HRH the Duke of York visited Devonport Naval Base on Friday 25 October to open a new education and resettlement centre for sailors, their families and civilians.
The Duke unveiled a plaque at the Education and Resettlement Centre and spoke to several servicemen and women already benefiting from the facility.
The centre, housed in a refurbished former chart maintenance unit, comprises an electronic-Learning Centre, Technology Enhanced Classrooms and an Internet enabled Reference Library.
These facilities are used to provide Foundation Skills in literacy, numeracy and IT, GCSE maths and English as well as a range of courses delivered by external providers.T
he delivery of lifelong learning is the focus of the centre which provides advice and funding to service learners and those preparing for resettlement into civilian employment.
Lieutenant Alastair Ramsay, in charge of the centre, said, “The Duke took a lot of interest in the new facility. He was clearly impressed with the range of opportunities available and the fact that it is being achieved by such a small, dedicated team.
“A lot of time and effort has gone into creating the new centre so we were delighted that it was officially opened by such a high-profile guest.”
Through e-learning courses learners can undertake maths and English courses for promotion and other studies including NVQ and IT qualifications.
Tutor support from qualified staff is readily at hand and advice is also available on all areas of personal and professional development – from GCSEs to a master’s degree.
In addition personnel can get resettlement advice at any time in their career.
[mappress] Press Release, October 28, 2013; Image: Royal Navy