E-learning to prepare for the world of work

Sep 24 2009 by Andrew Mernin, The Journal

A COMPANY which aims to revolutionise the way scholars and adult learners prepare for working life is gearing up for a mass roll-out of software products.

E-learning firm Chapman Latimer is preparing to launch its first commercial product which will train people how to use an online banking system.

However, the Bank Safe product is just the start of a large-scale release of products as it prepares to bring a further 24 different programs to market in the coming months.

Among those will be the company’s apprentice range, which will simulate authentic scenarios of using technology in the workplace and will be aimed at 14 to 19-year-old diploma students.

The software packages – developed by three directors who each have experience in the education sector – will cater for the hairdressing, construction, manufacturing, IT and the motoring industry.

Simulated scenarios include handling a staff roster, stock control and using a customer database.

The company was launched last summer by Ian Chapman – the former teacher behind Sunderland-based training firm CIA Training – alongside his son Steven and business partner Terry Charlton.

Steven Chapman, 24, from Boldon, said: “Our main objective with Bank Safe, and the other products we are currently developing, is to ensure that people are given the opportunity to experience how ICT is used within companies, effectively preparing them for working life.”