Advanced Office Skills Diploma

Gain practical, work-ready skills to help start your administration career.

Employers are constantly seeking individuals with practical expertise who can contribute value to their business right from the start. If you aspire to work in an office setting or are considering re-entering the workforce after a hiatus, the Advanced Office Skills Diploma might be the perfect training for you.

Build a foundation for success with this tailor-made diploma.

This popular training programme allows you to take complete control and choose the courses you want to study. Its flexibility means you can learn essential skills, such as Microsoft Office, Bookkeeping, Sage Accounts and Effective Business Communication. Plenty of options are available, with over 200 courses, so you can tailor the diploma to suit you.

Interested in learning how to create your ideal training program? Reach out to a Course Advisor at your nearest centre, who will collaborate with you to choose the courses that will equip you with the necessary skills. Acquire a diverse set of skills and the confidence to apply them effectively in your professional endeavours.

Course Info

Duration 150 hours flexi study

Training Type Diploma

Study Type In centre, Online

Awards & Qualifications

Awarded 150 CPD points upon successful completion

Is this course right for me?

Career Path

The exceptional diploma opens doors to diverse career paths, thanks to its customised structure. With this qualification, you can pursue various office administration roles like Medical Secretary, Legal Secretary, PA, EA, or Office Manager. Alternatively, the acquired skills can propel you towards a fulfilling accounting career, with opportunities as a Bookkeeper, Accounts Assistant, or Finance Assistant.

Awarded 150 CPD points upon successful completion

Duration 150 hours flexi study

Course Content

Core Courses

Our Advanced Office Skills Diploma offers the flexibility to select seven core courses tailored to your needs. If more suitable to your existing skills and career goals, alternative subjects can be chosen. Our Course Advisors are here to assist you further in customising this diploma to meet your requirements.

Word

Our Microsoft Word course is meticulously crafted to equip you with the vital skills required to excel in using Word within a professional setting, all within a remarkably brief timeframe.

Word Expert

This training in Microsoft Word will propel your Word skills forward to an advanced level. Over several lessons, you’ll become confident in Word’s more sophisticated features.

Excel

Microsoft Excel stands as the unrivalled titan of spreadsheet programs, reigning as the world’s most popular choice. This comprehensive course caters to individuals at beginner to intermediate levels, offering over ten self-paced lessons. Throughout this journey, you will master the art of formatting your spreadsheet to impeccably showcase your information, effortlessly handle both simple and complex formulas, seamlessly insert charts, and delve into the realm of functions, including the esteemed IFERROR. Brace yourself for an enlightening experience that encompasses so much more.

Excel Expert

Our Excel Expert level course offers comprehensive knowledge and skills to help you excel in using this widely-used spreadsheet program. Through a series of self-paced lessons, you will master advanced tasks, including conditional formatting, macro recording and execution, pivot table manipulation, and utilisation of statistical functions. Enhance your proficiency and unlock the full potential of Excel!

Outlook

Our comprehensive Outlook course guides you through mastering this widely-used email system as an indispensable work tool. Learn efficient navigation and customisation, manage contacts and appointments seamlessly, and effectively organise tasks and folders.

PowerPoint

Our comprehensive PowerPoint training course is designed to equip you with the necessary skills to master this powerful presentation software. With the knowledge gained from this course, you will confidently deliver professional presentations to colleagues, clients, and partners alike.

Bookkeeping Transactions and Controls – Part 1

Proficiency in bookkeeping is highly sought after, as individuals with strong skills in this field are always in demand. This comprehensive course is meticulously crafted to provide you with a distinct advantage over others who may have limited experience. By focusing on double-entry bookkeeping, it equips you with the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in this pivotal aspect of financial management.

Sage 50 Accounts

Sage 50 Accounts provides you with the necessary skills to secure a rewarding position in an accounts department or to establish your own business offering accounting administration services to local firms. With its comprehensive training, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in the field of finance and contribute to the success of your company or clients.

Effective Business Communication

This excellent course will raise your game regarding business communication skills, which are top of the list of qualities demanded by employers.

Typaz

Within a mere 25 hours, one can effortlessly achieve typing speeds ranging from 20 to 40+ words per minute, regardless of prior experience. Moreover, comprehensive guidance on ergonomics, technique, and accuracy will be provided to ensure optimal results in your journey towards mastery.

Typaz Speed

Enhance your speed and accuracy with our Typaz Speed touch-typing course. Unlock the potential to achieve typing speeds of 40-60 words per minute and experience a new level of precision.

Course Overview

Aims & Objectives

Take your career to new heights with our Advanced Office Skills Diploma. Designed to provide flexibility and cater to your individual needs, this program empowers you to choose subjects that align with your career ambitions. Unlock your full potential and pave the way for a brighter future.

There are no specific pre-requisites for this diploma.

May 2024

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

Excel Intermediate

Edinburgh 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

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

Personal Development Workshops – Assertiveness

Glasgow First Floor 82 Union Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom

May 9 @ 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm Word Intermediate

Word Intermediate

Virtual Classroom

May 13 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Power BI Intermediate

Power BI Intermediate

Edinburgh 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

May 14 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Excel Advanced

Excel Advanced

Glasgow First Floor 82 Union Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom

May 14 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Communication Skills

Communication Skills

Edinburgh 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

May 15 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Microsoft Project Introduction

Microsoft Project Introduction

Glasgow First Floor 82 Union Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom

May 15 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Meetings and Minutes

Meetings and Minutes

Edinburgh 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

May 16 @ 9:30 am - 12:30 pm PowerPoint Intermediate/Advanced

PowerPoint Intermediate/Advanced

Virtual Classroom

May 16 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm PowerPoint Introduction

PowerPoint Introduction

Edinburgh 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

May 16 @ 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Time Management

Time Management

Glasgow First Floor 82 Union Street, Glasgow, United Kingdom

May 17 @ 9:30 am - 12:30 pm PowerPoint Intermediate/Advanced

PowerPoint Intermediate/Advanced

Virtual Classroom

Testimonials

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 recently studied Marketing Essential with Pitman Training. I currently deal with marketing in my business. As Managing Director and Marketing Director I felt it necessary to gain some formal training in marketing.
Pitman Training’s course allowed me to study at my own pace in my own time and at my convenience – thus alleviating the stress that returning to study can cause. The on hand tutors provided efficient and effective back up and the training room was a peaceful and relaxed area to study.
I thoroughly recommend Pitman Training – and even signed up for a Diploma course with them as a direct result of enjoying the Marketing Essentials Course.”

GS – Marketing Essentials

General Courses, Private Individuals

“I studied the Fast Track Microsoft Skills Diploma and touch typing. Before my training with Pitman I was unemployed as I had been made redundant. Within 4 months of starting my training I got a job working as Receptionist/Admin for The Edinburgh Physiotherapy Centre. I was successful in my application over other applicants due to the training I was doing and my boss was very impressed with the knowledge and skills I had learned with Pitman.
I was promoted to Operations manager within 6 months this was partly due to my knowledge base of Microsoft Office.
I thought the training I received with Pitman was second to none and would recommend your services to anyone. The service is excellent and the staff are very helpful and understanding. Thanks to the excellent service and training of Pitman I am now more confident and efficient at my job.”

NG – Fast Track Diploma

General Diploma, Microsoft Office, Private Individuals

“I completed the Accounting Technician Course with Pitman Training after being made redundant from my IT Position, but I was also keeping the accounts and payroll for my husband’s business on a voluntary basis, but had no real training.
I had to make a choice of either retraining for another IT position or taking my Accounts knowledge forward. I was sceptical regarding my accounts knowledge, but after a meeting with Pitman staff, I left feeling much more confident. The enthusiasm and commitment from the staff showed me that I was actually capable of making a career change.
The course was flexible, so I was able to work around home and current work commitments.
As soon as I was actually made redundant, I picked up a six month contract and since then I have worked almost non-stop on temp or fixed term contracts mainly through an agency. I often take my actual certificates with me to interviews and employers are impressed.
I am so glad that I went for the initial meeting regarding my career, it has helped me build a new career after the redundancy setback.”

SK – Accounting Technician DIploma

Book-Keeping, General Diploma, Private Individuals, Sage

I was recently promoted to secretary to the Clinical Director at the Princess Royal Maternity in Glasgow. The job is varied, interesting and very well paid. I still have fond memories of my days at Pitman Training.

E L – Medical Secretary to the Clinical Director

Private Individuals

I found learning at Pitman Training was enjoyable, which makes all the difference. It was probably one of the best decisions I have made in the last decade.

S E

IT Tutor Led, Private Individuals

“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

The skills that I learnt on the course come up time and time again on a daily basis and I am sure that the diploma on my CV has ensured interviews for a number of job applications.

L B – PR Assistant

Private Individuals

Excellent trainer. Knowledgeable with a very pleasant and helpful manner.

Julie – Manager – Outlook

IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials, Outlook Seminar

Training was excellent – very knowledgeable and able to answer questions and provide examples.

Dawn – Information and Knowledge Manager – Project Management Principles

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Project Management

I am now at the start of a great career in Networking, due mainly, to starting my MCSE course.

J M – Trainee Network Analyst

Private Individuals

‘’Both Carol & Liz attended the Professional Receptionist Training course on Friday 31st January in Edinburgh held by Pitman Training. Both enjoyed the course and thought it was beneficial and relevant to their place of employment.
Since the course they both feel more confident and understand a lot more about what is required of a Receptionist.’’

Professional Receptionist

Organisations Testimonials, Professional Receptionist

Very engaging, simplified a lot of complex issues to meet the needs of the audience. Genuinely found both days very fascinating – very rare that I can listen to someone speak for 2 days and not get bored, but Julie achieved this! Can’t wait to try out my new tools and techniques!

Sarah-Louise – Business Development Executive – Influencing Skills

General PD, Influencing Skills, Organisations Testimonials

“I relocated to Scotland after teaching English abroad for 15 years. Unable to find similar work here, I spent an anxious 12 months as an office temp, eventually gaining a permanent position as an admin assistant at a law firm in Glasgow. I carried out the usual range of tasks – photocopying, filing, distributing faxes. Although happy to have a job and appreciating its positive qualities, I felt held back – both in my own workplace and on the job market as a whole – by my lack of IT and keyboard skills.
One happy day I made an appointment to see Linda Morrison at the Glasgow Pitman Training Centre. Linda understood my frustration and recommended the Diploma in Business Skills, a qualification that combined basic keyboard training with Microsoft Office courses, plus Effective Business Communication and an elective (from a wide range of options, I chose ‘Get Into HR’).
There were eight modules in all and the sessions had to be fitted in around a full-time job and busy family life. Ultimately I took 18 months to complete it all but felt very proud when I took home my Diploma. I’m still working for the same firm but now run the library and deputise for the Archivist in his absence. My daily work is far more interesting and varied than it once was, and that fact – combined with the high unemployment brought about by the recession – means that I’m not interested in changing jobs in the foreseeable future. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to be flexible in these hard times and to be able to offer additional skills if need be. I don’t regret the time and energy I put into my courses – they’ve given me tremendous self-confidence and a great sense of relief that I’m no longer left behind or marginalised by my lack of knowledge.
I’ve already recommended the Glasgow Pitman Training Centre to a number of friends and am happy to do so again. I’d also like to put on record my thanks to all the staff for their cheerful help and unfailing moral support throughout my training.”

MF – Diploma

General Diploma, Private Individuals

“I enrolled with Pitman in August 2008, having been made redundant from my job as a Legal Secretary in July 2008. I studied the Pitman Upgrade to Fast Track Microsoft Skills Diploma. When I returned to work in 2000 having raised my family, I was unfamiliar with computers I undertook a very basic computer course and was lucky to be offered a part time job with a local Solicitors, but I always felt there was so much more to Word and Excel that I did not know. Having spent six months at Pitman doing the above course, I was lucky enough to get a part time job as a typist/receptionist with W R Hall, Chartered Surveyors. Although this job is very different to my last one, I have been able to make use of the skills I learned on your course, especially with Word and Excel.
Having been a volunteer with the Citizens Advice Bureau for many years, in August 2009 I was offered an admin job. I needed to use Access and could confidently do this having completed my training in that as well. I now have two part time jobs which keeps me very busy! I feel sure that I would not have been offered the second admin job if I had not learned Access, as this takes up a great part of my working hours.
I really enjoyed my time at Pitman. The staff were really friendly and helpful and it was a very professional environment to be in. It certainly got me through the six months I was unemployed, as it felt almost like going out to work on the days I attended the Training Centre.”

HG – Fast Track Diploma

General Diploma, Microsoft Office, Private Individuals

“I had worked in Lettings Management for over six years and decided to have a complete career change. Pitman Training offered a legal secretarial course which I was able to complete in two and a half months full time and in less than two weeks of completion of the course, I found work.
I registered with a few recruitment agencies but also sent my CV to law firms directly. I am now working as a PA for the main partner of a law firm and training as a paralegal.
Thanks to Pitman and the team at the Edinburgh office, who have been very helpful, I am thankful and happy embarking on my new career.”

RA – Legal Secretarial Diploma

Legal Secretarial, Private Individuals

The small group allowed for personal interaction and focus on specific examples from the group.

Donald – Client service manager – Assertiveness

Assertiveness, General PD, Organisations Testimonials

Everything needed was provided. Work booklets, pad, pen and pencil were all good quality.

Louise – PA – Speedwriting

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Speedwriting

Marion was great. She made the day very interesting and adapted it well to suit individual needs.

Laura – Admin Assistant – Better Business Writing

Better Business Writing, General PD, Organisations Testimonials

“I studied the Executive PA Diploma with Pitman. I started studying it in January 2013, it was a great way to start the new year.
Before training I was working in a pub. Having graduated from Glasgow University with an English degree, I found it very difficult to get a job and to know what jobs to apply for. I began working in a hotel for three years before I realised no matter how good I was at my job or how many shifts I had done, there was no room for growth.
Training really helped me, it helped me get some focus and direction and it was a great way to learn new skills. It allowed me to get up to speed with all the Microsoft packages and to get back into the way of using computing skills. It also allowed me to broaden my job search as I now had skills I didn’t have before and skills that companies were looking for.
I now work at St Margaret of Scotland Hospice, which I am really enjoying, where I have been employed as a Receptionist and Medical Secretary.
I really enjoyed my Pitman course, all the staff were very friendly and always willing to help out with any problems. I definitely feel if I hadn’t done the Pitman course I would have struggled for even longer to find a job.”

LN – Executive PA Diploma

Executive PA, General Diploma, Private Individuals

The course content was clear and relevant. I met the objectives I came with.

Leanne – Sales Executive – PowerPoint

IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials, Powerpoint Seminars

“This was one of the most useful training sessions I have ever been to.The tutor gave a lot of practical advice and I thought asking people to commit to action plans to take advice back to the workplace was great.The trainer really listened to people and made sure everyone’s objectives were dealt with fully.”

Zoe Westwood—–Project Officer—-Changeworks

Organisations Testimonials, Time Management

“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

Julie was an extremely good deliverer of the course content, very knowledgeable. I noticed she never failed to answer any questions and had offered solutions to all issues put to her.

Paul – Scientist – Supervisory Skills

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Supervisory Skills

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 started studying for a Secretarial Diploma with Pitman training in September 2013. After working as a mail room assistant for years, I wanted to move on to a better job with more opportunities.
I researched courses at various colleges but the hours weren’t suitable for me with a full time job. I liked the flexibility of studying with Pitman, it allowed me to study in my own time and at my own pace. At my first meeting with Linda we chatted about what kind of job I would like to do in the future and what kind of organisation I would like to work for. I had originally been interested in taking an ECDL course but after speaking with Linda we decided that a Secretarial Diploma would give me more opportunities of finding the job I was looking for.
I was very impressed with the course materials and facilities and found the course straightforward and easy to follow. The learning environment is very relaxed and girls are all very friendly and helpful. I have learned so many new skills while studying with Pitman and also learned to feel confident in my abilities. In July 2013 I started working as an administrator in an organisation that I have wanted to work in for several years. My new employer, the Scottish Police Federation was impressed by the qualifications I had earned and with the amount of my own time I had dedicated to studying for them. I love my new job and without all the help I received from Pitman Training I wouldn’t be in the position I am in now.
I want to thank all the staff for all the help you gave me and for making the time I spent at the training centre so enjoyable. I would recommend anyone to take a course with Pitman Training and wouldn’t hesitate to take another course if I feel I need to expand the skills I have learned in the future.”

NM – Secretarial Diploma

General Diploma, Private Individuals, Secretarial Diploma

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

Abbi – Receptionist Seminar

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Receptionist Seminar

“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

“As I was due to retire from teaching within a few months, I was looking to update my computer skills in order to facilitate a move to part time work in administration/ reception. After a chat with Linda, I decided upon the Fast Track Microsoft Office Diploma. This enabled me to remember work I had previously done in class using Word and PowerPoint and to also extend my use of the programs. The three others modules covered were Outlook, Excel and Access. I have to say Access was the most challenging for me, even though I could see the logic in it!!
I thoroughly enjoyed working through the modules as you are able to work at your own pace and go over areas again and again until you feel comfortable with your understanding. Another very positive aspect to going in to the Centre to work is the invaluable help given by the staff who are friendly and on hand to iron out any little problems; they calm you down when frustration levels begin to rise at your inability to see where you have gone wrong and expertly set you back on the right pathway!
I am delighted to say that I completed the course with Distinction.
At the moment I am not working but am now veering towards working within the NHS. In order to further my chances with this I am currently studying Medical Terminology. Again a bit of a refresher for me as I have previously studied Anatomy and Physiology, but am enjoying it none the less as it makes me use my brain cells. Not a bad thing!
Although not working I have been looking at the Show Website for NHS workers and will also be looking to find temporary work through an agency, if the first option does not work out, in order to gain experience back in an office environment.
I am glad I made the decision to call Pitman and chat to Linda about options. I can be a bit of a learning junkie and once I have the bit between my teeth I may well find another area to study and keep me at Pitman that bit longer.
Very satisfied client”

JN – Fast Track Diploma

General Diploma, Microsoft Office, Private Individuals

“When I first came to see you I found myself aged 50 with no skills to offer the modern workplace and I had no idea how I would earn a living and support myself financially. I decided to undertake the Legal Secretarial Diploma and, at first, it felt like I had such a huge mountain to climb. However, I kept reminding myself of that well worn quote that, even the longest journey begins with one small step. I was able to study as and when I could and fit it around all the personal changes that were going on in my life.
With the patience, help and support and encouragement of everyone at Pitman I gained my diploma. However, I wasn’t sure if being a legal secretary was what I wanted to do so I decided to temp for a while to gain experience and ‘test the waters’. Since then, I have been a Medical Secretary, Office Manager in a very busy recruitment consultancy and, more recently, Administrator in a small firm of quantity surveyors.
At the end of last year I decided to start looking for a permanent post and have just been offered a part-time position as Audio Typist/Medical Secretary. This will bring together my previous nursing experience and knowledge of medical terminology with all that I have learned at Pitman and consolidated while temping.
I have such fond memories of the training room and found all the staff to be friendly and helpful. I would recommend the courses to anyone and wish I had discovered Pitman years ago. Big thanks to you all.”

JG – Legal Secretarial Diploma

Private Individuals, Secretarial Diploma

Excellent. Very approachable and knowledgeable. Made the subject interesting.

Angela – Assistant Facilities Manager – Excel

Excel Seminars, IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials

A very good course. Learned quite a lot of new supervision tips that I never knew. Hope to take things I have learned from this course into my working environment which hopefully will make me a good supervisor.

William – Maintenance Chargehand – Supervisory Skills

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Supervisory Skills

“I chose the training because that I knew that I was in dire need of updating my skills. After searching on the Internet I became aware of Pitman Training and then on speaking to the Dumfries Pitman Training Centre I chose Pitman because the courses on offer fitted my need. Following the advice given by the Centre I actually pursued a different course to what I originally thought that I needed. Pitman offered flexibility which was crucial to me – I could choose when I wanted to attend the sessions and to work at my own pace.
The tutor support was invaluable when I needed it and the staff overall at the Centre were friendly and helpful.”

AO – General Courses

General Courses, Private Individuals

I successfully completed Executive PA Diploma at Pitman in 2013. With the help of Pitman training I also gained Microsoft 2010 Master Qualification which enabled me to become a confident and proficient administrator in record times.

DT – Executive PA Diploma

Excellent, interesting and good humoured.

Tommy – Sales Executive – Presentation Skills

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Presentation Skills

’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

“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 have completed two Diplomas at Pitman Training, first the Secretarial Diploma, and then the Accounts Technician Diploma with AAT.
I was at School before training began, started Pitman in the final year of school through my mum’s suggestion and finished training just before I got my University degree.
As I was at University during the peak of the economic crisis it was emphasised to us by every tutor/lecturer that just having a degree is not enough for you to stand out from the crowd in the job market. That extra skills and experience are essential.
I was studying economics and finance at university, so after completing the Secretarial Diploma for computer/admin skills I thought it would be a good idea to get some financial related qualification from Pitman.
The training has helped me enormously with University assignments and essay writing. It allowed me to make the most of the Microsoft applications, and therefore produce the best work I could. The touch typing skills I learnt are exceedingly useful, it cuts out so much time and now requires minimal effort to type up my thoughts/information, the words are on the screen pretty much the instant my brain thinks them.
Having Excel and Excel Expert has helped me in too many ways to count. In part-time jobs, I was able to provide a high standard of work and also impress managers by surpassing what is expected of me with computer related tasks. It also opened doors to new responsibilities in my work that wouldn’t have been given to me if I wasn’t so capable in Microsoft.
I am now working at an Architects as an Accounts Assistant. Every day I am using the skills that I learnt including Sage and Microsoft in particular Excel. I have no doubt that my qualifications in and ability to demonstrate knowledge helped me to get the job and pass the skills tests GLM set me as part of the interview process.
The staff at Pitman Training are amazing and will always do anything to help you learn, and they do it gladly, and I cannot fault them in any way.
Pitman has helped me with my transitioning from an aimless school girl to a professional young adult, through the time I have spent there.
I now feel prepared for the real world and look forward to having a successful career in finance, all thanks to Pitman for allowing me to get my foot in the job market door.”

RO – Scretarial/Book-keeping Diploma

Book-Keeping, General Diploma, Private Individuals, Secretarial Diploma

“The course exceeded my expectations and I would recommend it to all my colleagues and will let our training department know that it was excellent”

Bob—–Co-ordinator—–Voluntary Sector

Organisations Testimonials, Time Management

“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

“I was amazed with what I achieved with My course. I’m over 3 months into my job at HM Revenue and Customs and the background I received through the Accounting Technician Diploma undoubtedly helped me secure the job and has helped ‘on the job’.”

GM – Accounting Tecnhnician Diploma

Book-Keeping, Private Individuals

I am now confident in managing manipulative behaviour and also how to manage staff that just do their own thing.

Lorna – Senior Staff Nurse – Conflict Management

Conflict Management, General PD, Organisations Testimonials

“I first enrolled for a computer course in January 2013, I only had very limited knowledge and knew I had to get more advanced skills. I started with word then decided I was enjoying my course and chatted with Linda the Manager regarding what options I should take and that would be best for me in the working environment, so we decided on Office Diploma.
I had just been made redundant from the Airline Industry, which had been my life for the last twelve years, so I knew I wanted to change my career. I had realised that IT skills are so important as I had now started looking for work and realised very quickly that the job market was very competitive.
I have not mentioned this till now but I am visually impaired and have been since birth so having a disability makes it even more difficult for employers to consider employing a disabled person, when so many abled bodied people are available so the training I received was incredible, the one to one help that the Glasgow ladies gave me was amazing I am surprised I never turned them to drink, but nothing fazed them they provided me with Zoom text and large print books and test papers. I was not very successful at school and the thought of taking exams really scared me but they sat me down and told me I could do it just take my time and they were right I managed to complete my Diploma.
I am now working for a charity called Momentum on the east side of Glasgow on a six months contract which was arrange through another charity to give me some office experience.
I enjoyed every day in the Glasgow office such a lovely atmosphere and such kindness that I was shown was just incredible and gave me a new found confidence.
Thank you team Glasgow, you’re the best.”

DB – Word and Microsoft Office Plus Diploma

General Diploma, Microsoft Office, Private Individuals

I loved that the trainer had done the role and understands the job and what is needed. Excellent!

Nicola – Office Administrator – Meertings and Minutes

General PD, Meetings and Minutes, Organisations Testimonials

Marion had great knowledge. I benefited from the examples provided. Great that Marion encouraged discussion, as the hints and tips will help me in my work environment.

Natalie – Executive Assistant – Executive PA Seminar

Executive PA Seminar, General PD, 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

“I studied the Legal Secretarial Diploma with Pitman because I wanted to have some formal IT qualifications and was interested in finding work in the legal or property sector. Before taking the course I was doing housekeeping and cleaning work and I had decided I wanted to look for something with a more administrative focus.
I had used computers a lot before doing the diploma but I now feel like I have a much better and more organised understanding of programmes like Microsoft Word and Excel and I am confident enough to experiment with them.
I thought I could already type very well but I am so much faster now that I’ve done the Typaz and speed development courses.
I have just been offered a job as a Plans Officer with Registers of Scotland through the Pertemps agency. I wouldn’t have been able to apply for this job without my Pitman diploma.
I would definitely recommend Pitman to others, especially other graduates, because it gives you more confidence and more options. I liked being able to work at my own pace and the supervisors in the training room were really helpful with all my modules.”

HB – Legal Secretarial

General Diploma, Legal Secretarial, Private Individuals, Secretarial Diploma

Excellent course, well presented and worthwhile. Thank you!

Katie – Personal Assistant – Word

IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials, Word Seminars

“I really enjoyed the Diploma which I am sure will improve my career prospects. I am looking forward to putting what I learned into practice.”

CC – Diploma

General Diploma

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

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Advanced Office Skills Diploma

Gain practical, work-ready skills to help start your administration career.

Build a foundation for success with this tailor-made diploma.