Computers are a large part of many job roles in this age of technology and some people feel less confident in using them and want to enhance their skills as in the case of Paul McGowan, an employee from Merseyside.

Paul visited the Union Learning Zone at the POA Centre in Ashworth, Maghull to see what options were available for him to upskill on ICT. Computers were becoming much more widely used in his role for his day-to-day work. His low confidence sparked the centre team into action with Sean Griffin taking the time to sit with him to assess his current skills and knowledge levels to then tailor the relevant training to support.

Paul’s initial request was to complete the IT for Beginners course, however from the initial assessments, it was shown that he had more knowledge than he had originally thought and as POA Learning’s Sean Griffin said:

With gentle assurances, I got Paul to start work on a Level 1 ICT Functional Skills course but not to sit the exam at the end, just to work through the coursework. I believed this would benefit Paul better in the long run and develop his skills more."

After studying hard, and one of the most consistent learners with his attendance, Paul gave everything and said:

Since starting the course, I have noticed how my skills have improved. I do more tasks in work now that involve using a computer and the jobs I already did I can complete a lot quicker, so I am really happy about that."

Once the coursework was completed, Paul then sat a mock exam. Despite his hesitancy, but assurances that there was no pressure, the mock was passed with a high mark. With increased confidence, Paul added:

I’ve done all the work so it would be nice to go back to work with a certificate for the effort I’ve put in."

The exam was sat and Paul passed. His tutor Sean said:

I couldn’t have been happier as he really worked hard to get the qualification he gained and was a great moment for both myself and POA Ashworth."

For any information about attending learning courses, please contact the Union Learning Zone in POA Ashworth at unionlearningzone@poalearning.org.uk