Rsme Matters Rsme Matters

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L A Y matters O R

E ISSUE 5 : AUGUST 2010 H T

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Inside: Construction Where the Barley Blows Professional Engineer Wing Special

Working together to train our soldiers for operations 02 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 03 rsme matters rsme matters

Contents Features

Introduction ...... 4 8 Defence Animal Centre ...... 4

Class 1 Carpenters ...... 5

RSME Progress Update ...... 6

Holdfast - Trusted to Deliver ...... 7 HOLDFAST - TRUSTED TO DELIVER Where the Barley Blows ...... 12 We’ve looked at many areas of the RSME within the pages of RSME Matters. However, as in life outside of the RSME, behind the scenes are many unsung Boxing ...... 16 heroes working hard day in day out... Read more on page 8

PEW special

Safety ...... 17 12 16

It could be you! ...... 18

Health ...... 19

Class of 2009 update ...... 21

ABLE ...... 22 WHERE THE BARLEY BOXING Construction ...... 24 BLOWS The cry rang out across the parade What links three continents, several ground at Brompton Barracks Football Charity Match ...... 26 young members of Hackett Troop, ‘Boxers!’, and the next two and the Padre 1 RSME Regt, competitors entered the arena... JRSLA Opening ...... 27 a Holdfast Instructor and a famous Read more on page 16 historian to a field in France? 57 Training Squadron ...... 28 Read more on page 12

Information Management ...... 30 24 28 22

Main picture: ABLE deployment CONSTRUCTION 57 TRAINING SQUADRON Wherever you look around the RSME Over the next few issues RSME Photography: All images except where stated by Ian Clowes www.goldysolutions.co.uk construction is now well under way. Matters will be looking at some of the ABLE Design and Production: Plain Design This includes the Bicester site where Squadrons across the RSME. This How do you cross a 42 metre gap in 90 minutes? ... a challenge the RSME is www.plaindesign.co.uk the new Defence Explosives, Munitions month the focus is on 57 Training teaching engineers to solve using the Automotive Bridge Launching Equipment and Search School (DEMSS) South Squadron, part of 3 RSME Regt... Cover image: Anna Lyon, Holdfast Build Programme (ABLE) through training... Read more on page 22 Manager, discussing the internal fit-out at Minley training facilities will be located. Read Read more on page 28 with partners from Carillion and the RSME. more on page 24 04 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 05 rsme matters rsme matters

Welcome to the latest issue of RSME Matters. In this edition of the n magazine we focus on a capability which is fundamental to the o engineering success of the Corps: i Professional Engineer Wing. We also t feature some of the Babcock Defence team who deliver essential services c that support the delivery of training - stores and equipment support. u

d We are into our second summer of joint delivery at the RSME and there

o is much to be proud of; the construction programme continues r at a pace at Chatham, Minley and t increasingly at Bicester. In this edition, the construction team talk n about some of the challenges that I face them in preparing buildings for handover to the end user and the importance of a totally integrated approach to ensure that what Holdfast is supplying is of the highest quality, specification and on time. Equally the training output at the RSME continues to improve; first time pass rates are up, and loss to training rates are down.

Finally, it has been a period of reflection; the current course of Plant Operator Mechanics supported the dedication of a memorial to Sapper Hackett in Givenchy in what was a moving service of commemoration. This was a poignant reminder that those values of selflessness and courage are a common thread across all in the Corps. Defence Animal Centre Class 1 Carpenters

Mention the Defence Animal Centre In the next issue we’ll learn all about the Been there, done it - but back to HERRICK 10) where he was in Helmand Tim Redfern (DAC) at the RSME and you might be met work of the DAC. However we make no Chatham to learn some more! Province with 38 Engineer Regt. As well as with a blank stare. The DAC is part of the apologies for the free advert in this issue! using his trade skills in the building of RSME but is based independently at a site One of the biggest challenges at the DAC It’s sometimes forgotten that many of the accommodation he also provided near Melton Mowbray. There the sound of is the sourcing of new dogs and they are students passing through the RSME have not demolitions support to the Infantry, using We’re always looking for new marching soldiers and armoured vehicles is constantly looking for suitable dogs to only spent time in the Field Army but have explosive methods of entry. ‘This involved parts of the RSME to explore replaced with that of barking dogs, train. It is possible to donate dogs to the often completed operational tours in very close contact with the insurgents.’ and share within RSME Matters. galloping horses and the ring of metal on DAC; to learn more simply visit Afghanistan. One of the current Class 1 Sprs Ellis and Crow-Brown If you’d like us to tell your story metal from the Farriers’ forge. www.yourcountryneedsyourdog.co.uk Carpenter and Joiner courses spoke to RSME Spr David Crow-Brown was in Afghanistan then just let us know. Matters about their recent experiences. All but with Op HERRICK 8 providing engineering We also carried out route clearance duties. However the role of the DAC is becoming one of the course had served in Afghanistan. close support. Using the mine detection equipment for the increasingly important, especially in the training They can be seen pictured with their Holdfast first time in a real-life situation was a real Ian Clowes of dogs. In a tri-Service operation that also Instructor Del De Lorme. ‘I was able to use my trade skills as part of challenge.’ Editor, RSME Matters supports the police and other Services, DAC the team expanding the accommodation trains dogs not only to guard and carry out LCpl Richard Ellis has served in both Iraq and toilet facilities of the forward operating Spr Crow-Brown will be joining 10 Sqn at 07930 982 661 vehicle searches but dogs capable of detecting (Op TELIC 9) and Afghanistan (Op bases for 51 Paras. RAF Leeming, part of 39 Air Support Regt. [email protected] a wide range of items from drugs to explosives. 06 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 07 rsme matters rsme matters

RSME In the last 6 months we have...

• Launched and populated the Virtual • Held a Training Transformation Progress Learning Environment (VLE) Conference • Installed WiFi in most accommodation • Redesigned elements of Phase 2A Update blocks at Brompton and Gibraltar training at Minley Barracks • Developed and delivered courses on • Opened two new Junior Ranks Single the Truck Mounted Loader (TML) 6 Living Accommodation blocks and tonne lift commenced refurb of accommodation • Delivered Pre Deployment training for blocks at Minley HERRICK 12 (21 Engineer Regt) and • Started a programme of training HERRICK 13 (23 Engineer Regt) transformation • Delivered Op BAM & JFEE support • Co-located Holdfast and contractor Holdfast - • Delivered real time support to 28 staff with HQ and Regimental / Engineer Regt deployed on Station staff HERRICK 11 Trusted to Deliver • Reorganised MT services at Minley

We’ve looked at many areas of RSME time. Babcock uses the strapline ‘Trusted within the pages of RSME Matters, from the to Deliver’ and I believe that neatly sums up major exercises to the progress of the new the stores operation within the RSME.’ building programme. However, as in life outside of the RSME, behind the scenes are many unsung heroes working hard to Munitions provide services without which everything would grind to a halt. Tucked out of the way in a secure compound somewhere in Hampshire are ‘Stores’ often comes into this category. In two key members of the Holdfast team. this issue we take a look at some of the Whilst surrounded by the rolling Surrey In the next 6 months we will... critical stores operating across the Minley countryside, this team has no time to stand site and meet some of the people that make and take in the sights and sounds of nature. • Implement an RSME-wide LAN and • Provide new search routes in the it all happen. Holdfast Stores Manager They are responsible for the safe handling intranet site vicinity of Bicester to facilitate future Andrew Walker explained the scope of his and storage of all live munitions used at training operations. ‘At Minley we are responsible not RSME Minley. • From the first course to undergo only for the receipt and issuing of materials training transformation, release trained • Deliver training on protected plant fleet and equipment, but we also do a great deal Tony Grey won’t mind admitting he is the Sappers on average 30 days early to LCT (P), LWT (P), MWT (P) and SLDT (P)* of work ensuring that the equipment is well senior partner in this venture, with 22 years the Field Army • Deliver Pre Deployment Training for maintained and safe to reuse.’ as a vehicle specialist in the Royal Logistics • Create the infrastructure for the RE HERRICK 14 (24 Commando Engineer Corps and 7 years in the Military Police and Warfare Wing Regt) Providing stores support to all of the Guard Service. However both Tony and Tom training activities and exercises is no mean Marsden had to complete a two-and-a-half • Deliver the first third part income • Deliver Further Reachback into theatre feat. Over the next few pages we will take week training course at Kineton to gain the generation opportunities at RSME • Write our first military engineering App a look at munitions, bridging and exercise relevant Authority Class 1 Goods and Unit (including closer links to International equipment, mine detection equipment and Ammunition Storeman qualifications. Defence Training (Army) and have • Plan for the development of a new other specialist stores, bedding and fuels identified spare capacity with a plan to Learning Resource Centre at to mention just a few examples. Holdfast ‘It’s a great working environment,’ said market it Brompton Barracks also provides support to the Tony.’ It is a big responsibility but one I • Restructure the training organisation • Develop the Royal Engineering Mil -e- Communications and Systems Branch enjoy. We’ve both seen these munitions in Pedia online learning resource and the MT Workshops which we will action and have a tremendous respect for • Deliver an RSME Change explore in future issues. the potential hazards they present.’ Management Plan *Abreviations: • Undertake a review of MT and vehicle LCT (P) - Light Crawler Tractor (Protected) ‘I have a great team,’ Andrew The storage and handling has to be carried fleet composition at Minley Crawler as in "tracked" rather than wheeled. continues,’who take real pride in working to out in compliance with both civilian and LWT (P) - Light Wheeled Tractor (Protected) ensure that the RSME has the right MoD standards and it is important that we • Double the broadband pipeline MWT (P) - Medium Wheeled Tractor (Protected) equipment in the right condition at the right keep up to date with the legislation. capacity into RSME SLDT (P) - Self-Loading Dump Truck (Protected) 08 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 09 rsme matters rsme matters

Complete Equipment Stores

Paul Keene operates out of the Hawley SAPPER (formally called Exercise warehouse and external storage area. The PHANTOM SAPPER) it’s a major task to equipment that is looked after is large, receive the equipment back onsite and including all bridging, trackway and exercise ensure it’s inspected and neatly stowed in resources (training equipment, drills, inert good time.’ explosives, combat engineering equipment, field fortification wire and Hesco, combat Paul also supports the exercises in the field, power tools). providing stores support and a fork lift service in real-time when stores are called In addition to making equipment available forward by the trainees. when needed, a key responsibility is to ensure that the equipment has been ‘This is one of the biggest changes inspected and carries a valid inspection following the PPP,’ explained Paul. certificate if required. ‘Providing realtime support is a challenge but one I enjoy. We know in advance the ‘All lifting equipment and bridges require a type of stores and equipment that may be formal periodic inspection. Without a valid required, but it’s up to the trainees to make certificate it cannot be used,’ explains Paul. the final call. Sometimes there can be real time pressure as the trainees have only ‘We always carry out a level 1 inspection realised late in the day that they need a both on issue and receipt of equipment. particular piece of kit!’ This is important and it is often possible to spot the early signs of wear or potential Paul is part of a team of 12 providing failure that we can then rectify before the equipment care and related services at the equipment is used. Hawley site. As part of the PPP the Hawley site will be redeveloped with new facilities ‘After a large exercise such as MORTAJA being provided over the coming year.

VEHICLE WASH While out onsite at Minley RSME Matters background there are several members of his “it’s a major task bumped into Ross Lovegrove, a general family in active service and he has enjoyed to receive the hand within the MT Control team. Ross took working in the military environment. time out to demonstrate the refurbished equipment back vehicle wash now operating at Minley. Ross During his time with Holdfast he has also onsite and ensure has been with the team for just over a year, gained his ADR driving qualification that and although he doesn’t have a military enables him to drive vehicles containing it’s inspected and hazardous goods. This means he can now neatly stowed in often be found ferrying explosives out to exercise areas. good time.”

‘I really enjoy the variety of tasks involved in my role,’ he commented.

The vehicle wash is another key element in equipment care, enabling vehicles to be maintained in a clean and effective working order. Holdfast - Trusted to Deliver 10 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 11 rsme matters rsme matters

Technical Stores

“The high level of activity in support of training soldiers for front-line operations provides a myriad of challenges to the team at Minley (whether wearing Combat 95 or Holdfast blue). There are a significant number of our team working behind the scenes, who will do whatever it takes to support a training schedule which is constantly evolving to reflect the needs of soldiers deploying to Afghanistan.”

Holdfast Site Operations Manager Adam Cooper

Just across from the vehicle wash are two “...the team are FUELS, ACCOMMODATION, CLOTHING & RATIONS STORES new buildings. The first houses the MT Control Team; Driver Training Troop and Malta enthusiastic and Operating with a team of four, Mike Baggs Holdfast Site Manager Adam Cooper Troop, the second is the new Technical Store. hard working and oversees all these areas while also keeping commented, ‘This is a real achievement an eye on the G4 accounts - ensuring that and reflects Mike’s commitment and hard The Technical Store is managed by Allen really rise to the the stock on paper matches that in the work over recent years.’ Gray. Allen explained that his team has only challenge.” stores! One of his major challenges has just moved into the purpose-built facilities been the relocation of the POL (Petroleum In a similar way to other regulated areas and that they look after a wide array of Oils and Lubricants) store at the bottom of onsite Mike explained how it is important to equipment used during training. ‘This can ‘Now that we have the new stores building the Minley site. keep up to date with both civil and military range from pick axes and wheelbarrows to most of the work is from there. However for regulations, in a similar way to other sophisticated mine detection gear. Moving to specific courses team members can ‘In order to redevelop the site the POL regulated areas on site.’ the new building has brought improvements operate from dedicated storage facilities facility had to be moved. This has been a in the layout and capacity of storage. Moving adjacent to the main exercise areas.’ three-year project that we’ve recently Fuel is provided under contract via the from decentralised stores to a situation completed,’ explained Mike, ‘and I’ve been Defence Fuels Group and fuel quality is where the majority of equipment is in one The team of four also provide a purchasing involved in it from the very start.’ something Mike takes particular care over. building has also brought operational service - ordering replacements for ‘We do quality testing on a weekly basis benefits and efficiencies. equipment lost, damaged or unserviceable. Mike was working at the RSME prior to the and manual dips of all tanks monthly.’ PPP and had a big hand in the design of ‘Safety critical items, such as demolition ‘The major challenge for us is simply the the new facility. He was also responsible for Maintaining the appropriate fuel stock is harnesses and ladders, are visually pace of training. Each day is tremendously successfully maintaining a POL service also a challenge. Upcoming exercises need inspected on issue and return; plus there is busy, but the team are enthusiastic and during the transition - no easy feat. to be factored into the equation to ensure an equipment care schedule for all items hard working and really rise to the adequate deliveries are made to satisfy the including periodic formal testing and challenge.’ “In order to ‘We worked closely with the Defence Fuels forecast fuel demands. certification. Group, gaining their approval of the final redevelop the site design.’ Mike obtained the certificate to Operate the POL facility Bulk Fuel Installations in 2007. However, all the hard work was worth it - had to be moved. as proved by the recent successful pass A little known fact about Mike is that from This has been a achieved in the Logistics Support 1994-2000 he regularly represented Great Inspection (LSI). Britain at international level as part of the Holdfast - three-year project BMX cycle team. that we’ve recently Trusted to Deliver completed...” 12 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 13 rsme matters rsme matters

Where the Barley Blows

What links three continents, several unfolded during the later part of June 1916 Spr Hackett was a 43 year old miner from ‘I am a tunneller. I must look after the ‘I wanted to spark interest in children local townspeople and Royal Engineers young members of Hackett Troop, the under the battlefield at Givenchy in France. Nottingham who had joined the Army partly tunnellers first,’ Hackett was heard to say about the tunnellers’ life. The design from Chilwell and Chatham. The service Padre, 1 RSME Regt, a Holdfast Instructor to leave the dangers of mining behind, only as he chose to remain behind to comfort helps you imagine just a little of what life was supported by the Nottingham Royal and a famous historian to a field in France? Del is part of the team assembled by the to find himself tunnelling beneath the Collins. The rescue attempt continued over might have been like underground during Engineer Voluntary Band. historian and author Peter Barton and Maggie German lines in a subterranean battle for the following days, but further tunnel the war. Additional imagery shows the The answer is to be found beneath today’s Lindsay Roxborough to develop a suitable control of no man’s land. On June 22 nd Spr collapses and the horrendous ground listening devices and tunnelling tools and The Plant Operator Mechanics of today’s green fields in the form of Spr William memorial to remember all the tunnellers of the Hackett and four other tunnellers from 254 conditions meant that this proved equipment and finally the moles - a Hackett Troop have recently completed Hackett VC whose body lies alongside First World War. Peter explained: ‘This is the Tunnelling Coy were working 35 feet impossible. Spr Hackett was awarded a favourite tunneller nickname.’ their training and are moving onto their new another tunneller Pte Thomas Collins. only memorial to the British and Allied underground when a large German mine posthumous VC for his bravery. regiments. The visit to Givenchy couldn’t tunnellers and it has taken many years of was detonated nearby, trapping them in The dedication service was led by Lt Gen have come at a more appropriate time. ‘Where the Barley Blows’ is the title of a song, research and fundraising to get to this point. the tunnel. The memorial, supported by private David Bill (UK Military Rep. NATO) - late They not only visited the Givenchy site but written by Holdfast Instructor Del De Lorme, But now the story can be told.’ subscription and donations from the RE, together with representatives from met descendants of both William Hackett that recounts the dramatic events that Over the next few days desperate attempts Corps, is unique. Made of slate, it is the across the world standing alongside and Thomas Collins. were made to rescue the men. Tunnellers, height and width of a typical tunnel and working under almost impossible stands on a base the diameter of the conditions while the attacks continued tunnel entry shaft. The tunnellers’ symbol above ground, managed to dig a small ‘T’ cut into the memorial looks out across relief tunnel and Spr Hackett helped three the fields to the very spot where the two of the men to safety. However the fourth men remain to this day. After the Pte Thomas Collins, a 22 year old from dedication service, led by 1 RSME Regt South Wales, was too injured to make it Padre Pat Aldred, Peter explained what through the small opening. lay behind the memorial. Del De Lorme (left) and WO1 Philip Moffit Historian Peter Barton Padre Pat Aldred 14 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 15 rsme matters rsme matters

Their visit was supported by TQ, the Extract from the song written by Del De Lorme: Holdfast Plant Training subcontractor. Head of Training Wally Gupwell explained,’ I think it’s very important that the Sappers of today Some heroes live in thunder recognise the scale of the work and the where the battles roar, bravery of the Sappers of the past. Being part of this memorial dedication can only And fanfares blow and stories grow, strengthen such links.’ Of the daring deeds of war, Spr Arran Gore commented, ‘We were But in the earth beneath Givenchy, aware of Spr Hackett and the VC, but the Where no bugles call, visit to Givenchy really opened our eyes to the world in which he worked and brought Lie the bones of William Hackett, home the horrors and gallantry that all The bravest of them all. tunnellers must have needed every day they went to work below the battlefields. The reality is a world away from the formal black And they carved the words deep on the slate, and white photograph of Spr Hackett we were familiar with.’ For the people passing by who stop to wait, It tells the tale of tragic times, Spr James Martin added, ‘I didn’t realise it was a new memorial we were to visit. It’s And where true valour shows, good to see the work of the tunnellers finally And a tunneller who’s lying still, recognised. What really surprised me was the number of different nationalities involved Out where the barley blows. both in the tunnelling and in the ceremony. I feel a much greater link and respect for the Sappers of the past and am proud to be called a Sapper today.’

If you want to learn more about the memorial you can go to the website www.tunnellersmemorial.com . To learn more about the life of tunnellers in France during the First World War, see Peter Barton’s Book, Beneath Flanders Fields - The Tunnellers’ War 1914-18.

Sprs Lancaster and Gore Hackett Troop at Givenchy AUGUST 2010 17 rsme matters Safety

TRAINING INCIDENTS ‘We’re moving in the right direction,’ ‘I would urge everyone to take time out and (JAN-JUN 2010) says Peter Sheridan, Holdfast Training use the Don't Walk By system. It is an and Services Director, as he effective way of highlighting potential safety

4 takes a look at recent trends issues. Every card that is submitted is S R 2 O in safety at the RSME. actioned and feedback is given to the person T C A & C B I submitting the card. Additionally, there is a R B A F ‘Overall we’ve seen a monthly draw of all cards submitted and the O TH ER reduction in winner received £50 - you never know you S 1 0 PT accidents so far at might make a contribution to safety at the / S PO RT the RSME this year. RSME and be £50 better off! S I 7 NJ BEW UR IE Since April, the S 3 3 start of the new ‘We’re now beginning to see clear trends in B&SF 2 training year, the the type of accidents that are occurring. ELEC TRICAL 1 fall has been Accidents during physical training (PT) significant and continue to dominate the statistics, with can be seen twice as many of these being outdoors across the whole compared to the gym. This highlights the school: military staff, need to be well prepared for outdoor students, MoD and activities. Ensure your kit is the correct kit civilian workers. and fits well - there are still many easily However a peak in June preventable foot injuries due to poorly fitting shows that we can never boots, and always warm up properly.’ relax when it comes to safety and we must continue to work hard On the following pages we’ll examine a new at reducing accidents. initiative by Holdfast that looks at how Avoid injury changing behaviour is critical to improving The Don’t Walk By campaign continues to safety performance and PT QMSI Jack during training: deliver, identifying hazards and potential Horner will take you through some of the problems before someone can get hurt. events being run at the RSME to help to improve health and wellbeing. He also takes • Always use the a look at the dangers of dehydration and right tools sunburn during the hot summer weather. Finally we learn of a new tool that our • Use tools the INCIDENT TYPES nutritionists are using to ensure that PAYD meals deliver on correct way, safely 4 7 the nutrition and healthy • Wear the right 4 eating front. The cry rang out across the parade Boxing was reintroduced to the RSME in As Billy explains, life as a boxer at personal protective ground at Brompton Barracks ‘Boxers!’, 1996 and Sgt Billy Rutherford’s team first won 1 RSME Regt isn’t easy. The boxers equipment and the next two competitors entered the the Corps Championships only two years train in their own time, early morning runs 4 arena led by a piper. As Brigadier later in 1998. In 2009 Billy returned to the being followed by a day of study before a • Plan the job - Baveystock commented at the end of the RSME as a Capt in time to steer the current long night pounding the bags and pads in think it through 10 evening it was a once-in-a-lifetime team to victory once again, supported by the boxing club, buried beneath experience for many of the young Sappers coaches Sgt Carroll and LCpl Hardy. Collingwood Triangle. They are a really • Concentrate on in the audience to witness open air boxing in dedicated bunch.’ the job at hand such a fantastic venue. This season the team have competed in • Look after numerous contests, gaining a second place your mates at the Corps Championships. Slip/trip ■ 4 Bruising/graze ■ 4 Cuts ■ 4 Don’t Walk By Sprains/strains ■ 30 Fracture ■ 10 30 Boxing Other ■ 7 rsme matters PEW special

“ Professional Engineering Wing trains professionally qualified engineers and technicians for the technical arm of the Corps of Royal Engineers”

Professional Engineer Wing

In this issue of RSME Matters we particular to enable the delivery of essential Commanders in construction engineering, take a look at the work of the infrastructure on operations for UK conducts bespoke pre-deployment and Professional Engineer Wing (PEW). Based deployed forces and other Government pre-project refresher training, and provides at Brompton Barracks the Wing touches departments worldwide. agency training for the rest of the RSME in every part of the RSME, providing training specialist areas such as Project as diverse as basic mathematics and ‘The Wing is an amalgamation of the Management. computing to a Master’s degree. The former Civil Engineer Wing and Electrical Wing is led by Chief Instructor (CI) Lt Col and Mechanical Wing. It retains the higher ‘As the PPP has bedded in, the Wing has Tony Stevens who explained to RSME level Professional Engineer Training (PET), been in a state of flux. There are significant Matters how the Wing is organised. Clerk of Works and Military Plant Foreman new growth areas in which I have courses, but no longer controls the artisan governance for the RSME. Force ‘PEW trains professionally qualified trade courses. Responsibility for Wing Protection Engineering is big business at engineers and technicians for the technical output is military and there are embedded present, and PEW is becoming the centre arm of the Corps of Royal Engineers in military instructors, but most of the of excellence for individual training. Project order to meet Defence needs, and in teaching is conducted by Holdfast Training Management and Contract Management Services through their contractor Mid Kent courses are being thoroughly overhauled College Training Services Limited. Much of to meet the Corps’ needs and are being this is at Higher Education level: the PET aligned with civilian qualification routes, course as a Master of Science degree opening up the possibility of the provision awarded by Cranfield University; and the of training to external organisations. Within Clerk of Works courses as foundation the Safety, Health, Environment and Fire degrees awarded by Greenwich University. (SHEF) training, risk management is At the same time, every Sapper who growing in importance. The PEW structure attends trade courses at Chatham will on the following pages has emerged from begin by taking a short course in the the old Wing structures, but may look Maths, Computing and Technology branch somewhat different over the next year as it as an academic foundation tailored to their evolves to deliver the functional outputs. It trade. The Wing trains RE Troop is a busy and exciting place to be.’ Professional Training rsme matters Branch rsme matters PEW special PEW special Chartered Engineer Civil

Chartered Engineer Electrical & Mechanical

Professional Engineer Professional Engineer Wing Organisation Training Branch

At any one time within the Corps of A relevant first degree in engineering is Royal Engineers you can find around 125 ideal, although alternative entry Professional Chartered Engineer technical specialists. qualifications may be accepted.’ Engineering Wing They fulfil a wide range of roles within 170 (Infrastructure Support) Engineer Group as The course consists of four phases. well as in Defence Estates, Works Group Professional Training Technical Training Engineering Maths, Computing and Airfields and major headquarters around the Phase 1 comprises seven or eight months, Branch Branch Management Branch Technology Branch world. To maintain this pool of expertise the depending on the discipline being followed, RSME provides Professional Engineer of full-time academic study at Chatham. Training (PET) to up to 12 officers each year. The two disciplines involved are Civil Engineering and Electrical & Mechanical Chartered Engineer Clerk of Works Project Management The qualifications achieved are significant, Engineering. Civil Construction “Is the course hard? including a Master’s degree and Chartered Engineer status. On completion of the Phases 2 & 3 see the participants Yes - it’s nails.” Some Chartered Engineer Clerk of Works Contract Management course, officers go on to mainstream RE completing an 18-month industrial of the formulae look Electrical & Mechanical Mechanical appointments, often in command positions. attachment. These are real roles based within a large scale commercial like Egyptian Maj Lorne McMonagle leads the PET construction project and a design office. hieroglyphics” Clerk of Works SHEF training at Chatham and explains more Partner companies offer placements on Electrical about the course. projects worldwide. Recent placements have been on projects in both Australia and Section Engineer for the construction of an ‘There is no hard and fast rule for the USA. They can also be closer to home. underpass within the Olympic site. An Military Plant Foreman Force Protection qualification to the course but typically the Capt Tim Brewer has been part of the Bam underpass might sound a relatively minor participant will be a senior Captain who has Nuttall team working on the Olympic Park in project; however when it is explained that probably completed an Adjutant or 2IC role. London. He was allocated the role of the underpass carries North London’s main sewer consisting of four 2.7 metre diameter cast iron pipes, and that the surface, once “Based at Brompton Barracks, the landscaped, will become one of the main entrances to the Olympic Park, the scale of Wing touches every part of the RSME, the project becomes apparent. providing training as diverse as basic For Phase 4 the participants return to the mathematics and computing to a RSME at Chatham and spend two weeks Master’s degree.” completing military-related activities and formal presentations of their attachments and final interviews for their MSc thesis.

Lorne sums up. ‘Is the course hard? Yes – it’s nails.” Some of the formulae look like Egyptian hieroglyphics! The attachments are a real challenge, often in testing conditions. The participants will be stretched, but the rewards are rich and definitely worthwhile.’ rsme matters rsme matters PEW special PEW special

Technical Training Engineering Branch Management Branch

Clerk of Works Project Management Construction

Clerk of Works Contract Management Mechanical

Clerk of Works SHEF Electrical

Military Plant Foreman Technical Engineering Training Branch Management Branch

Obviously not everyone can follow the Course 61 graduated in July, returning to the teaching complement. This is an area of real change within PEW. We are also streamlining our approach to route to Professional Engineer. The RSME the Field Army as substantive SSgt Clerks RSME Matters looked at the role of the Alongside the traditional areas of Project Force Protection across all the RSME offers two parallel routes; Clerk of Works of Works, with a foundation degree in Military Plant Foreman in Issue 2. All Management, Contract Management and courses so that best practice is applied at (Construction, Electrical or Mechanical) and building services engineering. They are course participants are Plant Operator SHEF, there is increasing focus upon Force all levels:’ Military Plant Foreman. heading off to take up a range of Mechanics with over ten years of Protection and Engineering Logistics. assignments based in Germany, RAF experience. Again the course is a mix LEVEL 1 A key role within the Royal Engineers, the Leuchars and Chilwell. of classroom work, which can often be CI Tony Stevens explains. B3 Sapper Clerk of Works is responsible for planning a real shock to the system, followed by Equipment solutions, Hesco, shelters and managing technical projects and acts Before completing their final project they a six-week surveyor course and then ‘One of our top priorities is training in Force as a subject matter expert. Following the undertook a 7-week attachment to civilian the Construction Material Technician Protection. To many this is simply the Troop Commanders/Field Sergeants two-year course at PEW all Clerks of Works industry. The attachment enables them to put phase. Gaining the qualification of Shot building of Hesco Bastion structures, Combat Engineering Solutions will have obtained a foundation degree and their academic studies into the context of real explained that the students also complete Firer and Explosive Supervisor (EPIC) familiar to everyone from the coverage of been promoted to staff sergeant with a well world engineering challenges. It also marks adventure training – an ideal opportunity to includes a week-long detachment at a the Afghan conflict. However it’s more than LEVEL 2 defined career path to WO1 ahead of them. their shift to real-time decision making with demonstrate leadership and teamwork in civilian quarry. that, involving the design and installation of Clerk of Works, Military Plant Foreman This can include the opportunity to gain a significant consequences and outcomes. One adverse conditions. fencing, lighting, alarms, blast mitigation Design of basic structures, fundamentals of commission at a later date. The course of the benefits of such placements is that on A further period gaining Clerk of Works measures, the application of new protection involves two years of classroom study and their return to the Corps they are able to share ‘Being out on the hills gives us the experience and road and airfield design equipment and the many other approaches engineering project work at Chatham. their experience and industrial best practice. opportunity to see the students in a runs alongside modules in Project that have developed following feedback LEVEL 3 different light, out of the classroom and the Management, Computer Aided Design from the field. PET students WO1 Philip Moffit is the Senior Military Sgt Andy Cooksey was attached to workshop. Many excel in this environment and Structural Engineering. Advanced Force Protection Instructor (SMI) looking after the Clerk of Medway Hospital. During his attachment he and really demonstrate the skills and ‘In 2012 PEW will take over the delivery of Works (Mechanical). Phil was also a key was involved with the planning for water performance we’re looking for in future The final phase of the Military Plant the eight week level 3 course currently run Tony then went on to detail the other areas player in the Tunnellers’ Memorial shortages and with the design and onsite SNCOs.’ Foreman course is a hands-on real life by the Defence Academy. In effect a new of the Engineering Management Branch. dedication ceremony which you can read management of a series of renovations to exercise, often improving the course, this will combine the lessons about on page 12. the hospital’s power and heating plant. Like all of the courses within PEW the Clerk infrastructure on the training estate, learned from Afghanistan together with input of Works and Military Plant Foreman courses such as the construction of access from 170 (Infrastructure Support) Engineer It’s not all classroom work. WO2 (QMSI) are taught by a mixture of military and civilian roads and drainage. Group Force Protection Engineering Cell. Paul Kersey, Clerk of Works Instructor personnel, Holdfast (MKC) providing 50% of rsme matters rsme matters PEW special PEW special

“The Holdfast team is very well integrated within PEW and provide excellent instruction across the branches.”

Maths, Computing and CI Tony Stevens Technology Branch

Mathematics Computing Project Contract Management Management SHEF and Technology Branch

At its most basic this involves ensuring the Well established at the RSME, this course The role of PEW is not related to the In contrast to the other branches within instructors. As the new staff settle in the Technology Training across all the right person is in the right place with the right explores the world of commercial contracts. day-to-day management of safety at the PEW, Mathematics Computing and team is working together well with the workshops and PEW. materials at the right time to deliver the task. This includes looking at what forms of RSME. PEW is responsible for the SHEF Technology (MCT) Branch is a civilian civilian instructors understanding and contract are likely to be encountered and content of the course material. Whilst the organisation operated by Holdfast providing respecting the military aspects and ethos ‘Almost every Royal Engineer will have At the moment elements of Project how should they be handled. One of the basics of Health & Safety are well understood ‘agency’ training not only to PEW but within PEW.’ experienced some level of MCT support Management are embedded within all most important areas is to understand the and already included in course material, one across the whole of the RSME. The Branch during their career,’ said John. ‘We support courses. The aim is to modularise and potential pitfalls within the fine print of a of the most important areas to be further also manages the civilian instructors that CI Tony Stevens commented, ‘The Holdfast all of the courses, providing the fundamentals standardise our approach, adopting contract and to know when to call for developed is that of risk management. provide much of the training within the rest team is very well integrated within PEW and of maths, science and technology that they common standards. The basic standards specialist advice. Increasing of PEW. Holdfast Divisional Director Dave provide excellent instruction across the need to successfully complete their course. will be the National Occupational Standards contractorisation and litigation combine to ‘Risk management affects everyone,’ Davis has overall responsibility for the branches.’ This can range from basic maths or electrical (NOS), and the Association of Project make this an area of increasing importance. Explained Col Tony. ‘A better understanding of Branch. He comments: theory to Fourier analysis and control theory.’ Management (APM) standards. At PET level this needs to include an risk and how it affects the decisions we take Dave, a civil engineer, also keeps his hand The APM would be a one-week module appreciation of the various types of contract requires a common language and structured ‘PEW is a militarily led Wing and the military in by instructing on the PET Civil One of the biggest challenges John faces is enabling the PET students to gain APM that they might encounter worldwide! approach. Within PEW we are currently instructors generally operate on a two-year Engineering courses. the scheduling of courses, an annual task membership. At the moment we are using exploring the best way of building that into the rotation. This is excellent in that it ensures the that requires all his depth of knowledge and the APM material within the Contract A recent study carried out with the Royal teaching environment at the RSME.’ training is current and reflects the operational ‘We produce the finest qualified engineers experience to master. Management course. The RSME will Engineers Training and Development Team experiences and requirements of the Field capable of operating in a combat engineering become an Accredited Training Provider in (RETDT) has highlighted opportunities to SHEF courses include the five-day RE Army. The Holdfast team is able to provide environment,’ he proudly stated. ‘We are finding that there is an increasing need 2012 and recognising the importance of adopt a more structured, modular approach Construction Site Safety Advisors Course ongoing breadth and depth of knowledge to provide IT support to artisan trade courses this field will be led by a new senior lecturer similar to that being adopted for Project completed by all Field Sgts, Clerk of Works, coupled with professional teaching skills that The ‘agency’ training is in the hands of as the course become more dependent upon post to be appointed later this year. Management. Military Plant Foremen, Troop Commanders really strengthen the training delivery. All the John Williams. Like Dave, John is a long- technology and computer skills.’ and Professional Engineers. Accredited by Holdfast team hold recognised teaching standing member of the PEW team who The development of both the Project and the Construction Skills Council they also qualifications and up-to-date knowledge of moved across to Holdfast at the start of the An Interactive Learning Centre can be Contract Management courses is a receive a Construction Skills Certification the latest civilian standards. PPP. John is responsible for the found within PEW, open to all, where progressive activity with new modules being Scheme (CSCS) card, enabling access to management of the MCT team of 12 students can fine-tune their IT skills and introduced alongside the existing courses. civilian construction sites worldwide. ‘At the start of the PPP there was an teachers and one administrator that carry out internet based research. (Open increase in the numbers of civilian provides Maths, Computing and 8am to 9pm Mon-Thurs.) rsme matters PEW special

MATHEMATICS COMPUTING AND TECHNOLOGY BRANCH CONTINUED... Conclusion

The area that fascinates most visitors sits In the controls lab Steve is leading a 3.5 So that’s PEW. The range and level of on the ground floor of Denison Block. day course for Fitter Class 1 students. training available surprises many first-time That is the suite of laboratories that cover Students can be seen operating a SCADA visitors and the integration of the Holdfast physics, mechanics, controls and (Supervisory Control and Data Aquisition) team within the military environment is electronics. RSME Matters took a quick control system to control a small process impressive. CI Lt Col Tony Stevens is proud tour of some of these facilities with plant and also investigating modern of his role and determined to maintain instructors Nigel Whittingham and Steve control systems using a lift simulator PEW’s focus, meet the new challenges such McGowan. (constructed by MCT instructor Jeff as the development of the Force Protection Dodd). training and the Project Management In the lab Nigel was taking some Phase course, while continuing to deliver top class 2A electricians through some electronics ‘By relating to the models and exploring engineers to support operations. practical work. how the systems work in a safe environment, trainees gain a better This course gives them an appreciation of understanding should they encounter the behaviour of many of the components similar systems on deployment,’ Steve they might come across during their trade explained. training. AUGUST 2010 17 rsme matters Safety

It could be you!

‘IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN TO ME….’ Exploring this area of behaviour and coming The workshop was a very hands-on affair, ‘I’VE DONE THIS LOADS OF TIMES up with strategies to change how people with group working and role playing AND NEVER HAD AN ACCIDENT…’ approach such situations was at the heart sessions all aimed at highlighting the power ‘IT WAS EASIER TO DO IT THAT WAY….’ of a Health and Safety Workshop organised of behaviour and how it can result in ‘I WAS TOLD TO DO IT…’ by Babcock in June. Although it was held at someone accepting risks and hazards that ‘I DON’T NEED TO WEAR SAFETY Minley, participants included Holdfast when challenged everyone agrees are GOGGLES, I NEVER HAVE PROBLEMS members from throughout the RSME and unsafe and unacceptable. WITH GRINDING WHEELS….’ some from several of the other Babcock contracts. Can anyone honestly say that they’ve never been in one of those situations? You want Head of Safety Ian Pym, seen below with to reach something off a high shelf - easy, Seminar Leader Elaine Cameron, explained, just stand on the handy office chair. You ‘Holdfast have really taken the initiative didn’t fall off last time… within the RSME rolling out the Don’t Walk by Scheme in support of the ‘Go Home However that’s how accidents happen and Safe, Every Day’ objective. It has highlighted yet, although we know it’s the wrong thing many potential hazards and significantly to do, we go ahead and do it anyway. improved the accident statistics. However we now want to move the focus onto Health behaviour and the impact it can have both in We’ll now take a look at the various the proactive approach we are taking will Finally Jack showed us around the the workplace and at home.’ health initiatives at RSME Minley. These are bring real long-term benefits.’ refurbished Trim Trail. With several It became clear as the day progressed that aimed not only at promoting basic fitness improvements the trail is available 24 hours there is no quick fix to the problem, with but also at enhancing the health and In addition to the health fairs ‘Sport Relief’ a day and can be included as part of any people reinforcing bad behaviour by ‘getting wellbeing of both civilian and military was introduced as a fun run, or stroll, which fitness programme. A map of the trail can away with it’ time after time. But it also personnel. We highlight the dangers of the not only encourages general fitness but also be found adjacent to the swimming pool at became clear that behaviour played a major summer heat, and take a look at how raises money for charity. The dress code Gibraltar Barracks. part in accidents and injury. All participants nutrition is being considered within the Pay- ranged from Lara Croft to Julius Caesar, were able to recount personal stories of as-You-Dine menu development. with the winner being WWE’s ‘Rey HEAT HAZARDS near-misses or genuine injury that happened Mysterio’ aka. LCpl Greg Fairhall. Whether as a result of global warming or because they took a short cut or were One of the consistent elements within the not, there are real risks in the frequent spells pressured into doing something unsafe. RSME is fitness training. But Jack Horner of hot sunny weather. Heat illnesses can sees fitness as only part of the picture. vary, ranging from mild heat stroke treatable The first step is often the most important with fluids and rest to cases requiring a visit and each participant identified one negative ‘We’ve been holding health fairs at Minley to hospital and a spell in intensive care. behaviour that they committed to change for the last two years: these are continuing Unprotected exposure to the sun can also over the next few months. This will be to increase in size and now attract cause serious sunburn with resulting short followed up as part of the course participants from across the country and term burn injuries and potentially serious development. are well attended by site personnel.’ long-term risk of skin cancer.

Recognising the significance of the We went along to the most recent (and Protection from sunburn is relatively straight approach, Holdfast is exploring the best very well attended) fair, and found forward: cover-up with appropriate clothing way of highlighting the importance that representatives from BUPA, the Citizens The ‘Cycle to Work’ week was another or by applying a suitable sun screen. changing behaviour can have within the Advice Bureau and the Surrey Police, as initiative targeting everyone on site. However, though many factors are involved RSME. Whether military or Holdfast, you well as the ESS nutrition team and various in heat illness, the cause is simply a rise in can start now. When you next find yourself medical and sports training specialists. It ‘With the aim of increasing the numbers of body temperature often combined with cutting corners, standing on that chair, was possible to get advice on everything people leaving their car at home and dehydration that reduces the ability of a leaving your PPE off… stop and think. You from the best fitting shoe to the nutritional travelling to work by bike or on foot, we are person to lose heat through sweating. might have got away with it last time but content of a Pay-as-You-Dine meal. You encouraging everyone to try to reduce their Any activity planned in hot conditions, this could be the time you fall - or lose could also pick up samples of condoms carbon footprint as well as keeping fit,’ especially when wearing protective kit such your sight through not wearing those and dental cleaning aids, and get your explained Jack. The names of all the as NBC or impermeable equipment, carries safety glasses. blood pressure checked on the way out! participants were entered into a raffle at the a risk of heat illness. Individuals can vary in end of the week, with a £50 voucher going their susceptibility to these problems through ‘It’s important we look beyond simple to Holdfast Tech. Stores Supervisor Allen obesity, lack of physical fitness and a host of physical fitness,’ Jack commented, ‘and Gray the winner. other factors. The body’s ability to lose heat 20 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 21 rsme matters rsme matters

through the evaporation of sweat to control a SAFFRON ‘Using Saffron we can not only ensure that rise in temperature is also affected by As well as attending the health fairs, the our menus all meet nationally agreed environmental factors such as temperature, team of nutritionalists supporting the standards, but we can make quick and humidity and wind speed. These can be Holdfast Pay-as-You-Dine (PAYD) menus simple changes to menus while still integrated into a table called the Wet Bulb have a new weapon in their armoury to ensuring that standards are maintained. Globe Temperature (WBGT) index that is ensure the nutritional content of the RSME This enables our teams to make better use used to determine the colour-coded is always in line with MoD and Food of the most cost-effective ingredients and guidance table often seen around the RSME. Standard Agency (FSA) guidelines. take better advantage of seasonal variations. It will also allow us to add the This table is for guidance only but can be Food Standard Agency ‘traffic light’ system used as part of an overall risk assessment. to menus across the RSME.’

Work intensity, rest periods, water intake, The menus are based around the following clothing and acclimatisation are all additional guidelines: factors that should be considered. Probably the simplest and most important of these is • Plenty of variety and enough energy for to drink enough water throughout the day to growth and development ensure maximum heat loss.” • Plenty of fruit and vegetables • Plenty of fibre-rich foods VIKAS PHOUGHAT DANNY SQUIRES STEVE REECE • Consider heat illnesses as a risk in hot • Moderate amounts of meat, fish or weather or when wearing protective alternatives We last met up with Spr Vikas Phoughat Spr Danny Squires is now part way Leading the electrical department is equipment • Not too many foods containing a lot of during his B3 training at Minley. Since through his phase 2A electrical course Holdfast Faculty Manager Steve Reece. • Check the WBGT index reading as part Nutritionalist Amy Roberts (above) attended fat, especially saturated fat becoming a Sapper he has completed at Chatham. ‘I found the electrical Steve began his career as a Royal of an overall risk assessment the recent health fair at Minley. One of the • Not too many sugary foods and drinks driver training at Leconfield and is now assessment course a challenge,’ said Engineer apprentice at Chepstow and • Reduce work intensity and take regular most frequent questions she was asked with Talavera Troop awaiting his Resource Danny, ‘but now I’m several months into has seen active service around the rest periods was ‘Does the PAYD core menu provide us We monitor all our products for additives, Specialist Phase 2A training course in the thing there’s no doubt it was the right world. With a focus on power • Maintain a regular and sufficient intake of with the right foods and the correct hydrogenated vegetable oils, salts, fat and September. However Vikas was keen to course to do. I’m really enjoying the more generation and distribution it was water nutritional content?’ Amy was keen to point sugar levels. experience life in the Field Army and is practical elements; we’re getting more in- almost inevitable that he would end up • Where possible acclimatise to high out the careful balance of items on the deploying to 35 Engineer Regt Padborne depth now and learning really useful skills.’ at the RSME as QMSI electrical. temperatures menu and the importance of the types and The nutritionists will be continuing to for the twelve weeks before moving to proportions of different foods required to promote health and wellbeing across the Deepcut to begin training as a Resource Danny has also taken up the sport of rock The start of the PPP coincided with the A final top tip from Jack Horner is to avoid make up a balanced diet. In future she’ll be RSME and will be at the Autumn health fair Specialist. climbing. He’s not only practicing twice end of his posting at Chatham, and dehydration by drinking sufficient water on able to directly demonstrate this using the being held at Brompton Barracks. each week in the gym but is off to Scotland Steve accepted the position of Faculty a regular basis. ’When working in a hot new analytical tool Saffron. This can provide He explained, ‘It is a chance to see where on an Adventure Training course to tackle Manager. Now 18 months into the PPP environment you should drink enough water a detailed nutritional analysis of the menu If you haven’t already tried the PAYD core I’m going, to understand the lifestyle and to indoor ice-wall climbing. Steve is pleased with the progress made. to ensure your urine remains colourless.’ and compare it to a comprehensive set of menu at the RSME, why not give it a go? gain experience that will be invaluable once nutrition-based standards. “It’s important we my course starts.’ ‘Long-term my ambition is to make Clerk of ‘While the MoD requirements on data- Works (electrical), but first I’m looking handling can be restrictive we’ve made Nicky Martin, Senior Nutritionist responsible look beyond simple While with Talavera Troop Vikas also forward to joining 22 Engineer Regt great progress in areas such as IT, with for the roll-out of Saffron, explains some of volunteered to participate in a photo shoot (Tidworth) on completion of my course in faster machines and networked physical fitness” the benefits. for a poster campaign highlighting the January and gaining some experience on classrooms. We’re now just beginning a various 2A courses available! deployment in Afghanistan.’ full review of the content of our courses, and I’m excited about combining that with the many other initiatives being Class rolled out with Holdfast at the RSME.’ In particular Steve is looking forward to working on the development of of 2009 several computer-based interactive learning projects. update Learn more about healthy eating guidelines at: www.eatwell.gov.uk/healthydiet 22 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 23 rsme matters rsme matters ABLE How do you cross a 42 metre gap in 90 minutes? No that’s not a trick exam question, although the answer might come in handy at the local pub quiz night; it’s a challenge the RSME is teaching engineers to solve using the Automotive Bridge This is large-scale engineering that Top Launching Equipment (ABLE) through Gear fans would be proud of, and is a training delivered by Driver Training Troop slickly choreographed affair requiring a well (DTT) based at Minley. trained and practised team. Under the watchful eye of WO1 (SMI) John Buckley The BR90 General Support Bridge (GSB) the bridge is rapidly deployed until the uses the same modular components as the additional Long Span link reinforcing system Close Support Bridge and is carried, is secured in place. Job done! launched and recovered using 10 personnel. The GSB can span gaps of up Both the GSB and LSE have been used on to 30 metres in under 40 minutes. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and as a result of Op ENTIRETY there has been a RSME Matters visited the Royal Engineer sharp rise in student numbers. ‘Until now Training Area (RETA) at Tidworth to see the we have had to rely on the availability of the big brother to the GSB, the Long Span RETA,’ John commented,’ however Equipment (LSE) deploying over 42 metres Carillion have now developed our on-site with a crew of 11. facility at Minley to allow Long-Span training. This will make a real difference to The ABLE vehicle carries the launch and our training capability.’ recovery equipment. A launch rail is placed across the gap to be crossed and the bridge In addition to the GSB and LSE courses units are added one by one and progressively Driver Training Troop also deliver training on launched across the gap supported by the the Tank Bridge Transporter and are rail. The two Bridging Vehicles (BVs) carry the preparing to meet urgent operational remainder of the bridge set, each vehicle requirement training on the new Self using its own built-in crane to lift the bridge Loading Dump Truck (Protected) and the components into place. Rapid Emplaced Bridge Systems (REBS).

JOHN BUCKLEY WO1 Buckley has been the Troop Commander/SMI of DTT since June 2008. As well as meeting his primary objective of delivering well trained and motivated Military Engineer Drivers, as the Driver Trade Subject Matter Expert he is very active supporting the ABLE systems Integrated Project Team, the Terex T35/50 Crane Implementation Working Group, Unit Safety Advisor and advising the EinC(A) training DLoD for C vehicles and drafting the Corps driver training policy. 24 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 25 rsme matters rsme matters

Wherever you look around the RSME construction is now well under way. This includes the Bicester site where the new Defence Explosives, Munitions and Search School (DEMSS) South training facilities will be located. There’s not a lot to see so far but the ground work for the dive pool has started and extensive environmental work has been undertaken. We’ll take a detailed look at this in the next issue.

Additional buildings completed include the Tech Stores, Workshops and Offices at Minley, and the dog section facilities at Upnor. Refurbishment of accommodation “For me the greatest blocks and classrooms continues at an impressive rate. We have also seen the challenge is ensuring formal opening of the new Junior Ranks the asset is ready for Single Living Accommodation (JRSLA) blocks at Minley by Major General Lamont immediate use at the Kirkland CBE, GOC 4 Div. date of occupation The biggest build in progress at the whilst organising the moment is the SNCO/Sgts’ Mess at Minley. relocation of the end Again of modular construction, the internal accommodation is now in place and ready users from their to be fitted out. A steel framed communal existing location into area is nearing completion. One of the biggest challenges in a project of this type their new one.” is gaining the agreement of all stakeholders to the final fit-out plan. This challenge lies with Holdfast Build Programme Manager Responsible for over 70 assets spread Anna Lyon. Prior to joining the Holdfast across three sites Anna works with team Anna spent 12 years in the RAF as designers, engineers, builders, suppliers Nimrod Aircrew. And there is no doubt the and of course the client and end-users to skills she learned there with the ability to ensure that once a building is structurally multi-task under pressure stand her in good complete, it is kitted out and operational in stead in her role at Holdfast. time for the new occupants’ arrival.

Construction 26 AUGUST 2010 rsme matters

CONSTRUCTION CONTINUED...

RSME Matters accompanied Anna on a tour The Build Programme is due to last of the partly completed SNCO into 2014 with a mixture of new accommodation and Mess project at Minley, and refurbished builds and training along with construction, contract and end- spaces but Anna has already user representatives. The discussion was overseen several successful wide ranging, covering everything from the handovers including the new size of rooms to the landscaping of open JRSLA blocks, the new MT and areas and the fit-out of the Combined Mess Driver Training Troop offices plus areas. It’s a job that requires attention to a new Warehouse & Classrooms detail coupled with an ability to make things at Minley. Current projects happen and to hit deadlines. include the new SNCOs’ Mess and the refurbishment of Smith Block (into Anna sums it up well. ‘For me the greatest 3-man en-suite rooms) at Minley, the challenge is ensuring the asset is ready for new Dog Section at Medway and immediate use at the date of occupation the Dive Pool and offices at Bicester. whilst organising the relocation of the end users from their existing location into their new one. My aim is to provide a seamless transition that doesn't impact on the individual, training or the RSME in the process.’

Another fundraiser for the Army which finished with a 3-all draw that “The improvement to the built environment during the last 18 Benevolent Fund (ABF), the Soldiers’ raised £1,628 for the ABF.’ Charity was held during the run up to the months has been significant and is a visible sign of the very World Cup. Holdfast team members, from The cheque was presented to Peter Cook positive impact of the PPP at RSME Minley. New accommodation, Atkins and Carillion, held what was (ABF) and Brig Nick Baveystock by Stephen described as a ‘friendly but competitive’ Perkins and Charles Johnson (Aitkins classrooms and other working areas create an environment football match. Project Director), along with the two team conducive to learning as well as improving overall quality of life captains Mark Thorburn and Tobi Allen- Project Director Stephen Perkins Wielebnowski. for all who live and work at RSME Minley.” Lt Col Matt Quare, CO 3 RSME Regt commented’ ‘It was a hard-fought game Football Charity Match JRSLA Opening P h o t o :

P a u l

Y o u n g e 28 AUGUST 2010 AUGUST 2010 29 rsme matters rsme matters

57 Training Squadron

Over the next few issues RSME Matters construction of a 1,062 foot long, triple and Training Depot of the Irish Army. Instructor Troop, led by Capt Andre Harlock. swell the funds! Over £8,500 was raised disposable plates, knives and forks and will be looking at some of the Squadrons standard widened Bailey Bridge. A regimental The Squadron is also very active in charity over three days from stores around the takeaway containers, Holdfast and Babcock across the RSME. This month the focus is task, this was in support of the Festival of Mons Troop led by Capt Stu Douglas and work. With activities ranging from bag- Aldershot and Farnborough area. also sponsored the event with a £350 on 57 Training Squadron, part of 3 RSME Britain, being constructed just upstream of the Jemappes Troop led by Capt Dan Hall packing to marathon running thousands of donation. The recipe used was a 60 year-old Regt based at Minley. Charing Cross Bridge over the River Thames. reflect 57 Field Company’s time in France pounds have been raised for the Army Equally challenging was the Big Curry event Gurkha recipe from Malaya. The highlight for This bridge was designed to transport 8,000 where in August 1914, only eight days after Benevolent Fund, recently rebranded as at Minley; an annual event which SSgt many was the special Gurkha Kaalomaasu - HISTORY people an hour to the exhibition site. mobilisation, personnel were heavily involved ABF - The Soldiers’ Charity. Prakash was organising for the second time. Black Mutton! This is a regimental specialty Although 57 Training Squadron only got its in bridge demolitions. It was during this that even my wife cannot cook.’ he added. present title and role in 1960 (replacing C In 1956 the Squadron was deployed to the period that LCpl Jarvis, a member of the Masterminding many of these events was Squadron, 1 Training Regt Royal Engineers, Suez Canal and in 1959 was involved in Squadron, and Capt Wright, a former SSgt Prakash. A fourth generation Gurkha He did go on to admit that the curry had based at Southwood Camp near Cove), the construction and maintenance tasks on Squadron officer, performed with gallantry in he is the first in his family to be a Sapper in been ‘toned down’ somewhat in respect of Squadron’s history actually started with the Christmas Island during the British Atomic the face of sustained enemy fire. They were the Royal Engineers. He really enjoys the mix the Minley customers. creation of 57 Field Company at Chatham Tests. On returning to the UK the Squadron engaged in facilitating the withdrawal under of soldiering and technical engineering on 10th May 1900. was again disbanded, reforming in 1960 as fire of the 1 st Battalion of the challenges. On completion of his training at SSgt Prakash will soon move to 36 described earlier, becoming part of 3 RSME Northumberland Fusiliers by demolishing Chatham he moved to Hong Kong and has Engineer Regt, so another volunteer will be Very actively involved in the First World War Regt in 1993. bridges over the Mons Conde canal and been deployed on several operational tours needed to lead Big Curry in 2011. as part of the 3rd, 46th and 49th Divisions railway close to Jemappes station. Both to Kosovo and Iraq. Back home he has his in France from 1914-19, their bravery and The Squadron is currently operating with were awarded the Victoria Cross medal for hands full looking after two young daughters! The final fundraiser was Maj Peter Conn, gallantry was recognised by two Victoria four troops. their heroic actions. OC 57 Trg Sqn, who was part of an 88 man Cross medals. The bag packing was organised by Cpl ‘The key part is the curry and we use a team that completed the London marathon Curragh Troop is led by Capt Mohan Since 1960 the Squadron has run training Ram Kumar and consisted of the Queens special Gurkha curry prepared by two earlier this year. Active fundraising took In 1919 the Company was disbanded until the Tamang. The troop takes its name from the courses and cadres for junior leaders and Gurkha Engineer ME Combat 0-3 trainees Gurkha Chefs brought in from 36 Engineer place at Minley prior to the event, overseen formation of 36 Engineer Regt at Maidstone in Squadron’s move in 1903 to the main potential Junior Non-Commissioned Officers. from Curragh Troop. He stationed two QGE Regt at Maidstone,’ SSgt Prakash explained. by Sgt Owens, Provo Sgt. Together with 1949. One of the first tasks 57 Engineer British Garrison in Ireland in County Kildare. This key function in the training of the Corps’ Sappers at the store entrance in full ‘Holdfast provided the cooking facilities in donations from the WOs’ & Sgts’ Mess and Squadron was involved in was the The base still exists today, housing the HQ Junior Commanders is delivered by ceremonial dress which certainly helped to the Sergeants’ Mess with ESS providing Holdfast, Peter raised nearly £2,000. AUGUST 2010 31 rsme matters

The world is awash with information and the RSME is no exception. However, encouraged by Government policy, changes are planned which will streamline the storage of the ever- increasing quantities of data and yet make that data work harder by being accessible to everyone who needs it. change, SharePoint is an online system that will be which is the main means of sharing information across often stressful, the RSME. If you produce a document that is but this change will be needed by others within the RSME or if you supported by thorough are working together with several other training and online support. contributors on the same document, SharePoint will be the place to do it. Once the system is up and running refresher training can be obtained online so SharePoint will contain easily accessible you will only be a few clicks away from documents so that a document does not answers to your questions. SharePoint, need to be stored in several different locations. operating over the new RSME-wide services So where’s the catch? It would be easy to say RSMENet, will allow easy access to all up-to- facilitating there isn’t one, but for SharePoint to work date documents - no more wondering if the collaborative certain rules need to be followed. Documents you’ve the latest version of a procedure. working and file need to be named in particular ways. A new Documents don’t need to be stored in more sharing described earlier. file structure must be adopted and there may than one place and with a clear file structure be changes in the way you use email with and naming conventions they can easily be The setting up of RSMENet has been guidelines to follow when deleting or removing found when you need them. Want to know a real challenge for the Holdfast IT Team, email messages or files. This will involve when someone has made a change to a and represents many months of work, bringing document you’re working on? No problem, together all the existing networks via a common the system will send you an automatic alert so infrastructure and new computer suite. you keep control of what’s going on. You will be able to host meetings, store agendas, and TELLING THE WORLD… have shared access to calendars, all in an As well as sorting the internal bid environment securely hosted and managed. communications Holdfast has recently for the launched a new website, sharing with the PPP and When does all this happen? The first step is to world the role Holdfast is playing in the although it had establish the single network across the RSME, development of the RSME. The site can still been updated it did bringing together all of the various local be found using the original web address not tell the full story of the networks that currently exist. RSMENet will be www.holdfasttraining.co.uk and is well Holdfast role at the RSME, nor accessible by anyone within the RLI (Restricted worth a look. With general information about did it meet our current branding LAN Interconnect) and will be in-place by Holdfast and links to partners and guidelines. The new site is fresh, clean September 2010. Sitting within the RSMENet, contractors, the site also highlights the latest and professional looking and will enable us to the new RSME Intranet (which will be known as job vacancies, news, images and of course add new content in the form of presentations ‘G-two’) will then become the main source for all the online version of RSME Matters. New and short videos in addition to the jobs and static information such as downloadable forms, site development was led by Holdfast news that we could add to the old site.’ enable telephone directories and policy documents. Business Support Manager Nicki Lockhart us to improve who explained the vision she had for the site. There is much going on in information the delivery of The availability of the RSMENet will also management at the RSME and all will make services and training enable the roll-out of the SharePoint ‘The existing site was formed to support the doing business more efficient and ultimately at RSME . Information Management