.

Nine delegates took part in the foundation course, which was delivered by NTG approved training provider MDS accompanied by industry experts.Throughout the 5 days the delegates gained a comprehensive understanding of the design process. The course focuses on developing the skills and knowledge of the individuals with the content covering all aspects of Kitchen Design, Ergonomics, and Installation Pitfalls for Designers, Compliance Awareness, Life Skills, Specifying Lighting and Sales and Customer Service.

Not only are the delegates able to develop their knowledge and skills throughout the 5 days but they can also use the foundation course towards an ongoing process to gain formal qualifications as the course is KBB NTG Accredited CPD as well as Developing a Design for an Interior Level 2 (40 Guided Learning Hours Towards NVQ qualification Awarded by ABC).

The feedback from the nine delegates was very positive. "It has really given me greater knowledge about design and opened my eyes to the architectural side of kitchen design", comments Sarah Frost from the Telford branch of B&Q.

"We are delighted with the success of the inaugural 5 day foundation course and are honoured that B&Q were the first company to put their staff through the course which shows their continual commitment to developing the standards of their staff and the industry", comments a Director of MDS.

To find out more about the 5 day foundation course on The Principles of Kitchen Design, please contact ren@mascaridesignsolutions.co.uk Tel: 0792 1179 104 or visit www.kbbntg.com for further course information.

KBB NTG approved training provider Graham Hayden Training will be running two one day Sales and Negotiation courses on the 18th November 2009 and 27th January 2010 to be held at Whirlpool in Croydon.

The Sales and Negotiation Techniques course to be held on 18th November 2009 was put up as a prize by Graham Hayden Training for 12 delegates to attend the course which was won by Julie Blaylock of Maytag.  Julie has invited the other entrants in the draw to send a delegate on a complimentary basis.

There are places available for the one day Sales and Negotiation course on 27th January 2010 and can be booked by visiting www.grahamhaydentraining.com.

In 2008 one of the single biggest group of complaints received by Consumer Direct (a section of the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) was from the public suffering the results of using incompetent and often unqualified tradesmen to carry out work on the kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms in their homes.

With the annual cost of complaints on fitted kitchens and bathrooms alone costing homeowners a staggering £80 million pounds, this demonstrates the urgent need for industry standards to be introduced.

The KBB NTG is dedicated to developing training and educational programs for the sector, with their objective of increasing skill levels within the KBB Industry. As a driver to raise standards, an Industry Standards Register (ISR) is being launched in mid-October, initially focused on Kitchen Installers but which will be extended throughout other parts of the sector later.

The introduction of the NTG-ISR will fuel the industry wide need for higher quality standards across the KBB sector. A set of National Occupational Standards (NOS) for installers has been created which will form the basis of both assessment and training provision.

Many of the KBB industries major players are fully behind the ISR launch and are committed the turning the industries reputation around and see using the ISR as one of the ways to improve the customer's experience.

NAPIT have been appointed by the KBB NTG as the first Licence Registered Body to run the ISR. "The launch of the Industry Standards Register is an indication of the commitment by the major players in the KBB industry to raise standards right across this diverse and complex industry" comments John Andrews, Chief Executive of NAPIT.

Andrews continues "It will not on its own change things overnight, but together with other changes that the companies themselves are undertaking with product quality, delivery deadlines and innovative design, it will go a long way in making the KBB industry one to be admired for quality and not derided for complaints. Manufactures, Retailers. Professional Bodies and Trade Associations within the KBB industry can be justifiably proud they have committed to support the work of the NTG generally and the ISR launch specifically".

This initiative will include input from the iKBBi who have worked with the NTG to develop the model for the ISR.

To quote Drew Carter, Director, iKBBi:

"Our industry has long been without training and development that matches the needs of the professional kbb installer. If you have training and development programmes that supports new entrants as well as individuals at the top of their game you need something to hold this all together that recognises their skills & experience. The register (I.S.R.) does this and is another step forward in recognising that keeping on top of your game requires continuous development whether you're a sports professional or a trade professional".

"This is an exciting and major development in terms of raising standards for the KBB industry. To ensure the success of the register, it is vital that the KBB industry and individuals working within it support this wholeheartedly" says Renee Mascari, CEO, KBB NTG.

For further information on the Industry Standards Register and how to join please contact NAPIT on 01623 819092, email isr@napit.org.uk or alternatively visit www.kbbntg.com

Comments of support from the KBB Industry:

"We welcome voluntary initiatives that improve the standard of service and care that customers receive. Improving standards in this sector is good for consumers and good for business."

Kate Damania, OFT Head of Self Regulation.

"Any initiative to raise standards in our industry can only be a good thing, which we would always endeavour to support, however, it needs the support of the whole industry to ensure it succeeds. With training and recognition of quality workmanship, it would also encourage new personnel to the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom sectors."

Maggie Lister, Publishing Director Taylist Media

"KBSA supports the NTG with the ISR, and that the KBSA have always supported initiatives which encourages and sets standards in the industry, this can only be a good move for the industry as a whole as well as consumers and compliments what the KBSA's core objectives which were, and continue to be setting the standards for the industry over 30 years ago".

Graham Ball, KBSA

"The ISR has been a long time coming for the KBB Industry and is fully endorsed by Hettich. It is an official recognition of professionalism for installers which will benefit all from manufacturers to consumers".

Neil Schofield, Hettich UK

"Webs Training Ltd have been delivering kitchen installation training for the past 3 years. Working in close partnership with the NTG we have recognised the need to provide training to help upskill the sector and raise standards. The introduction of the installers accreditation scheme is very much welcomed by Webs and we see it as a way of achieving these goals and helping customers identify installers of a high standard. This development can only be of benefit in raising the profile of the sector and Webs look forward to working with the NTG in the future".

Pete Sisson Training Director, WEBS Training

"As a leading manufacturer and supplier of quality fitted kitchens, Omega PLC is committed to raising standards within manufacturing and therefore fully supports the NTG ISR initiative. This will undoubtedly raise kitchen installation standards and the professionalism of the industry. It is vitally important that we all work together to improve standards at every given opportunity and the ISR receives our full backing."

Gary Andrews, Contracts Manager, Omega Plc

KBB National Training Group (NTG) board member and a Skills Academy Founding Training partner Blum UK recently invited a group of 12 young interior design students from Big Wood School in Nottingham, who are the first in the country to take part in the Creating Interiors course run by WEBS Training in Beeston to their training centre in Milton Keynes.

During the day hosted by David Grant and James Farmer from Blum UK, the students were able to take part in an exciting schedule of events.

The day commenced with learning about the history behind Blum and an overview of how Blum fits into the Kitchen Industry.  The students were soon involved in a practical session where they were given the opportunity to assemble some hinges and plates using the INSERTA technology, followed by a tour of the showroom where they were able to see the products in a realistic environment.

As part of the development of the students industry and product knowledge the group were interested in hearing about Blum's DYNAMIC SPACE philosophy and learnt about the importance of ergonomics in today's modern kitchens.  To develop this further a willing volunteer was recruited to don the AGE EXPLORER suit used at Blum, this was a fun way of empathising the importance of pull-outs in base units and the need to consider the possible changing requirements of a kitchen user from a design perspective.

To finish the day the students were invited to design a kitchen and then build their design using Blum's "Test Drive" cabinets.

"I am delighted that Blum UK kindly invited the students to their showroom and hosted a days training that focused on introducing the students to Blum's products, the importance of ergonomics when planning a kitchen and developing the students product and industry knowledge" says Renee Mascari, CEO KBB NTG.

Creating Interiors Students and Tutors from WEBS attending training day at Blum UK. 

After the outstanding success of the inaugural National Training Group (NTG) Skills Academy masterclass on the 30th June 2009, three new dates have been announced.

The dates are 23rd September, 14th October and 18th November 2009, all three masterclasses will be hosted by EGGER (UK) at their offices in Hexham, Northumberland.

Through the NTG Skills Academy masterclasses, individuals currently working within the KBB industry have access to a full days training that focuses on learning and the development of skills levels.  As part of the NTG's commitment to raising industry standards, all the masterclasses are NTG accredited Continual Professional Development (CPD) courses which enable delegates to build up industry related qualifications.

Industry experts from EGGER (UK), Blum (UK), NAPIT and the KBB NTG will deliver talks throughout the day on 23rd September on Decor and Texture Trends for 2009/2010, DYNAMIC SPACE/Principles of Ergonomics, Compliance and Legislation, the Principles of Kitchen Design and How to Start Working with Lightweight Boards.  Details of the speakers for the October and November dates will be released in the near future.

The cost per delegate is only £55.00 + VAT and places on all three masterclasses can be booked via the NTG website www.kbbntg.com or alternatively by contacting Renee Mascari on 0115 984 3912 or via email renmascari@kbbntg.com.

Leading Northumberland based board manufacturer EGGER UK is the latest company to join the KBB National Training Group (NTG).

Commenting on its membership, EGGER UK's Product Manager, Andrew Sanderson says "EGGER is pleased to have joined the KBB NTG.  As a company we are committed to the development of skills and product knowledge within the KBB industry and partnering with the NTG enables our company to work with like minded individuals.  We look forward to working alongside other leading companies developing training incentives and driving forward new standards that will benefit everyone within the market place".

"The NTG is delighted to welcome EGGER UK onto the board.  In addition to the vast experience and specialised industry knowledge that EGGER will bring to the group, we are confident they will play an active and key role in helping to steer the future of training and education within the KBB industry." comments Renee Mascari, CEO KBB NTG.

Mascari continues "As part of EGGER's commitment to raising standards, I am pleased to announce that not only have they become a board member but are also a Founding NTG Skills Academy Partner and will host the second Masterclass on 23rd September at their offices in Hexham.  This demonstrates EGGER's dedication to supporting the NTG's vision."

The inaugural National Training Group (NTG) Skills Academy masterclass was launched on the 30th June 2009 at Blum UK and proved to be an outstanding success.

The key objectives of the Skills Academy is to provide individuals currently working within the KBB industry as well as new entrants with a platform that is focused on learning and the development of skill levels through a series of one day masterclasses that are also NTG accredited Continual Professional Development (CPD) courses.

Over 30 delegates from all sectors of the KBB industry participated in a full days training with industry experts including award winning designer Rene Dekker from SHH Architects Jeff Allen from Castle Sound & Vision, David Sanders from Blum, Richard Gould from NAPIT, Andrew Sanderson from EGGER, Liz Baker from Neff delivering talks on a range of subjects that focused on Kitchen and Bathroom Design, Sound and Vision, Styles, Trends and Innovation, current Compliance and Legislation and the Principles of Ergonomics.

"I am delighted that so many delegates from all parts of the industry attended the first masterclass.  The NTG is committed to developing training and qualification opportunities and the one day masterclasses enable individuals to develop their skill levels and product knowledge in a variety of subjects." comments Renee Mascari, CEO KBB NTG.  

Mascari continues "The feed back received from the day reinforces the fact that there is a need for industry specific training and that individuals working within the KBB sector want to learn and gain professional qualifications".

Kim Rochester from Mark David Enterprises Ltd said "It was such a privilege to attend such an informative day with so many interesting speakers, each offering very different angles with the same common goal.  A real eye opener, the day left me extremely inspired and wanting more".

Christopher Hackett from Classic Marble said "I came with an open mind and highly enjoyed the event both from a personal level and a professional perspective.  It is refreshing to be in the company of like minded individuals, all striving to raise standards".

The date of the next Skills Academy masterclass has just been released and will take place on 23rd September 2009 at a cost of only £55.00 + VAT per delegate, hosted by Egger (UK) Limited, Hexham, Northumberland.  

To find out more about the Skills Academy and how to book onto the masterclass, please visit the newly launched KBB NTG website at www.kbbntg.com or contact Renee Mascari on 0115 984 3912.

Delegates and Speakers at the inaugural Masterclass on 30th June 2009

The Kitchens, Bedrooms, Bathrooms National Training Group (KBB NTG) is pleased to announce the launch of the NTG Skills Academy.  This is a brand new concept from the KBB NTG and continues their commitment to developing training opportunities with the Skills Academy focusing on increasing product knowledge and skill levels for those currently working within the KBB industry as well as new entrants. Amongst other courses, the Skills Academy will be delivering masterclasses that will be NTG accredited Continual Professional Development (CPD) courses.

The Skills Academy will give individuals access to regional one day masterclasses delivered, in the first instance, by industry experts Blum UK, Castle Sound & Vision, Egger, NAPIT, NEFF, SHH Architects and Renee Mascari, CEO KBB NTG.  The masterclasses will focus on up to date trends, styles, technology and innovation as well as current compliance with speakers delivering talks throughout the day on Kitchen and Bathroom Design, Sound and Vision, Styles, Trends and Innovation, current Compliance and Legislation and the Principles of Ergonomics.  The same applies to all the courses the NTG Skills Academy facilitate

The first masterclass will take place on the 30th June 2009 and will be hosted at Blum UK in Milton Keynes.  Renee Mascari, CEO KBB NTG comments "The NTG is dedicated to the development of training and qualification opportunities within the KBB industry.  The Skills Academy will enable delegates to develop their knowledge on a variety of subjects and more importantly gain an NTG CPD accredited qualification".

To find out more about the Skills Academy and to view the full portfolio of courses available, please visit the newly launched KBB NTG website at www.kbbntg.com or contact Renee Mascari on 0115 984 3912.

The first master class will be hosted by Blum UK Limited in Milton Keynes on the 30th June 2009.

The one day master class will focus on up to date trends, styles, technology and innovation as well as current legislation

The subject's delivered by industry experts will include:

   Kitchen Design that represent today's Lifestyles

   Sound and Vision

   Styles, Trends and Innovation

   Principles of Ergonomics in the Kitchen

   Bathroom Design - "View from the coal face"

   Current Compliance - Impact on KBB Industry

The master class has been designed to develop product knowledge and skill levels for those currently working within the industry as well as new entrants.

Renee Mascari, CEO KBBNTG comments "The NTG is delighted to be launching the first master class in June. The master class gives delegates a full day of training that focuses on the development of their knowledge base and skills. Individuals will be able to build up evidence of ongoing professional growth and qualifications as the master classes are KBB NTG accredited CPD (Continual Professional Development) courses."

Mascari says "The master class speakers will cover a range of subjects and include Jeff Allen, Castle Sound & Vision, Andrew Sanderson, Egger, Matthew Walmsley, Blum along with Richard Gould, NAPIT and a representative from NEFF."

The total cost of the day is £55.00 per delegate and booking a place could not be easier.  Simply email renmascari@kbbntg.com or call Renee on 0115 9843 912 or 0792 1179 104.

Training People for the Industry by the Industry