Introduction to Digital Skills

The purpose of the course is to help learners to gain and develop essential digital and data skills by using a range of digital devices, software applications and tools safely and securely. Nowadays these core IT and data skills are crucial for further learning, life and work. The course also encourages learners to develop self-management skills, social intelligence and innovation. It is suitable for all learners.

The course will be delivered on Mondays, 10:00 - 13:00 until 24 March 2025.

What will be covered?

• Foundations of MS Excel
• SQA Data Skills SCQF Level 3.

On completion of this course, participants will be able to move onto a range of courses, including:

• Developing Your Data Skills (SQA Data Skills SCQF 4)
• Access to Industry IT course, potentially leading to achieving ICT Core Skills (SCQF 4/5)

Prior to the course start all participants will be required to register for Access to Industry’s Access Data programme, which will give them access to a dedicated Access Data caseworker to help with any issues they may face in or out of the course. Our caseworkers also provide wider employability support (e.g. CV creation and tailoring, help with job applications and writing supporting statements, interview preparation, and more). Access to Industry can provide Day Saver tickets to all students commuting to the course using Lothian Buses.

Access Data is for those living in Edinburgh who are unemployed or on a low income, want to move into education or employment that is related to IT or Data, and belong to at least one of the following groups:

• have a disability or learning difficulty,
• are a woman,
• are an Armed Forces veteran,
• are from a minority ethnic background,
• have parental responsibilities.

Entry requirements: basic use of IT (turning a PC on/off; using an internet browser such as Chrome, Edge or other; accessing and opening folders & files; sending and receiving emails). Some basic familiarity with any of the MS Office software (including old versions) would be advantageous but is not required. Our tutors are dedicated to making the course as accessible as possible for students whose first language is not English. However, all participants should be comfortable studying in English with no additional language support. No formal certification is required but language skills will be assessed during an interview. If you are unsure whether you are eligible, please contact Magda Gucman at MagdaGucman@accesstoindustry.co.uk or 07809 555 709 for further information.

To apply, please complete our online application form(this will open in a new window). Successful applicants will be invited to interviews. As a part of our interview process, we will support applicants in filling out an additional online application form provided by Edinburgh College.

Access Data courses are delivered in co-operation with Data Education in Colleges and funded as part of the Data Skills Gateway programme.