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NWRC are now recruiting individuals to complete courses funded via Skill Up

The Skill Up programme aims to provide reskilling and upskilling opportunities to people across the north which will improve their skills, benefitting their employment opportunities and enhancing Northern Ireland’s continuously growing and diversifying economy.

If you’re aged 18 and over and eligible to work in Northern Ireland, a range of free accredited courses are available to help you re-train and re-skill, through the SKILL UP.

Department for the Economy Skill Up logo

Skill Up Courses

Please see below the provisional list of courses to be delivered by NWRC under Skill Up. Please register your interest below.

  • Level 4 Software Diploma (In Person)

    The aim of the OCN NI Level 4 Diploma in Software Testing is to provide a range of skills and techniques that will enable learners to create a comprehensive testing strategy. This course will also assist learners to develop software testing skills to match vacancies within ICT related occupations. Course modules: Automated Software Testing Fundamentals, Software Testing, Object Oriented Programming and Structured Query Language (SQL) Fundamentals.

    Entry requirements: Learners will be expected to have reached a basic level of skills and knowledge in software development and/or software testing such that they are able to develop and test rudimentary software programs. Learners would also be expected to have achieved GCSE English and Maths at Grade C or above or equivalent.

    1 Full Day per week x24 weeks* (subject to timetabling)

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    OCN Level 2 Cyber Security (Online)

    This qualification will enable learners to progress to higher level qualifications in the areas of information technology and/or cyber security. This qualification may also assist learners to gain employment in occupations requiring the safe and secure use of information technology.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x14 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 3 Award in AI for Industry (online)

    This qualification will enable the learner to develop an understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications. The objectives of the qualification are to enable the learner to understand the history, benefits, challenges and future scope of AI from an industry applications perspective. The learner will be able to understand: AI readiness, AI and emerging technologies, digital transformation, machine learning and AI, neural networks and deep learning and AI’s implications

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x15 weeks

  • OCN NI Level 2 in Tour Guiding (In-person)

    This qualification has been designed to provide the learner with skills in the travel and tourism industry to enable them to develop a tour commentary and lead groups on a guided tour. The qualification will provide an opportunity to gain skills used in the tour guiding industry including understanding the role of the tour guide in the travel and tourism industry, being able to produce a short tour commentary, understanding the health and safety implications of tour guiding.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x8 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 3 Certificate in Tour Guiding (In-Person)

    This qualification is designed to build on the OCN NI Level 2 Award and will develop and enhance tour guiding skills and practice. It will provide learners with the practical skills and knowledge that is required to research and deliver walking and vehicle tours. This course is aimed at those who are currently working or volunteering within the travel and tourism industry.

    Entry requirements: Applicants must already hold a Level 2 Award in Tour Guiding and be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x 24 weeks* (subject to timetabling)

  • Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills (In-Person at Springtown Campus)

    This practical-based qualification equips learners with essential, hands-on skills – perfect for anyone wanting to start a professional horticulture career or develop personal interest. It is suitable for people looking to break into professional horticulture for the first time, already working in horticulture and wanting to develop knowledge further, or those wanting to develop personal interest and progress to further horticultural study at level 3.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Day per week x24 weeks

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    City & Guilds Level 3 Award in the Requirements for the Design and Installation of Domestic & Small Commercial EV Charging Points (Blended learning at Strabane Campus)

    This qualification is aimed at practicing electricians interested in understanding how to design and install the range of electric vehicle supply equipment and systems available. It is specifically designed for those proficient in designing low-voltage radial power circuits, with a focus on installing small-scale electric vehicle supply equipment in domestic and small commercial settings.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    Part-time for x4 weeks. Blended course with in-person and online learning

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    Sustainability In the Workplace Programme

    This 5-week programme is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of sustainability and individuals will gain knowledge on essential topics such as energy efficiency, renewable energy, waste management, water conservation, and sustainable business practices and the skills needed to implement sustainable practices in various workplace settings. Learners will achieve a Level 2 Sustainability in the Workplace qualification.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    Full time for x11 weeks

  • OCN NI Level 3 Award in 3D Building Modelling for Construction including MEP and Structural Design (In-Person at Strand Road Campus)

    This qualification has been developed to meet the needs of people working within the construction industry who want to develop their knowledge in this new emerging technology. The course is focused on developing 3D modelling skills using specialist Revit 3D Modelling software though several diverse projects. The course also includes an introduction and an awareness of the fundamentals of BIM.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x15 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 3 Award in 3D Building Modelling for Architectural Design (In-Person at Limavady Campus)

    This qualification has been developed to meet the needs of people working within the construction industry who want to develop their knowledge in this new emerging technology. The course is focused on developing 3D modelling skills using specialist Revit 3D Modelling software though several diverse projects. The course also includes an introduction and an awareness of the fundamentals of BIM.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x15 weeks

  • OCN NI Level 2 Award in the Principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (Online)

    This qualification is designed to provide the learner with an introduction to the principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and its associated benefits. Learners will gain to an understanding of what CBT is, will be aware of the advantages of using CBT and gain an understanding of how CBT is used in the therapeutic context.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x6 weeks

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    CPCAB Level 2 Understanding Substance Misuse (Online)

    This qualification is designed for learners who wish to develop their knowledge and understanding of substance misuse and its consequences. It is aimed at those who are currently working or supporting individuals affected by substance misuse.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x10 weeks

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    CPCAB Level 2 Award in Introduction to Counselling Skills (Online)

    This qualification is designed for those who are interested in pursuing a career in counselling and want to learn basic counselling skills to support them in their current roles. Learners will be able to establish boundaries, communicate empathic understanding, understand the importance of self-awareness and use listening and responding skills.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x12 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 2 Award in Awareness of Mental Health & Well-Being (Online)

    This qualification will provide learners with the knowledge and skills to work in roles that support mental health and well-being. Learners will also develop an awareness of mental health interventions and support strategies.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x8 weeks

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    CACHE Level 2 Understand Autism Spectrum Condition (In-Person at Strand Road Campus)

    This qualification aims to develop learners understanding autism and the principles in supporting individuals with autism.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x4 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 2 Introduction to Mindfulness and Reducing Anxiety (online)

    This qualification an introduction to children’s mindfulness and reducing anxiety in children. This course will provide parents and practitioners with techniques that they can use with children and young people that will in turn help them to handle negative emotions better, and give them tools that they can use throughout their lives.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x 6 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 3 Award in Using Mindfulness Techniques to Reduce Anxiety in Children and Young People (Online)

    This qualification offers techniques, skills and strategies for reducing anxiety in children and young people using mindfulness. This course will provide parents and practitioners with techniques that they can use with children and young people that will in turn help them to handle negative emotions better and give them tools that they can use throughout their lives.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x6 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 3 Award in Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences and Building Resilience (ACE’s) (Online)

    This qualification was developed to help learners understand Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), their impact throughout an individual’s lifespan and how they might be mitigated or prevented.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x10 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 3 Award in Working with Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs (online)

    This qualification is designed to provide the practitioner with the skills and knowledge required to enable them to work effectively with children and young people with special needs.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x 15 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 2 Award Managing Challenging Behaviour in Children & Young People (online)

    This qualification has been designed to enable the learner to understand the reasons for and effects of challenging behaviour in children and young people, how challenging behaviour may be managed and what support is available. The objectives of the qualification are to enable learners to understand the effects of challenging behaviour in children and young people and how it may be managed, to know how to seek support to deal with challenging behaviour in children and young people and to be able to plan an activity that may minimise challenging behaviour

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x 6 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 4 Certificate in Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE’s and Building Resilience) (Online)

    This qualification is designed for learners who wish to improve their knowledge of early brain development. The aim of this unit is to understand the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on the stress response system of children and the nurturing role of the adult in supporting self-regulation through co-regulation. Aimed at those currently working with health and social care sector, education sector or within the community in a supportive role.

    Entry requirements: At least a Level 3 Qualification in a relevant discipline.

    1 Day per week x20 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 4 Certificate Working with Parents (online)

    This qualification is targeted at Childcare Workers, Community Workers and Family Support Workers. The objective of this qualification is to enhance the skills and knowledge of practitioners by providing support to parents through promoting parent and child play, improving quality through parent support and supporting parents with multiple and complex needs.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Day per week x 20 weeks

  • City & Guilds Level 3 Award in Effective Coaching (online)

    The Effective Coaching qualification will provide learners with the required knowledge, skills and understanding in order to effectively coach others within an organisational context. This is suited for those at all levels who want to develop their coaching knowledge, skills and understanding in order to enhance their ability and confidence in coaching.

    The qualifications are ideal for both new and existing coaches and those working within the area of Human Resources.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x 15 weeks

Eligibility

The Skill Up programme will be accessible to all groups, those in employment and those unemployed. The programme will seek to encourage participants from various socio-economic, academic and non-academic backgrounds. Participants will be able to avail of free courses and accredited qualifications, which will improve their skills, benefitting their employment opportunities and enhancing Northern Ireland’s continuously growing and diversifying economy.

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Applicants to be 18 years or older at point of enrolment.
  • Applicants must have a right to work and undertake training in the UK at the point of application and for the duration of the course and must not be disqualified from doing either by reason of their immigration status. Proof of this will be required to progress application. Prove your right to work to an employer: Overview - GOV.UK
  • Individuals will be available to register in person at provider campus as required.
  • Individual courses may have enhanced eligibility, details of which will be provided by The Provider.

Interested?

Please complete the short enquiry form below or contact Jane on 074 0787 9575 or email jane.fleming@nwrc.ac.uk

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