IT is no barrier to employment for Darren
Forty-nine-year-old Darren Hinson from North Ormesby is a step closer to securing employment after embarking on Actes’ IT and employability course, Work IT Out.
Darren found himself out of work this summer after spending 11 years as a kitchen porter at Marton Country Club before the venue’s closure, followed by a more recent spell as a porter at a Middlesbrough restaurant. Having admitted to never switching on a computer in his life, Darren’s Job Coach at Middlesbrough Job Centre suggested he enrol on Work IT Out to get to grips with IT to enable him to search for jobs online.
After completing the eight-day course Darren can not only turn on a computer, he has set up an email address, has updated his CV and has logged on to Find a Job to carry out job searches. With the help of course tutors, Darren secured a job interview while completing Work IT Out and is enrolled on a training course with Hampton by Hilton in Stockton which will potentially lead to a job when the hotel opens.
Commenting on his experience of Work IT Out, Darren said: “Before Work IT Out I’d never switched on a computer in my life, but I needed to be able to use Find a Job to look for work. The course tutors Nick and Bernie were fantastic, they made everything seem so easy to learn. I have problems with my reading and writing, but every time I asked for their help they were there straight away.
“The atmosphere was very warm, relaxed and comfortable and I wasn’t afraid to speak up and ask questions. Since completing Work IT Out I’m in a better position to look for a job, my confidence has improved and I’ve made new friends. The tutors helped me prepare for a job interview, which unfortunately I didn’t get, and they also found the opportunity with the new hotel in Stockton and I’m looking forward to completing the training. If I could do it again I would, it’s been fantastic.”
Work IT Out is delivered by Actes in partnership with Hartlepool College of Further Education. The course runs for eight days over a two weeks period (Tuesday to Friday) and carries two qualifications, Entry Level 3 IT and NOCN Level 1 Employability. It is aimed at people aged 19 plus from Middlesbrough and Stockton and course elements include navigating a computer, how to apply for and how to use Universal Credit, communication and interpersonal skills, creating a CV and cover letter, budgeting and interview preparation. Since April Work IT Out has helped 36 people into jobs, training and volunteering opportunities.
For more information about Work IT Out training course or to make a referral please contact 01642 255001 or email: reception.RC@actes.co.uk