THE University of Kent at Medway has launched a Centre for Work and Learning (CWAL) to give employees the chance to enrol on work-based learning programmes where they can attain graduate-level skills and, ultimately, new qualifications.

The programmes, which are designed to help staff improve their professional development, competence and career prospects, use the workplace itself as the main place of study and learning.

Cathy Hull, head of CWAL, said work-based learning is increasingly popular because of its flexibility and tailor-made approach.

"It is a modern way of creating university-level learning for working people and it will offer our local workforce the chance to study at a time and a pace that suits them," she explained.

Various learning programmes are on offer, from joint honours degrees to a graduate diploma or a certificate in work-based learning. Modules can also be studied as free-standing courses, which will be useful for people wishing to concentrate on a particular work-related issue or problem.

Teaching methods include case studies, projects, study visits, seminars and lectures and assessment is solely by coursework.

Those signing up will also be able to claim academic credits for learning they have already done through work, training courses or other forms of study.