Office Skills

The Office Skills department is based in the main administration wing of the College, where students are involved in the routine procedures of a working office. Initially undertaking a vocational foundation certificate in office skills, reception and the use of computers, students have the opportunity of progressing towards Level One qualifications. Students are encouraged to develop a responsible approach to work, including ownership of their own learning through independent working and online courses, whilst participating in both group and individual tuition sessions.

Students undertake practical work experience on day-to-day routines in all aspects of office work, such as mail handling, data processing and reprographics.  Communication skills are developed through interactive team working and involvement with telephone and reception work, where students have the responsibility of being the first point of contact for visitors to the College.  Support is provided relative to learner needs, incorporating adaptation or provision of specialised equipment or software, to enable independent access to learning opportunities in all areas of the course.  

Emphasis is placed upon developing inter-personal skills in reception work and competence with computers, such as desktop publishing and use of e-mail.  Students progress towards a high degree of work experience in dealing with customers and computer work, both in the department and through external placements. 

The set up and management of bureau services in the Karten Centre to meet the needs of cross-college customers and local businesses, creates opportunities to broaden IT experience and provides varied real work experiences in design, production and data recording.

The Office Skills Department offers Foundation Learning accredited qualifications, including:
 
OCR Information Technology Qualifications Levels 1 and 2