IT trainer : Training

Trainers need to have knowledge in what they want to train and the training skills to deliver this knowledge. There is a range of courses available for both technical and desktop applications trainers and you need to do your research carefully to find out what courses are most appropriate for your needs.

Technical trainers will find that relevant technical qualifications are extremely useful and many training providers encourage or require their acquisition early on in a career. There are a number of options available, depending on your area of expertise, including courses to develop technical proficiency, as well as training qualifications. Qualifications include:

• Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT);
• Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS);
• Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE);
• Microsoft Certified Systems Developer (MCSD);
• Cisco Certified Instructor (CCI);
• Cisco Certified Network Engineer (CCNE);
• Novell Network Authorised Engineer (NNAE).

For those interested in desktop applications training, relevant qualifications include:

• Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT);
• Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS);
• European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL).

Training delivery skills are also important. Relevant courses in this area include The Training Foundation  Trainer Assessment Programme (TAP). Some employers will provide fully-funded training courses in training, while others will provide time off for relevant courses or sponsorship for qualifications taken in your own time. Some will provide no training at all and will be looking for experienced trainers or those who already have training certificates, such as TAP, or are members of a relevant professional body such as the Learning & Performance Institute (LPI)   or BCS (The Chartered Institute for IT) . It is possible to undertake a few days’ intensive training or longer-term qualifications at a college or university. The IITT website has a database of IITT accredited training providers. Check this database when choosing a course.

Other relevant courses may be available from The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS), an IT qualification body offering a range of qualifications for IT professionals, and e-skills UK - The Sector Skills Council for Business and Information Technology , providing the e-skills professional programme aimed at IT professionals in the early years of their career.

Further IT trainer training will depend on the employing organisation and the career aims of the individual concerned.