Trainer of the Year

Name: Marcus Felix
Job title: Trainer
Company: First Capital Connect
Location: London

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
“1. I am nominating Marcus Felix, Trainer for the Trainer of the Year award for his outstanding course leadership and the resilience and tenacity he demonstrated in leading the “Managing for Disruption” training courses from January 2009 – June 2009. The courses were attended by cross industry partners including: - Network Rail, DfT, London Travel Watch, NXEC and our internal frontline staff (1100 delegates and 47 events).

2. All train operating companies understand the importance of delivering meaningful information to our customers at times of disruption and Marcus has been instrumental in helping FCC design and deliver, all in house, a leading edge course for all front line colleagues. The course was designed as a “market place” with each room focusing on one aspect of our business:

The Future Room created a synopsis of the challenges faced in managing the Thameslink Programme which would lead to more disruption for our customers.

The Knowledge Room – provided our colleagues with the know how to access all the information available to them at times of disruption –primarily via a toolkit and the extranet.

The Engine Room – gave real live scenarios and explained the role of control and why decisions are made around the delivery of the service.

The Information Room –gave hands on practice of finding information using the extranet.

The Experience Room –involved role plays of the real life challenges facing customers and colleagues at our stations.



Marcus was the course leader, master of ceremonies and the glue for the whole event. Each morning he became the frustrated colleague with the unhappy and challenging customers. His enthusiasm, energy and drive were maintained throughout all 47 courses in spite of constant challenge presented by some sceptical colleagues who started with a “can’t do “attitude. By the end of the course all delegates had bought into the future way of working and pledged to take personal responsibility for their actions. The Controls now receive very few calls as colleagues will reach for their toolkit and the extranet and will manage the situation.

Marcus is a credit to the business and had not taken on anything of this scale before this challenge. It has stretched him personally and we are proud to have him in our team.

Head of Stations said:-



I attended the last session of DMS and have to compliment Marcus in still having the ability to inject full energy and enthusiasm into the role play which was made the scenario actually live and left a firm imprint on my mind that this could actually happen on a station and what's more i could actually visualise this happening. Marcus is a true professional and had an excellent way of involving all the audience in the DMS group without it appearing to be too pointed and individuals singled out.

It is clear that Marcus has a passion for this and is an excellent ambassador for DMS, well done really enjoyed it”.

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"Marcus really stepped up to deliver this programme and I have been more than impressed with the tangible results he has delivered for FCC. This programme was intensive, training over 1000 employees in a short space of time - delivering 3 events per week to on average 100 delegates".

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"I have known Marcus for nearly 17 years throughout his various roles in the industry. He was an outstanding customer service assistant; those visions and values have been used in his training, and have undoubtedly added value the rail industry and inspired many new and existing staff within the First Capital Connect business. He recently received a Gold Award from First Capital Connect for his dedication and excellence in the field of training. This Rail Staff Award would be the icing on the cake for him and would be thoroughly deserved!!

Well done Marcus!!"

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I have worked alongside Marcus for nearly 8 years from the start of my Railway career from our Customer Relations set up at the Thameslink offices in Friars Bridge Court, and can sum him up in two words: MR MOTIVATOR!!!

Marcus proved a wealth of knowledge and would always be the first to help and assist in any given situation. He has come a long way in his current role as Trainer for First Capital Connect and remains to be the positive personality who is unafraid to take on any given challenge.

Marcus was the backbone to the facilitation during the Disruption Management System (DMS) training programme, forming positive working relationships with other TOCs and recently won a Gold Excellence Award for his continued commitment to the DMS roll out.

Marcus' selfless attitude and willingness to go the extra mile is shared throughout the FCC route, from Cleaners to Top Management levels. Marcus proves to be a 'People Person' and his personality fits perfectly with an award entitled: 'Trainer of the Year'.

Date of event: 29-5-09

Name: Paul Withey
Job title: Amey Otm training manager
Company: Amey
Location: Mobile

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
"Paul is loyal but most of all very professional. Paul has developed a unique computer training course for delivery to Amey otm operators".

Date of event: 2-9-09

Name: Adrian Hodges
Job title: Safety Trainer
Company: First Capital Connect
Location: Hertford House, London

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
"Adrian is proactive, enthusiastic about the work he does. I found Adrian to be very helpful, friendly and knowledgeable.
Adrian delivers his training courses with such a strong personality and style that would put anyone at ease.
Adrian is friendly to approach, he is responsible for the delivery of safety training on various courses within the company such as Risk Assessment, Station Inspections, Train Dispatch and Hazard Awareness. Adrian is also known to do the company inductions for new starters within the company.
In Adrian spare time, he is involved in a volunteer program working alongside the Institution Of Railways working with students to achieve their degrees and diplomas.
I experienced Adrian's superb training skills when I joined the company as a train dispatcher. He was the trainer who took us through the course material. I was very nervous when I started and Adrian put me at ease. He was extremely helpful, patient especially as I found some parts difficult to understand and grasp, but with his knowledge and understanding with his help I managed to pass out as a safety critical train dispatcher".

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"Adrian is a valued member of both the safety department and First Capital Connect, his extensive knowledge and his amiable, helpful and friendly nature are attributes which should be positively recognised".

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"Knowledgeable / Friendly / Helpful / Calm and Enthusiastic
( A nice person )

He was one of the first people to offer me help, when I started here last year and very new to the railway industry".

Date of event: 29-7-09

Name: Stuart Kennedy
Job title: Training Specialist (trains)
Company: London Underground
Location: Ashfield House

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
“This person should really be recognised for all the work he does. His business manager has received e-mails with respect to Stuart’s outstanding performance for the everyday professionalism that he portrays to all his classes. No Task given to him is ever too much bother and he just gets on and deals with situations as they arise. He has recently taken part in learning about the new s stock trains and yet again his manner in learning this subject so that he can pass on the knowledge to forthcoming delegates was second to none. He really should be recognised for the true professional trainer that he really is!”

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Stuart consistently models the best of behaviours delivering high quality training week in and week out.

He ensures that every learner understands both the theory & the practical and so is better equipped to resolve any train defect. Through hard work, consistency, and quality, Stuart has earned the respect of his peers, managers and trade unions, all of whom actively seek his perspective.

Stuart has also taken the lead in course development and is always looking for improvements and ways of incorporating new initiatives".



Recently Stuart has worked to enable the introduction of new rolling stock to London Underground through suggesting modifications to the training and taking an active part at all levels.



Stuart thoroughly deserves his nomination as he is the epitome of a professional trainer.

Date of event: 31-7-09

Name: Gary Boner
Job title: Trainer
Company: Network Rail
Location: Westwood

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
"Gary leads the Learning & Development associate team of trainers in delivering management training at Westwood, Network Rail’s leadership development centre, and other training venues around the country.
Gary has played a key role in the growth of Network Rail’s Leadership Development curriculum through the design and delivery of programmes since Westwood was purchased in 2005, including successful initiatives from Board to trackside such as Leadership Skills and Leadership Skills 2 and Foundation Management Skills (FMS). The FMS course alone, which Gary was fundamental in designing is already showing positive business benefit (ROI) of over 10:1.
Bringing a wealth of experience to Network Rail from his well established management and training career in the field, Gary has developed an in-depth knowledge of the rail industry having invested a considerable amount of his own time with Network Rail’s people in depots and signal boxes to build his understanding over the previous 4 years. This has enabled Gary to have the ability to engage with all levels of the organisation, understand the structure and the relationships with stakeholders, as well as recognise the challenges faced day to day for those delegates he is delivering to.
Within the management team’s remit there are also requests for bespoke initiatives to be designed and delivered to specific parts of the organisation driven by a business need. Gary would normally be involved in these events from the training needs analysis through to post event evaluation, displaying the company values throughout.
A recent example being an event for our senior Maintenance managers – Gary needed to be flexible on the day to mould the topics around the audience’s needs, facilitate discussion on issues key to Network Rail’s success and even manage the attendees as they took part in the ‘If I were the chief executive I would…’ exercise in front of Network Rail’s chief executive who paid a surprise visit! Gary displayed huge determination in ensuring the events were successfully delivered and that the objectives of the event were fully met. In recognition he received personal thanks from the chief executive and hugely positive delegate feedback.
Gary has a very customer oriented approach and often spends his own time talking with managers regarding work situations upon which they seek his personal support. He is a true team member not just to his own team of associate trainers but also to the management training team and has strong relations with many of Network Rail’s people, despite an ongoing illness Gary remains fundamental to the Learning & Development success of Network Rail.
Comments received on post course evaluation:
“Gary is a great facilitator and really puts across a good understanding of the pressures we face and challenges we deal with”
“Very competent and superbly innovative”
“Special mention to Gary who’s enthusiasm is infectious and leads to a more productive session”

Date of event: 14-8-09

Name: John Rowlands
Job title: Trainer
Company: Network Rail
Location: Leeds

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
"John Rowlands is a terrific example of a proactive, enthusiastic, knowledgeable, empathetic and industrious facilitator of learning…..a ‘product’ he delivers with a strong dose of showmanship and style.
John’s lust for life, friendly willing approach and clinically professional demeanor has made him a real mainstay of the Network Rail Signaller Training School in Leeds. At this best-in-sector state-of-the-art centre, he has been responsible for the development of initial signaller training material, adjusting both content and delivery to generate a more practical, business focussed product while producing more confident signallers with a deeper level of competence than hitherto. This 9-week residential course with several hours of evening learning on mid-week nights is an intense, draining and emotionally charged journey for the delegates – many fresh to the industry. John’s sensitive and flexible delivery style has allowed his delegates to overcome their challenges, absorb the information and capabilities while maintaining their morale and energy.
Beyond his standard delivery remit, John has, this year, developed the in-house capability to train users on the new Global Mobile System (Railways) communications kit. Gaining the knowledge and, intellectual property to build a Train-the-Trainer package and develop delivery and assessment material were real challenges requiring subtle influencing of stakeholders with varying levels of engagement, real determination and calm diplomacy which have led to successful ‘approval’ from the supplier.
He has cheerfully accepted the many inconveniences, time away from family, increased travel and long hours for the good of the project, the good of his customers within the company and his future delegates.
In summary, this is a dedicated, charismatic, and wholly productive trainer, held in the highest regard by his delegates and managers alike with a real streak of altruism and passion to contribute to the improvement of his profession. John Rowlands is a creditworthy candidate for recognition.
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"Always known John as a friendly approachable person with an insatiable enthusiasm for the job and a determination to see candidates receive the best possible tuition, guidance and enthusiasm".

Date of event: 14-8-09

Name: Jenny Lorimer
Job title: Traveller Care Performance Manager
Company: Eurostar Group Ltd
Location: Ashford, Kent

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
“Jenny’s role is Traveller Care Performance Manager, ensuring the team deliver their best and that Eurostar’s KPIs are met. As Jenny’s colleagues we cannot praise Jenny’s training and coaching skills highly enough: she was given the brief of what training needed delivering when the team was first set up back in September last year, and Jenny wrote and delivered the week-long training to the new Traveller Care team on what Eurostar’s compensation policy is and how to use the complex systems that we inherited from the old customer relations team in a very short time-scale and to an extremely high standard.
A week later, the team’s training was cut short by the catastrophic fire in the Channel Tunnel and we needed temporary assistance urgently. In spite of this setback, Jenny managed to train the expanded team (some of whom had never worked for Eurostar or in customer service before) very thoroughly. The very wide range of experience in the team was also a hurdle, but she rose to this challenge wonderfully - seamlessly training new starters and the core team simultaneously.
Jenny also delivers weekly training modules to the team to help them work at their best. She has a naturally engaging style and delivers learning aspects in a fun, interactive way that has brought tangible results”.
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"Jenny’s is very helpful knowledgeable and full of enthusiasm.
Jenny was given the brief of what training needed delivering when the team was first set up back in September last year, and Jenny wrote and delivered the week-long training to the new Traveller Care team on what Eurostar’s compensation policy is and how to use the complex systems that we inherited from the old customer relations team".

Date of event: 13-8-09

Name: Natalia Ajibade
Job title: Training Specialist
Company: London Underground
Location: United Kingdom House

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
“I have worked with Natalia for the past 5-6 years and I feel that she is one of the nicest people going. If there are changes to be made Natalia will step up to the challenge and get on with the job. This is an ongoing process. She takes the time to ensure that her delegates understand what is required of them and will make the extra effort to help them to achieve their goals. Natalia is a very special individual and I feel that it should be recognized”.

Date of event: 5-8-09

Name: Linda Wiles
Job title: Operational Training Specialist
Company: London Underground
Location: United Kingdom House, London

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
“Linda always makes time for her delegates and colleagues. She has spent endless hours of her own time after a training day to ensure that her delegates are comfortable with what they have covered. If they feel that they need some extra coaching Linda often stays back to assist them. Linda also makes time for her work colleagues if they have issues with delegates or peers and will always offer sound, impartial advice”.
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"Her sheer professionalism, dedication to the role, knowledge and willingness to go the extra mile to help develop her trainees.
I recently attended a course which Linda facilitated. She took great care to explain every facet and ensure our learning. she also worked extremely hard to cement our learning and understanding of the subject. She prepared extremely well prior to the course to ensure that all our needs were met".
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"She is very helpful, dedicated and makes learning easy".
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"The most committed and professional trainer I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Her energy and integrity are second to none and training is more a vocation than a job to her. Linda will fully support her delegates and is not afraid to point out that course material is poor to managers within her department".
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"Linda is a very friendly and caring person. Always there for you if you need help and advise. I often call Linda out of hours and she either returns or answers my calls with advice.
Linda is very knowledgeable and up-to-date with the company policies.
She delivers a wide range of courses with clear and accurate information.
I recommend Linda for this Trainer award".

Date of event: 7-8-09

Name: Matthew Barlow
Job title: Trainee Trainer
Company: Trackwork
Location: Doncaster

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
“Matthew has overcome his fears of being shy and continues to develop himself showing his candidates the correct engineering procedures that the industry desires.
Matthew started out at the company as a candidate on a course and realised he himself could also help others gain the confidence and qualifications to progress their careers.
He does not only train but also guides the students through each composite job they undertake to support each person individually.
Matthew has not only made his friends, family and himself proud but also helps our company to progress and develop”.
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“Mathew is a determined Trainer and he is dedicated all his time to his career and Trackwork Limited. Mathew is always there to go that extra mile and if you need advise or help he always willing to help the team”.

Date of event: 1-6-09

Name: Andy Broad
Job title: Team Leader
Company: Benchmark Training Ltd
Location: Moreton in Marsh

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
"Professional application to the courses, very helpful and approachable, strict but fair and being ex forces disciplined which I liked”
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“Extremely knowledgeable trainer, with an excellent background. Andy is an approachable, easy going trainer who can adapt to all situations”.
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“Andy made the course more enjoyable and made it a lot easier to learn plus kept every one alert as most days it was 12 hour days for 8 days duration. He has dedication, determination, enthusiasm and is proactive”.
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“I recently attended PLP course for Network rail run by Benchmark training LTD and Andy was one of the trainers for our course. Andy made sure at all times when he was supervising our outside activities they as much fun as possible and that he made sure we enjoyed what we were doing. Also he was always there to give advice and help if we were in need of it. Like all the trainers at Benchmark he made training intresting and enjoyable so I am putting him forward for this award”.
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"A friendly, engaging interesting instructor and his sports/team building are outstanding!
Communications between life boats and with Andy you need a life boat!!"
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“In my 18 years on the railway I have never experienced a more professional, approachable, enthusiastic and charismatic trainer. I have huge respect for Andy and he delivers the PLP training event at the fire service college brilliantly. He is a very good listener and delivers the training in a way that makes the course enjoyable”.
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Shows extreme dedication to His job - gets all that is needed to be absorbed, absorbed, in a clear, friendly and concise way. IIs one of the "lads" but commands respect”.
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"Andy's enthusiasm is so great you cannot fail to improve through his teaching methods. No training day was boring because Andy made sure the course was delivered with professionalism and accuracy. Andy's wealth of experience in the armed forces made you feel an integral part of the course. Andy has a great sense of humour coupled with his belief in the course made the whole experience a joy, he deserves all the praise he can get".
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"He was a friendly and approachable trainer. His knowledge of his craft was excellent and he was professional at all times".
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“Efficient, determined and knowledgeable. A very determined and dedicated person who gets his opinion across to other people.
Very knowledgeable in targeting individuals needs”.
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Friendly. Helpfull. Andy was friendly to a point, he made it quite clear he was in charge and carried out his job to a high standard, without his help I think myself and a few others would have struggled.
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“Cheerful, enthusiastic and approachable. Andy was very enthusiastic about the course which encouraged and motivated me throughout. When participating in the sports day he cheered us on a kept us running. He was always cheerful and very approachable".
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“Approachable, helpful, friendly.
Andy has a number of qualities that make him a trainer of the highest standard. Overall I think it is his laid back approach and willingness to listen that helps overcome any problems that the student has with the subject matter”.
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“Andy put you at ease straight away. He was able to make you believe in yourself. He was passionate but focused.
Nothing was too much trouble and he always had a word of encouragement when you were low. He was one of the best instructors I have ever had the pleasure of being taught by”.

Date of event: 17-3-09

Name: Graham Whistance
Job title: Deputy Team Leader
Company: Benchmark Training LTD
Location: Moreton in Marsh

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
I recently attended a PLP course for Network Rail run by Benchmark training LTD and the course was superbly run. Graham was very approachable and catered for our every needs, he has great delivery and each session he took was very enjoyable. He was also, like all the trainers employed by Benchmark, great fun and made my time there very enjoyable, so I would like to nominate Graham for this award as I think it would be a deserved award for the great work he does.
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“Dedication, approachability friendly, team player, who goes above and beyond their role. While I was on a PIP course I needed help with understanding a number of items, Graham took time and patience even after a full day of training to explain them, many thanks Graham”.
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“Excellent trainer - very good interpersonal skills, experienced, engages the audience very well. Fantastic delivery of the 9-day Network Rail Practical Leadership Programme.”
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"Very Helpful, Hardworking and friendly. Helped our team through a long and demanding, but very good, course”.
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“1) Graham is one of the most hard working and personable trainers I have ever worked with. He delivers challenging material in a challenging environment, but through his connection with trainees and his enthusiasm he manages to transform his audience from the meek characters who initially walk through the door, into high performing managers.
2) On the Practical Leadership Programme delivered to Network Rail in Moreton-in-Marsh, Graham was given a mixed group of Signalers, Shift Managers, S&T, Operations Managers, P-Way and Controllers who were sceptical and didn't want to be there. 9 days later he had made a genuine connection with these people, speaking to each on their own level and guiding them in the right direction to further their career".
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"Great trainer with an excellent background. Very knowledgeable and approachable, and no problem is too much trouble to solve”.
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"Determined nature and approachable, fair and disciplined, very helpful and a team player".
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“Grahams attitude and the way he came across made the training more interesting and enjoyable”.
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“A brilliant trainer of a truly excellent course. Graham showed all of the following qualities, Approachability, Cheerfulness, Dedication, Determination, Efficiency, Enthusiasm, Flexibility, Friendliness to co-workers and the public, Going above and beyond their role, Hard working, Helpful, Initiative, Knowledgeable, Proactive”
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“1) Graham is by far one of the best trainers that I have ever encountered. He has a pragmatic, knowledgeable and captivating presence in both the classroom and practical milieus. He has a rare talent for captivating his audience by contextualising the training materials with examples from his previous career and offering thoughts from his unique outlook on life.
2) This was particularly evident in his module on managing stress during the PLP course. The course was delivered with sound advice and an element of humour the like of which I have never seen in a training course. He was also excellent at identifying course delegates who were struggling and taking proactive action to ensure that all of us left with the full benefit of his wisdom”.
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“Very conscientious in his approach to all tasks. Treats all trainees with respect and dignity. During the Communications Training, accentual variances where explored diligently”.
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1)A very friendly, approachable and professional trainer during an intense 9 day Practical Leadership Skills course - Often going the extra mile.
2) The course had one discovering ones own abilities as well as misgivings. Graham was very understanding and helpful throughout difficult parts of the course often staying beyond his time. He wanted to know the person he was training not just their position
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“From day one on PLP this person went above and beyond what I would consider is a core approach for a trainer. He was extremely enthusiastic and dynamic throughout the training and approached all aspects with aplomb. This trainer made a huge difference to the course which in itself was very intense and I have to say even with my 20 years experience on the Railway made it stand out as one of the most enjoyable professional training I have ever received”.
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“All of the examples above apply to Graham in abundance. Due to absence, Graham ran the Progressive Leadership Programme 19 largely by himself and delivered the best and most professional course I have ever been on. It is difficult to pick just one example but his encouragement throughout the course and especially at the mid term and end of course interviews was outstanding. Graham's hard work, professionalism and dedication has and continues to enthuse and empower many staff from the rail industry with confidence and a freshness in the approach to their work. Graham is a true star in his field and a valuable asset to the Rail Industry. Graham should be recognised for his achievements”.
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“Graham is such a dedicated trainer and truly believes in what he teaches, delivers training with humour and thoroughness never seen before. After a couple of hours you feel you've known Graham for weeks that’s how friendly and approachable he is. Top quality is hard to find in the training world but Graham is right up there. Top man, top trainer”.
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“He showed a dedication to his role and was a true proffesional. His knowledge of his craft was outstanding and he was a friendly and approachable trainer”.
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“Graham is an excellent trainer whose enthusiasm rubs off on everyone. His training style is thorough whilst the injection of humour makes it a joy to be taught by him. Course duration 8 days commenced on 26th May”.
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“Friendly Helpful Knowledgeable Hard Working Dedicated Proactive and Professional. PLP Course taken last year with excellent results for everyone thanks to Graham”.
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“Professional, friendly, helpful, outstanding trainer. Graham shows, on a daily basis, a very good attitude towards his position, always having time to ensure that all the team felt involved and also listened which I felt was a good quality to show”.
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“I attended the NR Personal Leadership Course last September and was hugely impressed by the dedication and professionalism shown by Graham. Their time effort and commitment to this course made it hugely enjoyable and meant that everyone who has participated in this course has come away with new skills and abilities to lead their departments and help make NR world class. Graham gave me new confidence and able to deliver better briefings and interact better with my team.
These skills helped me to promotion to a Route Control Manager”.
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“1) Very friendly, delivered the training in a relaxed manner which aided learning but still professional in his approach. Most enjoyable and valuable training course I have been on to date. 2) Despite domestic issues and an extended commute he was on time and focused for every session. The main course themes were dispensed in a fast paced but manageable format. He was happy to allow input from all present even if it was just a funny comment!”
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“Very friendly, helpful and understanding. Able to impart knowledge. During the PTLP he was never to busy to talk and explain.
Graham was always there with words of encouragement and made us believe we could be better”.
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Enthusiasm, dedication and helpful. Most helpful person I have ever met, nothing is a problem for him.
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“Helpful, reliable, brave. The course I attended lasted 9 days, when tempers were getting frayed any other trainer would have buckled, but Graham held his ground. I also found him very helpful and explained things in a way the course members could understand”.
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“Approachable, cheerful, helpful
Graham took time throughout the 10 day course to speak to members of the team individually to get to know a bit about them as people and not just students. He did it in a very informal and relaxed way which made you feel at ease. If you were unsure of something at the end of the lesson you could approach him and he always had time to speak to you and help you”.
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“From the start of my course Graham was always easy going and approachable. He always used examples of his own personal experience to back up what he was teaching which meant his lessons were always interesting and I felt the information was better absorbed by my brain this way.
His good nature, and banter lightened up a hard going course for me and he was even there on the last evening when we were saying our goodbyes. All this despite Supporting West Brom (admitting to that alone deserves an award!)”.
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“Graham took an interest in what we did and he had time for everyone! There were a lot of tentative students before the course but Graham helped to alleviate their concerns!
Hard working, Helpful, Initiative, Knowledgeable, Proactive”.
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“Excellent trainer, very confident very professional very dedicated to his job also takes pride on delivering good teaching skills. When attending a practical leadership program which was over 8 days”.

Date of event: 12-6-09

Name: John Sayles
Job title: Training & Competence Manager
Company: Bridgeway Consulting Ltd
Location: Beeston, Nottingham

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
John is a passionate, dedicated and railway training professional. He draws from his own personal experiences and trains in a highly participative, dynamic and innovative way using role play, case studies, syndicate exercises, quizzes and group discussion. He is always on hand to offer on-going support, advice and guidance to course delegates (even after the training course). He is enthusiastic and committed about his work and he also regularly undertakes mentoring of newly trained individuals.
John also takes his professional development seriously and regularly attends rail industry workshops (Sentinel, The Association of Railway Training Providers etc); this is to further develop his knowledge and professional skills as a trainer. John is always keen to expand his training skills and has recently added a number of plant training skills to his portfolio.
He is proactive in maintaining his own competences and regularly performs on site safety critical roles including SPicop, Controller of Site Safety and Possession Assistant on a regular basis. This has allowed John to further enhance his professional credibility and also enabled him to provide factual and up to date information during his training courses in relation to rules and procedures.

Date of event: 11-6-09

Name: Rae Robinson
Job title: Trainer
Company: Bridgeway Consulting Ltd
Location: Beeston, Nottingham

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
I have worked with a number railway trainer’s over the last 15 years and I come across very few that are as committed as Rae to the delivery high quality training on EVERY course.
Rae’s rapport with course delegates is second to none and he goes that extra mile to make them want to learn and get the most out the training experience. His training is dynamic and informative with a no nonsense approach that always achieves results. His efforts have been the key to our positive safety culture, operational success and outstanding safety record at Bridgeway Consulting. He draws from his own personal experiences and trains in a highly interactive way. Rae’s training also provides extra information and advice on how to do the job as well as following the rules. He gives guidance on where to obtain further information and he always takes time to ensure full understanding. More importantly he also makes training fun!

Date of event: 11-6-09

Name: Mike Harris
Job title: Trainer
Company: Bridgeway Consulting Ltd
Location: Beeston, Nottingham

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
Before you read on…there are many people in the ‘railway family’ but Mike Harris is a talented and exceptional individual that is not only an asset to Bridgeway Consulting but also to the wider rail industry. We here at Bridgeway feel very privileged and honoured to be working with him on a day to day basis.
As well as delivering training, Mike often treads the ballast in all weathers, in difficult situations at all times of the night. He is proactive in maintaining his own competences and performs all roles from Controller of Site Safety up to and including Senior Person in Charge of Possession (SPICOP), on a regular basis – standing shoulder to shoulder with the people that he has trained. Walking the walk as well as talking the talk and backing up his words with frontline actions.
Mike is a professional, dedicated, extremely competent and enthusiastic Trainer. Mike is a keen advocate of training people ‘how to do the job’ and not simply lecturing them on the rules and regulations. This methodology has been the key to our operational success and enviable safety record. He draws from his own personal experiences and trains in a highly participative and innovative way including; role plays, case studies, syndicate exercises, quizzes and group discussions. His commitment to the development of high quality training delivery knows no bounds. Mike never just delivers ‘a course’; he tailors each course to the individual needs, provides extra information, advice, and on-going support. He gives guidance on where to obtain further information and he always takes time to ensure full understanding.
All the above could be said for many trainers, but his contributions are significantly over and above the regular 9 to 5 training day. Mike participates fully in our training management meetings and he regularly contributes to Network Rail training and operational workshops.
Mike is also our Possession Planning and Resource Director (as well as a trainer!) and leads on the delivery of the Possession Management contract that Bridgeway Consulting have with Network Rail. This additional responsibility has allowed Mike to further enhance his professional credibility as a trainer and he often includes scenarios in his training delivery that are derived from actual situations that he has encountered in his day to day railway frontline operational role.
He is a highly valued member of the Bridgeway Training Team and contributes greatly to the company as a whole – we’d be lost without our star man Mike ‘Monkey ‘Harris!
In closing Mike is a great ambassador for rail industry training and thoroughly deserves of the title Trainer of the Year 2009.

Date of event: 11-6-09

Name: Steven Harris
Job title: Training Specialist
Company: LUL
Location: Ashfield house

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
“Steve is a dedicated member of Operational Learning, his knowledge knows no bounds, he goes beyond his role as a trainer helping out staff with their job applications also helping staff in the business with his knowledge of the railways. His enthusiasm for training rubs off on everyone he trains and those he works alongside with. His is hard working, proactive and always completes tasks that he is asked to do. Even though Steve makes learning fun for his classes, he remains professional at all times. Steve demonstrates all LUL’s key behaviors in his attitude to training and I’m sure that no matter who you would talk to everyone would say what a valuable meme of Operation Learning Steve is”.

Date of event: 8-5-09

Name: Rob Clark
Job title: Lead Trainer
Company: Develop Trainer
Location: Derby

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
“For his determination, efficiency, enthusiasm, flexibility, for his friendliness to co-workers and the public. Going above and beyond his role, hard working, helpful, his initiative, knowledge. He is proactive, professional, responsible, safety aware and team player”.

Date of event: 7-5-09

Name: Gary Benco
Job title: Lead Rail Safety Trainer
Company: Develop Training
Location: Derby

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
A very knowledgeable and efficent trainer. Enthusiastic and very hardworking.

Date of event: 5-5-09

Name: Ushwin Pai
Job title: Oyster Trainer
Company: Transport for London
Location: Albany House

Why they should be this years trainer of the year?
Being with Transport for London for over a year now I have seen excellent training and development material produced by Ush (Ushwin), he’s practical and theoretical knowledge of London Transport and the systems involved is astonishing.
With all new colleagues starting at Oyster he has provided all individuals with the basic, intermediate knowledge and skills for them to adapt to their new working environment, I have heard appraisals one after another from all the new colleagues who have started with Oyster.
His achievement has won him Trainer of the Year 2008 thus proving he is an asset to Transport for London, the attention to detail, knowledge of systems and product within TfL shows his ability to excel in the field of Trainer.
Ush is able to adapt and integrate with individuals making sure they have fully acknowledged the training provided to them, he is ambitious yet cautious making him a perfectionist thus providing an end result of perfect training material.
I can see him exceeding all his goals within TfL Oyster, he has an exceptional personality that allows him to adapt with his work, being able to communicate at all levels, his collaboration of work is excellent, he provides training material that is up to date and up to scratch thus enabling trainees to adapt straight into their new roles without whilst containing knowledge that is up to date.
I believe that Ush deserves to win the 2009 Trainer of the Year award again for his outstanding achievements and the wealth of knowledge, skills and experience that he brings to TfL as a whole.
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Ushwin has repeatedly shown his passion for the job he does, which is exemplary and conveys to all those being trained under him. Having been trained by Ushwin, I've completed the training going into my own job role with the attitude of always wanting to apply what I've learnt. In most cases, things taught, eventually drop off or fade away after having been placed in the position applied for, thereby using many shortcuts by any means necessary. Except after having been trained by Ushwin, I felt the absolute need to continue with everything that I learnt from him. He represented the company well, has the professional strokes but certainly a down-to-earth person who successfully in my opinion, executes his task effectively, efficiently and very cheerfully. Not to mention, he is soooooooooo funny and full of laughs...
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I am nominating Ush for his style and approach to training for the Oyster card Helpline. Being from New Zealand & new to Oyster, Ush had a style that was fun and easy to remember but he also challenged our knowledge everyday by asking simple questions and carrying out various call centre role play tasks pretending to be a variety of "Interesting" customers... His experience as an agent and manager, his enthusiasm and friendly personality made me love my job from the day I started & he is the reason for me doing very well in the Oyster tests, before starting on my own!
I look forward to learning the new system with him later this year!
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In 2008 I started at Transport from London, after working at my previous employment for 23 years. Needless to say I was bag of mixed feelings - nervous about my new job, happy that I was hired at a time of economic difficulty and worried that I may not make the grade as I hadn't 'studied' for so long.
Ushwin was exactly the sort of person I needed to help me settle into my job.
His knowledge of the product was amazing - he had a good and sensible answer to every question I asked, and instilled a sense of proactivity and personal impact which made us take pride in our job. He had a knack to making the whole group feel that they were not only understanding the subject matter, but also that they were going to succeed.
None of his sessions were vaguely tedious (dare I say 'fun'?) - even though some of the subject matter could be! He always showed us how everything we learned would apply to the real world, and took the time and effort to treat us all as individuals and not simply 'just another training group'. I would hazard a bet that there wouldn't be one person who he has trained who would say differently.
Ushwin's skill lies not only in his subject knowledge but in his understanding of how people learn and how to put them at ease. I left his training knowing that I was not only prepared for the job, but I also felt somewhat changed in knowing that I could succeed because of who I was, and not just what I was taught. My confidence has grown substantially.
I have since moved to another department, but have spoken to staff who have been trained by him this year - their experiences rival if not exceed my experiences, and that is the sign of a manager/trainer at TfL who is constantly trying to improve himself. Success for Ushwin seems to spur him on to improve himself - not one to rest on his laurels, it is a rare trait.
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"Understands how to 'connect' with people before asking them to take a learning journey with him.
Ushwin makes time for connecting first and then asks delegates to trust him with new skills transfer".
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“Ushwin's training style is extremely professional and teaches very complicated subject matter very effectively. I believe the knowledge of the staff in the oyster card helpline would be severely limited if it weren't for Ushwin's teachings. During my training in December 2008 Ushwin delivered in a friendly and fun manner the essentials of customer service within the oyster card helpline. His technique is extremely memorable and I (surprisingly) retained the information very effectively. He is patient when people do not understand his concepts and confident in his delivery making the training very interesting. His good sense of humour is also a massive advantage”.
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“Ushwin is an extremely enthusiastic trainer. His solid knowledge foundation combined with his friendly working style enables him to not only effectively teach others but earns him the respect of all those around him.
I worked alongside Ushwin whilst he delivered a training programme for the new Oyster Refunds System. Throughout the period his broad and deep knowledge of often implicit business policies combined with his technical awareness enabled him to deliver high quality training to delegates. Success at go-live was in large part due to the know-how that many operators gained through their short, but effective training sessions, most of which were designed and delivered by Ushwin”.
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“I want to nominate Ushwin for this award, as I believe he provides outstanding training to new and existing staff across Oyster.
He has many qualities which make him a solid candidate for this award, including his determination and flare for the job and his innovative approach to work. Ush makes sometimes very boring and tedious information fun and easy to remember, which is something I have found missing when I have been trained by different people in past jobs.
He is enthusiastic and upbeat and very knowledgeable. I feel very comfortable approaching him if I am unsure of something as I know he will happily take the time to help me understand, as he is incredibly patient!
Over the past year there have been several huge changes at Oyster, including the introduction of a brand new (and completely different) system. Ushwin has delivered a flawless training programme for all of these changes and has helped everybody feel comfortable with positive about these changes, despite the systems being quite complex. Also, part of the change has meant we have had a lot of new starters - some perm and some temp. Without exception all of these new starters have come to the helpdesk fully trained and very knowledgeable.
Ushwin is a pleasure to work with and an excellent trainer!”
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"Ush is a conscientious trainer who is passionate about the job he does. He is an enthusiastic trainer who knows his stuff. He is patient and uses examples that the trainees can easily relate to; he makes training fun. Even after training, if you have any problems, he is prepared to assist you and never refuses to answer a question.
His training manuals are easy to use and everything is clearly laid out and this shows the extent of knowledge he has on the subject matter".
I think he deserves the Trainer of the year award as he is knowledgeable, keen, likable and approachable – all good qualities that make an Excellent trainer!"
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"I worked as a temp at the Oyster card helpline for a few months, and felt assured in my job solely down to Ushwin's training. Even after the classroom environment, he was always on hand to advise and help direct me toward the right course of action. I managed to attend a Conflict Management course and a Best Practice in customer service course which has helped in my later jobs. Surprisingly my new team leader at my new company, was a temp at Oyster card in 2005, and knew the thorough training that Ushwin delivers. He knew the courses that I had done with Ushwin, and it seems that they have been as useful in securing my new job as my 'real' qualifications!"
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"I trained at the same time as Anna. I didn't stay at Oyster for long, as I was due to go traveling. However in the time I was there, Ushwin's training made me feel confident and knowledgeable, and because of his training I have received a glowing commendation from my line manager before I left! Thank you Ushwin!"

Date of event: 30-3-09