Learning & Development
The most successful staff in LUU take full advantage of the learning & development opportunities available to them. In these pages you will find out how you can make the most of your time at LUU to ensure that you are constantly learning and growing throughout your career.
LUU has been an Investor In People since 2005 and we remain fully committed to the development of all staff. Here are a few quotes from staff who have been involved in learning in LUU.
"I found out about my distance learning course through Newcastle College from an all staff e-mail sent by HR. All I had to do was fill out a short application form and send it off to the directly to the College. I chose to do a course on occupational health and safety which relates closely to my role as a development coordinator for media and performing societies. The course gave me the opportunity to fill in the gaps in my knowledge on risk assessments and health and safety regulations. The whole course cost me nothing and all the resources arrived in a neat box file which included advice and planner to help me track my study time.
I found this method of studying really flexible. The college were really supportive too and contacted me from time to time to check how I was getting on. I now have a better understanding of the health and safety requirements that effect the groups I look after and I feel more confident in dealing with situations when they arise".
Helen Mackay, Development Coordinator
When I first applied to work at Essentials I was told about the opportunity to do a NCFE (Former NVQ) qualification whilst working here. It seemed like a good idea because I'd be able to gain a qualification and develop my skills whilst working. I chose to do the NVQ in Beers, Wines and Spirits. The studies involved filling in a workbook based on my experience of selling the products in the shop and learning background information on the subject. Having completed the studies I feel more confident helping customers in the shop and I am pleased that I've earned an extra qualification which can only help me in the future.
Gus Unger-Hamilton, Essentials and Extras team member.
My learning with LUU started back in 2000 when I joined the AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) study programme under the Modern Apprenticeship scheme. I became a Full Member of the AAT in August 2003 and after a five year break decided to again start studying towards the CIMA qualification (Charted Institute of Management Accountants). I decided to study through an online course which is allows me study at times that suit me (usually when the kids are in bed!) and avoids me having to take excessive time off work. It does however rely on me being disciplined which is not always easy!
The course involves nine exams with sittings every year in June and November. The course is flexible in that you can take up to four exams at a time - the order and speed in which you sit them is up to you. This has really helped me as having two children and a full time job I don't get much spare time! Nevertheless I enjoy the challenge and learning new skills. The overall outcome will definitely benefit my future career development as well as LUU in terms of the extra skills I can bring to my role as Management Accountant.
Helen Parkinson, Management Accountant