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THC Courses

Motor Vehicle Technology Entry Level

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Daytime
Level: 
Entry Level
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

Your studies will include...

  • Engine operating principles, fuel and exhaust systems, spark and ignition, cooling, lubrication, transmission, wheels and tyres, brakes, steering and suspension
  • Learn safe and correct workshop procedures and how to use specialist tools and equipment
  • English, Maths and ICT

 

Where this course might take me: 
You can progress onto a higher level course, training, apprenticeship or employment.

Cycle Mechanics & Engineering

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Cycle Mechanics & Engineering. Consider a career in this fast paced industry. Maybe you are a bike mechanic already and would like to gain a nationally recognised qualification to validate your skills and experience? We can train you in a dedicated, fully equipped cycle training facility with well experienced, professional staff. In fact, this is the only full time bicycle maintenance course in London!

You will learn:
• Workshop practice and safety standards
• How to remove and replace components including saddles, seat posts, handle bars, brake blocks, wheels, tyres & inner tubes and gear systems
• About wheel building, brake systems, frames and forks, punctures and cleaning • All health and safety requirements



Find out about our next Open Day. Come along and see for yourself the fantastic facilities we have and find out more about the courses we offer!

Technical Skills at THC

 

  Bicycle Maintenance

 

 

Maths for ESOL

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Study Times: 
Part Time
Daytime
Evening
Level: 
Level 1 - Foundation equivalent
Entry Level
Length of course: 
Various
Venue: 
Arbour Square Centre
Other Location
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

We offer a part time Maths for ESOL Courses at levels E2, E3 and full Level 1.  These courses run at our Arbour Square and other sites. For further information please contact our Advice Team on 020 7510 7777 or advice@tower.ac.uk.

If you are unsure what level you need, don't worry, you will be assessed to determine the most suitable course level for you.

 

Days and Times: 
Various

Skills for Life - Literacy and Numeracy for Adults

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Courses


Literacy and Numeracy

Do you worry about not being able to cope with basic sums? Do you not have the confidence to apply for a job? Maybe you struggle to help the kids to do their homework?

A numeracy or literacy course at Tower Hamlets College could remove those fears quickly and effectively. Our range of English and Maths programmes for adult learners are available to all ages and backgrounds and have given hundreds of people the confidence to develop their skills and transform their home and work lives.

We run courses for all abilities and throughout the day and in the evening.  All our courses are part time so that you can fit your study around your life and work.

Our courses are nationally accredited and are available in English, maths and personal development.
 

 

 Adult Students at THC

How to join a course

You must make an appointment for an initial advice session. Advice sessions take place during term time only. The adviser will assess you and find a suitable class for you.

If you’re interested in attending an advice session please call 020 7510 7777.

Courses are offered at the following venues:

Our range of literacy (English) and numeracy (maths) programmes below are for adults who speak English confidently. If your first language is not English you may need to apply for an ESOL course, see our ESOL section.
 

Related Links:

 

 

 

Apprenticeships for Learners

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catering kitchens.jpg

We offer apprenticeships in many areas, including Retail, IT, Business Administration, Health, Customer Service and other areas too! Come and talk to our friendly and experienced team to find out exactly how we can help you learn whilst you earn. We will also be running a Pre-Apprenticeship programme, so if you don’t quite meet the requirements for one of our Apprenticeships, you can get the basic skills you need, and then start on a full Apprenticeship programme. We look forward to hearing from you.

Click here to visit our Employer Services Site for further details about the apprenticeships we currently have on offer.

How do I get started?

Securing an apprenticeship is different from applying for other types of courses. Apprenticeships are real jobs with training, so the process of securing an apprenticeship will be similar to that of obtaining a job. You will need to be selected by an employer and made a job offer (or already be in employment) to begin an apprenticeship.

If you are not currently in work and would like to start an apprenticeship, the college has vacancies which you can apply for.

Applying for an apprenticeship with Tower Hamlets College begins with ascertaining whether you are interested in and meet the requirements of available job vacancies.

Eligibility:

As all the job vacancies are unique, the candidate requirements (eligibility) varies. However, the following will always apply:

You must:
• Have an interest in employment with training and be ready to mange both full time work with training, coursework and exams.
• Have a genuine interest in vocational areas for which Tower Hamlets College offer Apprenticeship opportunities
• Have strong communication skills
• Have a good level of maturity
• Be highly organised and committed

We will have details of available apprenticeship vacancies and the exact employer requirements for interested applicants.

For further information please email us at employerservices@tower.ac.uk.

  Apprenticeships logo
Printable Brochure explaining Apprenticeships »
pdf file

Find out more about Apprenticeships
at www.apprenticeships.org.uk
»

 

What you need to know!

Apprenticeships offer you the opportunity to develop skills and gain qualifications whilst earning, giving you the confidence and communication skills you need in the workplace. Below are the answers to many frequently asked questions...

  • Do I have to pay anything to become an apprentice? No. The Learning and Skills Council covers the cost of training
  • What Apprenticeships are available? There is an Apprenticeship available for almost every type of job. Different colleges deliver different Apprenticeships. Tower Hamlets College specialises in Business Administration, Customer Service and IT User frameworks.
  • How long do Apprenticeships last? Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships last as long as it takes to achieve competence in the job for which you are training. This varies by sector but, in general, Apprenticeships last around eighteen months.
  • What’s involved in the selection process? Getting an Apprenticeship is like getting a job. You will be interviewed and even asked to take tests to see if you’re the right person. So you need to be prepared to sell yourself and convince others that an Apprenticeship is right for you.
  • Do apprentices get paid? All employed apprentices must receive a wage of no less than £95 per week. However, recent research found that apprentices earn an average of £170 net pay per week. The highest paying sector is Electro-technical at £210 per week.
  • What’s the role of Tower Hamlets College?  THC is  responsible for your training. At the start, they will appoint a mentor who will work with your employer to make sure that the training is well planned. Once you’ve begun your Apprenticeship, your mentor will follow your progress and deal with any issues that may arise.
  • What’s the role of the employer? The employer is the most important part of an Apprenticeship. They give you an induction into the company and your role. They also provide on-the-job training and pay your wages. You will have a manager at work who will be responsible for helping you throughout your training
  • I’ve already got a job – can I still do an Apprenticeship?  Yes. If your employer agrees, you can become an apprentice where you work now
  • What time of year can I start? You can apply at any time of year. When you begin the work-based training depends upon the availability of a position at an employer
  • Do I get holidays? Like most other employees, you will be given at least 20 days paid holiday per year as well as bank holidays.

Electrical Installation

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Electrical Installation Switch on your future with a career in electrical installation. We’re building brand new facilities in which to provide the best electrical training in the area. There really is no better time to kick start your future career with nationally recognised qualifications specifically designed for the electrical industry. Are you practical, methodical and a good problem solver with attention to detail? Then this specialised career could be just for you.

Your learning will include:
• About electrical principles and drawings
• The science behind electricity, including topics such as resistance
• The theory of various systems, machines and motors
• Practical techniques, specifications and regulations
• All health and safety requirements



Find out about our next Open Day. Come along and see for yourself the fantastic facilities we have and find out more about the courses we offer!

Technical Skills at THC

 

  Electrical Installation

 

 

ESOL ICT for Pathway to Library Work

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Study Times: 
Part Time
Daytime
Level: 
Entry Level
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Arbour Square Centre
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

We offer an ESOL - ICT for Pathway to Library Work Course at level E3 at our Arbour Square site. For further information please contact our Advice Team on 020 7510 7777 or advice@tower.ac.uk.

If you are unsure what level you need, don't worry, you will be assessed to determine the most suitable course level for you.

 

Days and Times: 
Fridays 9.30-12.00

Health and Social Care (ESOL pathway)

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Daytime
Level: 
Level 1 - Foundation equivalent
Entry Level
Length of course: 
One year
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Other Location
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

If English is your second language and you would like to improve your English, Maths and computing skills alongside learning about working in Health and Social Care, this may be the course for you.

You will have the chance to gain a range of entry level qualifications on this course.

Who this course is for: 
Students who want a job in health and social care but who also need to improve their English.

Learndirect Courses

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Would you like the opportunity to learn a new skill or gain a new qualification?

Well, now you can with… Learndirect And most courses are absolutely free!

Learndirect is an innovative on-line learning system that lets you take things at your own pace. Log on to your course at work, college or in our learning centre, or you can even study at home! We have books and materials so you can work off-line if you prefer. Learndirect has been designed to fit around your lifestyle and our helpful tutors are always on hand to make sure you reach your goals.

Improve your job chances with national and international qualifications!

 
Learndirectat THC offers courses in Maths, English and IT. We can help you work towards qualifications such as ITQ and the National Tests in Numeracy and Literacy (which requires the equivalent skill set as a GCSE in Maths and/or English).

There are taster courses available for those of you who aren't familiar with computers and friendly staff to help you navigate your way.

You don't need any experience or prior qualifications; there will always be someone available throughout your learning to offer support.

Visit the Learndirect website www.learndirect.co.uk (opens in new window)

How Do I get Started?

For more information call: 020 7510 7777
email us at: advice@tower.ac.uk

   
   

 

Construction Skills

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It’s a great time to get into construction. The industry will employ a third of a million by 2015. You don’t need to look far to find three huge construction projects on your doorstep – the Olympics, Crossrail and an enormous new retail park in Stratford. Be part of this exciting industry and gain skills that will open new doors to jobs and further training. We are currently building brand new facilities at our Poplar site for these construction courses. You can either specialise in Brick Laying, Painting and Decorating, Carpentry or Plumbing, or choose a combined option in Construction Skills. Gain nationally recognised qualifications that give you a head start in this remarkable and rewarding industry.

Courses are available at Entry to Level 2.



Find out about our next Open Day. Come along and see for yourself the fantastic facilities we have and find out more about the courses we offer!

Technical Skills at THC

 

  construction

 

 

ESOL - Communicate with Confidence

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Study Times: 
Part Time
Daytime
Level: 
Level 1 - Foundation equivalent
Entry Level
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Arbour Square Centre
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

We offer a a more advanced ESOL Courses called "Communicate with Confidence" at levels E3 and full level 1.  It runs at our Arbour Square site. Different days and times are available. For further information please contact our Advice Team on 020 7510 7777 or advice@tower.ac.uk.

If you are unsure what level you need, don't worry, you will be assessed to determine the most suitable course level for you.

 

Days and Times: 
Various

English - Saturdays

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Study Times: 
Part Time
Daytime
Weekend
Level: 
Entry Level
Level 1 - Foundation equivalent
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Other Location
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

Want to improve your English to help you do your job without taking time off work to study?  Well, now you can!

This is a one year course  for people who speak English as their second language and who want to improve their writing, reading and speaking skills.  There is an exam at the end of the course.  You'll work hard but have fun too.  The course is at Linc Community Centre, Devons Road, Bow.  Devons Road DLR or Bow Road District Line.

Fee reduction for students on means tested benefits.

Days and Times: 
Saturdays 10am to 1pm with a short workshop or tutorial after the session
Who this course is for: 
Second language speaker who want to improve their reading, writing and speaking.
Where this course might take me: 
A vocational course or ESOL course at L1 or L2

ESOL - English for Speakers of Other Languages

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ESOL courses are for people whose first language is not English. The courses aim to improve your speaking, reading and writing of English. We have courses for every level of ESOL from beginners to Level 2 (equivalent to GCSE or Cambridge Advanced level).

If you would like to speak to someone about our ESOL Courses please contact our Advice Team  for further information on 020 7510 7777 or advice@tower.ac.uk.

When and where?

Most of our courses have two or three 2.5 hour sessions a week and run in the morning, afternoon or evening from Monday to Saturday. Our courses run at:

  • Arbour Square Centre, Arbour Square E1 0PT
  • Bethnal Green Centre, 229 Bethnal Green Road E2 6AB
  • Whitechapel Idea Store, 321 Whitechapel Rd E1 1BU
  • Chrisp Street idea Store, 1 Vesey Path, East India Dock Rd E14 6BT
  • Around 35 local centres across the borough.

Joining a class

If you would like to join a class, please call 020 7510 7777 or drop in at our Arbour Square or Poplar sites for details of where to go and what time. We will assess your level and discuss which course would be suitable for you.

ESOL courses are very popular so you may need to wait to make an appointment. If you have a high level of English already, you are more likely to find a place.

Enrolling

When you enrol on a course you need to bring with you:

  • Evidence of your status in the UK - eg your passport or Home Office letter
  • Evidence of your current income (ie within the last 3 months) if you are claiming concessions - your wage slips, benefit letter or National Asylum Support Service (NASS) letter.

Cost of Courses

We offer many free ESOL Courses please contact  our Advice Team for further information on 020 7510 7777 or email advice@tower.ac.uk.

Are you an Asylum Seeker or Refugee?

Free ESOL courses are available for Asylum Seekers and Refugees.

Are you in the UK on a Settlement, Spouse or Dependant Visa?

We offer free ESOL courses for Third-Country Nationals who have been in the UK five years or less.  Contact us if you would like help with:

  • Improving your English
  • Taking the "Life in the UK" Test
  • Finding work or developing your career
 

ESOL at THC

All of our courses include citizenship material and we also have courses which include work skills, job placements and support in finding work.

ESOL Brochure

 

 
     
     
     

 

AttachmentSize
Bengali638.66 KB
English638.65 KB
Lithuanian637.4 KB
Polish638.5 KB
Portuguese644.25 KB
Somali644.25 KB

Construction Multiskills Award Entry Level

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Study Times: 
Full Time
Level: 
Entry Level
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Poplar Centre
Age Group: 
16-19 Year Olds

You can gain skills in trade areas that include carpentry and joinery, painting and decorating, plumbing, brickwork, tiling and electrical. Progression is to Level 1 Multiskills where you can focus on your chosen trade. Future employment opportunities include work within any industry which involves construction tasks including building site work, where you may be part of the construction of a new building, a road system, an airport, a hospital, even an architectural wonder.

Due care and consideration will be taken for applications from students with sight or hearing impairments, epilepsy or other issues, such as asthma, which may cause concern within the industry under Health and Safety Regulations. Alternative course/career guidance will be offered.

On the level
Days and Times: 
Full time
Who this course is for: 
Those new to construction, but who want to gain skills in a trade.
Where this course might take me: 
On to a Level 1 course in Multiskills or a particular trade area.

E1,E2 and E3 Literacy

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Study Times: 
Part Time
Level: 
Entry Level
Length of course: 
1 year
Venue: 
Arbour Square Centre
Other Location
Age Group: 
Over 19 - Adult

Full Course details are not available as yet for this course. Please contact our Advice Team on 020 7510 7777 or Advice@tower.ac.uk for further information or pop in and see us. Alternatively revisit this page at a later date. Thanks.

Days and Times: 
Various options