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VRDS Community Learning has been set up to provide learning opportunities for everyone, irrespective of ability.  The department offers local learning provision through a network of locations.  The VRDS Community Learning office is located at:

VRDS Community Learning, 3 Hartford Business Centre, Chester Road, Hartford, Northwich CW8 2AB          

Tel: 01606 888604 Fax: 01606 888244
e-mail: community.learning@vrds.org.uk 

VRDS Learning Centre

An exciting, accessible learning centre has been set up by Vale Royal Disability Services to help disabled people in Vale Royal achieve a greater level of social inclusion by developing new skills.  It is our belief that such learning opportunities should be available to all.   

The VRDS Learning Centre is a fully recognised centre for learndirect, with UKonline and BBC Webwise.    

If you wish to test your IT skills select this link: IT Skills

If you wish to test your skills for life (Numeracy and Literacy) skills select this link: Skills for life

Our Learning Centre offers a range of learning opportunities to suit all users, extending from introductory skills, through communication skills to work‑related skills.  Our experienced staff not only provide the necessary training support in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, they can also introduce new types of computer adaptive technology to those who need it.  

When you first visit our Learning Centre you will be given the right information, advice and guidance to enable you to decide on your personal objectives.

You will be able to participate in an assessment to help to decide on the learning that would be most suitable and enjoyable for you. Since we believe that everyone should be able to access learning, an adaptive technology assessment is also provided where needed. 

What courses are available? 

We offer a huge range of courses designed for different levels of ability.  

Your assessment determines where you need to start – where you finish is up to you.  How much do courses cost?  

Many courses on offer are free-of-charge.   

For the more advanced chargeable courses, we do have to comply with the learndirect price list.

What is computer adaptive technology? 

It is something that gives people with a disability full access to a computer system without barriers.  It could be a different keyboard or mouse for people with physical impairments, or perhaps a program that enlarges text or reads the screen in synthesised speech for people with visual impairments.  Our assessment system ensures that the right adaptive technology can be chosen to meet a users needs. 

CLICK HERE for more detail. 

When is the centre open? 

Normally Monday to Friday, 10.00am to 4.00pm, except holidays. 

How do I become a learner at the Learning Centre?  

Telephone 01606 333673 or e-mail your details to learning@vrds.org.uk or call in and meet our friendly trainers who will encourage you to learn. 

Where are we? 

We are located next to the Cheshire County Council offices in Watling Street, Northwich.  There is plenty of free car parking in the centre of Northwich.  Pedestrian and wheelchair access to the centre are shown on the map.  

VRDS  Learning Centre,  Dane Walk, Watling Street, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 5ET.   

Telephone: 01606 333673. 

e-mail: learning@vrds.org.uk 

Monday to Friday, 10.00am to 4.00pm, except holidays.