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NWRC are now recruiting individuals to complete courses funded via SKILL UP.

This programme focuses on supporting people in taking part in learning to improve the skills of the local workforce with courses available through local Further and Higher Education Providers.

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 SKILL UP.

See our full list of courses below.

Df E Irish skill up extended RGB June24
  • BIM Level 3 Award in 3D Modelling for Architecture

    This qualification will provide learners with a working understanding of the practice of 3D modelling for building information modelling in the construction sector.

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

    1 Evening per week x 12 weeks

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    OCN Level 2 Award in Digital Fabrication

    This qualification is designed to promote and develop the use of digital fabrication including 3D printing. Individuals with an interest in the application of digital fabrication in a range of areas from creative arts through to manufacturing will find the course valuable.

    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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    Level 2 in Arduino Microcontrollers

    This qualification aims to build on foundational knowledge and skills acquired in introductory courses, advancing participants' expertise in programming, hardware interfacing, and embedded systems. This course is designed for engineers with basic understanding of Arduino and seeks to deepen their practical and theoretical knowledge, enabling them to undertake complex projects and innovate in their respective fields.

    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 Level 3 Award in Digital Prototype Design & Manufacture

    This qualification is designed to enable new learners and existing engineers and technicians to upskill or reskill in the development of prototypes and short run manufactures using cutting-edge computer aided design software and 3D printing and/or CNC (Computer Numerical Control) manufacturing processes.

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

    1 Evening per week x 12 weeks

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

    1 Evening per week x 14 weeks

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    CACHE Level 2 Diploma for Children’s Care, Learning and Development (with placement)

    This qualification is designed to help learners build the knowledge and skills needed when working with children. It is suitable for those who wish to work or are working in a supervised role in children’s care, learning and development in Northern Ireland. This Level 2 Diploma will guide and assess development of knowledge and skills relating to children’s care, learning and development (early learning and childcare, and the learning development and support services). This qualification also requires learners to complete a 350–400-hour work placement.

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

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

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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

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

    The objectives of this 10 week course is to enable learners to 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 x 10 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 x 6 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 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

  • Level 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture Skills

    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 Full Day per week x 24 weeks

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    IMI Level 4 Electric Vehicle

    This qualification has been developed in close liaison with ATU. This qualification contains the knowledge of the dangers surrounding repairs carried out to live high voltage vehicle electrical components and systems. The purpose and aim of this qualification is to provide technicians working on electric/ hybrid vehicles with the required level of skills and knowledge to carry out repairs on live high voltage vehicle electrical components and systems safely.

    Entry requirements: Learners must have Level 2 and Level 3 Electric Vehicle qualifications and be at least 18 years of age.

    1 Evening per week x 15 weeks

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    Green Skills Sustainability 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 x 5 weeks

  • 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 x 10 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 x 8 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 2 Diploma in Health & Social Care

    This qualification will provide learners with a broad overview of all aspects of working in the health and social care sector. Work placement is mandatory unless you already work within the sector in an appropriate setting.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age. An interview with also be required for course entry.

    1 Day per week x 24 weeks

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    CPCAB Level 2 Award in Introduction to Counselling Skills

    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 x 12 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 2 Award in the Principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

    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 x 6 weeks

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    OCN NI Level 5 Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Theory & Practice

    This qualification is aimed at candidates who are already working as counselling practitioners and who want to develop their skills in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and use these skills as an integral part of their work. Candidates are expected to be working with clients within a professional framework in order to apply their learning on this course and to meet the assessment requirements.

    Entry requirements: There are no formal restrictions on entry however learners must be at least 18 years of age and working with clients within a professional framework.

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

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    OCN NI Level 2 Supporting Individuals in the Use of Assistive Technologies (online)

    This qualification will provide learners with an understanding of the effectiveness of current assistive technology available to support individuals as well as being able to review the effectiveness of the use of assistive technology to meet identified outcomes.

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

    1 Evening per week x 10 weeks

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    Men into Health Care (pathway to Nursing) Programme

    This 12-week bespoke ‘Men Into Healthcare’ programme is specifically targeted at men who are looking to gain employment within the health and social care sector. Participants in this programme will earn a Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care, equipping them with the essential skills and qualifications needed to enter this area of employment. The programme will incorporate masterclasses from health care professionals, employer sessions and career and interview workshops in preparation to enhance employability of participants. Caring and travel costs are included in this programme.

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

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    Level 2 Award in Preventing and Tackling Domestic Abuse (online)

    This qualification is aimed at new workers and volunteers in the domestic abuse sector and workers in other disciplines who wish to become more knowledgeable and competent in this area of work.

    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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    CACHE Level 2 Understand Autism Spectrum Condition

    This 4 week course 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 x 4 weeks

  • OCN NI Level 3 Certificate in Tour Guiding

    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)

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    City & Guilds Level 2 in Professional Cookery

    This qualification will provide students with food preparation and cooking skills, with a view to employment in the hospitality industry. Learners will study theoretical aspects of the subject and apply them to practical tasks.

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

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

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    Level 2 in Professional Bakery (Food Production specialising in breads, pastry and desserts)

    This qualification is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive foundation in professional baking, covering essential topics such as bread making, pastry production, and desserts.

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

    1 Evening per week x 24 weeks*

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    Level 2 Award in Barista Skills

    This course will suit you if you want to learn barista skills and gain a qualification in this exciting area. It is aimed at those who are currently working or seeking employment in a hospitality environment.

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

    1 Evening per week x 7 weeks

  • Level 4 Software Diploma

    This qualification will provide learners with a range of skills and techniques that will enable them to create a comprehensive testing strategy.

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

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

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    Level 4 Kickstart IT

    This course is designed for individuals who want to kickstart their career in software testing and within the IT sector. This qualification will provide students with an IT industry recognised qualification and training, including a 2 week work placement where they can apply their learnings in a real-world work environment, giving them a competitive edge over others in the tech job market.

    Entry requirements: Applicants must have at least a Level Four or higher qualification ideally within a STEM area. Consideration will also be given to applicants with strong A Level/Level three grades particularly in IT. Additional consideration may be given to applicants with no formal accreditation or credit but have evidence of strong IT knowledge. The selection process for the course is initially by application form, with short listed candidates progressing to an aptitude test to assess logical and mathematical skills and finally an interview with representatives from NWRC.

    3 Days per week x 24 weeks* (subject to timetabling)

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    Level 2 Award in Cybersecurity (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

  • Level 3 AI for industry (online)

    This qualification will enable learners to develop an understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and its applications. The objectives of this course are to enable the learner to understand the history, benefits, challenges and future scope of AI from an industry applications perspective.

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

    1 Evening per week x 16 weeks

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    Level 2 Award in International Trade, Customs and Logistics (online)

    This qualification will enable learners to develop an understanding of the complexities of international trade, customs regulations, and logistics operations. The course explores and explains processes and procedures involved with importing and exporting goods. The course is suitable for those who are new to the industry or wishing to move into logistics.

    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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    Level 3 Customs Practitioner Course (online)

    This qualification will enable learners to have a comprehensive understanding of the core compliance areas; classification, origin, valuation, and import and export declaration procedures relevant to Northern Ireland. This course is ideal for those currently working or seeking employment in any industry in Northern Ireland where goods are imported or exported.

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

    1 Evening per week x 7 weeks

Eligibility

The Skill Up Fund programme will be accessible to all groups, those in employment and those unemployed. 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.

To apply you must be;

  • Over 18 years of age
  • Eligible to work in Northern Ireland
  • ‘Settled’ in Northern Ireland and has been ordinarily resident in the UK for at least three years; or is a person who has indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK.

Find out More

If you are interested in any of the courses offered on this page, please complete our short enquiry form below, or if you would prefer to speak to someone directly, contact Jane on 074 0787 9575 or email jane.fleming@nwrc.ac.uk

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