Public and Commercial Services Union

This is one of the pioneering learning centre partnerships which I hope will become a core activity for the trades union movement. The aim of this centre is to improve ITC skills for PCS members. Some of my Parliamentary colleagues may like to take note of it too!" Malcolm Wicks, then Lifelong Learning Minister at the official opening of the PCS Learning Centre, January 2000

About the centre

The PCS learning centre is located in Victoria, central London. information and communications technology  courses have been running at the centre, developed with the support of the government's union learning fund, since 1999.

The centre houses 14 networked personal computers (PCs). All have internet access and Microsoft Office 2000.The centre was refurbished in 2001 to create a bright and welcoming environment in which to work.

About the courses

The PCS learning centre offers computer skills courses that run over several weeks, two-day computer workshops as well as other workshops such as written communication and digital photography.

For details of courses currently offered see the London and SE events listing page.

Please note that we no longer run the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) or Preparing for ECDL Courses. Contact Sonia Scully for ECDL Learndirect courses or call 020 7801 2700 x 5301.

Who the courses are aimed at

PCS learning centre courses are for PCS members and their colleagues who want a solid introduction to using computers or who wish to brush up on their existing skills.

Learners use the courses to help them with their work, to help them move on to new jobs or for their own personal development. The centre is most suitable for those members who live or work within travelling distance of central London.

Time off work

Some people prefer to learn in their own time. If you would like to do a computer skills course in work time you should discuss this with your manager.

It may be possible to get time off work by linking the course to your Personal Development Review and/or through arrangements such as the employer's policy on further education.

PCS members can get advice from their PCS representative or learning rep on negotiating time off.

 
What if I don't live in London and can't get to the PCS learning centre?  

The courses offered in the PCS learning centre are also run by many colleges around the country.

To find information about courses at your local college visit the Learndirect website or call the Learndirect national learning advice line on 0800 100 900.