Managers and owner managers account for one in seven of the Kent workforce, yet fewer than a quarter of all bosses have received any training in the last 10 years. This may be why Kent has consistently poorer survival rates for new businesses than the rest of the South East.

Canterbury Christ Church University College is trying to improve the situation by running a course for owners and senior staff in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The European Social Fund will pay tuition fees.

The college's Centre for Enterprise and Business Development is running the course starting in January. Course members will need to spare two hours a week for 32 weeks, with occasional Saturday workshops and home projects.

Sessions take place at the main campus site in North Holmes Road and include modules in IT, European business, finance, management and a European language. It will lead to a Certificate in Business, accredited by the University College

There are still a few places left. More details from Nicole Temel on 01227 782850, email: n.temel@cant.ac.uk