On day one, we’ll lay the foundations. You’ll get to grips with why control systems are so important in industry and how PLCs have taken over from old-school relays. We’ll break down the key components that make up a Siemens PLC system, like the CPU, power supply, and I/O modules and explain what they all do.

You’ll also learn how to connect to a PLC using your programming device, and we’ll introduce you to the basic layout and logic used in programming, including ladder diagrams. By the end of the day, you’ll be writing and editing simple programs and understanding how the PLC actually processes them.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand what PLCs are, where they’re used, and why they matter.

• Learn about PLC components and how they fit together.

• Get familiar with basic logic, ladder symbols, and program structure.

• Connect to a PLC and write your first simple program.

Now that you know the basics, we’ll move into the core tools of PLC programming, timers and counters. You’ll learn how to build circuits that control time-based actions or count events, which is critical in real-world automation.

We’ll also look at how to monitor a PLC system live, check signal status, and ensure your programs are doing what they’re supposed to. The day finishes with a practical assessment to make sure the key concepts have clicked.

Key Takeaways:

• Use timers and counters to build more dynamic control systems.

• Monitor your PLC in real-time and troubleshoot issues.

• Understand how PLCs communicate and what software/hardware is required.

• Build and test functional programs using what you’ve learned so far.

With the fundamentals under your belt, we’ll now explore more advanced functions like flip-flops, shift registers, and sequencers. These tools allow you to build smarter, more flexible logic that responds to specific patterns or conditions.

You’ll also learn about features like one-shot pulses and jump functions, which help your programs run efficiently and safely. Then it’s straight into practical, building, testing, and refining your logic.

Key Takeaways:

• Build advanced control routines using flip-flops, sequencers, and logic tools.

• Use overrides, one-shot functions, and jumps to streamline program control.

• Practice and refine your programming skills with hands-on exercises.

On the final day, we connect everything to the bigger picture. We’ll explore how PLCs interface with SCADA systems, use mathematical functions, and handle real-world sensors like encoders and decoders.

We’ll also walk through fault-finding techniques so you know how to diagnose and fix problems when they come up.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand how PLCs integrate into larger systems.

• Apply maths functions and sensor input in control programs.

• Learn structured troubleshooting and fault-finding techniques.

• Complete final assessments and reflect on your progress.

We offer weekly courses at our training centres in Gateshead and Alderley Park. Demand is high, so we advise booking your place at least two months in advance to secure your spot.

Our Training the Trainer courses focuses on one PLC software package to ensure you receive in-depth and comprehensive training.

Absolutely! Please note, that our Train the Trainer courses are open to everyone, but are focussed on those who are going to be delivering PLC training in educational institutes. If you are interested in working with PLCs in industry, we would recommend our IMFFP® training courses.

When you join one of our training courses, you’ll have your own dedicated training station complete with a computer, PLC programming software, and a SCADA system.

You’ll also receive a Scantime workbook to track your progress throughout the course. This detailed resource is yours to keep, making it an excellent reference tool long after training is complete.

Yes, the course includes daily assessments, designed to ensure you’ve understood the material. You’ll receive your results on the same day after completing each assessment.

Pass Marks and Points Available:

• Day 1 Assessment
  • Pass Mark: 240
  • Points Available: 300

• Day 2 Assessment
  • Pass Mark: 240
  • Points Available: 300

• Day 3 Assessment
  • Pass Mark: 240
  • Points Available: 300

• Day 4 Assessment
  • Pass Mark: 240
  • Points Available: 300

Absolutely. We’ll give you a City & Guilds certificate, and a digital credential when you successfully complete our Train the Trainer course.