172 Nature courses delivered Live Online

6 Week Qi-Gong Course For Winter When: Tuesday Evenings 6pm and Thursday Mornings (via Zoom) All classes are recorded so you can catch up in your own time. Dates: Tuesdays 6-7pm: January 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th and February 4th and 11th Thursdays 9-9.30am: January 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th and February 6th and 13th Price: Concessions £60 – Standard £80 – Supporter £110 Suitable for everyone no matter your experience What if you could improve your health, strength and vitality, by simply slowing down? Slow your body Slow your breath Slow your mind When we slow down we give ourselves the opportunity to rejuvenate, to recharge and to harness our own life force energy or “Qi”. As we move towards winter we begin to turn inwards and connect to the power of Yin, the power of Water and the power of finding our own slow flow. In this 6 week course we will explore Qigong movements, meditations and breathwork practices to support this slowing down, giving us the space to connect to our Qi, to our subtle energy, giving us the tools to feel stronger, calmer and full of vitality. In Traditional Chinese Medicine we are entering the water phase of winter. The water element relates to the organs of the bladder and kidneys, our bones, our ears and our sense of hearing. The meridians of Kidney and Bladder run along our spine and the back of the body and when they are flowing well we feel supported by life, grounded and connected to the world around us. We can find our inner flow with ease, without effort or strain, enabling us to let go of our fears and move forward with courage. Qigong teaches us to come back to our bodies, to come back home, to a place of belonging that is inside all of us, a place of stillness in our the centre. Where we can better navigate life’s uncertainties with greater balance, ease, and steadiness. What is included: Six live 60min evening Qigong Classes on zoom Six live 30min morning Slow Flow classes on zoom Access to replays of all classes so you can catch up in your own time. Access to private Whats App group to share experiences and ask questions Weekly supporting material for home practice : – A Weekly video with a guided Qigong Practice or Meditation – PDF – explanations of each practice – Key acupuncture points for self massage Together we will: Learn a simple Slow Flow Qigong Movements to balance your nervous system and release stress. Explore the principal of Wu Wei – Release tension and move with effortless action Connect to your deep internal power – Learn to Standing in Emptiness (Wuchi) Strengthen Kidneys and support adrenal health Exercises to strengthen your spine and reduce back pain Clear the meridian pathways reducing stagnation and stiffness for increased flow and vitality. Learn self-massage techniques for key acupuncture points to release stress and calm our busy minds. Qigong means “To Nourish Life” and for me having a regular practice helps to bring me home to myself. What will i get out of this course? Deeper body awareness Increased strength and emotional stability Relax your mind and Improve mental clarity Enhanced breathing and improved circulation Strengthen your back and build a healthy spine Less physical tension and reduced pain More energy Less stress and anxiety Everyone is welcome to join the course no matter your experience. Please get in touch if you have any questions.

Course Overview: This course provides in-depth knowledge of cinematography and directing, including the use of different cameras, lighting setups, metering techniques, and creative direction. Students will learn to master key elements of production and post-production processes. Hourly Session Breakdown: 8 one-hour sessions on Skype.

Duration 2 Days 12 CPD hours This course is intended for This introduction to Spring development course requires that incoming students possess solid Java programming skills and practical hands-on Java experience. This class is geared for experienced Java developers who are new to Spring, who wish to understand how and when to use Spring in Java and JEE applications. Overview Working in a hands-on learning environment, led by our expert practitioner, students will: Explain the issues associated with complex frameworks such as JEE and how Spring addresses those issues Understand the relationships between Spring and JEE, AOP, IOC and JDBC. Write applications that take advantage of the Spring container and the declarative nature of assembling simple components into applications. Understand how to configure the Spring Boot framework Understand and work on integrating persistence into a Spring application Explain Spring's support for transactions and caching Work with Spring Boot to facilitate Spring setup and configuration Apply Aspect Oriented Programming (AOP) to Spring applications Become familiar with the conditionally loading of bean definitions and Application Contexts Understand how to leverage the power of Spring Boot Use Spring Boot to create and work with JPA repositories Introduction to Spring Boot | Spring Boot Quick Start is a hands-on Spring training course geared for experienced Java developers who need to understand what the Spring Boot is in terms of today's systems and architectures, and how to use Spring in conjunction with other technologies and frameworks. This leading-edge course provides added coverage of Spring's Aspect-Oriented Programming and the use of Spring Boot. Students will gain hands-on experience working with Spring, using Maven for project and dependancy management, and, optionally, a test-driven approach (using JUnit) to the labs in the course. The Spring framework is an application framework that provides a lightweight container that supports the creation of simple-to-complex components in a non-invasive fashion. Spring's flexibility and transparency is congruent and supportive of incremental development and testing. The framework's structure supports the layering of functionality such as persistence, transactions, view-oriented frameworks, and enterprise systems and capabilities. This course targets Spring Boot 2 , which includes full support for Java SE 11 and Java EE 8. Spring supports the use of lambda expressions and method references in many of its APIs. The Spring Framework Understand the value of Spring Explore Dependency Injection (DI) and Inversion of Control (IoC) Introduce different ways of configuring collaborators Spring as an Object Factory Initializing the Spring IoC Container Configuring Spring Managed Beans Introduce Java-based configuration The @Configuration and @Bean annotations Define bean dependencies Bootstrapping Java Config Context Injection in Configuration classes Using context Profiles Conditionally loading beans and configurations Bean Life-Cycle Methods Defining Bean dependencies Introduce Spring annotations for defining dependencies Explore the @Autowired annotation Stereotype Annotations Qualifying injection points Lifecycle annotations Using properties in Java based configuration The @Value annotation Using the Candidate Components Index Introduction to Spring Boot Introduce the basics of Spring Boot Explain auto-configuration Introduce the Spring Initializr application Bootstrapping a Spring Boot application Working with Spring Boot Provide an overview of Spring Boot Introduce starter dependencies Introduce auto-configuration @Enable... annotations Conditional configuration Spring Boot Externalized Configuration Bootstrapping Spring Boot Introduction to Aspect Oriented Programming Aspect Oriented Programming Cross Cutting Concerns Spring AOP Spring AOP in a Nutshell @AspectJ support Spring AOP advice types AspectJ pointcut designators Spring Boot Actuator Understand Spring Boot Actuators Work with predefined Actuator endpoints Enabling Actuator endpoints Securing the Actuator Developing in Spring Boot Introduce Spring Boot Devtools Enable the ConditionEvaluationReport Debugging Spring Boot applications Thymeleaf Provide a quick overview of Thymeleaf Introduce Thymeleaf templates Create and run a Spring Thymeleaf MVC application Additional course details: Nexus Humans Spring Boot Quick Start | Core Spring, Spring AOP, Spring Boot 2.0 and More (TT3322) training program is a workshop that presents an invigorating mix of sessions, lessons, and masterclasses meticulously crafted to propel your learning expedition forward. This immersive bootcamp-style experience boasts interactive lectures, hands-on labs, and collaborative hackathons, all strategically designed to fortify fundamental concepts. Guided by seasoned coaches, each session offers priceless insights and practical skills crucial for honing your expertise. Whether you're stepping into the realm of professional skills or a seasoned professional, this comprehensive course ensures you're equipped with the knowledge and prowess necessary for success. While we feel this is the best course for the Spring Boot Quick Start | Core Spring, Spring AOP, Spring Boot 2.0 and More (TT3322) course and one of our Top 10 we encourage you to read the course outline to make sure it is the right content for you. Additionally, private sessions, closed classes or dedicated events are available both live online and at our training centres in Dublin and London, as well as at your offices anywhere in the UK, Ireland or across EMEA.

Electrician Complete Training Course Overview This comprehensive Electrician Complete Training course provides learners with essential knowledge and skills related to electricity and electrical systems. It covers fundamental principles such as basic electricity concepts, circuit theory, and electrical components, ensuring a solid foundation for aspiring electricians. Through detailed explanations and examples, learners will understand how electric circuits function, the behaviour of conductors and insulators, and key laws such as Ohm’s Law. The course also explores advanced topics including capacitance, magnetism, and transient responses. By completing this course, learners will be well-equipped to progress in electrical work or further specialised training, gaining confidence in interpreting and applying electrical principles in various settings. Course Description This Electrician Complete Training course offers an in-depth exploration of electricity, focusing on theoretical knowledge critical to the electrical industry. Learners will study the nature of electricity, different types of circuits, and how to calculate electric power and current flow using established laws. The course examines both series and parallel circuits and introduces important circuit theorems, enhancing problem-solving skills. Additional modules cover electric fields, capacitance, magnetism, and inductance, as well as the transient response of capacitors and inductors, providing a broad understanding of electrical phenomena. Designed for clarity and technical accuracy, this course prepares learners to engage confidently with electrical concepts and apply them effectively within their career or educational pursuits. Electrician Complete Training Curriculum: Module 01: Intro Basic Electricity Module 02: The Nature of Electricity Module 03: Conductors & Insulators Module 04: Current and Electric Circuits Module 05: Ohm’s Law Module 06: Electric Power Module 07: Series & Parallel Circuits Module 08: Circuit Theorems Module 09: Electric Fields and Capacitance Module 10: Magnetism and Inductance Module 11: Transient Response Capacitors & Inductors (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to establish foundational electrical knowledge. Professionals aiming to advance their understanding of electrical systems. Beginners with an interest in the electrical industry and technology. Technicians or maintenance workers looking to broaden their skillset. Career Path Electrician Electrical Technician Maintenance Engineer Electrical Systems Analyst Industrial Electrical Specialist

Managing the movement of goods across all sectors and distances for a range of customers from private individuals and sole traders through to large global organisations.

This five-day programme empowers participants with the skills and knowledge to understand and effectively apply best practice commercial and contracting principles and techniques, ensuring better contractor performance and greater value add. This is an assessed programme, leading to the International Association for Contracts & Commercial Management (IACCM)'s coveted Contract and Commercial Management Practitioner (CCMP) qualification. By the end of this comprehensive programme the participants will be able to: Develop robust contracting plans, including scopes of work and award strategies Undertake early market engagements to maximise competition Conduct effective contracting and commercial management activities, including ITT, RFP, negotiated outcomes Understand the legalities of contract and commercial management Negotiate effectively with key stakeholders and clients, making use of the key skills of persuading and influencing to optimise outcomes Undertake effective Supplier Relationship Management Appreciate the implications of national and organisational culture on contracting and commercial activities Appreciate professional contract management standards Set up and maintain contract and commercial management governance systems Take a proactive, collaborative, and agile approach to managing commercial contracts Develop and monitor appropriate and robust KPIs and SLAs to manage the contractor and facilitate improved contractor performance Appreciate the cross-functional nature of contract management Collaborate with clients to deliver sustainable performance and to manage and exceed client expectations Understand the roles and responsibilities of contract and commercial managers Use effective contractor selection and award methods and models (including the 10Cs model) and use these models to prepare robust propositions to clients Make effective use of lessons learned to promote improvements from less than optimal outcomes, using appropriate templates Effectively manage the process of change, claims, variations, and dispute resolution Develop and present robust propositions Make appropriate use of best practice contract and commercial management tools, techniques, and templates DAY ONE 1 Introduction Aims Objectives KPIs Learning strategies Plan for the programme 2 The contracting context Key objectives of contract management Importance and impact on the business 3 Critical success factors Essential features of professional commercial and contract management and administration The 6-step model 4 Putting the 'management' into commercial and contract management Traditional v 'new age' models The need for a commercial approach The added value generated 5 Definitions 'Commercial management' 'Contract management' 'Contracting' ... and why have formal contracts? 6 Stakeholders Stakeholder mapping and analysis The 'shared vision' concept Engaging with key functions, eg, HSE, finance, operations 7 Roles and responsibilities Contract administrators Stakeholders 8 Strategy and planning Developing effective contracting plans and strategies DAY TWO 1 Contract control Tools and techniques, including CPA and Gantt charts A project management approach Developing effective contract programmes 2 The contracting context Key objectives of contract management Importance and impact on the business 3 Tendering Overview of the contracting cycle Requirement to tender Methods Rationale Exceptions Steps Gateways Controls One and two package bids 4 Tender assessment and contract award I - framework Tender board procedures Role of the tender board (including minor and major tender boards) Membership Administration Developing robust contract award strategies and presentations DAY THREE 1 Tender assessment and contract award II - processes Pre-qualification processes CRS Vendor registration rules and processes Creating bidder lists Disqualification criteria Short-listing Using the 10Cs model Contract award and contract execution processes 2 Minor works orders Process Need for competition Role and purpose Controls Risks 3 Contract strategy Types of contract Call-offs Framework agreements Price agreements Supply agreements 4 Contract terms I: Pricing structures Lump sum Unit price Cost plus Time and materials Alternative methods Target cost Gain share contracts Advance payments Price escalation clauses 5 Contract terms II: Other financial clauses Insurance Currencies Parent body guarantees Tender bonds Performance bonds Retentions Sub-contracting Termination Invoicing 6 Contract terms III: Risk and reward Incentive contracts Management and mitigation of contractual risk DAY FOUR 1 Contract terms IV: Jurisdiction and related matters Applicable laws and regulations Registration Commercial registry Commercial agencies 2 Managing the client-contractor relationship Types of relationship Driving forces Link between type of contract and style of relationships Motivation - use of incentives and remedies 3 Disputes Types of dispute Conflict resolution strategies Negotiation Mediation Arbitration DAY FIVE 1 Performance measurement KPIs Benchmarking Cost controls Validity of savings Balanced scorecards Using the KPI template 2 Personal qualities of the contract manager Negotiation Communication Persuasion and influencing Working in a matrix environment 3 Contract terms V: Drafting skills Drafting special terms 4 Variations Contract and works variation orders Causes of variations Risk management Controls Prevention Negotiation with contractors 5 Claims Claims management processes Controls Risk mitigation Schedules of rates 6 Close-out Contract close-out and acceptance / completion HSE Final payments Performance evaluation Capturing the learning 7 Close Review Final assessment Next steps

Duration 3 Days 18 CPD hours This course is intended for This course is intended for beginner to intermediate business and requirements analysts who are looking to improve their elicitation and requirements writing and documentation skills. This course is also a great fit for technical writers, product and software testers, project managers, product owners who work closely with business analysts or who perform some for of business analysis themselves. Overview Understand the role of the business analyst and core competencies for performing successfully Discuss the criticality of business analysis and requirements for successful project outcomes Understand the main professional associations and standards supporting business analysts in the industry Discuss the common problems with requirements and explore approaches to address these issues Obtain a clear understanding of the various requirements types and the significance for eliciting each type Demonstrate your ability to identify stakeholders Explore various methods for understanding and analyzing stakeholders Discuss and apply good planning practices to requirements elicitation efforts Obtain knowledge and understanding of over 15 current and commonly applied elicitation techniques Understand how to progress from elicitation to analysis to documentation Write well-formed and validated requirements Gain understanding of the best practices for writing quality requirements Learn the technical writing techniques that apply directly to writing requirements documents Discuss writing pitfalls, risks that impact requirements, and how to address them Learn best practices for communicating and collaborating with stakeholders, sharing the results of elicitation and the resulting documentation Learn approaches for validating requirements Understand the difference between validating requirements and validating the solution With elicitation serving as a major component of the requirements process, it is imperative that business analysts maintain high competency levels in elicitation practices and technique use to help organizations overcome the requirements related challenges faced on projects. Regardless whether you are a practitioner just starting off your career in business analysis or whether you have been performing the role for some years, this course will provide insight into the latest thoughts on elicitation and writing effective requirements and present a number of current techniques that are being applied on projects across industries today. Review of Foundational Concepts Definition of a business analysis Definition of business analyst BA role vs. PM role Business analysis competencies Benefits of business analysis Purpose for having a BA standard IIBA?s BABOK© Guide and PMI?s Practice Guide in Business Analysis Business analysis core concepts Discussion: Project challenges Understanding Requirements Common problems with requirements Understand the problem first Define the business need Situation statements and moving to requirements Understanding requirement types Business requirements Stakeholder/User Requirements Solution Requirements Functional Requirements Non-Functional Requirements Assumptions and Constraints Discussions: Requirement problems, business needs, and identifying non-functional requirements Discovering Stakeholders Definition of a stakeholder Stakeholder types Identifying stakeholders Performing stakeholder analysis Stakeholders and requirements Tips for identifying stakeholders Grouping stakeholders Creating a RACI model Tips for analyzing stakeholders Documenting results of stakeholder analysis Workshop: Discovering stakeholders Preparing for Requirements Elicitation Planning for elicitation Benefits of elicitation planning What do you plan? The elicitation plan Setting objectives for elicitation Determining the scope for elicitation Establishing pre-work Determining the outputs for the session The iterative nature of elicitation Elicitation roles Elicitation planning techniques Discussions: Who to involve in elicitation, planning impacts, and unplanned elicitation Workshop: Planning for elicitation Conduct Requirements Elicitation Elicitation skillset Types of elicitation techniques Using active listening in elicitation Techniques for performing elicitation Benchmarking/Market Analysis Brainstorming Business Rules Analysis Collaborative Games Concept Modeling Data Mining Data Modeling Document Analysis Focus Groups Interface Analysis Interviews Observation Process Modeling Prototyping Survey or Questionnaire Workshops Write Effective Requirements Elicitation and Analysis Requirements related issues Implications of bad requirements Elicitation and documentation Writing skillset Documenting requirements Modeling requirements Defining the project life cycle Impact of project life cycle on documentation Requirements specifications Characteristics of good requirements Guidelines for writing textual requirements Structuring a requirement Writing pitfalls Traceability Requirements attributes Risks associated to requirements Discussions: Project Life Cycle and Correcting Poorly Written Requirements Workshops: Documenting Requirements and Identify Characteristics of Good Requirements Confirm and Communicate Elicitation Requirements Business analysis communication Requirements communication Communication skills The 7 Cs Timing of communication Planning communication Importance of Collaboration Planning collaboration Documenting communication/collaboration needs Confirming elicitation results Verify requirements Characteristics of good requirements (revisited) Requirements checklist Requirements validation Signing off on requirements Discussions: Responsibility for Communication, Eliciting Communication Needs, Validation Signoff Workshops: Communicating Requirements and Obtaining Signoff Evaluate the Solution Business analyst role in solution evaluation Why solutions under perform What we are looking for in solution evaluation When does solution evaluation occur Performing solution evaluation Planning solution evaluation Metrics that might exist Evaluating long term performance Qualitative vs. quantitative measures Tools & techniques used in solution evaluation Comparing expected to actuals When solution evaluation discovers a variance Tools/techniques for analyzing variances Proposing a recommendation Communicating results of solution evaluation Discussion: Addressing Variance Wrap up and Next Steps Useful books and links on writing effective requirements BABOK© Guide Business Analysis for Practitioners: A Practice Guide Additional course details: Nexus Humans BA04 - Eliciting and Writing Effective Requirements training program is a workshop that presents an invigorating mix of sessions, lessons, and masterclasses meticulously crafted to propel your learning expedition forward. This immersive bootcamp-style experience boasts interactive lectures, hands-on labs, and collaborative hackathons, all strategically designed to fortify fundamental concepts. Guided by seasoned coaches, each session offers priceless insights and practical skills crucial for honing your expertise. Whether you're stepping into the realm of professional skills or a seasoned professional, this comprehensive course ensures you're equipped with the knowledge and prowess necessary for success. While we feel this is the best course for the BA04 - Eliciting and Writing Effective Requirements course and one of our Top 10 we encourage you to read the course outline to make sure it is the right content for you. Additionally, private sessions, closed classes or dedicated events are available both live online and at our training centres in Dublin and London, as well as at your offices anywhere in the UK, Ireland or across EMEA.

Construction Management Level 6 Course Overview The "Construction Management Level 6" course is designed to equip learners with the advanced skills required to effectively manage complex construction projects. Covering key areas such as project planning, risk management, construction law, and resource management, this course provides a comprehensive understanding of the construction industry's dynamic nature. Learners will gain the ability to oversee large-scale projects, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. By the end of the course, students will be well-prepared to handle the challenges of modern construction management, making them valuable assets to employers in this growing sector. Course Description The "Construction Management Level 6" course dives deep into critical areas such as strategic planning, cost estimation, scheduling, procurement, and construction laws, among others. Learners will explore how to manage construction projects from inception through to completion, with an emphasis on risk mitigation, leadership, and regulatory compliance. The course is structured to provide learners with the knowledge to supervise complex construction processes, ensuring quality control and project delivery. Through engaging materials and structured modules, students will gain the expertise to take on senior roles in the construction sector, focusing on project efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Construction Management Level 6 Curriculum Module 01: Construction Management (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to advance in construction project management. Professionals aiming to specialise in construction management. Beginners with an interest in the construction industry. Those looking to gain qualifications for senior management roles. Career Path Construction Project Manager Site Manager Construction Director Quantity Surveyor Contract Manager Estimator Construction Consultant

Course Overview This comprehensive course in Supply Chain Management, Purchasing & Procurement provides learners with the strategic knowledge and operational understanding needed to navigate today’s dynamic supply environments. It explores the core components of supply chain systems, procurement cycles, and purchasing strategies, offering insight into effective logistics planning, supplier relations, and risk mitigation. Learners will gain the tools to streamline processes, optimise procurement decisions, and align purchasing objectives with broader business goals. Designed to support both career development and organisational efficiency, the course equips participants with a strong foundation in modern supply chain functions—contributing to smarter decision-making and improved supply performance. Course Description This course delves into the critical areas of supply chain operations, from foundational concepts to advanced procurement practices. Participants will study logistic management frameworks, category and inventory management, transport coordination, and supplier relationship strategies. Special focus is given to procurement tools, bid management, and cost reduction techniques that can enhance purchasing functions. Through each module, learners are introduced to effective methods for improving supply accuracy, managing quality, and applying risk assessment across sourcing channels. The course supports learners in understanding the interconnected nature of global supply networks, helping them contribute more effectively to procurement, planning, and supplier engagement in diverse business settings. Course Modules Module 01: Supply Chain Basics Module 02: Supply Chain Drivers Module 03: Introduction to Logistic Management Module 04: Planning Framework for Logistics Module 05: Transport Management Module 06: Role of Procurement in an Organisation Module 07: The Purchasing Cycle Module 08: Purchasing Toolkits Module 09: Managing Competitive Bids Module 10: Quality Management Module 11: Supplier Relationship Management Module 12: Analysing and Reducing Risk in the Supply Chain Module 13: Improving Efficiency and Accuracy Module 14: Category Management Module 15: Inventory Management Module 16: E-Procurement (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to build a career in procurement or logistics. Professionals aiming to upskill in supply chain operations. Beginners with an interest in purchasing and supply management. Business owners or team leaders looking to optimise procurement processes. Career Path Supply Chain Analyst Procurement Officer Purchasing Manager Inventory Control Specialist Logistics Coordinator Category Manager Supplier Relationship Manager Operations Executive in manufacturing, retail, or distribution sectors

The Power of Resilience Course Overview The Power of Resilience course equips learners with essential strategies to strengthen their ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. This course explores the core principles of resilience, highlighting its crucial role in personal and professional success. Learners will discover how to cultivate mental toughness, manage stress effectively, and maintain emotional balance through challenging times. By the end, participants will be empowered with actionable insights to foster inner peace, build courage, and navigate change with confidence. This course offers valuable tools for anyone seeking to enhance their emotional strength and improve overall wellbeing, making it highly relevant across a variety of life and career contexts. Course Description This comprehensive course delves into the multifaceted nature of resilience, examining how it influences success and wellbeing. Topics include the psychological foundations of resilience, techniques for developing a resilient mindset, and the relationship between resilience and inner peace. Learners will explore how resilience fosters courage and empowers individuals to face life’s uncertainties positively. The course also addresses strategies for managing change and chaos effectively, ensuring learners gain a thorough understanding of resilience in dynamic environments. Designed for a professional and informative learning experience, the course builds skills in emotional regulation, adaptability, and stress management that are valuable across personal growth and career advancement. The Power of Resilience Curriculum Module 01: Resilience As A Key To Success Module 02: The Secrets To Developing Resilience Module 03: Resilience Brings Inner Peace Module 04: Be Resilient, Develop The Courage You Need To Live A Happy Life Module 05: Use Resilience To Deal With Change And Chaos (See full curriculum) Who Is This Course For? Individuals seeking to enhance emotional strength and wellbeing. Professionals aiming to improve adaptability and stress management skills. Beginners with an interest in personal development and mental resilience. Anyone wishing to develop courage and navigate change confidently. Career Path Mental Health Support Worker Life Coach or Personal Development Advisor Human Resources Specialist Team Leader or Manager in dynamic work environments Wellbeing Consultant