A RADICAL new IT training scheme for Herefordshire and Worcestershire is proving a massive hit with local employers, after its first 50 "pupils" graduated this week.

Employees from the two counties have recently completed the Information Technology Qualification (ITQ), a certificate designed to replace the current NVQ in IT.

The project is being funded by the Learning and Skills Council Herefordshire and Worcestershire (local LSC) and has already attracted the attention of 25 employers in the two counties.

It is designed to be more employer-focused than previous IT training solutions, and is structured around work-based training - allowing people to complete the majority of the modular-based course from their workstations rather than a classroom.

This aims to minimise disruption for both the learner and employer.

ITQ learners can mix units at different levels, from various awarding bodies, in a much wider range of combinations.

They can also learn at their own pace, choose from a range of modules that best suit their needs and choose the level that is right for them.

"Employers are very enthusiastic ITQ, praising both the programme's flexibility and relevance," said Frances Roberts, skills and partnership manager at the local LSC.

"We know that more than 75 per cent of employers in England say staff waste time through ineffective use of computers and more than six million adults recognise that improving their IT skills would increase productivity.

"This is why ITQ has been a huge success for the employer as well as the learner.

"Not only has it boosted the competence and confidence of more than 50 learners so far, but employer feedback tells us that it has raised general productivity."

Phil Jones, tutor at WCT was also pleased with the outcome.

"We've really enjoyed delivering the ITQ pilot.

"It has raised skills and improved the confidence of all the learners and we know from employers that ITQ graduates are more useful in the workplace."