March 30, 2026
The British Drilling Association (BDA) Training & Education Sub-Committee met virtually in March, to discuss various ongoing initiatives, including the Super Sector Scheme, development of competency pathways, training resources, audit alignment and new educational materials to support the drilling industry.
Key Highlights:
- Leadership Transition and Committee Updates – Paul McMann (Chair of the T&E Sub-committee) welcomed members to the meeting and David Bradley, who attended in preparation for taking on the role of BDA Chair following the AGM in May. Mitch Yeo also joined the meeting as a guest, contributing to discussions around training pathways and competency development.
- Super Sector Scheme – Route to Competence – The committee reviewed progress on Step 3 of the Super Sector Scheme. Clarification was provided that the CSCS card and CSCS logo operate as separate entities, and it was agreed that the MPQC CSCS-affiliated card provides the most appropriate route for the drilling sector. The proposed progression route will involve a provisional card followed by completion of a VQ or structured training and assessment plan, supported by a BDA audit, leading to the issue of a full competency card. Early engagement with industry stakeholders will be important in preparing companies for the transition away from traditional CSCS routes.
- Competency Pathways and Industry Recruitment – The committee discussed the need to align audit requirements with appropriate vocational qualification (VQ) pathways across specialist drilling sectors, including ground investigation, geothermal, water wells, landfill, grouting and horizontal directional drilling. Work is ongoing to review opportunities for combining pathways where appropriate and ensuring the training structure supports recruitment into the industry, including alternative entry routes.
- Audit Validity Period Review – The committee considered extending audit validity from one year to two years in order to better align with CSCS arrangements. The potential implications for industry communications and transition planning will be incorporated into the wider strategic plan.
- Training Platform and Digital Learning Resources – The Finance & Strategy Sub-Committee has approved investment in the new BDA training platform hosted by Equipe. The platform will enable online learning, assessment and certification, with automated certificate generation following completion of training modules. Development of payment functionality is underway.
- Manual Handling Training and “Train the Trainer” Programme – The manual handling training video produced by Pristine Condition has now been completed. Supporting training courses are also available, including the “Passing on the Principles” Train the Trainer programme, helping organisations embed good manual handling practice across their teams.
- Future Training Video Development – The committee noted that many existing videos are currently focused on ground investigation activities. Members will work with industry partners to identify additional content opportunities that reflect the wider drilling sector and support consistent training standards.
- Bite-Size Guidance Publications – The committee is developing a series of concise technical guidance documents and checklists designed to support operatives on site and assist new starters in understanding key safety principles. Current topics in development include dynamic sampling, cable percussion rigs and rotary rigs, with further suggestions including window sampling, rig guarding, drill bits and cable percussion tools. Work is ongoing to standardise format and branding.
- Strategic Plan Development – A draft strategic plan is being developed to guide implementation of the updated competency framework, training pathways and audit alignment. A summary of objectives will be presented to the Management Committee for review.
