2017 Courses in Cardiff delivered Live Online

Whether it is for your personal development, your own career or your business, this life-changing training is for everyone who would like to develop their skills such as communication, confidence, entrepreneurial thinking, flow-state and creativity – the future skills every human needs to master.

LOOKING FOR: PICTURE BOOKS, YOUNG FICTION, CHAPTER BOOKS, MG, YA Alice set up Alice Williams Literary in 2018 after representing children's books for over ten years at David Higham Associates. She is especially keen to consider playful, funny books for all ages, and is on the lookout for heartwarming, empowering stories, whether in a realistic, contemporary setting, or a wildly imaginative fantasy world - or somewhere in-between. Alice is offering 121 sessions for young fiction, middle grade, YA and picture book writers. For chapter books, MG and YA fiction, please submit a covering letter, synopsis and the first three chapters of your manuscript in a single word document. For picture books, please submit a covering letter and two texts, or for illustrators one dummy and examples from your portfolio or a link to your website. Alice is only seeking to discuss texts/novels with writers living in the UK and Ireland. English does not need to be your first language, but you must be living within the UK or Ireland. (In addition to the paid sessions, Alice is kindly offering one free session for low income/under-represented writers. Please email agent121@iaminprint.co.uk to apply, outlining your case for this option which is offered at the discretion of I Am In Print).  By booking you understand you need to conduct an internet connection test with I Am In Print prior to the event. You also agree to email your material in one document to reach I Am In Print by the stated submission deadline and note that I Am In Print take no responsibility for the advice received during your agent meeting. The submission deadline is: Thursday 11th September 2025

This programme will guide your team of up to 12 people toward delegating more effectively. The 3 part series of digital self-paced and instructor-led content explores how you can utilise practical frameworks to elevate productivity and performance. By identifying the styles of delegation that are commonly used, you will create an optimal strategy for successful delegation. During the facilitated live session there will be the opportunity to share best practice and discuss planned application to your role.

LOOKING FOR: YA, ADULT FICTION Laura Bennett developed a love of writing early, attending her first Creative Writing course at college. She then decided to study Writing at Liverpool John Moores University, obtaining a BA before pursuing a career in teaching. She began work at a college for young adults with special needs, and then moved to a vocational college while studying for a post-compulsory PGCE. Laura taught English for a few years, and also ran several Creative Writing courses before returning to LJMU to obtain an MA in Writing. She then worked as a teaching assistant at a local secondary school, before leaving that job to pursue a career at the Liverpool Literary Agency. She has worked as a private tutor, written for tabletop roleplaying games, and is the narrative writer for an Indie video game. She was also the judge for the I Am Writing Science Fiction / Fantasy category in 2025! Laura is looking for adult and YA science fiction and fantasy of all stripes, including steampunk, post-apocalyptic, urban fantasy, supernatural, and dystopian. She loves diverse casts and complicated relationships. Stories that focus on realistic characters with strong voices are a definite hit, no matter how fantastical their worlds. Laura would like you to submit a covering letter, 1 page synopsis and the first 5,000 words of your manuscript in a single word document. (In addition to the paid sessions, Laura is kindly offering one free session for low income/under-represented writers. Please email agent121@iaminprint.co.uk to apply, outlining your case for this option which is offered at the discretion of I Am In Print).  By booking you understand you need to conduct an internet connection test with I Am In Print prior to the event. You also agree to email your material in one document to reach I Am In Print by the stated submission deadline and note that I Am In Print take no responsibility for the advice received during your agent meeting. The submission deadline is: Tuesday 16th September 2025

LOOKING FOR: YA/NA FANTASY, SFF, HORROR, ADULT FICTION John Baker (he/him) joined the Bell Lomax Moreton agency in 2019, cultivating a list shaped around his passion for science fiction, fantasy, and horror, though has lately also branched out into action/adventure fiction. John focuses on authors writing in the Adult, New Adult, and YA spaces. John leads the wider agency's film & TV desk, is the Secretary of the Association of Author’s Agents, and the co-chair of the AAA’s Bridge Committee. He also serves on the Kingston University MA Publishing Advisory Board. Under the umbrella of speculative fiction, John is looking for fantasy, science fiction, horror, romantasy, or literary speculative fiction. He has built a reputation as a champion of underrepresented voices and stories, be it from creators hailing from the global majority and their diasporas or neurodiverse authors, and naturally gravitates towards this kind of storytelling. In short, if he’s never read a story like yours before, he wants to see it. Adult fantasy: John loves beefy epic fantasy, especially non-Anglo Christian-inspired. Give him an immersive world, a fresh magical or mythic system, and an exciting cast of characters and he’ll be happy. He is a broad church in the genre so loves a political fantasy, swords and sorcery, courtly intrigue, monster hunting and dastardly villains. John is keen to find an urban fantasy that feels fresh and fun and he’s a sucker for a heroic quest narrative. He’s also very open to fantasy that isn’t easily categorised, but it is playing in that world. John is keenly hunting for more historical fantasy, especially inspired by modern history. He’s had fun with mythological retellings in the past, but as ever, let’s make sure it’s shining the spotlight on new stories. He would also love fantasy that centres on types of relationships less celebrated in fantasy, such as established and secure married couples, or siblings. NA/YA fantasy: In this genre, most importantly, John wants to have a good time, whether it’s swoon-worthy kisses in lush ball gowns, or gruesome gore and monsters, so send him pacy, plot-filled adventures. He’d love more books that teenage boys would love: Skullduggery Pleasant forever! Romantasy: The thriving new romantasy genre comes with its own set of challenges, so John wants to know what makes your romantasy different; what will set it out from the (very crowded!) market. Give it completely barmy stakes, cool and unique new settings, or a love story that will make your jaw drop. To be clear, he’s happily sorted for a human person meets a fae creature in the spooky woods. Also, cosmic romance is the genre of the future. Give him romantasy in space. Easy. Horror: John and horror are old friends. He loves horror inspired by myth and folklore, subversive weird horror that leaves your eyebrows in your hairline, historical horror that pulls from ghastly true stories, and anything that you’ll be reading with the light on. He also loves a gothic element and is particularly looking for horror with a strong romantic throughline, fun YA horror, and female & NB horror authors. Science fiction: SF is coming back! And John has been shouting about that. He loves to see an adventurous found-family romp through space or an epic, crunchy space opera. Speculative near-future is fun too, in the vein of Black Mirror’s more uplifting episodes, (e.g. San Junipero). He loves YA science fiction as well; the more creative the better. Literary: John is open to finding more rich magical realism or something character-led yet supernatural and would love a high-concept mystery, in the vein of Stuart Turton. He also loves spec fic that uses the speculative lightly as a way of confronting a deeper truth in society today. Weird stuff: John wants books that will blow people’s minds and defy categorisation. This is hard to describe, but think Gideon The Ninth, The Library At Mount Char, This Is How You Lose The Time War. John loves a pitch that leaves the editors baffled but intrigued. Action/Adventure, Historical Adventure, Espionage: John is branching out into non-speculative adventures, such as John Le Carré, Lee Child, Ian Flemming, and Mick Herron. More as his taste develops, but the hunt is on! Not looking for: military sci-fi or hard SF, or anything with biblical “character wakes up in purgatory/heaven/hell” narratives. The right comedic fantasy has yet to hit his inbox, but please don’t comp Douglas Adams or Sir Terry. John would like you to submit a covering letter, 1-2 page synopsis and the first two chapters of your manuscript in a single word document. (In addition to the paid sessions, John is kindly offering one free session for low income/under-represented writers. Please email agent121@iaminprint.co.uk to apply, outlining your case for this option which is offered at the discretion of I Am In Print).  By booking you understand you need to conduct an internet connection test with I Am In Print prior to the event. You also agree to email your material in one document to reach I Am In Print by the stated submission deadline and note that I Am In Print take no responsibility for the advice received during your agent meeting. The submission deadline is: Tuesday 16th September 2025

Fibre Optic cabling training course description A hands on course covering installation, splicing and testing of fibre optic cabling. What will you learn Describe different types of fibre cable and where to use them Install fibre optic cable. Splice fibre optic cable. Test fibre optic cable. Fibre Optic cabling training course details Who will benefit: Cable installation professionals. Prerequisites: None Duration 3 days Fibre Optic cabling training course contents Fibre optic transmission Physics of light, optical modes, light propagation, light guiding, dispersion, light spectrum, fibre versus copper comparison, fibre cable types and their uses, WDM and DWDM. Fibre optic cable Single mode, Multi mode, diameters, step-index fibre, graded index fibre, loose tube, tight buffered, cable jackets, distance limitations, indoor versus outdoors. Fibre optic network components ST, SC, FC and other connectors, termination methods, joint enclosures, transmitters, light sources, laser, LED, receivers, detectors. Installation BS.7718. Safe working practices, site surveys, recommended installation procedures, cable handling issues, bending radius, techniques and tools, documentation. Splicing Joining fibres, splicers, fusion splicing, mechanical splicing, splicing procedure, cleaving, splicing parameters, splicing vs. connectors. Measurement parameters and applications Power measurement, loss measurement, return loss measurement, receiver sensitivity measurement, budget calculations. Testing Optical power meter, optical light source, optical attenuator, return loss meter, continuity testing, insertion loss testing, OTDR features and principles, OTDR capabilities and limitations, using an OTDR, troubleshooting.

LTE optimization training course description This course gives delegates an understanding of the Key Performance Indicators used within the 3G LTE (4G) network environment. We investigate the 3GPP standards for KPIs (including TR 32.814, TS 32.410 & TS 32.455) these cover GERAN, UMTS & LTE environments. The course details the optimisation procedures and the use of Self optimisation, Selforganising & Self-healing equipment now being deployed across all releases of mobile networks. What will you learn Explain the RF optimisation flowchart. Describe the importance of Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP). List many of the 3GPP recommended KPIs. Describe the concept of APN AMBR and UE AMBR within LTE. Describe the use of planning and optimisation computer tools. LTE optimization training course details Who will benefit: Anyone working with LTE. Prerequisites: Essential LTE Duration 2 days LTE optimization training course contents Introduction to the cellular environment The architecture, 2G (GSM), GPRS/EDGE, The NGMN (Next Generation Mobile Network), media gateway controller, 3GPP Rel99 the 3G introduction, HSPA deployments, 3G LTE (4G). Cellular network procedures GSM/GPRS call setup, GPRS data call setup, 3G UMTS data call setup, Data call (Voice over LTE) in LTE (using IMS), Circuit Switched Fall Back (CSFB) in LTE, IP packet session in LTE. Introduction to the standards The 3GPP specifications body, The numbering structure for KPIs, 2G KPIs, 3G/UMTS KPIs, 3G LTE KPIs, IMS KPIs. Introduction to the KPI definitions KPI definitions, accessibility KPIs, retainability KPIs, mobility KPIs, utilisation KPIs. In-depth overview of the air Interfaces GSM/GPRS FDMA & TDMA solution, 3G UMTS WCDMA solution, HSPA+ sharing spare power (Codes), The 3G LTE uplink & downlink interface explained, Initial attach procedures explained. Problem analysis Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Signal to Interference Noise Ratio (SINR), handover success rates, power adjustments, classification of coverage problems, weak coverage & coverage holes, lack of dominant cells, cross coverage, improper tilt settings, uplink/downlink imbalance, signal quality, Azimuths & tilts to reduce interference, Handover failure due to interference, Service drop causes. Mobile RF performance in 2G/3G Performance counters, KPIs, testing & measurement, Drive testing and survey, Data collection and post processing of data, LTE service optimization, bandwidth, poor coverage, Quality, optimization process, KPI optimization, Root Cause Analysis (RCA) applied to RF issues, optimization tools and software. Advanced LTE network planning & optimization LTE UE measurements (RSRP/RSRQ), LTE capacity planning, RF configuration parameters, LTE cell selection/reselection planning, LTE radio network KPIs, LTE user-centric KPIs, LTE network performance KPIs, LTE system utilization KPIs, LTE RF channel performance predictions, LTE channel information processing, LTE channel multiplexing, Physical layer and structure, MIMO in LTE, LTE resource plan LTE and Self-Organizing Networks (SON). Radio network optimization work flow Work flow, the existing network, Optimization team establishment and cluster division, Single site verification, Alarm check, Cell state check, Radio parameters check, Site verification, Statistics analysis, Coverage problem analysis. Mobile internet and QoS issues Cellular QoS reference models. How QoS impact on KPIs and measurements, Introduction to mobile internet, The concept of shared access technologies, Support for QoS in the WCDMA environment, The PDP context model, Supporting end-to-end QoS, EPS bearer concepts, Default EPS bearer, Dedicated EPS bearer, APN-AMBR, UE-AMBR.

Learners will be introduced to the design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of intruder and hold-up alarm systems.

LOOKING FOR: CHILDREN'S: PICTURE BOOK TEXTS, NON-FICTION, POETRY Lucy Brownridge is Editorial Director at Wide Eyed Editions and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books, and formerly Thames & Hudson where she helped to establish the Children’s list. She specialises in highly illustrated picture books and non-fiction (including poetry) for children. She has commissioned and edited books which have gone on to win the Carnegie Awards, The British Book Awards, the Klaus Flugge Prize, the Blue Peter Prize and have been translated into over 30 languages. She has been editor to Alan Ahlberg, Quentin Blake, Mariajo Ilustrajo, Yuval Zommer and Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho among many others. She is the author of The Fantastical Safari and The Cat Family series, and many other books for children. She is interested in the history of illustrated children’s books and is always looking for innovative ways to use the book format. ABOUT YOU Include a covering letter, in a Word document, telling Lucy about yourself and your sources of inspiration. If you have one, include a link to your website. She is keen to read stories she hasn't seen before or see artwork with a distinctive style rather than something that fits with trends. She has particular experience with picture books and illustrated narrative non-fiction. PICTURE BOOKS Please send one or two (max) full manuscripts, in a Word document, starting with a short summary/blurb. Make the summary punchy and engaging. Remember that the best picture book stories are simple and every word should count. Do you see this book as part of a series? NON-FICTION PROPOSALS Please send a paragraph explaining your idea, a contents list, if appropriate, and a sample piece of text. (In addition to the paid sessions, Lucy is kindly offering one free session for low income/under-represented writers. Please email agent121@iaminprint.co.uk to apply, outlining your case for this option which is offered at the discretion of I Am In Print).  By booking you understand you need to conduct an internet connection test with I Am In Print prior to the event. You also agree to email your material in one document to reach I Am In Print by the stated submission deadline and note that I Am In Print take no responsibility for the advice received during your agent meeting. The submission deadline is: Monday 15th September 2025 at 10:00am UK BST

About this Training Course Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) has provided intercontinental mobility to natural gas, which now provides about 25% of the global primary energy. Being the cleanest fossil fuel, natural gas/LNG consumption is forecasted to grow in all future scenarios. With the entry of various players, including Trading companies, the LNG value chain is becoming increasingly complex, and a solid understanding of its economics and management of its interfaces have become crucial to identify and assess investment opportunities and risks. Recent market disturbances caused by COVID-19, Oil & Gas price instabilities - coupled with the political (Ukraine/Russia) challenges - make a deep understanding of LNG Value Chain Logistics and Economics even more essential to ensure the security of energy supplies sustainably and profitably. This intermediate level 3 full-day course starts with a concise introduction to the LNG business. Thereafter, the elements of the LNG value chain are described, and their individual economics analysed. A Business Activity Model along the value chain will be developed and discussed in depth, covering the following key processes: 'Buy Gas - Transport Gas - Liquefy Gas - Sell LNG/Products - Ship LNG - Regasify LNG' The integrated chain economics will then be developed and quantified. A hands-on group workshop/exercise developing the economic case of a full-sized Liquefaction project will be carried out, considering the forecasted cash flows throughout the project life, the location of the plant, its markets, project sensitivities and profitability assessment. Participants will be provided with Excel based tools/models (LNG Liquefaction project development Net Present Value (NPV) analyses, Shipping Freight Calculations and Economics) to work through the exercises and also for their future personal use. Training Objectives After the completion of this course, participants will be able to: Understand how the LNG Value Chain operates, bound by the relevant Contracts and Agreements. Learn the basic economic parameters (operating, capital costs, financing, profitability) of each major element of the value chain. Appreciate the complexity of the value chain, and the associated opportunities and risks. Develop quantitative project evaluation skills. Explore options to maximise profitability in a given LNG value chain. Discuss best practices on how to manage, steer and govern these activities. Target Audience Technical, Operational, Shipping, Commercial, Project and Governance professionals who are already active in a specific section of the LNG Value Chain will directly benefit in developing a wider and deeper perspective on how the LNG Value Chain operations and can be optimised. Managers (Technical, Financial, Legal and Governance) less familiar with the specifics of the LNG Industry will also benefit from attending this VILT course, as they will obtain the required background to be able to set sharper targets, suitable performance indicators, and governance and performance assessment guidelines for units engaged in the chain. The course is most relevant for professionals engaged in the LNG industry at: National and International Oil & Gas/Energy Companies LNG Importers/Exporters/Traders/Shippers Government & Regulatory Agencies Finance Institutions It will also apply to the following audience: Business Development Managers Corporate Planning Professionals Project Developers Supply Planners & Scheduling Professionals Regulators Tax & Finance Advisors Compliance Officers Equity Analyst and Bankers Joint Venture Representatives, Board Directors Negotiators and Contracting Staff Trading Professionals Course Level Intermediate Trainer Your expert course leader is an Oil & Gas/LNG professional with more than 35 years of international experience, majority of which was gained at Shell International Joint Ventures engaged in Oil Refining, Supply / Trading, Gas Supply and LNG Businesses in the Netherlands, France, Thailand, Dominican Republic and Nigeria. Since 2004, he has had several roles in the management of the LNG Value Chain including the Commercial Operational Management of Nigeria LNG (NLNG). He played an active role in the start-up and integration of LNG trains 4, 5 and 6 with NLNG becoming the 3rd largest LNG producer in the world in 2007. Commercial operations spanned 4 Gas Supply, 11 LNG Sales & Purchase Agreements, ad-hoc LPG and Condensate Sales and LNG Ship Chartering contracts. Under his supervision, more than 2,000 LNG cargoes were exported. He was part of the organizational transformation of the company from a Project-based set-up to a Production / Commercial based structure and implemented an 'Integrated Planning and Scheduling Department' in which he optimized the value chain (Buy-Gas - Liquify Gas to LNG - Sell - Ship LNG). Staff competence management was one of his focus areas during this period. He was also the NLNG representative on JV Technical, Commercial, Shipping Committees where he interfaced with Government & Regulatory authorities. In 2014, he was appointed as Shell Shareholder representative to NLNG and became a Non-Executive Board member to NLNG companies, including Bonny Gas Transport (BGT) managing 24 LNG Ships. During this period, he was involved in the Economic and Technical steering of the Shipping Fleet and Liquefaction Plant Rejuvenation projects and a further capacity expansion of liquefaction plant which resulted in the achievement of NLNG train 7 project FID in 2019. Since 2016, he has been active as an independent consultant. He co-authored 2 patents and more than 30 published papers/presentations. He holds a PhD from Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands and a MSc and BSc in Chemical Engineering from the University of Birmingham, UK. POST TRAINING COACHING SUPPORT (OPTIONAL) To further optimise your learning experience from our courses, we also offer individualized 'One to One' coaching support for 2 hours post training. We can help improve your competence in your chosen area of interest, based on your learning needs and available hours. This is a great opportunity to improve your capability and confidence in a particular area of expertise. It will be delivered over a secure video conference call by one of our senior trainers. They will work with you to create a tailor-made coaching program that will help you achieve your goals faster. Request for further information post training support and fees applicable Accreditions And Affliations