Preparing the next Generation

Smart Skills Academy is the perfect companion to your academic journey, offering young people the opportunity to build essential digital skills that often go untaught in traditional classrooms.

Whether you're crafting essays, creating presentations, or preparing for university and the workplace, our practical, step-by-step video tutorials will help you master Microsoft Office tools like Excel, Word, and PowerPoint with confidence.

The course is completely self-paced, easy to follow, and fits seamlessly around your studies and extracurricular commitments.

We will be here to hold you hand, while your confidence grows, every step of the way

92%

of employers value basic digital skills

World Skills UK

55%

of 17-24 year olds cannot perform all 20
'Essential Digital Skills'.

The Essential Digital Skills Framework, commissioned by LLoyds Banking Group, 2023.

69%

of UK leaders believe their organisation is facing a digital skills gap.

Microsoft and Goldsmiths, University of London

1/3

of employees believe their lack of IT skills prevent them from doing their job effectively.

STL Skills Survey

18%

Only

of 17-24 year olds feel confident in their digital abilities

World Skills UK

Why these skills are so important

Why Microsoft Office Skills Matter for Today’s Youth

Bridging the Digital Skills Gap

Despite being digital natives, many young people lack essential digital competencies. A report by FutureDotNow reveals that 55% of 18–24-year-olds in the UK cannot perform all 20 essential digital tasks required for work.

Microsoft Office proficiency is among the most in-demand skills across various industries. A study highlighted that Microsoft Office ranks as the third most required skill in high-growth, high-salary positions.

Enhancing Academic and Career Prospects

Mastery of Microsoft Office tools directly correlates with improved academic performance and career readiness:

Word: Develops writing and editing skills crucial for assignments and professional documentation.
Excel: Enhances analytical and problem-solving abilities through data management and visualization.
PowerPoint: Builds communication skills via the creation of compelling presentations.

These competencies are not only vital for academic success but also
highly valued in the workplace.

Addressing Employer Expectations

Employers increasingly seek candidates with advanced Microsoft Office skills. In the business services sector, there’s a notable shortage of applicants proficient in these tools.

Furthermore, 69% of UK business leaders report facing a digital skills gap within their organizations, emphasizing the need for early and effective digital skills training.

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Looking for Coaching?

Gemma does offer 1:2:1 training, group coaching and bespoke training sessions. Click here for more info.

Certificate of Achievement

Once you have completed your course you have the opportunity to sit a multiple choice exam. If you gain the required 70% pass rate you will be sent a certificate of accomplishment - a valuable addition to your CV or personal statement.