Employment skills
We offer accredited courses that can offer people a route back into education, vocational training and employment.
Courses are run in partnership with the St Giles' Trust, Southwark College and City Lit and are assessed by our own in-house NVQ assessors and external assessors too.
Customer service (NVQ level 2).
The Deptford Reach reception area is a great place to learn about customer relationships, presenting a positive impression, resolving problems and processing customer service information.
Catering and hospitality (NVQ level 2).
Students work in the Deptford Reach kitchen project learning about the catering and hospitality industry, including food preparation, cooking and serving food and drink. We also run taster sessions and courses, for example basic food and hygiene level 2.
Advice and guidance (NVQ level 3).
Students work alongside Deptford Reach's trained advice workers supporting clients with housing, benefits and other issues. Last year over 17 people completed the courses. While 11 went on to further training or employment as a result.
IT skills
Regular IT skills sessions give people the chance to learn basic word processing and internet skills, plus CV, letter writing and job search skills. We have a fully-equipped IT suite with support from a tutor.
Volunteering
Volunteering is often a great way to begin reintegrating back into the world of work. Our busy centre offers many opportunities to help with administration, customer services, catering, cleaning, gardening, general maintenance, reception duties, advice and guidance. We also offer opportunities for befriending and supporting many of our activities. Many volunteers progress to our NVQ courses. We currently have over 45 active volunteers.
Languages
We also offer English as a Second Language (ESOL) and Italian courses, taught by volunteers and leading to the Deptford Reach Certificate. Our staff speak a number of languages and run various language classes as needed, and also interpret for service users when they come in for help and advice.
