FERROLI GETS INTO TRAINING AT NDAI
Plumbers in Northern Ireland are getting hands-on training in the latest boiler technology courtesy of Ferroli. The leading boiler manufacturer has equipped the plumbing department at the North Down and Ards Institute (NDAI) with popular products from its domestic range, including the Band A Optimax 25C combi SYS system boiler.
Based in Newtonards, County Down, NDAI is one of largest education and training providers in Northern Ireland and is recognised as a Multi-centre of Excellence, specialising in areas such as electronics, manufacturing engineering and IT. The Institutes Business Support Unit offers a comprehensive training programme aimed at the plumbing trade. In addition to courses leading to NVQ and City & Guilds qualifications, the prospectus includes courses in Part L Energy Efficiency and Unvented Hot Water.
“The boilers Ferroli has provided for our department are invaluable training tools and the company’s support is ongoing.” Says Paul Henry, NDAI’s Senior Lecturer, Plumbing. Recently, Ferroli supplied boiler casings for practical tests in the Northern Ireland heats of Skillbuild – a national contest for young people training in the construction industry. The event proved a great success for NDAI, with Peter Tipping, one of its star plumbing pupils, scooping a Silver Medal.
Alongside full-time courses for young people starting a career in the heating and plumbing industry, NDAI also provides part-time courses for those already in the trade who want to update their skills. “Indeed, a lot of Ferroli’s customers in Northern Ireland attend courses here,” continues Paul Henry.
Looking to the future, the mutually beneficial partnership between Ferroli and NDAI is set to go from strength to strength says Paul Henry: “We’re currently drawing up plans for a new £4 million Skill Centre on our present site and are looking forward to continuing support from Ferroli as we embark on this exciting expansion.”
The Ferroli Group is one of the largest and most successful heating appliance manufacturers in the world with an annual turnover in excess of 500,000,000 Euros. Over 500,000 boilers are produced each year from its ten ultra modern factories across Europe. Ferroli UK Limited offers a wide range of domestic and commercial boilers utilising new generation heating technology for optimum energy efficiency and environmental protection. The Group also offers radiators, cylinders, air conditioners, underfloor heating and solar systems.
