Success at New Station Learning Point - 1 April 2004

An innovative new learning centre at a Suffolk railway station was praised recently by one of its successful customers.

The Learning Point @ Ipswich Station offers a range of on-line computer-based training courses from renowned providers such as learndirect and the Suffolk Institute of Technology. Conveniently located on platform two, where the mainline trains to London depart, the Learning Point is becoming increasingly popular with occasional passers-by, regular commuters and staff of the station itself.

One such customer is John Manning, 25, from Ipswich. When he recently received an invitation to a job interview, John was worried that his IT skills might let him down. On visiting the Learning Point for advice, he found he could enrol immediately on a learndirect course which covered the essentials of computer use and keyboard skills.

John spent two full days at the Learning Point working on his course, under the helpful supervision of the Learning Point staff. “The great thing about on-line courses such as learndirect is that you can work independently at a time and pace that suits you,” John recalls. “In my case, I desperately needed an intensive ‘crash course’, and that is exactly what I got! I was really surprised that I could walk in and get started straight away. The staff at the Learning Point identified my needs quickly, found the ideal course for me, and encouraged me to work through all the exercises. They even had to force me away from the computer for breaks and food,” he laughs.

A few days later, John attended his interview, confident in his newly gained IT skills, and was offered the job. He now works for one of the big insurance companies in Ipswich.

David Bowers, Associate Dean (Learning Resources), Suffolk College, congratulated John on his success: “Short, focused courses which can be accessed on-line at a time and location to suit the individual learner are an increasingly important component of the College’s provision,” he said. “John’s commitment and ultimate success provides a fine example of the benefits of technology-enabled ‘just-in-time’ learning.”

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Dr Peter Funnell, Assistant Principal (Learning Development), Suffolk College, agreed: “Our partnership with Anglia Railways and the Suffolk Development Agency in establishing the Learning Point @ Ipswich Station demonstrates the commitment of Suffolk College to make learning opportunities accessible to the community at large. A railway station is a novel location for an education provider, but the excitement and enthusiasm it is generating underlines the concept of the learning society.”

The Learning Point @ Ipswich Station is open 7.00am to 7.00pm Mondays to Fridays, and 10.00am to 1.00pm Saturdays. Simply drop in when passing or waiting for your next train, or phone (01473) 693311 for further information.

ENDS

NOTES FOR EDITORS

For further information please contact:

David Bowers, Associate Dean (Learning Resources)

Tel: 01473 296339

Email: david.bowers@suffolk.ac.uk

Issued by Promotions, 1 April 2004.