The Practical Training Hub

The Practical Training Hub was created to provide and facilitate engaging, practical and where possible, ‘life like’ training.  Presentations have their place and are great for some aspects of training, however, we also use discussion, group work, a variety of games and exercises as well as plenty of practical’s to make the sessions varied and therefore, more engaging and memorable!

E-learning has its place, however, we truly believe that engaging face to face training using realistic scenarios and quality equipment, is the best way for not only participants to learn, but also for them to feel confident.

TJ is a dedicated and professional trainer who brings a wealth of experience from multiple sectors to deliver practical and engaging training. With a background in emergency medicine, he completed an FdSC in Paramedic Science at Worcester University, gaining hands-on experience with West Midlands Ambulance Service before qualifying as a Paramedic. He went on to serve with South Western Ambulance Service for several years, developing his expertise in high-pressure environments. Drawing on this extensive frontline experience, TJ delivers training that is both pragmatic and insightful, ensuring learners gain real-world skills that are both effective and applicable.

TJ also has extensive expertise in the outdoor pursuits industry, having held key leadership roles in the sector. As Chief Instructor at Europe’s largest outdoor education provider’s flagship centre, he played a pivotal role in training and development of thousands of new outdoor instructors. His work with the British Canoe Union as a Local Coaching Organiser as well as with the Institute of Outdoor Learning as an Internal Verifier contributed to the growth of outdoor practitioners as well as the industry as a whole. Beyond his professional roles, TJ has also taken on senior management responsibilities as a volunteer with the Marine Society and Sea Cadets, where he led the South West Area paddlesports management team, supporting around 4,000 volunteers and cadets in engaging with paddle sports and is the Commanding Officer for Bridgwater Sea Cadets where he manages over thirty volunteers to provide nautical based training and experiences for up to 100 young people.

Ben served seven years in the police, beginning as a Police Community Support Officer before becoming a Police Constable. During this time, he handled a wide range of urban and rural crime, later joining the Criminal Investigation Department. After achieving his Professionalising Investigation Programme Level 2 (PIP2) qualification, he became a Detective, investigating both volume and serious crime, including a murder inquiry that earned him a Chief Constable’s commendation.

Outside of policing, Ben volunteers with the Marine Society and Sea Cadets as a Sergeant and Detachment Commander for the Royal Marine Cadets. He oversees the welfare and development of up to eighteen cadets aged 13-18, leading a team of adult volunteers to provide a structured and engaging experience. As a former training officer for one of the largest Sea Cadet units in the South West, he has designed and delivered comprehensive training programs across various disciplines.

An outdoor enthusiast, Ben has experience and qualifications in a range of activities including archery, kayaking, canoeing, climbing, and shooting. As an instructor with the Royal Marine Cadets, he teaches subjects including first aid, marksmanship principles, weapons handling, maintenance, and tactical skills such as camouflage, hand signals, and movement techniques.