The instrument department is divided into eight separate modules in which each laboratory or workshop is a self-contained unit. Wherever possible simulation of power station systems has been incorporated to enable trainees to become familiar with systems and fault diagnosis.

CRAFT APPRENTICE TRAINING

        Selection of apprentices for the instrument trade is based on the results they gain at technical college during their first nine-month period of block release training. The individual's preference is also considered in this selection process.

        The training programme spans 54 weeks, spread over the second and third years of apprenticeship.

        The first 15 weeks of training covers basic machine and hand skills (five weeks' instruction), pressure measurement and gauge calibration (three-weeks), and basic electrics and electronics (seven-weeks).

        The treatment of these subjects is split between theoretical studies and practical skills training.

        At the end of 15 weeks the apprentices return to college for a period of about 12 weeks, after which they return to the centre.

        The second period of training takes 27 weeks and covers a comprehensive range of subjects - flow, level, and basic telemetry (eight weeks instruction), temperature measurement (seven weeks), pneumatic automatic control (six weeks), and analysis instruments (six weeks).

        These courses are each divided almost equally between theoretical studies and practical work.

        The final phase of instrument craft training lasts 12 weeks and covers the study of closed circuit television, electronic automatic control and special equipment - turbine supervisory equipment, chlorination, grit and dust monitors and other items. The study of each of these subjects spans a period of four weeks.

        The performance of apprentices is constantly monitored throughout the training programme, at the end of which tests are held to give a final appraisal.

STUDENT APPRENTICE TRAINING

        Students and graduates attend the centre for eight weeks during their second year of training. Their course is an intensive treatment of the craft apprentice training programme, with the emphasis firmly on fault diagnosis.

        Some skills training is given, especially in the field of electronics and test equipment.

        A proportion of the students' work is of a project nature.

CRAFTSMEN AND JUNIOR ENGINEER TRAINING

        A series of short courses, ranging in length from one to four weeks, is offered for adult training. These cover a wide range of instrumentation and skills.

        Specialised adult courses have in the past been organised to meet Regional needs and this facility is always available should the demand arise. Details are available from the education and training department at Midlands Region Headquarters.