Suffolk tops the league for e-learning - 4 February 2005

Figures released by Ufi, the organisation responsible for national e-learning network learndirect, show that Suffolk leads the country when it comes to meeting learndirect targets for the take-up of on-line learning.

At a meeting for learndirect centre managers from across Suffolk, held this week at the Suffolk Institute of Technology in Ipswich, hub manager Lucy Brockway-Smith celebrated the success. “Our learndirect centres not only attract and enrol significant numbers of learners,” she said, “they also respond to key government priorities. For example through learndirect we are encouraging people to get qualifications at GCSE level and enabling them to tackle their literacy and numeracy needs. We are also working with local small businesses to provide training which improves the skills of the local workforce. We are delighted that Suffolk is the overall best performing area in the country.”

David Bowers, Associate Dean for Learning Resources at Suffolk College, welcomed the news. “Suffolk College, through the Suffolk Institute of Technology, maintains a network of learndirect centres in Ipswich, Hadleigh and Framlingham, and we are pleased to have contributed to Suffolk’s overall performance,” he said. “The benefits to individuals and businesses of flexible on-line learning are becoming increasingly recognised. You can enrol at any time, and follow the course at a time and place that meets your needs. This is very attractive to those who wish to update their skills or learn new ones while balancing the demands of work or a family.”

The learndirect catalogue includes over 500 courses which cover a range of subjects including IT skills at all levels from beginner to advanced, literacy and numeracy and business and management. For further details contact the Essex and Suffolk Learning Hub on (01206) 710943.

ENDS

Lucy Brockway-Smith, Chief Executive of the Essex & Suffolk Learning Hub:

"Suffolk is the best performing area in the county."

David Bowers, Associate Dean for Learning Resources, Suffolk College:

"Pleased to have contributed to Suffolk's overall performance."

learndirect Centre Managers from Essex and Suffolk at the Suffolk Institute of Technology.

NOTES FOR EDITORS

The Suffolk Institute of Technology maintains a growing network of learning centres designed to take innovative and flexible learning opportunities to individuals and businesses across the county. For further information contact the SIT on (01473) 253167.

For further information please contact:

David Bowers, Associate Dean for Learning Resources

Tel: 01473 296339

Email: davidbowers@suffolk.ac.uk

or

Tracey Bailey, Promotions & Information Centre Manager

Tel: 01473 296520

Email: traceybailey@suffolk.ac.uk

Issued by Promotions

4 February 2005