Wednesday, 13 February 2008

How secure is your data?

Fascinating what impact the UK Government's proposed potential solution to piracy could have on everyone’s data. It states, "A draft consultation suggests internet service providers would be required to take action over users who access pirated material via their accounts."

Which would require all IP traffic being monitored to ensure pirated material isn't being transmitted.

OK in the first instance there will be the observation that it will be certain types of IP packets that are inspected. Surely the pirate "publishers" and "consumers" will start to mask packets to hide the data or encrypt it via VPN style tunnels. Leading to the ultimate solution that all packets would need to be inspected to spot the illegal activity.

Just a thought but where is the processing power to monitor all this data going to come from?

Who is going to fund the initial investment and the on-going running costs?

Will broadband costs rise to cover this new form of "taxation"?

Perhaps the music industry will fund it...

Step back a little further though and rewind through history to the 80's. Pirating was rife and "home taping is killing music" (apparently), although it looks far from dead despite what's happened since then with CD's and Bittorrent.

Did anyone from the music industry suggest feeling letters in the local sorting office? You never know which of those spotty students from some back water polytechnic had been slaving over their 45's and Aiwa tape decks late into the night, just so they could share their newly discovered June Brides single with a friend who couldn't get John Peel in their student digs. And if it felt like a tape then rip that letter open in case it was pirated!

What sort of outcry would have ensued on making that suggestion?

When the home tapers ended up masking the tapes in boxes and obscure shapes would all post have been opened....just in case. Like processing power now who would have funded the countless staff needed to perform the task of opening every valentines card, letter from the Inland Revenue and bank statement?

Granted the general principle of protecting copyright and IPR is well intended as the UK being "a knowledge economy" music is the thin end of the wedge.

To suggest implementing monitoring of all data communicated over the internet is fundamentally flawed in both its ability to be executed and also the implication to both privacy and security of our data.

Rewind. Press Play/Record. Blank tape. Start again.

Tuesday, 12 February 2008

IITT Training Centre of the Year 2008 and 2007

We won this award. Again. Second year in a row. That's FIVE (count them), awards in three years.

Here are some photo's from the IITT Awards night.

This is what the judges said about why we won.

"Firebrand Training (formerly The Training Camp) offers training courses to IT and management professionals in any industry using a unique, highly effective delivery format known as Accelerated Learning. Accelerated Learning is a method that has been developed and proven for over fifty years, rotating visual, hands on and auditory learning elements throughout the day in a distraction-free residential environment. The greatest challenge of this total immersion philosophy is to how to facilitate students into a deep learning mode and then keep them there, without flinching. It is only by accessing this mode and by removing as many distractions
as possible that the vast amounts of information and first-hand experience may be imparted and absorbed.

It’s vital therefore to prepare them sufficiently for an incredibly intense experience and then to provide an environment that allows them to thrive under such pressure. This approach makes unique demands on the Learning Centre, both in terms of the facilities, the environment,
and the service provided. This is an environment in which it is essential to ‘get it right’ as any deviation from excellence will constitute an interruption in the skills transfer process.

The judges noted that Firebrand Training’s unique facilities at Heythrop Park are both impressive and totally fit for purpose. The company’s Accelerated Learning programmes require an environment that is learner focused and conducive to learning - and one that also involves minimising any distractions.

Great emphasis is placed on the importance of ensuring that all delegates are given maximum information and support prior to their stay. The customer services team proactively engage with every customer pre-arrival in order to ensure that information such as diet, allergies, requisite medication and any disabilities have been noted and provision made for prior to arrival that will make their stay as distraction-free as possible, enabling them to focus entirely on the task at hand.

The Learning Centre’s staff all receive personal development on a regular basis. In the last 12 months alone all staff have been trained in BIFM Health and Safety at Work part 1 and 2, and additionally have receivedcustomer service training by an external trainer.

It is rare to find a Learning Centre that also incorporates accommodation, full service catering, fully equipped labs and proctored testing facilities. The fact that Firebrand Training has been able to maintain and enhance those services over a period of sustained and substantial growth is evidence of its scalability.

The judges commented: “Firebrand Training’s Learning Centre is an excellent role model for the ideal learning centre and we have no hesitation in recommending it to receive the Gold Award for the Learning Centre of the Year at the IT Training Awards 2008."

Monday, 11 February 2008

IT Training Company of the Year : 2008...2007...2006

We won.

Again.

Did we mention that’s THREE times????

This is what the Institute of IT Training said at the ceremony as to why we won this year.

“Firebrand Training (formerly Training Camp) has made a highly successful transition from being a franchise to a self–contained business while clearly retaining the effectiveness of its business model and maintaining its market presence. This year has been the most significant for the company and while engineering the complete rebrand and rewrite of all its courseware the company has without external investment shown significant profitability and increase in market penetration having supplied training to over half of the FTSE100 companies.

The company is now engaged in an ambitious program of course development and are currently releasing 2-3 courses per month. The holistic accelerated learning model provides a focused business benefit for its clients, including several major companies delivering effective skills and knowledge transfer in a concise time frame. All training is delivered on a residential basis at the company’s dedicated facilities in the UK which provide for all the students’ needs including an exemplary level of catering and all round care whilst progressing through their selected programs. The management team articulated a very clear strategic vision and through
sophisticated reporting metrics employed across a range of data points demonstrated an exemplary level of client satisfaction.

The company’s high industry standing is corroborated through independent research gaining excellence awards and vendor partner training status.

The judging panel recognised the company’s achievements in going through a significant business change while maintaining its quality and client satisfaction levels and significantly growing its profitability. The company is showing signs of business maturity which should provide a secure foundation for its future within the industry sector and is a deserved winner of this prestigious award.”

Thursday, 7 February 2008

itil foundation test objectives

Looking for the itil foundation test objectives?

Tuesday, 5 February 2008

cisco bootcamp training courses

Firebrand Training offers a complete range of CISCO bootcamp training courses

"A great experience - fantastic!" AK, n/a, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 17/12/2007 to 22/12/2007
"Superb training - not for the faint hearted but can achieve what seems to be the impossible...!" Colin Welch, Unemployed, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 17/12/2007 to 22/12/2007
"The instructor was 1st class, the accomadtion good and the food fantastic. A good environment in which to learn." Martin Page, google, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 17/12/2007 to 22/12/2007
"The instructor was exceptional, knowledgeable and keen to pass on this knowledge. I will definitely be using Firebrand again both for myself and for others within my company." Gareth James, Aiken Group, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 17/12/2007 to 22/12/2007
"The content and week was very busy, it definately taught me about the course I was there to learn about, but more importantly it taught me about myself. The environment is carefully geared towards students studying and achieving the best results. The ammount of content is mind blowing, and is a feat to fit a whole CCNA in 4 day of teaching, but the tutor did it, and taught me - with no Cisco experience enough to pass the course." PP, Grey Convergence, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 3/12/2007 to 8/12/2007
"Although the classes were extreemly long, the instructor was always motovational and helped with any queries we had, the living quarters are basic but you spend most of your time in class or studying." Wah Chi Wan, Nemo Personal Finance, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 3/12/2007 to 8/12/2007
"Great learning experience!" Keith Mills, Steria, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 3/12/2007 to 8/12/2007
"As ever a good experience, lots of fun and well co-ordinated by a high qualitly trainer. Many thanks." Gareth Dent, Aegis CSS Ltd, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 5/11/2007 to 10/11/2007
"I think 14 passes out of a class of 15 says it all! Full credit to the trainer, EXCELLENT instructor." Chris Catlow, DRV Ltd, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 3/12/2007 to 8/12/2007
"Thoroughly helpful staff who go out of their way to help, outstanding food. Good overall setup and a very professional setup." RJ, n/a, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 3/12/2007 to 8/12/2007
"The CCNA course is an excellent course but it is helpful if you have some Cisco experience first." Graeme Gebbie, N/A, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 5/11/2007 to 10/11/2007
"Firebrand Training provided me with a clean, comfortable, functional environment from which to study in helping me focus on fully on the technical detail of my course. " Tracey Hill, Retail Assist, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 19/11/2007 to 24/11/2007
"It was really useful...The lecturer was amazing and left enough time to have one on one sessions after lectures. The Food is Superb and everyone is really helpful! Will definately be coming back to do my CCDA and CCNP when i get round to it." Paul Smith, Dynamic ICT Services Ltd, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 19/11/2007 to 24/11/2007
"I have never worked this hard before, but more importantly I have never learnt so much, so fast either!" Ozan Pakyuz, Herefordshire Council, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 19/11/2007 to 24/11/2007
"The coursewas hard work but this was expected. All staff at the centre were very helpul and aided me in my aim of becoming certified. Thank you Firebrand!" Matthew Humphries, Sandwell College, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 19/11/2007 to 24/11/2007
"Be prepared to work long and hard if you want to get your certificate by the end of the week. Do plenty of pre-reading, the course is excellent and the instructors top notch but it sill rests on you putting in the work. Dont worry about the food or accomodation they are brilliant, concentrate on your course work." Dale Gregory, Sheffield International Venues, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 5/11/2007 to 10/11/2007
"Great food, nice clean rooms, no sleep and pressure pressure pressure. Fun in a kind of educational masocistic way." NP, bromsgrove district council, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 5/11/2007 to 10/11/2007
"With very little Cisco hands-on experience prior to the course, I was able to achieve my CCNA qualification within the 6 days. " NW, CBT Networks Ltd, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 5/11/2007 to 10/11/2007
"The Trainer is a legend, he was there for all of us explaining in detail where it was needed and helping to understand the tricky parts, again I say it the Trainer is a legend!" Jide Olanlokun, SHH Limited, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 5/11/2007 to 10/11/2007
"I´ve done a considerable amount of professional training in my career but I would place Firebrand at the top. I have never learned so much in such a short space of time! It surprised me how much I was capable of." Richard Robinson, Scottish Power, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 5/11/2007 to 10/11/2007
"My two weeks at Firebranding training was excellent, I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and will certainly be back again. The instructor was very helpful and helped in every way he could." Gavin Yon, Cable & Wireless SA Ltd, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days) 5/11/2007 to 10/11/2007
"First things first, the CCNA course and the instructor teaching the course were top! Best instructor I have ever been taught by. The course was well constructed and I learnt a lot during the week." Craig Lusher, CenCom Solutions, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days)
"I got what I came for and the CCNA certification was a bonus. I'll be back in the new year for the CCDA and probably the CCNP. Accelerated learning has opened my eyes to what is possible and has proven that you don't need to be exam focused to pass major certifications. You do need to be motivated though. The days are long, the work is intense, but the reward is great. Thanks." Gavin Bailey, Quantel Ltd, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days)
"Firebrand training was excellent from start to finish! The food, learning and material was second to none." Alex Parsons, Komcept Solutions, Cisco CCNA 2007 Certification (6 Days)

Monday, 4 February 2008

microsoft dynamics ax

Microsoft Dynamics AX Training Courses by Firebrand

This is what our students say....

"Firebrand* was a concise and directed experience, it was hard work but ultimately worth the effort!" Paul ODell, Syscom PLC, Microsoft Dynamics AX Foundation Developer (4 Days) 27/5/2007 to 30/5/2007
"It was effective and I passed my exam. Will certainly consider Firebrand* for next exam." Paul Taylor, First eBusiness Solutions Ltd., Microsoft Dynamics AX Foundation Developer (4 Days) 25/2/2007 to 28/2/2007
"The centre was superb; the food was first class and the whole area was setup to allow full blown training in a very constructive manor. Very impressive and will use again without a doubt. Thankyou!" Tim Clayton, maxima plc, Microsoft Dynamics AX Foundation Developer (4 Days) 25/2/2007 to 28/2/2007
"The centre provided everything we needed to focus on studying. You wouldn't think 12 hour days could be fun but with top equipment, comfy chairs and excellent food and snacks our time there flew by." Christopher Rothery, Maxima, Microsoft Dynamics AX Foundation Developer (4 Days) 25/2/2007 to 28/2/2007
"I found the intense training hard going but I have definitely benefited from the experience and will be recommending Firebrand* to my colleagues. I hope to have the opportunity to attend other courses in the future." Ailsa Thompson, Touchstone., Microsoft Dynamics AX Foundation Developer (4 Days) 25/2/2007 to 28/2/2007

Friday, 1 February 2008

Microsoft SQL Server training course

Microsoft SQL Server training course from Firebrand Training. Here's what our students say....

"A very good course to get into a technology with the aim of obtaining qualifications in that technology." KB, Land Securities, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 17/12/2007 to 21/12/2007
"Excellently run and focussed intensive training course. Not for Wimps." Anthony Yalden, Yalden Computer Services, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007
"This highly intense training course provided a solution to enhance my overall competence with SQL2005 and achieve the knowledge base to pass the MCTS." Steve Knight, Lenzing Fibers Grimsby, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007
"Excellent Environment, Focussed training. I wouldnt have passed the exam in such a short space of time without this course...but be prepared to work! Accelerated training requires focus and dedication." PW, COA Solutions, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007
"If you want a slow paced, dummys guide training course...go to Learning tree...if you want a proper course and are prepared to put the effort in....you cant knock these guys." Ray Carmody, COA Solutions, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007
"I spend months trying to learn for this exam myself. It took only 5 days to clear this millstone." Ashley Bill, Tower software, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007
"The course was very good, the tutuor was excellent and really knew the stuff and finally the learning environment was fantastic. I will be doing another course in January 08 and will always consider using Firebrand as a training provider! I would recommend the course as its format allows you to immerse yourself in studying for a couple of days and ensure that you use your time really effectively. " Tazud Miah, SCS, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007
"Without doubt, the course was hard work, and if you think you can coast through like on some other courses you will be in for a bit of a shock. However, if you are serious about getting a qualification, and learning something you can genuinely use in your daily worklife, I think that this type of training, delivered by a really excellent instructor, in the context of a very professional setup that works hard to minimise any distractions, is a fantastic way to gain knowledge in a very short timeframe." Jeremy Baynham, British Seafood, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007
"When they say hard work do not underestimate that fact but then you get the reward at the end. The trainer was exceptional." Mark Marshall, The Maersk Company Ltd, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 19/11/2007 to 23/11/2007
"The course was intensive and made clear my strengths and weaknesses. The teaching and amenities available were of a high standard, although you may want to think about taking extra supplies as there is no shop on-site." Brian Moylan, No one at the moment, looking for work, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 22/10/2007 to 26/10/2007
"The Firebrand training experience was one that I would wholeheartedly recommend to others wishing to immerse themselves in a particular subject. Their teaching methods ensured that my tiny little mind was filled optimally." Steve Martin, Sequence Collective Ltd, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 22/10/2007 to 26/10/2007
"The training is intense and hard going but is compensated by the beautiful surroundings. Whilst the bedrooms are quite basic they are functional and their location close to the class room is excellent." Heather Hayes, Maginus Software Solutions, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 22/10/2007 to 26/10/2007
"Excellent Instructor, excellent facilities, excellent course.. one exam Passed!" P.B., Maginus Software Solutions, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 22/10/2007 to 26/10/2007
"The course was challenging but the end result is more than worth it. Be prepared to work hard, do not think for a moment its just a week away from the office. It is a fantastic experience anyone who calls them selves an IT professional should experience. FANTASTIC! " William Relf, P&O Ferries, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007
"The course was well laid out with an incredibly knowledgable, helpful and approachable instructor who taught the course in a manner that was easy to follow and understand. The facilities were great and the workload throughout the week intense. Despite long hours and a lack of sleep, I managed to get my MCTS on my first attempt - I doubt I would have managed that with the efforts of my instructor and the environment of the training centre." Mark Beeken, Olympus Automation Ltd, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007
"It was an enjoyable experience; quite an intensive course but was worth it. Accommodation was excellent as well as the meals." Henry Agiddi, P&O Ferries, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007
"They do exactly what you expect, Teach, Train & Communicate the materials and infomation you need for both the course itself and real world examples of Best Practice. " Alasdair Thomson, Voice Marketing Ltd, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007
"Firebrand* centre has a highly focused, learning culture which delivered the goods." Stuart Green, International Power, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007
"The experience at Firebrand* is one for all IT Professionals no matter your background. It is tough but the reward is great if you give a good effort you get a good result. Don't expect to sleep. Enjoy! " William Relf, P&O Ferries , Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007
"This is the third time I have attended a Firebrand* course and I have a 100% success rate!" David le Quesne, Hornbill.com, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 (MCTS) (5 Days) 24/9/2007 to 28/9/2007