EFTA news

Learning online

The EFTA Academy is a new E-Learning resource that offers access to training for all engaged in flexo printing - without having to leave the work environment. One of the advantages of E-Learning is that there is huge flexibility about when and where it can take place. Access to a PC, user name and password is all that is needed. It is not dependent on external course dates and can be fitted around shift patterns and work.

EFTA has led flexo training in the UK for many years - with the development of residential training at two Levels, the production of the FACE CD training programmes and, recently, an in-house two day training programme for companies who want to fast track train their staff.

While all these programmes have been very successful, EFTA recognizes that it is increasingly difficult for companies to release staff from their work commitments. At the same time as the flexo workforce ages and there is a need to recruit new staff to the industry, there is no simple way of ensuring that new staff have the necessary knowledge to enable them to understand the process in its entirety.

While new machinery is increasingly automated, which can have the effect of de-skilling the operation, not all companies have state of the art equipment. Equally, it is essential that all flexo printers, regardless of the type of equipment they run, understand how the whole flexo process works if they are going to trouble shoot and problem solve effectively.

The EFTA Academy has been developed to answer these issues. It operates very simply - with 10 modules: Introduction to Printing. Introduction to Colour; Inks; Anilox Rolls; Metering Systems; Fingerprinting and Reproduction; Printing Plates; Plate Mounting; Setting a Machine; and Fault Finding. At the end of each module is a quiz that tests the knowledge the learner has acquired during the module.

To achieve EFTA Accreditation, two on-line examinations will be held twice a year. The first will cover modules 1-5 and the second, modules 6-10. Students will have to complete and pass both examinations. They will then be awarded the EFTA Accredited Qualification in Flexography.

The advantages of E-learning include flexibility of location - by allowing the student to study at work or at home - and flexibility of scheduling - lessons can be taken when it suits the company or the individual. All the students need is access to their user name, password and a PC. Training can take place to fit around work schedules, shift patterns and even personal commitments

Students can also take up to a year to complete the course. They do not have to study all the modules and can just pick those where they have knowledge gaps, rather than study areas they are already familiar with. EFTA's on-line materials are available 24 hours a day, and students will be able to download notes to support their learning and to refer to on the job.

The Basic Flexography course is completed and EFTA intends to develop an Advanced Course and include materials on Lean Manufacturing. As technology evolves changes will be incorporated into the courses.

The association will be offering on-line support and mentoring to students, who can also contact EFTA staff at anytime either by email or telephone to discuss any points.

The academy is claimed to offer exceptional value for money. For EFTA member companies it will cost £995+VAT where applicable to enrol up to five students. This will allow students to access the academy for 12 months and includes examinations and certification. The fee for non member companies is £1,750+VAT.

More information is available from the academy website at www.efta-academy.org or call +44 (0) 1458 241455, or email les@efta.co.uk

Print Awards Special

The EFTA Print Awards 2008 brochure will be included with the March issue of Converting Today. The awards presentation takes place at the Royal Armouries, Leeds, on March 5.

Residential courses

EFTA will continue its Residential Training Programme during 2008 alongside the newly launched EFTA Academy. The four day course at the National Print Skills Centre, Leicester, will combine practical exercises with lectures and interactive discussions led by Les Taylor, EFTA technical and training manager, and supported by industry experts. The residential courses will culminate in an examination leading to an EFTA Accredited qualification.

Dates for the Level 2 Course are April 15-18 and course fees will be held at 2007 levels: Level 2 - EFTA members - £780, non members - £1,050; Level 2 - members - £950, non members - £1,300.

As well as multi company residential courses, EFTA is able to provide tailored in-company training.

For further information call +44 (0) 1458 241455 or email les@efta.co.uk

Extreme Lean

EFTA is re-introducing its Lean Workshops in a One Day Fast Track programme aimed at giving an insight into the benefits companies can gain from adopting theses tools - in productivity and efficiency, reflected in the bottom line.

Extreme Lean will outline the key parts of the lean transformation quickly and “set you on the road to improved efficiency and higher profits”. Delegates will receive a 'Getting Started' workbook with all the necessary tools to enable a quick start back in the factory.

The one day workshop will run from 9.30am to 5.00pm at The Coors Visitor Centre, Burton upon Trent, UK, on April 22.

To book call EFTA +44 (0) 1458 241455 or email Lesley Hide on hiding@efta.co.uk