VA Essentials

Name: VA Essentials
Author: admin

About the Course

You’ll look at the complete picture of the role of a VA. You’ll look further into the career and lifestyle of a VA, necessary attributes for the role, business plans, equipment and software, legal requirements, risk management, data protection, finance and marketing, the delivery of the VA service and much more.

The course is accessed online so you can study at a time and place convenient to you. You’ll have the support of our Course Advisors if you need it, and once you’ve completed the course, you’ll gain a Pitman Training Certificate to validate the knowledge gained.

Course Info

Duration 4 HOURS (Actual course duration will vary from individual to individual, based on prior skills and application)

Training Type Course

Study Type In centre, Online

Awards & Qualifications

Awarded 4 CPD points upon successful completion

Is this course right for me?

If you’re thinking of becoming a Virtual Assistant, our VA Essentials course will help give you a rounded overview of what is involved in running your own business as a Virtual Assistant.

Is this course for you?

This course would be great for anyone looking to start their own business working as a Virtual Assistant.

Awarded 4 CPD points upon successful completion

Duration 4 HOURS (Actual course duration will vary from individual to individual, based on prior skills and application)

Course Content

In this online course there are 5 modules:

Module One – Introduction – This module includes an introduction to who the Virtual Assistant is and the role they perform; the VA’s potential client and case studies.

Module Two – Becoming a VA – In this module you’ll cover the reasons to become a VA; business goals; the attributes necessary to be a VA; the career and lifestyle; peer support.

Module Three – Starting up a Business – You’ll look at the business plan; types of business; your office location; equipment and software; business name; legal requirements; risk management; insurance; data protection; finance; accounting/tax/IR35; marketing and USPs.

Module Four Providing the Service – The fourth module looks at the initial contact; consultation preparation; consultation structure; safety; structuring services and packages; the contract; customer care; hours and charging; legal responsibilities regarding clients; complaints; recommendations; cover and contingency.

Module Five Summary – The final module gives a course round up and you’ll have the opportunity to test yourself on the knowledge learnt.

Course Overview

Aims and Objectives

VA Essentials is designed to give you an excellent insight into the role of a Virtual Assistant and look at everything the role comprises, from not only delivering the VA service to clients, but also covering all aspects of running your own business.

Career Path

Further study on a wider range of subjects such as bookkeeping, marketing and social media can lead to a full and rewarding career as a self-employed Virtual Assistant.

Pre-Requisites

There are no pre-requisites required for this course.

April 2024

April 24 - April 25 Executive PA – 2-day workshop

Executive PA – 2-day workshop

Glasgow First Floor 82 Union Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom

April 26 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Time Management

Time Management

Glasgow First Floor 82 Union Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom

April 29 - April 30 Microsoft Project Complete – 2-day course

Microsoft Project Complete – 2-day course

Edinburgh 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

April 29 - April 30 Project Management Principles

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Glasgow First Floor 82 Union Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom

May 2024

May 1 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Better Business Writing

Better Business Writing

Edinburgh 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

May 2 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Personal Development Workshops

Personal Development Workshops

Edinburgh 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

May 2 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Management Skills

Management Skills

Glasgow First Floor 82 Union Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom

May 7 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Excel Intermediate

Excel Intermediate

Glasgow First Floor 82 Union Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom

May 7 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Time Management

Time Management

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May 7 Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop

May 8 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Influencing Skills

Influencing Skills

Glasgow First Floor 82 Union Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom

May 8 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Report Writing

Report Writing

Edinburgh 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Testimonials

“The skills I have learned by doing the course have helped with my confidence and ability to carry out tasks quicker and easier. I was frustrated with my lack of knowledge of the various Microsoft packages and was convinced that there ‘must be an easier way’ of doing things. Not only did I brush up on my Word skills, my office skills got a complete overhaul and without a doubt, they helped me get the job I’m in now.
I proved to myself that I’m never too old to learn and that there’s always a need to update skills throughout your working career regardless of how long you’ve been in a role.
I was working in a recruitment agency on a part time basis and had finished the Pitman course when I saw the job on S1 jobs web site. I sent in my cv and went for an interview. Following the interview I sent a thank you letter which was one of the skills learnt in ‘Go Get That Job’. I was successful in getting the role and I subsequently found out that they were so impressed that I’d sent a thank you letter that they offered me the job over someone else who was equally qualified. Such a simple thing to do but very effective.
I would thoroughly recommend anyone to do a course at Pitman, whether it is a comprehensive course such as the Executive PA course or a single subject course. Not only has the organisation been going a long time and has built up an enviable reputation, but I also found the flexible method of learning suited my situation as I was working part time and was able to wrap the course hours around my job. The supervisory staff were very helpful and approachable and did their best to help you out.”

SH – Executive PA Diploma

Executive PA, General Diploma, Private Individuals

I am enjoying my new role as medical audio typist. Studying at Pitman Training was a good break from the every day world of work. I learned that some of the computer applications I’d heard of before were not as scary as I’d once thought!!

M M – Medical Audio Typist

Private Individuals

“After graduating a few years ago and going off for a few years to live abroad, I then came back and decided to pursue a career in law. I decided the best route was to first get experience in a law firm and then perhaps study part time. My goal was to become a legal secretary to start off but the skills required such as Microsoft Office packages and knowledge of legal terminology and procedures was not something I had picked up at university!!
I decided I needed a foot in the door and chose to study for the legal secretarial diploma at Pitman. The course was great because it was completely flexible and the training facilities were of the highest standard. The supervisors were always happy and friendly and I was impressed that they really took an interest in everyone personally.
Towards the end of my course, the supervisors referred me to a vacancy at Simpson and Marwick for a litigation secretary. Litigation was the most interesting module and that was the area I wanted to get into. I decided to apply. The very next morning, I had an interview lined up and two days later I had the job. It was the first job I applied to. The HR manager at Simpson told me that the diploma at Pitman had secured me the job and she believed the course to be an excellent grounding for starting work there.”
As regards the job, I have been there for a few weeks now and I can honestly say that I’m loving every minute of it. It’s definitely challenging and at times hard work but it’s interesting and I work with a great group of people in the best litigation team in Scotland.
I’d also like to say a big thank you to the training team who helped me the most. They really went that extra mile to help me and they were always so friendly and nice to be around. Please pass on my thanks to them – they are great assets to Pitman!

LC – Legal Secretarial Diploma

General Diploma, Legal Secretarial, Private Individuals

Marion was very clear about the topic covered in the course. I found I actually enjoyed it more than I was expecting.

Jamie – Customer Service/Security – Receptionist Seminar

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Receptionist Seminar

“I’d like to thank all your team for their help whilst I was training for the MS Office Plus Diploma. They were all open, very friendly, and knowledgeable in all the MS Office applications and the supporting PC hardware & software. I particularly liked the training format, informative, user friendly application manuals & supporting audio files. This made the whole experience rewarding & enjoyable. I would have no hesitation in recommending Pitman Training to my friends & colleagues.”

AF – Microsoft Office Plus Diploma

General Diploma, Microsoft Office, Private Individuals

“I’m presently studying an ECDL course with Pitman Training.
Prior to enrolling I had been made redundant from my post as a Publications Information Assistant, due to departmental re-structuring, within the media department of Strathclyde Police. As the workplace is constantly evolving, I decided to upgrade my skills and ECDL seemed the obvious choice – for me. The course has helped me gain the confidence to apply for jobs again, even those I’d previously considered outwith my comfort zone.
What I’ve enjoyed most about the course is the fact professionals are on hand if you have any problems, you can work at your own pace and the hours are flexible.However, for me, what makes Pitman Training so successful is its staff. They are friendly, approachable and very encouraging. Their cheery disposition makes it a joy to learn.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Pitman Training.”

JW – ECDL

ECDL, Microsoft Office, Private Individuals

Before Pitman I was not working and was finding it difficult to get job. My lack of computer experience was the major factor. Then a friend recommended Pitman Training to me. Since then my life has dramatically changed from worse to better.
As soon as I completed my studies at Pitman and was about to go to Napier University, I got a job as Fulfilment Officer at Help The Age on part time basis. Pitman Training has helped me in so many ways. It made me very confident in the use PC, my knowledge in Finance has improved a lot due to the practical aspects involved in the studies of which you cannot get in university. I was so confident in the use of sage accounting, purchases and sales ledger invoice processing and accounts reconciliations.
I got my first job three days after completing my studies and since I have had a number temporary jobs due my Pitman qualification. I have worked with HBOS, Quayle Munro Ltd-Investment Banking, City of Edinburgh Council, Action Group and SSPCA, all on temporary basis as Finance Officer since I left Pitman.
I have now secured a permanent employment as Development Finance Administrator with National Trust of Scotland. I got this job because of what I achieved in Pitman as my Line Manager commented. Without Pitman I would not have reached where I am today. God bless Pitman and all the staff in Edinburgh.
Everything at Pitman-Edinburgh is perfect. The trainers are wonderful and willing to help at all time. As someone from Africa, I was finding it very complex to type and to use computer as well but they took their time to teach all the basic necessities and now I am one of the best in computers at work.
The environment is very conducive, the receptionist is the best I have ever met and the course advisors are everything. They care, are very kind, patience and motivates everyone.
I am what I am today because of Pitman Training.

IN – Diploma

General Diploma, Private Individuals

“Just a note to let you know I’ve now managed to secure a permanent post as a Finance Assistant/Purchase Ledger Clerk for an electronics firm just South of Edinburgh.
I would just like to say that I believe my Pitman Training certificates in Sage Line 50 and Purchase Ledger were instrumental in securing the above post.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your colleagues for all your help in assisting me in my future career in finance.”

BS – Sage Accounts and Payroll

Book-Keeping, Private Individuals, Sage

Knowledgeable, Approachable and effective communicator.

Margaret – Care home manager – Assertiveness

Assertiveness, General PD, Organisations Testimonials

Excellent.

Alison – Receptionist – Outlook

IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials, Outlook Seminar

Very approachable trainer, presented the course very well and I would highly recommend my colleagues taking this course.

Michelle – Change Manager – Communication Skills

Communication Skills, General PD, Organisations Testimonials

“When I came to see Fran she recommended Microsoft Excel, HTML, Dreamweaver 8 and Book-Keeping Level 2 Module 1 courses as the most suitable for preparing me to set up my own online business.

The staff were all very helpful and polite and the environment was professional but friendly. I have since set up a website with a friend as an information site for parents and carers of children with autism.

The courses at Pitman increased my confidence with technology and made me believe that after 15 years as a music teacher, and 2 years as a full time carer for my children who have support needs, I can now change direction and transform my life.”

JM – Various Courses

General Courses, Private Individuals

I applied for several jobs and was offered the first one I was interviewed for and was in full, permanent employment within three weeks of finishing my course.

E H – Accounts Assistant

Private Individuals

I would have no hesitation in recommending Pitman Training to anyone who has an interest in investing in their personal development

C N – Executive Assistant

Private Individuals

The trainer was very responsible and a very clear communicator. Paid attention to what people in the group said and made the day enjoyable and very worthwhile.

Kenneth – Faculty Head Sciences – Time Management

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Time Management

‘’Over the past two years we have used Pitman Training for a number of courses and the feedback has always been excellent.
I have personally been on two – Delegation Skills and Supervisory Skills, both proved to be well constructed, interactive and of great use not just in the workplace but as useful tools in general life.
One of our other teams have used their Project Management course to great effect. It was carried out by someone who has masses of experience in Project Management so gave a solid practical slant rather than a Trainer delivering a course.It would be fair to say that the two courses that I attended were the same.
On the whole I find them extremely professional, also great if you want a bespoke course.
I have over the years used a variety of companies and Pitman always seem to deliver exactly what you want.’’

Elma C——HR Administrator (Training)—–NHS Education for Scotland

Organisations Testimonials, Supervisory Skills

Very friendly and I never felt that I was being taught anything but the information flowed. Your trainer is the best thing about this course. Thank you Julie.

Tracy – Support Assistant – Train The Trainer

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Train the Trainer

“Excellent! Extremely helpful and reassuring, thank you so much for this course!I now feel much more confident and know how to improve my minutes taking techniques.”

Adeline Amar—–Scottish National Gallery of Modern art

Minutes and Note Taking, Organisations Testimonials

Very good, no improvements to suggest. Marion was very knowledgeable and friendly.

Joyce – Governance manager – Better Business Writing

Better Business Writing, General PD, Organisations Testimonials

The trainer was capable of explaining things so they were easily understood and answered all questions I had during the Intermediate Course.

Amy – Admin Assistant – Access

Access Seminars, IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials

“In the last year I successfully completed and passed Sage Accounting and Sage Payroll Computer Courses with Pitman Training. Before my training I was looking for a job, but realised that I needed more qualifications in order to get my ideal job.
I am now applying for jobs and feel more equipped and confident. I am searching the job sites and sending my CV. I know it’s only a matter of time until I have the job I desire.
My learning time at Pitman Training was a very happy time for me. I felt warmly welcomed each day and this enabled me to learn quickly. The staff were extremely professional, friendly and helpful and the atmosphere was very relaxed. I so enjoyed my Courses and it really was learning made easy.
I wish to Thank each member of Pitman Training Staff. I have never enjoyed a learning experience as much as I enjoyed my time with you.
Many Thanks!”

GC – Sage

Book-Keeping, Private Individuals, Sage

“I studied the Accounting Technician Diploma with Pitman Training in Edinburgh. I decided to do this course, as I was just about to be made redundant, and decided that I wanted to gain some new skills to help me when applying for a new job. I was also thinking about starting my own company, and thought that finance studies would never go wrong.
A couple of months after redundancy, I got a temporary post at SAMH, and then applied and got my current post as the HRD (Human Resources & Development) Administrator. Although I hadn’t completed the course when I got my job, the skills I had learnt so far has helped me out in my new job, as I have to monitor budgets and make monthly reports to my boss.
I enjoy learning at Pitman. You learn at your own speed, which makes it all much easier. This is the second course I’ve done at Pitman, and would recommend it to anyone.”

LM – Accounting Technician Diploma

Book-Keeping, Private Individuals

“I found the style of teaching, materials provided, seminars, the instructors’ behaviour and attitude, of excellent quality and standards. I am happy.”

SD – Executive PA Diploma

General Courses, Private Individuals

I wanted to let you know that I really enjoyed the 2 day course. Our Trainer was really in tune with us as a group and understood exactly where we were all coming from with regards to the daily obstacles we face in our various roles as office and personal assistant.
The course content was fabulous; I especially enjoyed the section on Communication & Assertiveness. I felt I took most away from these parts and have definitely been able to implement in my daily work commitments. I feel more confident and more in control of my work time. The handouts we were given have also proved useful and I have referred back to them time and time again. The Trainer also gave us recommendations of helpful books, 2 of which I have purchased since the coaching and have dipped in and out of.
I would definitely recommend the workshop to anyone in a support role, be it as a PA or Office Manager, who is looking for a little extra support or guidance. There is a lot to learn, both for people new to this type of role or experienced individuals.”

Louise —PA to the Chief Executive Change Recruitment Group

Executive PA, Organisations Testimonials

Excellent trainer, made you feel at ease and felt comfortable to join in.

Laura – PA to Directors – Time Management

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Time Management

“When I met you back in February 2014 my mental state was at a low ebb. After our chat you gave me hope within myself!
When I realised what I was about to undertake, trepidation set in. Well, five months later I achieved my goal attaining a Diploma in Administration Assistant. This is such an huge achievement for me, being the first actual qualification I’ve attained. So a huge pat on the back for me!!!!
What can I say about Pitman Training, Edinburgh, simply first class! Your supervisors are a great bunch, nothing was too much trouble. Even when it came to asking what potentially could be a ‘stupid’ question, they always treated you with respect. I certainly asked a few ‘stupid’ questions! Their patience and understanding was first class, knowing that some of us weren’t on the same level with computer programmes as they were.
The courses are well set out with books and audio to help you along. The audio and on screen items are clear and concise, keeping it both plain and simple.
After five months my confidence is returning and that can only be a good thing for my future.
I’ve managed to secure a job with Edinburgh City Council and If there ever becomes a need to learn further subjects, you’ll be the first people I’ll contact.
Many thanks for all the help I’ve had over the past five months, so much appreciated.”

IS – Administration Assistant Diploma

General Diploma

Julie was able to convey the content of the course clearly and used lots of real life examples to demonstrate. As we were a small group she was able to detail the course to meet our own objectives. Very useful course with knowledgeable trainer. I have learnt skills which will be used immediately within the workplace and at home.

Cara – Assistant Accountant – Influencing Skills

General PD, Influencing Skills, Organisations Testimonials

No Improvement required. Speed, clarity and technique ideal. The trainer was excellent!

Wendy – Receptionist – Meetings and Minutes

General PD, Meetings and Minutes, Organisations Testimonials

Very easy to understand, follow and very approachable.

Michelle – IT change manager – Assertiveness

Assertiveness, General PD, Organisations Testimonials

I have a better understanding of how to manage conflict in the work place, and how to be more confident.

Ann – Staff nurse – Conflict Managment

Conflict Management, General PD, Organisations Testimonials

Julie tailored the course excellently to the different interests/problems of the participants. She sought out appropriate material related to our fields of work. I felt the small course size was excellent.

Rachel – Manager – Influencing Skills

General PD, Influencing Skills, Organisations Testimonials

I completely understood the topics covered and everything was explained very well. Thank you!

Abbi – Receptionist Seminar

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Receptionist Seminar

Very good, very informative and relevant to our needs.

Steven – Civil Engineer – MS Project

IT Tutor Led, MS Project, Organisations Testimonials

I came to Pitmans after leaving my job as a Customer Service Team Leader as I wanted to better myself & change careers. I studied the Executive PA Diploma, the course was very informative & could be done at my own pace. After completing the course I temped for 3 months & then I managed to get a job as an administrator through Office Angels. I am now working for an Interior Design company as PA to the Managing Director.
I would recommend Pitman to anyone who wants to improve themselves, I also made some new friends who I am still in contact with, as my circle of friends was very limited as I knew no-one when I moved to Edinburgh 3 years ago…
Many thanks again, I will be back!

LB – Executive PA Diploma

Executive PA, Private Individuals

“I would just like to say thank you to yourself and all your staff for the wonderful training I received at Pitman Training!
I did the Microsoft Office Plus Diploma which took me through the whole Microsoft Office package and gave me a firm understanding in all the different areas such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint etc. It even allowed me to take electives in different areas such as book-keeping which widened my skills and knowledge in areas I hadn’t looked at before.
I undertook the training whilst I was studying at University and the confidence and experience the courses gave me during my degree and also when going for job interviews was priceless. The job market is terribly competitive at the moment but with the training I received at Pitman I had that something extra that employers were looking for, and the ability to talk about the courses and my experience at Pitman Training.
In particular, I had an interview where they tested my skills in Microsoft Excel. If I had not done the course this would have been a very daunting experience, however, knowing what I had learnt from the Excel course within the Diploma I was very confident in my skills with Excel. I even managed to spot a mistake in their test which I pointed out to them and no other candidate in the past had spotted it!
Consequently I got offered the job as a consultant in a pensions company. However, I did not take this job as an even better job came along within risk management in the banking industry and so I will be starting this in September. I know that they use a lot of Excel and other Microsoft packages and so I am looking forward to being able to show my skills in these areas and it makes starting my new job a more exciting prospect as opposed to one which before I may have been slightly worried about.
Thank you again!”

IM – Microsoft Office Plus Diploma

General Diploma, Microsoft Office, Private Individuals

I was wary of attending the course as this was new to me but I fitted in very well and had a great two days. Thank you.

Louise – Office Manager – Supervisory Skills

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Supervisory Skills

Overall excellent trainer with good psychological inferences too.

Blair – Managing Director – Presentation Skills

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Presentation Skills

Julie related ‘real life’ situations which I could relate to.

Paul – Problem Manager – Communication Skills

Communication Skills, General PD, Organisations Testimonials

I am currently working in the city in London as a PA. It is lots of fun, however very hard work!

L P – Personal Assistant

Private Individuals

’Not only was this an excellent learning experience, but also great fun. I picked up some great tips on how to command and hold the attention of a less than enthusiastic audience and I found the section on voice coaching extremely useful.
The course really helps develop confidence, particularly with regard to the advice on body language and stance and I would recommend that everyone who has to present to small or large audiences should attend.’’

Jacqui C—-HR Manager—-Citizens Advice

Organisations Testimonials, Presentation Skills

“I wanted to work in an area where I would be able to help people and make a difference and I thought that a career as a medical secretary in the NHS would fit the bill perfectly – I could use my previous secretarial and admin experience plus I would be helping to support a team in a patient-centred environment. To make this career change, I would need some knowledge of medical terminology and also how the medical secretarial role would work in practice, plus also upgrading my IT skills – the courses with Pitman’s were ideal.
I really enjoyed my courses at Pitman Training. As I had no previous medical secretary experience, I think the fact that I had completed the medical secretary introduction and medical audio transcription courses helped my application to stand out so that I was shortlisted for interview. Also, I needed to get my IT skills, such as Excel, PowerPoint and Access, bang up to date, which again will help my performance when I’m actually in my new job.
I really appreciated the flexibility of the courses and when I was finally given my redundancy from my previous employers and had the time to fully devote to my studies, I was able to knuckle down and get everything completed fairly quickly. It was also very good discipline for me to have the routine of going into the Pitman’s office every day. I found the Pitman staff very friendly and helpful at all times, and I appreciated being known on first name terms by them. The materials themselves were quite easy to work through, even areas where I had very little previous experience, such as Access and the more advanced functions of Excel – to be honest I was quite nervous at tackling these and it was great for my confidence to get through these courses without too much difficulty.”

CB – Medical and Microsoft Office

Medical, Microsoft Office, Private Individuals

“I left school in 2010 with 3 A-Levels and the opportunity to study at a top university. After a year working in retail alongside unfortunate periods of ill-health stemming from a medical condition that I was born with, I decided that university just wouldn’t suit me. The decision to ‘skip’ the university step lead me to Pitman Training.
I studied for the Executive PA Diploma, starting in September 2011 and completing by April 2012. My electives were Marketing, PR and Advertising. I studied Teeline shorthand and attended the Executive PA seminar.
Following completion of the Executive PA Diploma, I was immediately signed to Office Angels’ temp books and quickly became their most requested temps. I worked for a variety of organisations including law firms, wealth management firms, business centres, health centres and accountancy bodies. I even did a bit of events work for music gigs which was great fun. My last assignment with Office Angels was an Administrator/PA position at the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAS). After three months I was offered a full-time, permanent position.
I was an Administrator/PA at ICAS for 15 months and I used all of my Pitman skills on a daily basis. I have now just started a new job as Secretary to the Edinburgh Residential sales team at Knight Frank, a global organisation which presents huge opportunities for my career going forwards. I see myself working for Knight Frank for many years to come.
Without my qualification and skills gained through the Executive PA Diploma I wouldn’t be in the position that I am today. The staff at York Place were incredibly kind and helpful and made the training environment a very happy one. The flexible approach to study proved invaluable especially during periods of ill health. I am pleased to say that I am happy, healthy and loving living in Edinburgh and working full-time – something we never thought would be possible a couple of years ago.
I would recommend the Executive PA Diploma to absolutely anybody. Not only do you learn many new computer skills – even as a fairly ‘tecchy’ person – but you actually learn a lot about yourself and where your strengths/weaknesses lie. I found the Executive PA Seminar particularly helpful as it gave me a real insight into the life of a high-level PA. My decision not to go to university was definitely not an easy one and it was daunting at first but I’m so pleased with where my career is at now. I’m very fortunate to have a full-time, permanent job in the current market when so many of my friends are struggling to find a job after 3 years at university.”

AL – Executive PA Diploma

Executive PA, General Diploma, Private Individuals, Secretarial Diploma

“I just wanted to write and say how much I enjoyed the medical terminology course, and also the medical audio word processing.
After spending the last few years as a carer looking after mum, even the thought of part-time work was daunting. At the time I started the course I was not confident to look for work, but the more I went into the “office” the more my confidence grew.
The Pitman Centre in Glasgow is a very casual/informal office environment, with absolutely no pressure and time for tea/coffee whenever I like.
All I had to do was book my time in advance and I felt I had complete control of my own time for studying. I also continued the learning at home in between visits to Glasgow.
It is absolutely incredible the difference I feel at the end of the course to when I first started.
I am now looking forward to finding suitable part time work alongside my carer role, and feel I have gained the confidence to become a valuable member of the team at my local hospital.
Thank you again for all your assistance.”

EC – Medical

General Courses, Medical, Private Individuals

The compliments I have received have certainly given my confidence a great boost. I am so enjoying the work, the environment and the people and it’s all due to the skills I have gained from the Diploma courses I have done through Pitman Training.

H L

Private Individuals

“Before I started my training at Pitman I was unemployed, I had been working as a accounts assistant in a hotel for three years and although my last job was in accounting I had no knowledge or understanding of SageLine 50 Computerised Accounting, which is widely used throughout many organisations, so it was important for me to learn this accounting software.
I found all the staff really helpful in guiding and advising me throughout the course and when I had finished they suggested I should take the Computerised Sage 50 Payroll course to complement further my skills.
On finishing both courses, I was also advised by the staff to take the external examinations from the International Association of Bookkeepers (IAB) in both of the courses I had studied. Once I finished the IAB exams in June 2013 I became committed in searching for a job in an accountancy position. The knowledge I had gained and the results of the courses enhanced my C.V and I felt much more confident when applying for jobs.
After two months I managed to secure three interviews, two of which offered me jobs. I accepted a full time sales ledger assistant position in Skyscanner.
I would like to thank Pitman Training staff for all their help and support which has helped me to secure the job that I wanted.”

MR – Sage

Book-Keeping, Private Individuals, Sage

“I thought I would drop you a line to say that I am now established with my new job where I am working as a Property Manager. As you know when I came to you I was just about able to bang out an e mail and wouldn’t have known where to find such sophistications as “page breaks” etc. A really challenging student for your ever patient and encouraging team! I would certainly say to anyone thinking of a course with you not to consider being too old to learn. I certainly had my extreme doubts but the constant encouragement from your team got me through!
I am now using a fairly all embracing software system which is tailored to the needs of this company and in addition my Outlook and Word skills are used all the time. I feel completely confident in saying that despite many years in the property business I would not have been able to cope with this job without the training I received at Pitman, thank you.
My new employers are both very computer competent but I believe I may have the “edge” on PowerPoint – how satisfying is that!
I would recommend the Fast Track Microsoft Skills Diploma course to anyone wanting to enhance their employment prospects, it certainly worked for me.”

SH – Diploma

General Diploma, Private Individuals

‘’Just to thank you again for the excellent course. It was at just the right level and I really appreciated being able to attend without having done the previous one.Too many courses insist on a progression through levels with certificates rather than accepting experience. Callum presented the course at a very good pace giving plenty of time for questions.Definitely the best computing related course I have attended!’’

Excel level 2 C M——-National Trainer

IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials

The tutor knew her role very well, she was happy to answer questions and gave good advice on situations.

Elsamarie – Receptionist – Receptionist Seminar

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Receptionist Seminar

The small group to tutor ratio was very helpful. It was at a great location, lunch was a treat, the training was well-paced and clear. The trainer was very patient, not patronising (a relief) and very helpful.

Paula – Assistant Visitor Experience Manager – Word

IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials, Word Seminars

Excellent. Would recommend to colleagues.

Scott – Project Manager – Access

Access Seminars, IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials

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April 22 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

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Train the Trainer – 3- day workshop

Train the Trainer – 3- day workshop

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Train the Trainer – 3- day workshop

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop

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Supervisory Skills – 2- day workshop

Supervisory Skills – 2- day workshop

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Supervisory Skills – 2- day workshop

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Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Illustrator

Presentation Skills – 2-day workshop

Presentation Skills – 2-day workshop

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