New Horizons computer learning centre

[jjaammeess]

hello My son answered an advertisement in Scotland for something to do with computers (IT I think).He thought it was a job interview but it turned out to be the from New Horizons learning centre..This place is a computer learning center and they said if he paid �4,000 for the course he would do a course in computers or something to do with computers and at the end of the course they would get him and job at �30000 per annum and if he did well he would be retained.He really liked the people interviewing him. Has anybody any experience of this learning centre. My son has a degree with some electronics in it and they seemed interested in him.�4,000 is a lot of money so I would be very grateful to anybody who could supply me with any information or experience that they have had with this learning center.Your comments would be very much appreciated Their web site is www.newhorizons.com Thanks

James

[Postdog]

I can't speak about this company, but I would be VERY VERY wary about forking out money. I had a similar thing some years ago with another company. I thought I was going for a job interview only to find it was a sales pitch for learning computer skills, again, with the "promise" of a job at the end of it. It was a very slick presentation which I saw through and I left. The emphasis at the time was more on getting money from you rather than helping you, and I found that very suspect.

If your son has genuine skills or an aptitude, I would suggest a more legit avenue for learning, such as college or whatever - they may not guarantee a job, but it'll be a bona fide organisation with a bone fide qualification.

[vicalncraig]

If they were going to give you that salary, they would take the 4 grand when they pay you. Keep your money in your pocket....I smell a rat!

[jjaammeess]

Hi Thank you both very much for your very helpful answers .I certainly will treat this whole thing with suspicion . Another similar organization is advertised at the moment on the television called COMPUTEACH. They do seem too good to be true.

[Postdog]

Just to follow on Computeach was the one I went to - I couldn't remember the name.

[undercovers]

i have read similar posts in the internet and technology section (maybe you should post it in there too) and the guys that work within the IT industry all poured scorn on these type of courses (though not mentioning this one in particular), this it was very telling when they discussed their career and pay progression over the years. The funny thing about the IT industry is that it is one of the few sectors where qualifications really aren't that important and it is experience and actual work done that impress employers - and unlike other jobs programers, web designers etc can quite easily show their work at interview... anyway i am no expert but do re post in internet and technology they will be much better informed i think.

all the best

[andreasyoung]

Dear James

There are many adverts like the one you saw. IT is a good career but there are no guarantees of a job or particular salary in life.

I have personal experience of New Horizons who are certified Microsoft partners. Courses vary in length and cost. As always shop around. Many training companies are having trouble getting new business so I believe that you can haggle. I personally negotiated a good deal. �4K is not a lot of money depending upon which course we are talking about. Mine cost more.

Microsoft also have cerification exams so be aware of this as time is required for revision. One may also need to buy extra books for background knowledge.

New Horizons also provide recruitment services which are useful but out of common sense one should not rely on one such agency. Additionally one needs a good CV and flexbility on travelling to where the work is.

New Horizons is not a bad company and I would urge you to visit them in person as part of your general fact finding about IT training courses, should your son wish to pursue a career in IT.

Good luck

Andreas