Top-up your IT qualifications - FREE (government funded) training

Rewards currently* have free (government funded) places for individuals who would like to top-up their IT skills and/or gain IT qualifications.

What qualifications are available?

Beginners Computer Courses

Non-accredited, easy, short courses to help you get started with computers and the Internet. You can learn everything from how to get started with a mouse and keyboard through to shopping, looking for a bargain, online banking and emailing your friends.

These short courses could help you improve your confidence at work, get a CV together and even search and apply for new jobs online.  It doesn't matter if you have never used a computer before or if you only know a little bit - our friendly staff will be on hand to help you. Suitable for any age. Cost: FREE FOR EVERYONE 

Individual IT Courses

You can choose from our following courses: IT1 Security, IT1 Computer Basics, IT2 Spreadsheets, IT2 Databases, IT2 Word Processing, IT2 Presentations, IT1 Electronic Communications and Improving Productivity Using IT. Cost: from £40 per course

ITQ1 Qualification (For more information click here).

Learn basic computer skills and gain an ITQ1 qualification via 3 modules; IT User Fundamentals, Security for IT Users, and Internet/Email. Cost: FREE** or from £150

ITQ2 Qualification  (For more information click here).

Study four of the following key software packages: Word  Processing, Spreadsheets, Presentations, Improving     Productivity Using IT, Databases, and more. Flexibility with topics is available. Cost: FREE** or from £195

ECDL - European Computer Driving Licence (For more information click here)

IT qualification made up of 7 modules to improve your IT proficiency and knowledge of Microsoft Office software packages (Word Processing,Spreadsheets, Presentation, Improving Productivity Using IT, IT User Fundamentals, Using Email and the Internet). Cost:FREE**(£35 registration fee) or from £275

ECDL Advanced (For more information click here)

ECDL Advanced is a fixed combination qualification of 5 advanced IT modules which aims to recognize the application of a range of IT user skills and knowledge  in the workplace, meeting employer workforce demands. The achievement can be used as credit transfer towards a flexible ITQ Level 3 diploma. Cost:£150 per module include 3 months support and test or £75 per modular test

How and where would I study?

Qualifications are provided through on-line computer based courses created by learndirect and similar organisations.  Once enrolled onto the programme you will have free access to both our training suites, with computer facilities and on-hand tutors, located in Haywards Heath and Crawley.  Alternatively "distance learning" (logging into your studies over the Internet from home/work etc) can be negotiated.  On-line and telephone support is available to distance learners, plus, of course, you are welcome to visit your local Rewards training suite for face-to-face help from our qualified tutors.

How do I get a free (funded) place?

Government funding is conditional on age (19+), residence (you must have lived in the UK or EEA for the last 3 years) and demonstration of a learning need. Firstly, all individuals must undertake a confidential short Literacy & Numeracy assessment to determine your learning need and to ensure that our level of training materials and support is tailored to your individual requirements.  

** The ITQ and ECDL qualifications are FREE for individuals over 19 who have been a resident of UK/EEA/EU for at least 3 years and have lower than full level 2 qualifications or are claiming a means tested benefit (e.g. Jobseekers Allowance, Housing benefit....). Other eligibility criteria may apply - please call us to confirm your eligibility.

What we require from you

Our ITQ qualification requires mandatory attendance once a week on a ‘workshop' session. This will take place on a set day that will be mutually agreed with you at your enrolment. Apart from this weekly session we can offer flexible delivery, either at the learning centre or working from home if you prefer in order to meet your agreed progress targets. Typically ITQ students will complete 1 course every 3-4 weeks.

As a rough guide, Rewards estimates that individuals on the ITQ level 1 programme will achieve their qualification within 2-3 months and the ITQ level 2 qualification in around 3-4 months. Achievement of the ECDL will take around 6 months.  Additional support is always provided to those who wish to receive it.

Contact Rewards for more information and to book your place!

Rewards Crawley - 01293 562651 enquiries@crawley.rewards-trc.co.uk

Rewards Haywards Heath - 01444 413745 enquiries@rewards-trc.co.uk

*Information correct at date of publishing (31/08/11).  There are a high number of free places available which are available on a first-come, first-served basis.  We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment