Skip to main content
Idea Store logo
Library catalogue

Digital Skills in the workplace: Using Excel, Word, Outlook, Powerpoint - High Intermediate Level 2

Course Title: Digital Skills for work: Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Outlook Part 1 & 2 (Level 2)

Brief course description:

This practical course is for those who are confident with basic digital tasks and want to develop their Microsoft Office skills to Level 2 — suitable for use in professional settings, training, or job roles that require digital competence.

Part 1 builds intermediate skills in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, including formatting, layouts and templates. Part 2 develops spreadsheet skills using Excel for data analysis, charts and formulas, and expands digital communication through Outlook email and calendars. The course also introduces time-saving AI tools, digital safety, and working across cloud-based platforms. 

Objectives:

  • Create and format advanced documents in Word using styles, templates, tables and images.
  • Communicate professionally and appropriately, via Outlook and Teams.
  • Use Excel formulas and functions (e.g. IF, COUNTIF, conditional formatting), as well as cistomised charts and graphs to analyse and present data clearly.
  • Use Microsoft Copilot in Excel to generate formula suggestions and summaries.
  • Use AI features in Microsoft Word, Teams or Outlook to suggest grammar improvements or summarise emails and meetings.
  • Use AI tools (e.g. Copilot, ChatGPT) to support project work and planning.
  • Organise and manage emails in Outlook using folders, flags and rules.
  • Use the Outlook calendar to coordinate meetings and set reminders.
  • Share and collaborate on documents through OneDrive or Microsoft Teams.
  • Apply safe digital practices when working online, including password management, file security and identifying threats.

Entry requirements:

You should have completed a Level 1 digital course (such as Essential Digital Skills or Digital Skills for Work at Level 1) or be confident using Microsoft Office at a basic level. You should be comfortable using the internet, typing and following instructions independently, and working towards Level 1 or above in English.

Equipment required :

Some sessions may take place online. You will be notified in advance if a session is due to take place online. You may join these sessions using any personal device or computer - wifi is also available in the Idea Stores. If you do not have a device available, there may be support available for a loan device.

What courses can I go on to:

  • Digital Skills for Work: Create and Build a Business through Digital Marketing
  • Workplace training, business admin or customer service roles
  • Advanced vocational qualifications or apprenticeships
  • Volunteering, job applications or part-time employment requiring digital fluency

What examination is there:

There is no examination for this course. You will agree learning goals with your tutor which you must achieve by the end of the course.

How will I know I am making progress:

At the start of the course, your tutor will talk with you about which of your digital skills you need to practise most and help you create an individual learning plan. Throughout the course, you will have a tutorial meeting to discuss your strengths, areas for improvement, and any problems you may have. You will keep a folder with your work, which will help you review your learning outside of class. Your tutor will give you regular feedback on your class work and homework to help you improve. To make progress, you need to attend all your classes and do work outside of class.

Other info:

One of our aims is to help you make progress in work or future studies. We also want to help you participate in your communities and become an active citizen. In our classes, you will develop important skills that employers value and that will help you in everyday life. Here’s what you will learn:

Communication Skills: You will learn to speak and write more clearly and confidently. This includes practising conversations for work, writing emails, and filling out forms.

Decision-Making: You will learn how to make good choices by evaluating different options and thinking critically about situations.

Teamwork: You will learn how to work well with others.

Problem-Solving: You will develop the ability to identify problems and find effective solutions, useful in both work and daily life.

Time Management: You will practice managing your time effectively, including setting goals and meeting deadlines.

By improving these skills, you will increase your chances of finding a job, advancing in your career, and becoming an active member of your community.

Extra support

We can help you if you tell us you have a learning difficulty, disability or other support needs. Please tell us when you enrol or in your first class.