This week’s training news
Accolade for RAF
RAF Marham has become the first RAF station to gain the British Association
for Open Learning quality mark for its learning centre. The centre was launched
in 1999 following a strategic defence review. It was set up to stimulate demand
for lifelong learning and promote access to high quality learning
opportunities. www.baol.co.uk
Drama in store
Nearly 200 staff at Harrods have attended role-playing, drama-based training
courses to improve skills. A group of professional actors from learning company
Steps helped managers improve presentation techniques by looking at areas such
as body language and voice projection. Staff from the menswear department also
had the drama-based training to improve customer service. www.stepsdrama.com
ITenthuses pupils
A pilot scheme launched to help reduce skills shortages in the IT sector and
tackle unemployment rates is proving successful according to preliminary
research. The e-skills4industry initiative is being used to train 30
sixthformers from three schools in Tower Hamlets, London.
After the first term the retention rate for the scheme is 80 per cent and
the students have already increased skills and knowledge. If the 14-month
initiative is successful it will be rolled out nationally from 2003. www.e-skills4industry.org
Safety is innovative
Software firm Cognisco has won the DTI Smart award for innovation, following
the success of its accident prevention system. The internet-based software
enables companies to determine levels of staff awareness of safety procedures.
Businesses can then identify the risk and take the required action.
Organisations using Cognisco software include Shell, Ford, Heinz, BT, Interbrew
and Subaru. www.cognisco.com
Online in Uganda
Up to 800 people in Uganda will be able to take advantage of online training
following the launch of a community information technology centre in Kampala.
The unit was opened by the Pan African Development Education and Advocacy
centre and includes two IT trainers from UK-based Happy Computers. The IT
specialists will coach the local trainers in a range of software packages. www.happy.co.uk
Work links to council
The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea has launched the Head Start
training initiative to help young people into the workforce. Seven teenagers
have been selected and it includes a year’s work experience and an NVQ2
qualification in administration. After the year is up trainees will be
encouraged to apply for vacancies within the council. www.rbkc.gov.uk
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