Modern Apprentices from a college have fitted a CCTV system for a local youth centre – thanks to a donation of £1600 of equipment and help from three companies.
Three cameras, cabling and security software have been installed at Bellshill and Mossend YMCA by ten second year students from New College Lanarkshire’s Modern Apprenticeship trainees in Electronic Fire and Security Systems. The donation was by Boston Networks, Axis Communications and Brand-Rex.
This was the second phase of the college’s Project Innovation, to upgrade the YMCA building while giving technical and crafts trades students the chance to sharpen their skills for real. Construction students have refurbished a drop-in clinic at the YMCA premises, while full-time welding and fabrication students will repair a perimeter fence.
The Electronic Fire and Security Systems Modern Apprentices did their work under supervision of college staff while on a day-release session – normally held once-a-week at the Motherwell campus as part of their three-year course. Pictured are the college’s Electronic Fire and Security Systems Modern Apprentices outside Bellshill and Mossend YMCA. New College Lanarkshire is the largest provider of training awards in electronics security systems in Scotland, with more than 100 students at any time. Glasgow-based Boston Networks has several apprentices doing SVQs there and four more scheduled to start studies in September 2016.
After hearing about the initiative from David Scott, College Innovation Lecturer and Project Leader, Boston Networks contacted technology partners, the network video product company Axis Communications and Glenrothes-based cabling firm Brand-Rex.
Axis donated the IP (internet protocol) cameras which require only one network cable to power the camera and transfer the images to a recording device. Brand-Rex supplied the apprentices with cable and connectors to network the new CCTV.
Audrey Schaefer of Boston Networks said: “After learning about the project, we were keen to support as part of our community initiative scheme. Through the collaboration of our security team and technology partners, we were thrilled to contribute to such an excellent initiative which not only benefits an important local charity, but also offers apprentices the opportunity to gain on-the-job experience.”
Nick Platt-Higgins at Axis said: “Boston Networks are one of the largest Axis Gold partners in Scotland with many years of experience and technical innovation. When they came to us and asked us to support New College Lanarkshire and their fantastic Project Innovation, we were more than happy to help them. We saw it as a great opportunity to put something back into the community and support the superb work the College do with their students. The YMCA premises were in desperate need of refurbishment and the High Definition Axis cameras will help keep the premises secure and safe for the volunteers and customers.”
New College Lanarkshire’s David Scott said: “I would like to thank all the companies involved for their very generous input to Project Innovation. This has allowed students this unique work experience project, while enhancing the security of an invaluable facility in the local community.”
Apprentice Mark Hunter, 23, from Bargeddie, said: “My job was to load the CCTV software onto the computer and make sure the cameras were set up and recording properly. It’s been great to get the experience of working with such advanced cameras and to be able to give something to the community.”
And apprentice Martin Hannaway (24), from Newarthill, did cabling work to prepare for the camera installation. He said: “I’ve done some of this type of work on my own but it was good to work with the team and share what I know with them. It’s a great gesture by the College and beneficial for the YMCA too.”
Apprentice Andrew Langrell, 19, from Bishopbriggs, said: “The equipment I’ve used here is more advanced that I have worked with before. We’re all got different skill bases and it’s been a great way to learn from each other too. Working for charity has also made it quite special. It’s good to give something back for a good cause.”
