HR Assistant

Name: HR Assistant
Author: admin

This diploma is for those who want to take on an assistant role within an HR department. Ideal if you hold a longer term ambition to work as an HR Manager, it will give you a great foundation of skills to start to look for assistant positions.

Our HR Assistant Diploma has been developed to give you the professional skills you need to get a job within any HR department or take on HR duties and succeed.

Within any organization, it’s the people who make the biggest difference to its overall success –– especially if they are motivated, highly valued and supported in their roles. So it’s of paramount importance that people wishing to have HR responsibilities are highly skilled. Our HR Assistant diploma will train you across a broad range of skills, including understanding the principles of HR and advanced business software skills.

Course Info

Duration 160 hours flexi study or 6.5 weeks full-time (Full-time based on approx 20-30 hours a week)

Training Type Diploma

Study Type In centre, Online

Awards & Qualifications

Awarded 160 CPD points upon successful completion

Is this course right for me?

This diploma will give you a broad range of skills, including the principles of HR and advanced business software skills.

Awarded 160 CPD points upon successful completion

Duration 160 hours flexi study or 6.5 weeks full-time (Full-time based on approx 20-30 hours a week)

Course Content

Core Courses

HR Essentials

HR Essentials is an entry-level HR training course. You’ll learn essential knowledge in areas such as recruiting new staff, employment contracts, salary processing, and maternity rights.

Recruiting for Success

This course has been designed to teach you how to use the most effective interview techniques to assist with bringing on board the best employees to ensure success for your organisation. The three modules in the course explore the following: Hitting the Recruitment Bull’s Eye, Applicant Screening: The First Step in Hiring the Best, and Concluding an Effective Hiring Interview.

Mentoring

You’ll learn the skills needed to become an effective and inspiring mentor with great communication skills. We’ll also cover the challenges you may face and how to overcome them.

Team Leadership

This course is designed for those who need to gain an understanding of key leadership skills. It is also relevant for team leaders and experienced staff with leadership or management responsibilities.

Inducting and Retaining for Success

This course has been specifically designed for those who wish to work in an HR capacity. The course provides an overview of the induction process and a guide to successful retention of staff. The three modules in the course explore the following: Structure of the HR Function, Ensuring Onboarding Success, and Management of People: Talent Acquisition and Retention.

LinkedIn for Jobseekers

If you’re looking to maximise your reach and network while searching for a new role, this course will give you valuable advice and guidance on making sure you’re using LinkedIn to the fullest.

Payroll Principles

Payroll Principles is a great short course that can be studied in just four hours. The course is designed to teach those new to payroll the theory behind the practicalities of running a company’s payroll.

Effective Business Communication

This excellent course will raise your game when it comes to business communication skills, which are often top of the list of qualities demanded by employers.

Word

Our Microsoft Word course is designed to provide you with the essential skills you will need to be proficient in Word in a work environment in as short a time as possible.

Or 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 a range of Word’s more sophisticated features.

Excel

This course is suitable for beginner to intermediate level. Over a series of self-paced lessons, you’ll learn how to format your spreadsheets to best display your information, handle simple and complex formulas, insert charts, learn how to insert functions, such as IFERROR, and much, much more.

Or Excel Expert

Our Excel Expert level course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to use this popular spreadsheet program to an advanced level. Over a series of self-paced lessons, you’ll learn how to perform tasks such as conditional formatting, recording and running macros, working with pivot tables, and using statistical functions.

Outlook

This flexible study course takes you through everything you need to use this popular email software as a work tool, from navigation and views through contacts and appointments, to tasks and folders.

PowerPoint

Our PowerPoint training course will help you get to grips with this comprehensive presentation software. With this course under your belt, you’ll be ready to produce polished, professional presentations.

Sage 50 Payroll

Among all our finance courses, Sage training is the most popular and the most in demand. This course brings you the skills you need to use this popular payroll program.

Course Overview

Aims and Objectives

The HR Assistant Diploma will provide you a strong foundation to take your career in any direction –– be it in a broad HR role or moving into specialist areas, such as employment law, payroll, or training and development.

Career Paths

HR is a unique role, which is guided by specific rules and regulations. From the position of HR Assistant you could progress to become an HR Manager or run your own HR consultancy business.

Pre-Requisites

You don’t need to hold any specific qualifications before beginning this diploma training.

April 2024

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

Project Management Principles

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

Edinburgh 4 Queen Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

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

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

Testimonials

“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

“Great Knowledge on subject. Friendly and relaxed throughout. Excellent!”

Word Introduction Andy McDougall—–National MuseumsScotland

IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials

“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 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 am able to write faster and take minutes of meetings.

Lucy – PA/Business Support Officer – Speedwriting

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Speedwriting

“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

Julie was excellent, she has given me the tools and skills to go forward as a trainer and do it confidently.

Natalie – Business Travel Consultant – Train The Trainer

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Train the Trainer

“I started the Executive PA/Secretarial Diploma course at the Pitman Training Centre in Edinburgh in August 2012 and followed up with 2 Legal Modules.
Before I started my Pitman Training course I was working in retail and not feeling like I was getting anything out of my job. My training has helped me to build up the knowledge and skills required to work in a much more demanding position and has been a great help to me.
In April 2013, I left my job and applied for a job as a receptionist at a Hotel outside Aberfeldy – a job which a friend had seen advertised and suggested I applied for. The job description entailed working mainly behind reception, dealing with guests, but also comprised of a lot of secretarial based work such as organising functions and meetings and typing up notes and menus etc. I was offered the job only hours after I went for the interview and so of course accepted it straight away.
I applied for the receptionists job 9 months after I began my course, as initially I was in no great rush to find another job, but would rather focus on working through the modules so that I would have the necessary experience for when I did decide to apply for something else.
I have loved doing my Pitman courses and have found the workbooks and online exercises very beneficial. I have enjoyed being able to work through each part of the course in my own time and being able to repeat exercises and aspects of modules has definitely been a help, especially on some of the more tricky subjects. It has made me a feel a lot more comfortable in what I am doing and has allowed me to go over parts that I was having any difficulty with.
All of the tutors and staff at the Centre in Edinburgh have been fantastic, and are always there on the end of the phone or an email whenever I have needed any help or clarification on any part of the course. They have always been more than happy to give me advice and guidance, no matter how trivial I think my questions are.
My experience at Pitman Training has been excellent and I will definitely consider doing another course at the Centre in the future, and would highly recommend it to other people.”

CS – Legal/ Executive PA Diploma

Executive PA, General Diploma, Legal Secretarial, Private Individuals, Secretarial Diploma

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 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

Excellent course, well presented and worthwhile. Thank you!

Katie – Personal Assistant – Word

IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials, Word Seminars

“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

They seemed to be so impressed that I had been at Pitman Training to do the training. I cannot believe how doing one course can transform your job area.

J M – Management Support Officer

Private Individuals

Like the style of the course, right amount of group and tutor led sections. I find the courses excellent, can’t think of anything to comment on. Thank you.

Sharon – HR Assistant – Influencing Skills

General PD, Influencing Skills, Organisations Testimonials

Our trainer was excellent, by bringing real life examples it makes it easier to put into context.

Lesley – Operational Risk Analyst – Meetings 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

Great, helpful, friendly staff, good location easily accessible etc.

Sam – Customer Services Administration – Speedwriting

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Speedwriting

‘’I would like to say how much I enjoyed the above course yesterday. I have to say this ranked as one of the very best courses I have attended and I now have a more positive attitude towards meetings/minute taking. Please pass my thanks to the trainer.’’

L D

Minutes and Note Taking, Organisations 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 decided to study for Pitman’s Executive PA Diploma last year after having been out of work for some time. This turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life and a turning point for the better.
As I was unemployed at that time, I planned to complete my course in a short space of time and attended Pitman Training College, Edinburgh on a daily basis.
The Pitman staff and tutors were caring and attentive and I could approach them at any time for help. I never felt pressurised knowing that I could complete the modules at my own pace. The course definitely gave me the confidence and ability to successfully apply for positions knowing that I had a good head start in comparison with so many other people in the job market. I started to apply for positions towards the end of my course and was fortunate to immediately secure a temporary post in an organisation providing housing and support for older people in 25 locations across Scotland.
I am now pleased to report that I have been made a permanent employee and am thoroughly enjoying my position there.
I completed the course and, as I had chosen legal modules as electives, I received my Legal Secretarial Diploma as well as my Executive PA Diploma with Shorthand, both with distinction.
I would like to thank Pitman and the wonderful tutors for the fantastic training and assistance they have given me. I could not have done it without them and I have no hesitation in recommending the College to those wishing to improve their skills and to making themselves more employable.
Pitman can literally change your life!”

JM – Legal/Executive PA Diploma

Executive PA, General Courses, General Diploma, Legal Secretarial

“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

Overall excellent trainer with good psychological inferences too.

Blair – Managing Director – Presentation Skills

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Presentation Skills

“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

“Thank you for the excellent course and in particular your friendly and helpful staff. Being able to revise the course information and the convenience of the flexible hours made the learning much more enjoyable.”

SH – Diploma

General Diploma

Excellent.

Alison – Receptionist – Outlook

IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials, Outlook Seminar

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 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

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

“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

“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

“When I first came to Pitman my life was at a bit of a crossroads. I had just been made redundant from a job I had worked in for almost 13 years. I had been a hallmarker, putting hallmarks on pieces of jewellery. Although quite a skilled job, outside of this specialised profession my skills and experience were now to be useless in what was a tough and competitive job market.
So here I was out in the real world again, and in my mid 40’s too. This was when I decided, with some coaxing from my wife to go to Pitman and eventually enrolled in the Book Keeping level 2 module 1. The advisor explained the courses available and gave me some extra confidence that I could complete the course. I hadn’t done any real studying since I had left school many years ago, and was only barely computer literate but I soon got into the swing of things and started to really enjoy my course. The supervisors were always very helpful and I liked the peaceful, friendly environment to study in.
I had not long completed (and passed with distinction) my course when I was lucky enough to get a job as an accounts assistant with Menzies Distribution, in one of the biggest accounts departments in Edinburgh which I had seen advertised at the job centre. I had only been unemployed for 3 month but I’m sure that through my new qualification and support from Pitman I had now found a new Job in a completely different field.
I have now been at Menzies for over 2 years, and have recently returned to Pitman to study Sage 50 with plans to do Microsoft Excel next. I proved to myself that it’s never too late to start studying again.”

MB – Book-Keeping

Book-Keeping, General Courses, Private Individuals

” I would like to thank you for giving me this unique opportunity to change my life and get a good job as a bookkeeper.
To be honest, as a foreigner I was scared at hat the course would be too hard to study and understand but I decided to take this challenging opportunity and improve my skills.
The training materials were amazing. They were very well presented and easy to learn. However the greatest advantage was the Training Supervisors. At any point when you are stuck with the subject or do not understand the questions then all you have to do is ask and all the help you need is there for you.
After I completed just three of the modules I decided to look of a job as a part time bookkeeper and I was in seventh heaven when I was offered a job before I had even finished my course.
The knowledge I have received from Pitman has helped me to develop my skills and improve my financial situation.
I strongly believe that anyone with a bit of discipline, patience and effort can change their lives for the best with the help of Pitman Training.”

AKS – Accounting Technician Diploma

Book-Keeping, Private Individuals

“I just wanted to send you a quick email to say thank you most sincerely for finding me a place on the course. I have to say to you that I found the course totally inspirational. I have been on many courses, some dreadful and some ok, but none came anywhere near to the quality delivered by Pitman Training. The Trainer was so energetic, enthusiastic, very knowledgeable, friendly and adaptable to our needs – no wonder you heard the hoots of laughter from the course room, everyone was just enjoying it so much. It was a great group as well, lots of characters and this helped as well.
Our Trainer kept us totally captivated for 3 days and that’s no easy task when delivering – she is a gem. If I could be a Trainer with even half her ability I would be delighted.”

Derek Walker ——Project Manager

Organisations Testimonials, Train the Trainer

‘’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

“I spent many years living overseas, on returning to Scotland I was frustrated with the difficulty in finding employment due to my lack of work experience or qualifications in a particular field.
Completing the Legal Secretarial Diploma with Pitman Training has certainly changed this by providing me with the skills and confidence I needed to kick start my career.
Throughout the course the Staff were very helpful and friendly and when the time came to consider seeking employment the support and advice they offered was excellent. Just prior to completing the course I was offered a job in the legal department of a major financial institution in Edinburgh.
I’m absolutely delighted. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole training experience with Pitman, without the Diploma I know I would not have been offered the position.”

MG Legal Secretarial Diploma

Legal Secretarial, Private Individuals

“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

“Working as a secretary with Axis Media I felt that I needed to brush up my skills on some of the Office programmes that I was using as part of my job as well as gaining a recognised qualification. The Fast Track Diploma did this for me, and clarified some of the “mysteries” surrounding programmes such as Access which I had used slightly but never fully explored.
The course books and audio CD were clear and easy to follow, and the training staff were all very friendly and helpful, to the point of offering advice even after the course had finished.
Their unfailing cheeriness and sense of humour (together with the excellent facilities and pleasant working surroundings) added to the good atmosphere at the Pitman’s centre which is why I’ve now come back to do another course!”

PF – Fast Track Diploma

General Diploma, Microsoft Office, Private Individuals

Enjoyed the Supervisory Skills course, picked up useful tips and methods on how to handle difficult situations.

Deborah – Finance Team Leader – Supervisory Skills

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Supervisory Skills

Very good training and very good facilities. The trainer was very competent, friendly, engaging and welcoming, very patient and good manner.

Andrea – Trainee Administrator – Excel

Excel Seminars, IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials

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

Julie – Manager – Outlook

IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials, Outlook Seminar

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

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

“Our Trainer was excellent, this is the most knowledge I have ever taken from a course.”

Carol—-Edinburgh Business School

Organisations Testimonials, Supervisory Skills

I have just completed my Accounting Technician Diploma with Pitman in Edinburgh.
I had relocated to Fife after working as an Office Manager in Livingston and I was now at home looking after my 3yr old son. I had tried to get a couple of part time admin jobs but was unsuccessful, with the view being that I was over qualified. I therefore felt that it would be easier to work from home as a self employed bookkeeper, this would mean I could earn some money and have the flexibility to look after my son. I had carried out various aspects of invoicing etc over the years but could never call myself a bookkeeper, I therefore needed to get a formal qualification that would give prospective clients the trust required.
After checking the internet I contacted Fran Maclean in Edinburgh, she invited me in for a chat and on her advice I arranged to complete the Accounting Technician Diploma as this was better suited to running your own business rather than just being an employee.
I arranged to complete my diploma from home, and only had to visit the Office in Edinburgh for 2 modules. I enjoyed every minute of this diploma, as I was able to fit the studying around home life. Help was available if required but the learning materials were actually so good that I don’t think I ever needed to call for help.
I have now completed my Diploma and am arranging to sit the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers entrance exam, this will allow me to portray a much more professional image when dealing with clients.
Completing this Diploma has given me much more confidence, and as a result I have decided to widen the scope of my business idea.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Pitman Training and am sure that I will continue to use them myself in the future.

PC – Accounting Technician Diploma

Book-Keeping, Private Individuals

“I studied the Microsoft Fast Track Diploma. I had been working in a beauty salon for 5 years – I was a therapist and in January I gave up treatments and became the full time receptionist. I really wanted a Monday – Friday receptionist role in an office but because I didn’t have much IT experience I knew that I would find the job search difficult.
The Microsoft training gave me the skills that employers were looking for and I found that once I had the qualification on my CV I started getting selected for interviews. As well as learning new skills the course also helped to just refresh my memory on some things that I could already do.
I am now working in a new job which is the Monday – Friday role I wanted. My job title is Customer Service Assistant. This is a Front of House role which involves a lot of meeting and greeting and looking after all of the tenants in the building who we provide serviced offices for.
I enjoyed the training as it felt very relaxed and I liked that I could go at my own pace. I am so happy that I got this qualification for myself. I really believe that without my qualification I would be stuck in a job that I really wasn’t happy in for many more years!
Thank you Pitman training!”

JS – Fast Track 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

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

The trainer was very good, explained everything clearly and answered questions well. The content of the course was at a good level for introduction.

Alison – Project Manager – Access

Access Seminars, IT Tutor Led, Organisations Testimonials

Engaging, easy to listen to, knowledgeable, great presence. The course quality was good.

Dandra – HVS Consultant – Presentation Skils

General PD, Organisations Testimonials, Presentation Skills

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