Essential Computer Skills (Certificate I in Skills for Vocational Pathways) is an entry level course providing core computer skills. It will introduce students to a range of Windows and other software skills including file management, MS Word, MS Excel, Internet, Email and Zoom to give the student essential IT skills to use in the workplace or in further study. The skills included will support a wide range of industry occupations. (Please note this course is not suitable for Apple Mac Users.)

This entry level course could be ideal for anyone needing to learn or refresh a range of computer skills before returning to the workforce.

Learn new skills including

• How to operate a personal computer using Windows
• Store and transfer your files and photos using the PC, USB and smartphone
• How to use the internet and email securely
• Word – creating and basic formatting of documents
• Excel – creating basic spreadsheets using formulas
• Zoom

Employment opportunities with this qualification include:

• Administrative assistant
• Receptionist
• Clerk
• Data Entry Operator

Course outcomes include

• Completion of a nationally recognised industry qualification

Course entry requirements

• Some basic keyboard and mouse skills
• Access to a PC computer with MS Office (not suitable for MAC users)
• Telephone or personal meeting with our Training Coordinator who will provide course information and answer your questions to ensure this is the right course for you before you enrol.
• Unique Student Identifer (see information below).
• Completion of an NBMC English language, literacy and numeracy quiz to determine that you have appropriate skills to successfully complete the course.

What you need to know about this course

• The College offers part time day or evening courses. See below for class options.
• Attendance is at a College Campus.
• The course is delivered using a blended learning model which includes timetabled classroom attendance and weekly flexible directed self study hours.
• Students will need to allow regular weekly hours (approx 15) throughout the course for directed self study for the completion of learning and assessment tasks. Students will require access to a computer outside class with Windows and Microsoft Office software installed – if you do not have a PC at home, access to a computer at our Narrabeen/Brookvale Campus is available. Please check with the admin office as to available hours.
• There are no classes during school holidays.
• The course is delivered in the College’s fully equipped training room using Windows computers by our qualified and industry experienced trainer/assessor.
• 11 units of competency must be successfully completed to achieve this qualification. These are listed in the pop up list located above the class options below.
• A timetable will be provided on course commencement.
• On Campus study during COVID-19 – please click here to learn about the additional safety measures being taken at College Campuses to help protect everyone on site.

Are there Assessments?

• Competency based assessment of each unit of competency in the course will be conducted through a mix of assessment methods including theory and practical tasks.
• You will receive clear assessment instructions and an opportunity will be provided for resubmission of assessments if required.

Pathway to Further Training

The Certificate I in Skills for Vocational Pathways covers fundamental computer skills. These skills can be used to study in a range of different qualification areas.

Eligibility for Subsided Training under the Smart & Skilled Training Program

This training is subsidised by the NSW Government under the Smart & Skilled Training Program. To be eligible you must be

• an Australian Citizen/Perm Resident/NZ citizen/humanitarian visa holder
• aged 15 years or older, and
• live or work in New South Wales, and
• no longer be at school or equivalent

Course cost

For those meeting the above eligibility criteria for the NSW Smart & Skilled program, this course is now fee free. Please complete the application process to enrol. If not eligible for a subsidised position, please contact the College for course cost.

College Trainers

All NBMC Trainers/Assessors are current industry professionals with the required qualifications to deliver and assess this course. Trainers draw upon and share their own experiences in the industry to ensure that the training delivered to you is current and relevant. For information about individual trainers, please click on the trainer name in the class details below for the trainer’s bio.

Student Support

Please advise our Training Coordinator at your initial telephone or personal meeting if you require additional support in your learning. This will allow a support plan to be devised before you commence your course.

Why study at Northern Beaches & Mosman College?

Enjoy smaller class sizes, a personalised relationship with your trainer, face-to face teaching sessions and qualifications that include real life work experience, when you choose to study at the three-campus Northern Beaches & Mosman College (NBMC).

With campuses available across the Northern Beaches and Lower North Shore in Brookvale and Mosman, the College offers increasing numbers of accredited and vocational qualifications. Students include those looking to upskill, to change career direction and school leavers keen to step onto a career pathway. Courses on offer can lead directly to employment and/or go towards future learning opportunities.

National Recognition

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) - is a process of acknowledging previously completed qualifications, skills, knowledge or experience relevant to your course. This may reduce the amount of learning required, reduce your course fees and allow you to achieve your qualification faster. Any student who believes they may be eligible for RPL should discuss this with our Training Coordinator on enrolment.

Unique Student Identifier (USI)

From 1 January 2015 it is a requirement of the Federal Government that all students undertaking nationally recognised training will need to obtain a Unique Student Identifier (USI). This involves an easy online application. See USI Fact Sheet for information on how to apply for a USI go to the Unique Student Identifier (USI) Website for additional information.

Please ensure when completing your enrolment information, that the details relating to your name are identical to those on the identification evidence (eg passport or driver’s licence) used when creating your USI, eg no abbreviations or nicknames should be used. Once created, it is important that you keep a record of your USI and access to your accredited training records in a safe place. You will need this information for any future enrolments into accredited training in Australia. Please contact the College on 9970 1000 if you require assistance.

To Enrol or for Further Information

• Commence the enrolment process by completing the application below.
• Contact Mairead O’Leary on 9970 1001 or email mairead@nbmc.nsw.edu.au for further information.