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DEPARTMENT FOR EMPLOYMENT AND LEARNING

Empey urges workforce to learn while they earn

Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, has called on employees throughout Northern Ireland to embrace learning in the workplace.

Speaking on National Learning at Work Day on 20 May, which forms part of Adult Learners Week, Sir Reg said: “This year it is even more important than ever that workplaces and individuals maintain and brush up their skills levels in order to adapt and thrive in the economic downturn.

"We know that workplace learning has a unique impact according to research carried out by the University of London’s Institute of Education. The courses successfully reach adults who do not participate in other formal learning and makes it more likely that they will continue learning in later years. Learning programmes initiated by, and within, workplaces are the ones that survive long term and, for individuals, lead to greater work and personal satisfaction."

In Northern Ireland, the Union Learning Fund has been very successful in engaging adults in workplace learning, especially Essential Skills training in literacy, numeracy and ICT. One such learner is Norman Gray, who left school at 15 with few qualifications and was forced to work in a succession of low paid, low skilled jobs before joining the Merchant Navy. Norman explains: "When my children were growing up and they asked me questions about their homework, I bluffed my way. It was more of a guessing game on my part."

In 2004 Norman began working at Belfast City Hospital and, through his union, NIPSA, embarked on a Health and Safety Training Course. He now holds the post of Union Learning Representative and Health and Safety Officer within his branch, encouraging other workers to take up training opportunities. However, Norman realised that in order to carry out his job and both his roles within the Union, he needed to develop his ICT skills. He said: "I had to ask some of the staff to type my handwritten notes as I had no idea how to work a computer."

Again with the help of his Union, Norman successfully completed his Essential Skills Level 1 in ICT last year and is currently studying for his Level 2. The courses have given him the confidence to aim higher and he now plans to enrol on a Diploma in Health and Safety and believes that his new ICT qualifications will help him achieve his goal.

The Minister said: "The challenges that faced Norman are similar to those found in many workplaces across Northern Ireland. However, his story exemplifies the way forward for those who wish to improve their skills. Through a commitment to work-based learning, individuals and businesses can reap the rewards of increased efficiency and personal development."

Contact   cwu.ni.eastbranch@hotmail.co.uk