Microsoft Office is one of the most widely taught computer suites in the World, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find several providers around your residence or work area to train with.

If you do not manage to find anything in your local newspaper try typing in some key words to a search engine, for example ‘Microsoft office training classes Kent UK’.

At the top of the results list you should either find the most clicked on link or some sponsored links to what you are looking for.

The top results for the search above were Pitmans training, which are a highly reputable training organisation in England.

Reputation is very important when choosing a provider. Make sure they not only give you good value for money, but that they are also authorised to certify you.

How to assess the level of value in a course is what they are charging. Shop around make sure you are not over paying, remember there are millions of free tutorials on the internet so you don’t want to be over paying for something that you already have ample resources for.

Make sure the trainers are qualified or experienced. Find out their student’s pass rates for exams etc.

Microsoft Gold Partners

Microsoft Gold Partners are organisations that have been granted the statue by Microsoft, to have instructor-led, formal classroom courses using Microsoft IT Academy source materials including Microsoft Official Courseware (MOC).

Microsoft Gold Certified Partners for Learning Solutions earn this elite status by taking their businesses to a level few technology training organisations in the world can match. They must meet rigorous standards for training delivery, facilities and customer satisfaction.

Also, the Microsoft Office training site gives a comprehensive list of training courses on all of its applications from its most recent Office Suite 2010 to 2007 and 2003.

There are many resources and training aids out there to help you gain the correct accreditation. You need to thoroughly research these aids and the training providers. You also need to make sure you know the area(s) of IT you wish to be trained in, as not knowing could lead to a very expensive venture.

By Kelly Foxhall