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3rd March 2006
Baglan IT Centre an ECDL accredited Test Centre

Baglan IT Centre has been an accredited ECDL Test centre for over three years. We are now providing ECDL testing to participating staff members of the Neath Port Talbot authority.

What’s ECDL?

  • The European Computer Driving Licence® (ECDL) is the internationally recognized qualification which enables people to demonstrate their competence in computer skills.
  • ECDL is the fastest growing IT user qualification in over 125 countries.
  • ECDL is designed specifically for those who wish to gain a benchmark qualification in computing to enable them to develop their IT skills and enhance their career prospects.
  • No prior knowledge of IT or computer skills is needed to study ECDL.

What does ECDL mean to me?

Neath Port Talbot will shortly be introducing ECDL to staff members which will have the following benefits:

  • Gives staff competency and confidence across a range of IT user skills.
  • Improves their speed and efficiency at home and at work.
  • ECDL is an internationally recognized qualification, available in over 125 countries.
  • ECDL requires no previous knowledge of computers.
  • Removes the stress and frustration of not being able to use a computer efficiently.
  • It’s a flexible and fun way of learning.

The potential benefits to Neath Port Talbot of a successful ECDL implementation are:

  • Saves time and money through increased staff performance.
  • Dramatically reduces the amount of IT problems reported to the service desk.
  • Increases job satisfaction amongst staff.
  • Increases staff retention.
  • Demonstrates investment in people and aids recruitment.

What's happening to BITC as a result on ECDL Test Centre status?

The centre now gets an annual inspection from the British Computer Society to ensure that the equipment and facilities within the centre meet the accessibility requirements to ensure that all visitors needs are catered for. As a result BITC have committed resources into improving the site, installation of new doors, toilet facilities, ramps and improved lighting to cater for people with varying disabilities.

New signage has been installed, making it easier for visitors to navigate through the centre.  In line with the accessibility theme these signs have in-built Braille for visitors who are visually impaired.

Its not only the infrastructure of the building that needs to be adapted for accessibility but the attitudes of staff towards inclusivity and also drawing on their ideas of what to change.

Improvements to the centre are planned for next financial year to improve the "aesthetic" feel to the building, new front doors, painting and for the first time a sign telling visitors who we are.

Our next ECDL audit is due on 27 March, so watch this space for more feedback.

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