Unemployed jobseekers in Swansea are finding that computer and internet skills are essential if they want to find a job.
Figures released by Wales’ largest online learning provider learndirect, uncovers a huge demand for the Surf Direct course in the Swansea area. Already this year, 128 individuals are learning their way to employment by increasing their skills for the 21st Century.
Online learning through learndirect is accessible,
flexible and ideal for those who have recently been made redundant or
unemployed and need to quickly re-skill and re-enter the workforce.
learndirect supported online learning is not restricted to
term timetables or working hours, nor is it limited to specific
locations. Learners can enrol on a course as soon as they want, learn
at their own pace within their local learning centre, at home or even in
their library.
Julie Hawkes, Jobcentre Plus Programmes Manager, from The Kingsway Centre
has seen the demand increase in Swansea and explains: “We are seeing a
number of individuals who have recently lost their jobs and knowing that
they can access the courses they need to re-skill immediately is reassuring
them that there is hope of securing employment quickly”.
Surf Direct is the perfect introduction to computers and the Internet for
complete beginners. It covers the very basics - using the mouse and finding
your way around the keyboard. You'll explore the different ways
computers can be used at work to speed up tasks and improve communication.
The course explains what software and windows are and shows you how to use
them. You’ll learn how to log onto the Internet, how to send and receive
e-mails and how to find information on the World Wide Web. The course is
broken down into bite-sized chunks and will take 3 to 9 hours to complete
and you can work through the course at their own pace.
Pam Sutton of Jobcentre Plus said: "I would encourage Jobseekers to get as
much training as possible. Having the necessary skills will give you an
advantage when applying for jobs and make you more attractive to
perspective employers. Computers have revolutionised the way
businesses work and most organisations now expect all of their staff to be
able to use e-mail and the internet confidently."
Surprisingly, the demand for learndirect ICT skills and qualifications amongst the unemployed in Swansea outstrips the rest of Wales. Overall, 50% of learndirect learners want to increase ICT skills in Wales whereas this figure is 67% in Swansea.
For more information on learndirect skills and qualifications or to find your nearest learning centre please visit www.learndirect.co.uk or phone 0800 101 901.