Courses at Hillcroft
The courses at Hillcroft are taught by adults, for adults. This means that you will be treated with respect and courtesy throughout your stay no matter how long you are here. The length of our courses vary from a weekend, 4 week days or 3-6 months so you can choose the course that suites you best. We specialise in helping adults learn, including courses for women with dyslexia and learning difficulties. Take a look at our latest upcoming courses.
By taking one of our courses we can help you gain the confidence and skills to start your own business, improve your work opportunities or even go on to University.
The secluded woodland retreat that is Hillcroft College is only 15 minutes from Central London, so what are you waiting for? Either give us a call on the number above, or use our handy enquiry form, and come and Stay and Study™ at Hillcroft National Residential College for Women - Empowering Women Through Education.
Gateway Mixed
The next step on your road to achievement if you left school with few grades then this course will move you forward and help you achieve your level 1 and 2 progressions. It will improve your writing and research skills before moving on to further academic study.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Gateway 1
Your Gateway, to further education and the opportunity to achieve a level 1 progression award. This will allow you to move on to Gateway 2 and 3 before moving onto Access which takes you onto University, you can go as far as you choose. This is the first level for those who left School with no exams and want to restart their educational path.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Gateway 2
The next step on your road to achievement if you left school with few grades then this course will move you forward and help you achieve your level 2 progressions. It will improve your writing and research skills before moving on to further academic study.
11 January 2010 to 2 July 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Access 2 - Fast Track
This intensive 10 month residential course, allows you to focus your talents, raise your standard and bring to you the opportunity to gain access to university. It is designed to bridge the gap for those with GCSE but did not continue with their studies, so if that's you and you want to move forward into Academic study, then this course will help you make tracks to a successful future. There are 2 start options to get you through.
Fast track: If you are committed and focused it is possible to complete your study over two terms.
Pace It: If you are still committed but feel you would like to take a little more time, then we have structured this option over 3 terms. What ever your choice we can help you make it happen!
The Access Diploma covers 4 mandatory areas: Essay writing; Finding and Reading Information; Examination Skills, Preparation and Technique; Research Project. Further additional areas: are English, Citizenship, History, ICT, Law, Literature, Maths, Politics, Psychology, Social Policy, and Visual Studies.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Access 1 - Pace It
This intensive 10 month residential course, allows you to focus your talents, raise your standard and bring to you the opportunity to gain access to university. It is designed to bridge the gap for those with GCSE but did not continue with their studies, so if that's you and you want to move forward into Academic study, then this course will help you make tracks to a successful future. There are 2 start options to get you through.
Fast track: If you are committed and focused it is possible to complete your study over two terms.
Pace It: If you are still committed but feel you would like to take a little more time, then we have structured this option over 3 terms. What ever your choice we can help you make it happen!
The Access Diploma covers 4 mandatory areas: Essay writing; Finding and Reading Information; Examination Skills, Preparation and Technique; Research Project. Further additional areas: are English, Citizenship, History, ICT, Law, Literature, Maths, Politics, Psychology, Social Policy, and Visual Studies.
20 September 2010 to 8 July 2011
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Dyslexia Strategies: Spelling
This course is an opportunity for you to share experiences of dyslexia with other women. You will learn more about the use of spelling strategies in everyday life, use multisensory activities to learn spellings, understand your learning style and choose the spelling activities that match your individual needs.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Film Making: Documentary
During this course you will watch and examine several documentaries. As part of a team you will learn how to develop and research an idea, interview on camera and plan and shoot a short documentary. Finally you will edit your film using transitions and special effects.During this week you'll make a documentary alongside other students. You will work towards an OCN Level Two in Video Post Production.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Photoshop
Have you moderate computer skills or completed the Digital Photography courses and who want to find out more about manipulating digital images using PhotoShop. Then this course is ideal for you. You will find out about the impact Photoshop has had on the medium of photography. .
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Digital Photography: Advanced
This course is aimed towards women who have completed the Introduction to Digital Photography course and want to find out more about advanced shooting and picture editing methods.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Powerpoint
For those of you who want to learn more about how to make great presentations then this 3 day course will help you put sparkle into your work. The course focuses on planning and developing a computerised presentation containing text, images, colour, animation and sound, so what are you waiting for put the polish into your presentation.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Internet & E-Mail
Do you find the internet confusing or struggling to use email, then look no further as this course will get you up and running in know time. Discover how easy it is to use the Internet and e-mail and start communicating and surfing to-day.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Word Processing: Advanced
If you want to build on the skills introduced during the Word Processing introductory course then this will take you to the next level. You will study the advanced features of Microsoft Word, making you more competent and confident with your skills.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Numeracy Essentials Number Basics
Confidently use Numeracy vocabulary Carry out the four operations (+ - x ö) efficiently Use estimation, rounding and calculators effectively Test and develop strategies which improve confidence and speed.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Numeracy Essentials Data Plus
Gather, record, present and extract information Read and create a range of Tables and Graphs Read and create a Survey Organise different kinds of information Produce an information-based project..
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
GCSE English
A GCSE qualification in English is a necessary first step on the way to further study. It's also a requirement for many jobs. This course will improve your writing and study skills. It will show you how to approach the exam and set you on your way to achieving the pass mark you want. In just a few weeks you can gain your GCSE in English and make a big difference to your future. This residential course spans across several weeks and week ends.
Dates of the course:
25-Sept to 27 Sept 09 16-Oct-09 to 18-Oct-09
26-Oct-09 to 30-Oct-09
20-Nov-10 to 22-Nov-10
11-Dec-10 to 13-Dec-10
15-Jan-10 to 17-Jan-10
05-Feb-10 to 07-Feb-10
15-Feb-10 to 19-Feb-10
19-Mar-10 to 21-Mar-10
12-Apr-10 to 16-Apr-10
07-May-10 to 09-May-10
01-Jun-10 to 04-Jun-10
25 September 2009 to 4 June 2009
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Creative Writing
This introductory course is for women who want explore writing techniques and find their own creative style and forms of expression. You will look at published authors and poets work with women that link issues around identity, sense of belonging, and release of the inner voice, to that of an authentic voice.
This is a great opportunity to consolidate your skills and will find that this course offers the opportunity to build written language skills through autobiographical writing.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
PTTLS ( Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Sector)
Want to inspire others
If you’re considering teaching in the Lifelong Sector and want to know whether it’s right for you, this course will provide the perfect introduction. You’ll find out exactly what the job entails, identify the necessary skills, and learn how to start working towards gaining qualifications. You will need to have a level 2 qualification in English/Literacy. If you do not have one of these qualifications then through the Information, advice and guidance process plus an initial assessment a tutor will advise you what you need to do next to join this course. This course is the first stepping stone to a bright new future in Teaching.
16 August 2010 to 26 August 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Preparing for Work 6: Moving On
This is a series of 6 units which will help you cover all the steps in presenting yourself for work, and understanding how to apply, search and write your way to the job you want. If you are unemployed or returning to work after a gap, then this series of units will enable you to build confidence, look at how to write your CV, understand interview techniques and prepare you for your new career. if you want to get going again then start here first.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Preparing for Work 5: Formalising Your Skills
This is a series of 6 units which will help you cover all the steps in presenting yourself for work, and understanding how to apply, search and write your way to the job you want. If you are unemployed or returning to work after a gap, then this series of units will enable you to build confidence, look at how to write your CV, understand interview techniques and prepare you for your new career. if you want to get going again then start here first.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Preparing for Work 4: Understanding the Workplace
This is a series of 6 units which will help you cover all the steps in presenting yourself for work, and understanding how to apply, search and write your way to the job you want. If you are unemployed or returning to work after a gap, then this series of units will enable you to build confidence, look at how to write your CV, understand interview techniques and prepare you for your new career. if you want to get going again then start here first.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Creative Writing - Get Creative Writing
Have you thought about taking up writing to express yourself, or feel you have a book in you but
don’t know where to start' Then this enjoyable and supportive introduction into creative writing
will get you going and will help you to become more self confident. You will also develop
your written language skills and learn how to express your own authentic voice on the page.
This is a great course for beginners and will help lay the foundations of the writing process.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Starting Points
Where do you want to go
This course is all about you. Where are you now - and where you would like to go next' And what would help you to get there' In a friendly and supportive atmosphere you’ll assess your current study skills and plan your route forward. This is an ideal session for anyone new to study or returning to education. It’s an opportunity to see what’s on offer, to consider what’s suitable, and work with your own coach to decide what’s best for you. At the end you’ll create your own Action Plan and be raring to go.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Skills for Dyslexia
Dyslexia Spelling
This session invites you to share your experience of dyslexia with other women and to lean some new techniques to help you with spelling. You’ll identify your own your learning style and then try out some new spelling strategies, including multi-sensory activities, to find the techniques that best meet your needs.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Esol Summer School
A lively and fun course for people who want to improve their English - fast
This course is for speakers of other languages who want to learn English and build their confidence. It’s suitable for everyone from Beginners to Advanced - You can Join the group that best suits you. During this three-week course you will visit different areas of London and join in discussions and debates with other students. You will learn how to use a computer, a digital camera and IT, and how to make a presentation. You will improve your speaking and comprehension skills - and you will have fun doing it. At the end of the course you will take the English Speaking Board (ESB) Speaking and Listening Test. Plus – There will be an opportunity for some students to work towards the foundation award.
26 July 2010 to 13 August 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Community Volunteers in Events Management
Putting on a show
This course will get you up to speed with the skills you need to work as a volunteer in the area of events management. You’ll learn about action planning, risk assessment and health and safety, teamwork and how to define roles and responsibilities. You’ll learn how to plan, to negotiate and delegate and – that old favourite – how to manage deadlines. You’ll also look at the big picture, exploring the ethical issues that can arise when considering how fundraising events relate to an organisation’s mission and vision.
16 August 2010 to 22 August 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Strengthening Families - Strengthening Communities Part One
Part one of this introduction to the Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities parent education programme is specifically designed to promote some of the factors associated with 'good parenting' (developing close and warm relationships between parents and children; using methods of discipline that support self-discipline in children; fostering self-esteem of children; developing strategies to deal with risky situations; managing anger).
The programme aims to increase parental confidence and help parents achieve positive change in family relationships. It also helps parents strengthen bonds with their children and learn more effective holistic parenting skills.
This introduction will lead you onto the full strengthening families, strengthening communities programme.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Strengthening Families - Strengthening Communities Part Two
Part two of this introduction to the Strengthening Families, Strengthening Communities parent education programme is specifically designed to promote some of the factors associated with 'good parenting' (developing close and warm relationships between parents and children; using methods of discipline that support self-discipline in children; fostering self-esteem of children; developing strategies to deal with risky situations; managing anger).
The programme aims to increase parental confidence and help parents achieve positive change in family relationships. It also helps parents strengthen bonds with their children and learn more effective holistic parenting skills.
This introduction will lead you onto the full strengthening families, strengthening communities programme.
16 August 2010 to 18 August 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Stepping up - Fast Track Career Booster
Had enough of your current work' Want to move your career forward' Make changes and better yourself' Do you want to fast track to a new level in your work life' Then this intensive and dynamic course will put you in the driving seat and enable you to develop your professional and leadership skills fast. During the course you can complete the Certificate in Leadership and Management and have an opportunity to move on to the Diploma. As well as taking part in formal learning activities, you will work on projects with employers and learn the secrets of success from guest speakers from the business community. Those progressing to the diploma will have the opportunity to join the Hillcroft mentor scheme.
26 July 2010 to 27 August 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Starting out as a Teaching Assistant Part 1
Do you want to teach
This course runs over two weeks
NCFE LEVEL 2 AWARD in Developing skills for supporting Teaching, and Learning in schools.
This is an introductory course for people interested in working as a classroom assistant. It’s suitable for you if you’ve already got experience as a classroom volunteer, or if you’re just starting out, If you’re a support worker in a primary school or other learning environment, would like to become one, or eventually become a teacher in a primary, secondary school, then this could be your starting point into the teaching profession. There’s no exam and achievement is based on coursework
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Starting out as a Teaching Assistant Part 2
Do you want to teach'
This course runs over two weeks
NCFE LEVEL 2 AWARD in Developing skills for supporting Teaching, and Learning in schools.
If you want to know whether teaching in the Lifelong Sector is right for you, this course is the perfect introduction. You’ll find out what the job entails, what skills are needed and how to start working towards qualifications.
No Formal qualifications required, however you do need to be competent in writing as there are some assignments that will require these skills.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Preparing to teach in the life long sector - PTTLS
Want to inspire others
If you’re considering teaching in the Lifelong Sector and want to know whether it’s right for you, this course will provide the perfect introduction. You’ll find out exactly what the job entails, identify the necessary skills, and learn how to start working towards gaining qualifications. You will need to have a level 2 qualification in English/Literacy. If you do not have one of these qualifications then through the Information, advice and guidance process plus an initial assessment a tutor will advise you what you need to do next to join this course. This course is the first stepping stone to a bright new future in Teaching.
16 August 2010 to 26 August 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Keeping The Customer Happy - Managing Customer Service
What does your customer want' And what’s the best way to provide it' This session will
teach you about customer care charters and how they’re used to develop best practice
customer service. You’ll learn how to deal with tricky situations and the importance of effective
Communication, how to exceed customer expectations and build repeat business. You’ll identify
the difference between internal and external customers, examine customer service standards
and identify the legal rights of customers.(Institute of Leadership and Management)
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Web Design
An introductory course for beginners
Fancy designing your own website' If you already know the basics of IT, this weekend workshop will encourage you to express your creativity. You will learn all the basics: how to start planning a design, how to link pages, to use key words and add design elements and images. Take this opportunity to get hints and tips from our expert tutors, along with useful feedback and advice on managing your site. Computer access is 24 hours.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Kickstart
Kickstart is the entry point for the Skills for Work programme. If you’re looking to get a qualification, aiming for a promotion, planning a career change, or simply want to pick up some new work skills, this is the place to start. Whether you’re currently in a job, planning to return to work, volunteering, or doing paid work in a community organisation, you’ll benefit from this introductory weekend.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Getting the Right Results - Solving Problems and Making Decisions
Making decisions and solving problems
When it comes to making decisions and sorting out problems a little know-how can make you a lot more efficient. This session will help you get clear on the difference between subjective and objective information. It'll show you how to gather relevant data and explain the importance of providing options. You'll also practice with a variety of decision-making models and tools, and learn review techniques for assessing the outcomes of your problem solving sessions.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Meetings, Meetings, Meetings - Effective Meetins and one to one comunications
Effective meetings and presentation skills
What are meetings for ' and how do you run a good one' Here you'll learn how to choose a meeting structure that is right for your organization: how to plan the meeting, who to invite and what to do when they get there. How to make sure that everyone contributes fully and expectations are met. This session will also look at one-to-one communication.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
How to get the Ideas Flowing - Innovation & Creativity
How to get ideas flowing
In this session you'll find out what gets people thinking creatively. How to motivate a team and how to stimulate innovation. You'll road test a variety of creativity techniques and discuss where and when they might be useful. You'll also learn to recognize the different roles that people take on in thinking teams and learn how to keep commitment to innovation within team.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Developing your skills as a volunteer
Finding the Best Organisation for You
This is for you if you work in the community and voluntary sector and want to take your practice forward. It’s also for anyone who is thinking of becoming a volunteer or taking up a role managing volunteers. You’ll learn everything you need to know about best practice and the commitment involved in volunteering, as well as the critical factors that make for volunteer success. You’ll also find out how to match skills to your organisation’s objectives and how volunteering affects benefits.
18 November 2010 to 20 November 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Doing the Sums
Working with budgets
This session will take you through the whole process of building a budget from identifying the key components (overheads, staffing, marketing, capital costs, resources/equipment etc) to assessing the need for future finance, considering taxation and identifying liabilities. You'll also learn how to manage and review budgets and the links between budgets and delivering services.
11 February 2011 to 13 February 2011
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Keeping the Customer Happy
Managing Customer Service
What does your customer want' And what’s the best way to provide it' This session will teach you about customer care charters and how they’re used to develop best practice customer service. You’ll learn how to deal with tricky situations and the importance of effective communication; how to exceed customer expectations and build repeat business. You’ll identify the difference between internal and external customers, examine customer service standards and identify the legal rights of customers.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Managing Other Peoples Learning
Train the trainer and presentation skills
What’s the difference between education and training' How do you build a learning programme that makes good use of your organisation’s time and budget' In this session you will learn about learning and the different styles that suit different individuals. You’ll be introduced to the elements that make for an effective training experience (Kolb’s learning cycle) and the factors needed to create a positive learning environment.
10 December 2010 to 12 December 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Achievement Through Teams: Team Building and Motivation
Team building and motivation
How to make a team out of bunch of individuals ' that's the challenge facing many new managers. To do it well, it helps to understand that different people like to take on different roles in teams. They also build relationships in different ways and demand different levels of attention and trust. In this session you'll find out how to recognise these individuals, how to build trust, and how to manage expectations to get the very best out of a team.
19 November 2010 to 1 November 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Efficiency and Effectiveness
Organising Planning and Delegating
This course is about making things happen. You’ll look at the differences between efficiency and effectiveness and learn how the goals of individuals and teams connect to an organisation’s objectives. You’ll be introduced to a variety of planning techniques (tasks, work schedules, rotas, timetables) and look at the skills needed to delegate and empower staff to deliver effective outcomes. You’ll learn how to overcome barriers to delegation and practice giving feedback.
7 January 2011 to 9 January 2011
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Getting the best out of people
Performance coaching
Building on the skills developed in Understanding Coaching this is a highly practical unit that develops understanding of both the theory and practice of coaching and mentoring. Delivered through a blend of face-to-face discussions and practice with an emphasis on 'learning by doing', this unit is ideal for those wanting to support others to become highly effective.
15 April 2011 to 17 April 2011
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Successful Collaboration
A Starter Kit of Project Management Skills
This course will take the mystery out of project management. In clear, everyday language it will provide you with a Starter Kit of all the basic skills. Areas covered include: how to participate effectively in team meetings, how to identify the various stakeholders and to recognise problem solving strategies. You’ll also learn how to identify and prepare measurable deliverables and how to put together project documents using standard templates.
21 February 2011 to 23 February 2011
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Understanding Coaching
A starter Kit of Coaching Skills
This session will introduce a variety of coaching skills and techniques. In a workshop setting you’ll practise building trust and empathy and creating relationships based on equality. You’ll learn how to help people focus on the future while acknowledging the past, and how to empower them to challenge issues and move towards a more productive work life. You’ll also explore how coaching tools can be used in different situations and for a variety of purposes.
21 February 2011 to 23 February 2011
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Thinking about change? Setting objectives for change
This session deals with the skills needed to manage plans and goal setting within an organisation or group. How do you ensure the objectives of individuals, teams and organisations come together in a plan that everyone will sign up to' You’ll also learn how to recognise your own favoured planning strategy, to consider its strengths and weakness, and to develop useful alternatives.
8 November 2010 to 10 November 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Managing Change
Planning for change
However big or small your company, a period of change ' or even just the possibility of change - can be very disruptive. It takes careful handling. Here you'll learn a variety of techniques to help you manage the process including understanding the impact on your company culture, creating an effective and appropriate communication strategy, assessing financial impact developing an efficient planning process.
10 November 2010 to 12 November 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Writing reports, Emails and Assignments: Writing for Business
Writing for business
How to get ideas and information down on paper in a way that is simple, clear, appropriate and enjoyable for the intended audience. You'll look at how to choose the best structure for each particular job, how to use data, where to include statistics and what to put in the appendices.
25 March 2011 to 27 March 2011
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Creating a stress free workplace: Dealing with conflict and stress
This session looks at conflict and the stress it causes. First you’ll examine the stages by which conflict builds up. Then you’ll learn which management and work styles increase tension – and which can be used to defuse it. You’ll look at strategies for reducing and resolving conflict. And you’ll look at the stress it can trigger, both in yourself and in others. You’ll learn to recognise the symptoms and behaviours
that indicate stress and the actions you can take to reduce or avoid it.
20 January 2011 to 22 January 2011
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Being a provider of choice
Managing customer service
Designed to help you to understand what customers want, including effective communication and how customer care charters are used to build a customer chain of excellence and provide best practice customer service. You'll learn how to deal effectively with difficult situations, exceed customer expectations, and build repeat business. You'll identify the difference between internal and external customers and test organisations customer service standards and procedures identifying the legal rights of customers.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Be safe at work: Understanding Health and Saftey
Don’t panic. This course is here to help. By the end of it you will
understand what a manager has to do to comply with Health and
Safety regulations. You’ll learn about risk assessment and how
to define a ‘competent person’. You’ll get comfortable with the
paperwork and you’ll learn the best way to communicate H&S
information to the people in your workplace.
17 September 2010 to 19 September 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Understanding an Organisations Culture: Culture, Leadership and Ethics.
In this session you take a close look at how values, ethics and beliefs create the personality of a company and affect its
performance. You’ll learn about the theories that are used to understand the workings of organisations and you’ll apply
them to your own organisation or workplace. You’ll examine leadership and think about how it differs from management.You’ll also learn how to recognisedifferent leadership styles and their impact.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Collecting and Presenting Information
Research skills
In this session you learn different ways of gathering primary and secondary data (and how to distinguish between the two). You'll practice different research techniques and learn how to analyse and compile your data into a powerful and engaging presentation.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Innovation & Creativity
How to get ideas flowing
In this session you'll find out what gets people thinking creatively. How to motivate a team and how to stimulate innovation. You'll road test a variety of creativity techniques and discuss where and when they might be useful. You'll also learn to recognize the different roles that people take on in thinking teams and learn how to keep commitment to innovation within team.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Getting the Right Results- Solving Problems
Making decisions and solving problems
When it comes to making decisions and sorting out problems a little know-how can make you a lot more efficient. This session will help you get clear on the difference between subjective and objective information. It'll show you how to gather relevant data and explain the importance of providing options. You'll also practice with a variety of decision-making models and tools, and learn review techniques for assessing the outcomes of your problem solving sessions.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Meetings, Meetings, Meetings
Effective meetings and presentation skills
What are meetings for ' and how do you run a good one' Here you'll learn how to choose a meeting structure that is right for your organization: how to plan the meeting, who to invite and what to do when they get there. How to make sure that everyone contributes fully and expectations are met. This session will also look at one-to-one communication.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Getting the Best out of People - Performance Coaching
Building on the skills developed in Understanding Coaching this is a highly practical unit that develops understanding of both the theory and practice of coaching and mentoring. Delivered through a blend of face-to-face discussions and practice with an emphasis on 'learning by doing', this unit is ideal for those wanting to support others to become highly effective.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Taking the lid off organisations
How do organisations differ from each other' What drives their policies and determines their day-to-day operations' This session looks at how different types of organisation function, internally and externally. How the role and responsibilities of managers vary and the extent to which stakeholders can have an impact on policy and procedures.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Stepping Up - The Fast Track Career Booster
Had enough of your current work' Want to move your career forward' Make changes and better yourself' Do you want to fast track to a new level in your work life' Then this intensive and dynamic course will put you in the driving seat and enable you to develop your professional and leadership skills fast. During the course you can complete the Certificate in Leadership and Management and have an opportunity to move on to the Diploma. As well as taking part in formal learning activities, you will work on projects with employers and learn the secrets of success from guest speakers from the business community. Those progressing to the diploma will have the opportunity to join the Hillcroft mentor scheme.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Demystifying Diversity, getting the right person for the job, the responsibilities of recruitment
Here you get an overview of the policies and procedures that ensure fairness and diversity
in the workplace – including those dealing with age, sex, race, culture and disability. You’ll take
a detailed look at all aspects of a manager’s responsibility in this area, including how to recruit
and select staff to comply with statutory requirements – and the consequences of non-compliance.
15 October 2010 to 17 October 2010
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Kickstart - Workskills
Kickstart is the entry point for the Skills for Work programme. If you’re looking to get a qualification, aiming for a promotion, planning a career change, or simply want to pick up some new work skills, this is the place to start. Whether you’re currently in a job, planning to return to work, volunteering, or doing paid work in a community organisation, you’ll benefit from this introductory weekend.
To enquire about a course, please click on the date you are interested in.
Access and Gateway
The Access and Gateway programme to Higher Education, is the best choice, if you missed out on education first time round. Each course is made up of: class led sessions, tutorials and independent study, these courses will help put you back on track to a more independent lifestyle, improved career prospects, with many successfully going on to University.
Dyslexia Strategies
Dyslexia should not be a problem for any one especially if you know how to deal with it. If you have, or think you have dyslexia, we can offer you help and advice including an initial interview and a diagnostic assessment, one-to-one learning support, access to specialist software, support with exam arrangements, and a series of courses designed to help you progress.
ESOL
ESOL Courses are designed to help and support those women for whom English is not their first language. ESOL covers: speaking and listening; reading and writing; vocabulary; punctuation and grammar. Using a mixture of taught sessions and external trips, there is plenty of opportunity to practice and develop confidence in both spoken and written English. For those who wish to progress further there is the opportunity to take part in the Cambridge ESOL examinations.
IT and Digital Arts
IT Courses that cover a broad spectrum: For those who are new to IT through to those more confident users, who want to grow and develop their creative skills. From IT for Beginners, basic Web Design, Spreadsheets, to Digital Photography and Film Making, there are lots of activities that can help in work and personnel life.
Literacy and Numeracy
Courses for Women designed to improve confidence in speaking, listening, reading, writing or maths or to gain a GCSE in English. If you would you like to be more confident in speaking, listening, reading, writing or maths, we offer supportive groups in which you can work at improving your skills at your own pace.
Moving Forward
This assessment and guidance programme is designed for those of you who are returning to education and want to explore your options. The course has been especially written for those of you wanting to enrol on courses but who are unsure of their level, goals and aspirations. It will allow you to explore a range of possibilities and have fun with other likeminded women in a peaceful space (We advise all new students to attend Starting Points if possible before joining other courses).
Personal Development
Personal Development courses at Hillcroft are designed to help you understand your personal life situation, the impact of past events, present circumstances and future aspirations to enable you to make more informed choices going forward. There are courses in Parenting Skills, Complementary Health, Creative Writing and more.
Professional Development
Professional Development Courses at Hillcroft are structured to meet the varying needs for those women who want to get back into the workplace, or enhance their skills in order to move forward in their chosen career. From Teaching PTTLS, The Play Award (pre-School), to Volennteering, Coaching, Bookeping and many more
Summer School
It’s a place to learn and explore - to take a break from your everyday routine and spend time in the company of like-minded women. You might want to upgrade your skills or try something totally new. Maybe you feel in need of a confidence boost, or want to get up to speed for university entrance or a promotion at work. Perhaps you’re looking to take the first steps on a new life path but you’re not quite sure where to start. At Hillcroft we’ll help you identify your goals and fulfill your potential. The atmosphere is lively and supportive; our tutors are experienced and knowledgeable. You’ll have 24-hour access to learning resources and there’s on-site childcare so you can bring the children too. And it’s all set in 3 acres of beautiful woodland grounds.
Workskills Toolkit
STEPPING UP - HELP YOUR PEOPLE TAKE THE NEXT STEP - CREATE THE WORK LIFE YOU WANT - The Hillcroft Workskills Kit is a set of residential weekend sessions. Each one deals with a different area of work skills, from understanding health and safety to motivating staff, running a meeting, writing reports and managing workflow. Useful, essential stuff, taught in a friendly environment in the company of like-minded women. There’s on-site childcare too, so you can bring the kids. Whether you’re looking to get a qualification, update your knowledge or learn new skills – the Workskills Kit will provide everything you need to fulfil your potential. At the Kickstart Weekends you can learn about the courses, identify your goals, create a development plan, and take the first step. So what are you waiting for? All courses are accredited by the ILM.
