PITMAN TRAINING?

La realidad

Hi all. I am currently out of work and I am looking at training and upskilling myself in order to increase my chances of employment. I have been looking at pitman training which I have heard is quite successful at doing this. It offers FETAC accredited courses so it appears to be regulated.

There is but one problem I have and that is the cost of the courses are all around the €3000 mark. My main dilema right now is simply;

1) is the good value for money?
2) Will I get a job at the end of the course?
3) Am I better off doing a university course instead?

implausible

€3000 is very steep.

What type of course are you interested in?

You mention FETAC accreditation, but you need to know what level FETAC award you can get and if it is a full award. The FETAC system is explained in this diagram and as you can see university starts at Level 7.

If you are interested in Level 5 and 6 qualifications, you'd be better off (financially and educationally) contacting your local VEC.

Dav

Folks, I've had to snip away some comments on this thread that were defamatory. as Pitman Training have been in touch to notify us of this content. Furthermore, they want to offer La realidad an opportunity to sample one of their courses (I'll be in contact directly about this) which is more than fair in trying to help someone out.

Noreen Ahern

Hi, I'm looking at doing an Advanced Accounts Diploma with Pitman in Limerick, but again it's very expensive 2,500 euro up front, or 2,750 by direct debit. I'm working in payroll but would like to get back into accounts. I have the experience, but not the qualifications. Is Pitman the right course or should I consider something else.Thanks

looksee

Noreen Ahern wrote: »

Hi, I'm looking at doing an Advanced Accounts Diploma with Pitman in Limerick, but again it's very expensive 2,500 euro up front, or 2,750 by direct debit. I'm working in payroll but would like to get back into accounts. I have the experience, but not the qualifications. Is Pitman the right course or should I consider something else.Thanks

That is a very general question. You ask if Pitman is the right course, why do you think it might be the right course? What do you mean by 'right'? Right because of the hours, or the content or the acceptability of the qualification? Have you looked at other options? Even someone who has done the course cannot know whether it will be right for you without more information.

Noreen Ahern

Thanks for your reply. I'm looking for someone who has actually done the course. Have you done this course?

looksee

No, but as I work in the Further Education sector I am aware of some of the issues. For example, why not apply to your local VEC and get a qualification for a fraction of the price. At the same time it may not be feasible to do a full time course, maybe you want part time or distance learning. Do you want to go on to Higher Education, in which case a FETAC course might be more acceptable to a third level institution. Maybe that does not matter. Without this kind of information it is impossible to know what is 'right' for you.

Lesleybabe32

Dav wrote: »

Folks, I've had to snip away some comments on this thread that were defamatory. as Pitman Training have been in touch to notify us of this content. Furthermore, they want to offer La realidad an opportunity to sample one of their courses (I'll be in contact directly about this) which is more than fair in trying to help someone out.

I wonder why you had to delete anything, what about Freedom of speach? I personally am very disappointed with Pitman Training and would not recommend it to anyone, my story is a long one, but lets just say throughout my many years of updating my CV, the best way to go is VEC or your local IT, they will help you all the way!

Killemall

Lesleybabe32 wrote: »

I wonder why you had to delete anything, what about Freedom of speach? I personally am very disappointed with Pitman Training and would not recommend it to anyone, my story is a long one, but lets just say throughout my many years of updating my CV, the best way to go is VEC or your local IT, they will help you all the way!

What do you mean by dissapointed? Their method of teaching isn't what you expected? I haven't done a Pitman course but I believe you have to do all the work yourself? There's someone there but they don't teach it's all done with computer programs, is this correct?

deelite

I'm sure pitman are very good at what they do. I would look into applying to VTOS through the local VEC who offer fantastic FETAC courses at no fees (certain criteria ie., unemployed, in receipt of certain payments). As an adult going back into education VECs are extremely helpful and encouraging and the tutors are brilliant and very student focussed.

Killemall

deelite wrote: »

I'm sure pitman are very good at what they do. I would look into applying to VTOS through the local VEC who offer fantastic FETAC courses at no fees (certain criteria ie., unemployed, in receipt of certain payments). As an adult going back into education VECs are extremely helpful and encouraging and the tutors are brilliant and very student focussed.

Yes it sounds like people should do that. At least if you don't like the course you're doing it doesn't cost you anything like 3000 euro!

Lesleybabe32

Killemall wrote: »

What do you mean by dissapointed? Their method of teaching isn't what you expected? I haven't done a Pitman course but I believe you have to do all the work yourself? There's someone there but they don't teach it's all done with computer programs, is this correct?

Ok I will explain: Wanted to update my CV and add to my Career, so I decided Pitman was good for me, as I was still working full time. I took my time doing the course and when I finished my final exam I was elated! I then asked for my Diploma in Medical Secretary and was told I won't get it as my Word Exam was out of date, so I had to sit Word 2007 module and do the exam, also had to add 2 more modules in the newer course so paid another €285 to do the Getting into HR and Secretary day course, again asked for my diploma when finished all exams etc and was told I did not get it as I had 3 course completes (which means I completed the modules but failed the exam) and I to get the Diploma you are only allowed 2 course Completes - which I was never told about. So basically afer all that money and time, I did not get anything out of Pitman only a Platnium Award (which to me is not good enough) they never commuicated any of this to me - found them totally unprofessional. When I had a half hour conversation with the manager I was told I could get the Diploma if I sat the Word 2010, but then I would have to do the Outlook, Excel and Audio again and these would now be out of date - is this not RIDICULOUS?

Killemall

Yes, that doesn't sound good. For the amount of money you have to spend to do a pitman course they should be better run than that.
Then again their interest is making money, the more courses you have to do with them, the more money they make.
Very dishonest way of doing things however. I think the option stated by Deelite above is the best way to go.
Maybe cut your loses with these people?

Lesleybabe32

Killemall wrote: »

Yes, that doesn't sound good. For the amount of money you have to spend to do a pitman course they should be better run than that.
Then again their interest is making money, the more courses you have to do with them, the more money they make.
Very dishonest way of doing things however. I think the option stated by Deelite above is the best way to go.
Maybe cut your loses with these people?

Thanks for your honesty, easier said than done to walk away though after 3 years and €3000 - for now have asked my a copy of there std contract and my 3 exams back to see where I supposedly went wrong, then I will get onto head office of Pitman and let them know the story, at this stage just to avoid anyone else getting such bad service!

Optimus_Prime

I Find These Pitman Training centers a complete waste of Time. I would highly reccemond taking a FETAC course which is what I did in the end.They are cheaper and run to a higher standard.

I had terrible dealings with the owner of the Pitman training center in Cork. I applied do a course with this center and was told that they would need to order in my books, but I could still work away with the audio files. Weeks passed and there was no contact from the center nor was there any sign of my books.

I contacted the center on a number of occasions and received no satisfaction each time they said that an order was about to be put through and that they would be in touch as soon as they came in .

Another two weeks passed and there was still no sign of my books. I contacted the Center to request a refund of my course fees only to have some man who claimed to be the owner refuse to offer me a refund on the grounds i had already started the course. He was so obnoxious that i eventually ended up terminating the conversation.

Save yourself the time and the hassle and do a proper FETAC course.

Lesleybabe32

Optimus_Prime wrote: »

I Find These Pitman Training centers a complete waste of Time. I would highly reccemond taking a FETAC course which is what I did in the end.They are cheaper and run to a higher standard.

I had terrible dealings with the owner of the Pitman training center in Cork. I applied do a course with this center and was told that they would need to order in my books, but I could still work away with the audio files. Weeks passed and there was no contact from the center nor was there any sign of my books.

I contacted the center on a number of occasions and received no satisfaction each time they said that an order was about to be put through and that they would be in touch as soon as they came in .

Another two weeks passed and there was still no sign of my books. I contacted the Center to request a refund of my course fees only to have some man who claimed to be the owner refuse to offer me a refund on the grounds i had already started the course. He was so obnoxious that i eventually ended up terminating the conversation.

Save yourself the time and the hassle and do a proper FETAC course.

I am sorry for your bad experience, but on the other hand I am glad I don't feel alone, I know the guy your talking about as both Tralee and Cork run my same people, thanks for the feedback although my time and money has been wasted already!!!!!!! Maybe Pitman will read this some day and see they need to do something about there customer care!!!

Optimus_Prime

Lesleybabe32 wrote: »

I know the guy your talking about as both Tralee and Cork run my same people

I did not know that the two centers were linked. Its a shame that a person with his attitude towards people has a monopoly on two counties in the Munster Region.

I'm sure there are many other people in the same boat. Im not concerned about the Owners of the Cork and Kerry centers seeing this as I have already expressed my opinion to him down the phone.

I wish the actual Owners of the Pitman franchise saw these messages and took some action. I personally think the guys in cork are only concerned with getting money off Students. Before I signed up i had a meeting with the cork center and was told a deposit was needed as soon as possible to sign up.

I told them i would need to go and have a think about it as it was a lot of money to invest in a training program. Throughout my time deciding I was contacted 3 - 4 times asking me if I would be signing up.


Then when I do sign up I get no contact at all. Maybe other center owners have a better attitude to students and don't see us as their cash cow.

If you don't mind me asking Lesleybabe32 was your dealings with The Cork or Kerry center ?

ballinasloe

Lesleybabe32 wrote: »

Ok I will explain: Wanted to update my CV and add to my Career, so I decided Pitman was good for me, as I was still working full time. I took my time doing the course and when I finished my final exam I was elated! I then asked for my Diploma in Medical Secretary and was told I won't get it as my Word Exam was out of date, so I had to sit Word 2007 module and do the exam, also had to add 2 more modules in the newer course so paid another €285 to do the Getting into HR and Secretary day course, again asked for my diploma when finished all exams etc and was told I did not get it as I had 3 course completes (which means I completed the modules but failed the exam) and I to get the Diploma you are only allowed 2 course Completes - which I was never told about. So basically afer all that money and time, I did not get anything out of Pitman only a Platnium Award (which to me is not good enough) they never commuicated any of this to me - found them totally unprofessional. When I had a half hour conversation with the manager I was told I could get the Diploma if I sat the Word 2010, but then I would have to do the Outlook, Excel and Audio again and these would now be out of date - is this not RIDICULOUS?

Hi Lesleybabe32

I did a Diploma with Pitman in Tralee not too long ago and found them great...the girls there were really friendly and helpful and I found the interview before signing up to a course brilliant, as I was going to do another course originally, and based on the course advisor's suggestion, I changed to a Diploma that was far more relevant to the area I eventually found work in.

I was surveyed after to see if I got a job (which I did thank God) and they said that they were delighted, as they had the highest employment record in Kerry again...so they must be doing something right.

I'm confused about your problem, perhaps you could clarify.

You said you got "3 Course Completes". That means you failed 3 modules, even after repeating?

You hardly expect to get a Diploma if you failed 3 modules. My Diploma only had 6 Modules, I'm not sure how many you had.

And the tests are open book, so I think to be fair you have to take some personal responsibility for failing, I failed one module but passed it (after learning my lesson) on the 2nd attempt, but got distinctions in the rest.

I can't see how your "Word Exam" was out of date, I was told the qualifications with Pitman last for 3 years, so that would mean it was over 3 years since you took the Word exam, is that true? If not you should go back to them and ask for clarification.

My advice would be to put down on your CV that you completed the Diploma and leave out the qualification, If asked in interviews etc, you could say that you completed the Diploma and that you got a Platinum award or whatever.

It's a great achievement to have completed all the modules (and more in your case) and I think employers will appreciate that.

Best of luck!

B

Killemall

Lesleybabe32 wrote: »

Thanks for your honesty, easier said than done to walk away though after 3 years and €3000 - for now have asked my a copy of there std contract and my 3 exams back to see where I supposedly went wrong, then I will get onto head office of Pitman and let them know the story, at this stage just to avoid anyone else getting such bad service!

Yes, do everything you can to get the degree. You deserve it after all the money and time you put in. Plus the bad service, surely the head office will deal with it better.
Plenty of people look up boards when about to do a course. They like to find out information before signing up, especially for the cost of a Pitman course.
It will look bad if your situation is left unresolved. People will search here and see that they can't be trusted.
On the other hand, you'll come back here and say it worked out well if they do the right thing so it's in their best interest to look after you.

Lesleybabe32

Killemall wrote: »

Yes, do everything you can to get the degree. You deserve it after all the money and time you put in. Plus the bad service, surely the head office will deal with it better.
Plenty of people look up boards when about to do a course. They like to find out information before signing up, especially for the cost of a Pitman course.
It will look bad if your situation is left unresolved. People will search here and see that they can't be trusted.
On the other hand, you'll come back here and say it worked out well if they do the right thing so it's in their best interest to look after you.

Absolutely, I will defo keep ye all up to date on the situation, thanks for all the positive comments, keeps my spirit up about the whole ordeal!!!

Killemall

Lesleybabe32 wrote: »

Absolutely, I will defo keep ye all up to date on the situation, thanks for all the positive comments, keeps my spirit up about the whole ordeal!!!

No problem, I'm sure it will all work out well for you in the end.

Optimus_Prime

It seems to me that ballinasloe is a little too informed and I would not be at all surprised if it was a Pitman representative from either center trying to diffuse the situation before their reputation is even more tainted.

Lesleybabe32

Optimus_Prime wrote: »

It seems to me that ballinasloe is a little too informed and I would not be at all surprised if it was a Pitman representative from either center trying to diffuse the situation before their reputation is even more tainted.

I hope so, I hope Pitman see this and solve the issue, as it was not me that did anything wrong only Trust a Educational Company to get a Diploma, they need to be informed and they just rang to say my Contract is in the post, so lets see what comes of that, will keep ye posted!!

Optimus_Prime

Well if they have contacted you its safe to assume that ballinasloe was in fact a Pitman representative from either Cork or Tralee.

Best of luck with it and I hope you get some satisfaction from them although I highly doubt you will..

Just make sure you do not get roped into handing them over any more money and go off and take a FETAC course for yourself..

Lesleybabe32

ballinasloe wrote: »

Hi Lesleybabe32

I did a Diploma with Pitman in Tralee not too long ago and found them great...the girls there were really friendly and helpful and I found the interview before signing up to a course brilliant, as I was going to do another course originally, and based on the course advisor's suggestion, I changed to a Diploma that was far more relevant to the area I eventually found work in.

I was surveyed after to see if I got a job (which I did thank God) and they said that they were delighted, as they had the highest employment record in Kerry again...so they must be doing something right.

I'm confused about your problem, perhaps you could clarify.

You said you got "3 Course Completes". That means you failed 3 modules, even after repeating?

You hardly expect to get a Diploma if you failed 3 modules. My Diploma only had 6 Modules, I'm not sure how many you had.

And the tests are open book, so I think to be fair you have to take some personal responsibility for failing, I failed one module but passed it (after learning my lesson) on the 2nd attempt, but got distinctions in the rest.

I can't see how your "Word Exam" was out of date, I was told the qualifications with Pitman last for 3 years, so that would mean it was over 3 years since you took the Word exam, is that true? If not you should go back to them and ask for clarification.

My advice would be to put down on your CV that you completed the Diploma and leave out the qualification, If asked in interviews etc, you could say that you completed the Diploma and that you got a Platinum award or whatever.

It's a great achievement to have completed all the modules (and more in your case) and I think employers will appreciate that.

Best of luck!

B

Very informed I must say, that is exactly what my problem was, I was not informed, of course I take responsiblity for failing an exam and if you did the word exam you know how easy it is to fail not based on the questions given but the overall module. I never knew taking this exam that I had 2 course completes at this stage and that another one would totally fail me, I did the word at my ease and thought I had a Diploma, which I did not. I got 7 distinctions and 3 passes and 3 course completes and as you can imagine that is a lot of work and yes took over 3 years as I always worked full time.
At no point have I said anything about 'The girls' in pitman, they are lovely and have always been nothing but professional. Overall I now am a 'Word Exam' away from a Diploma, which as you or anyone can imagine - frustrating. Basically Pitman took there 'eye of the ball' and I have every right to say so!!!!!!!!!

Lesleybabe32

Optimus_Prime wrote: »

Well if they have contacted you its safe to assume that ballinasloe was in fact a Pitman representative from either Cork or Tralee.

Best of luck with it and I hope you get some satisfaction from them although I highly doubt you will..

Just make sure you do not get roped into handing them over any more money and go off and take a FETAC course for yourself..

They won't be getting another penny and I will never recommend them, thanks for your comments, good to know people are on my side and yes of Course your right when you say they must by from Pitman, way too informed in comparison. I gave Pitman a change but they did not come up with a possitive solution, at no point did I want money back or anything just my DIPLOMA!

ballinasloe

Hi Lesleybabe

firstly, I do not represent Pitman Training, but I do confess I am a former Diploma student...and I did fail an exam with them so I understand your frustration (I was shocked when I failed, it was the first time in my life I ever failed an exam)

I was never given my certs until the end of my course, and I'm not sure about them calling me with results, as I would usually ask how I got on in the last exam when I was in training, and they were usually able to check "my file" to see if the results were in.

However, I stand by my comment, I think you have to accept responsibility for failing 3 modules and the repeats.

I think you should at least request a meeting with them to discuss the situation and see if there's anything they can do to help?

Lesleybabe32

ballinasloe wrote: »

Hi Lesleybabe

firstly, I do not represent Pitman Training, but I do confess I am a former Diploma student...and I did fail an exam with them so I understand your frustration (I was shocked when I failed, it was the first time in my life I ever failed an exam)

I was never given my certs until the end of my course, and I'm not sure about them calling me with results, as I would usually ask how I got on in the last exam when I was in training, and they were usually able to check "my file" to see if the results were in.

However, I stand by my comment, I think you have to accept responsibility for failing 3 modules and the repeats.

I think you should at least request a meeting with them to discuss the situation and see if there's anything they can do to help?

If you were following the Thread you would have seen that I had a meeting over the phone and I was told I could get the Diploma if I sat the Word 2010, but then I would have to do the Outlook, Excel and Audio again and these would now be out of date - this could take me another 6 months - if this was a college or any other Educational Institute I would have been called in as soon as any exam failed to discuss further options - the argument I am having is 'Lack of Communication' I never asked Pitman to take responsibility for me failing but for them 'Failing' to discuss options before I failed another exam!! Boards.ie is developed for Opinions and as I respect yours, I am sure you can respect mine and my Frustration!

Lesleybabe32

Optimus_Prime wrote: »

Well if they have contacted you its safe to assume that ballinasloe was in fact a Pitman representative from either Cork or Tralee.

Best of luck with it and I hope you get some satisfaction from them although I highly doubt you will..

Just make sure you do not get roped into handing them over any more money and go off and take a FETAC course for yourself..

Even if they are not, I am feeling a little put out by them now, not seeing my point and blaming me for 'Failing'!

pitmanireland

From: Derek Smith, Director, Pitman Training Ireland

I have in the last few days viewed a number of postings from two students expressing concerns regarding their experiences at our centres in Cork and Tralee. My first wish is to express our sincere regret to both students (Lesleybabe32 and Optimus Prime) that they have found learning with us to be a frustrating experience. As a responsible training provider we are of course sensitive to criticism, and it is our hope that we will be give the opportunity to investigate what has happened in these two instances. It is appropriate for me to meet with the two students and personally listen to their concerns. Where the conclusion points to any need for a change to our procedures, we will put those steps in place. Our view though is that it would be wrong for us as an organisation to engage in any open discussion regarding any student and their individual experience. To that end I hope that Lesleybabe32 and Optimus Prime will consider what I suggest below:

· Lesleybabe32 – You have raised a number of points in your postings and these need to be thoroughly investigated. This is a task that I will personally undertake. I am visiting our centre in Tralee on 1st March and will be available to meet with you at any time between 9am and 2pm. Please let me know via email to ireland@pitman-training.ie if this is convenient and where you would like to meet. If the short notice is a problem I will be back in Tralee in 2 to 3 weeks, so please let me know a date and time that fits for you.

· Optimus Prime – As is the case with Lesleybabe32 I need you to email me with your name, contact details and information relating to the training course fees that you paid. There were a couple of occasions in late 2011 when we had problems with the supply of training materials, which was an issue for us. These problems were resolved and no student should ever find themselves in the position of not having workbooks in order to commence study. I am presuming that you may have been affected by these delays and if this is the case you have my personal assurance you will receive a full refund, and should you wish to meet then this can be arranged in Cork at your convenience.


In proposing the above, each of the two students has my assurance of confidentiality in our dealings. Boards.ie and other similar sites have an important role to play in providing an opportunity for the exchange of views and experiences. Where any student has a complaint or expresses concern we always hope it will be immediately brought to our attention so that we can put things right in a prompt and fair manner. Equally, many thousands of our students are appreciative for what Pitman Training has done for them and I am reminded of this when I visit our training centres and see the gifts to our staff, thank you cards and the letters of praise they receive.

I do hope to hear from both Lesleybabe32 and Optimus Prime very soon regarding this.

Derek Smith

Lesleybabe32

pitmanireland wrote: »

From: Derek Smith, Director, Pitman Training Ireland

I have in the last few days viewed a number of postings from two students expressing concerns regarding their experiences at our centres in Cork and Tralee. My first wish is to express our sincere regret to both students (Lesleybabe32 and Optimus Prime) that they have found learning with us to be a frustrating experience. As a responsible training provider we are of course sensitive to criticism, and it is our hope that we will be give the opportunity to investigate what has happened in these two instances. It is appropriate for me to meet with the two students and personally listen to their concerns. Where the conclusion points to any need for a change to our procedures, we will put those steps in place. Our view though is that it would be wrong for us as an organisation to engage in any open discussion regarding any student and their individual experience. To that end I hope that Lesleybabe32 and Optimus Prime will consider what I suggest below:

· Lesleybabe32 – You have raised a number of points in your postings and these need to be thoroughly investigated. This is a task that I will personally undertake. I am visiting our centre in Tralee on 1st March and will be available to meet with you at any time between 9am and 2pm. Please let me know via email to ireland@pitman-training.ie if this is convenient and where you would like to meet. If the short notice is a problem I will be back in Tralee in 2 to 3 weeks, so please let me know a date and time that fits for you.

· Optimus Prime – As is the case with Lesleybabe32 I need you to email me with your name, contact details and information relating to the training course fees that you paid. There were a couple of occasions in late 2011 when we had problems with the supply of training materials, which was an issue for us. These problems were resolved and no student should ever find themselves in the position of not having workbooks in order to commence study. I am presuming that you may have been affected by these delays and if this is the case you have my personal assurance you will receive a full refund, and should you wish to meet then this can be arranged in Cork at your convenience.


In proposing the above, each of the two students has my assurance of confidentiality in our dealings. Boards.ie and other similar sites have an important role to play in providing an opportunity for the exchange of views and experiences. Where any student has a complaint or expresses concern we always hope it will be immediately brought to our attention so that we can put things right in a prompt and fair manner. Equally, many thousands of our students are appreciative for what Pitman Training has done for them and I am reminded of this when I visit our training centres and see the gifts to our staff, thank you cards and the letters of praise they receive.

I do hope to hear from both Lesleybabe32 and Optimus Prime very soon regarding this.

Derek Smith

Thanks very much for your response Derek, I really do hope to turn this negative experience into a possitive one, I - like most people - don't like to have to complain, but in this case I feel very strongly about the lack of communciation I had with Pitman, I will private mail you now to arrange and meeting and look forward to discussing a solution and trust me if I get sorted I will be praising Pitman instead of giving out, Regards, Lesley

Killemall

Nice to see they're doing the right thing. Well hopefully the meeting will go well. Benificial to all concerned.

Lesleybabe32

Killemall wrote: »

Nice to see they're doing the right thing. Well hopefully the meeting will go well. Benificial to all concerned.

Thanks for the support - meeting went well spent over an hour talking and listening, he is going to look into it and get back to me in ten days! I have to say he was very nice and possitive - will keep ye posted!

Optimus_Prime

Delighted you got some satisfaction Lesley. Its just a shame it took someone that runs the Pitman franchise to take the time to meet you when the center owner couldnt be bothered.

Derek while i appreciate you taking the time to respond and trying to arrange a meeting I will pass thank you. This whole experience has seriously effected my opinion of the Munster training centers and I would rather put it all behind me.

Im am currently training elsewhere at a far cheaper rate than i was being offered before. I just wanted to make people aware of what type went on.

pitmanireland

Hi Optimus Prime
Thanks for your reply. There is of course no need to meet with me. My previous comment had focused on your posting of 27th February (13.25 hrs), where you stated that you should have received a refund. If you just email me direct with your name and address, the amount you paid and when, I will get this verified and personally arrange for the payment to be sent to you. Email me at ireland@pitman-training.ie.
Regards.
Derek Smith

Lesleybabe32

Optimus_Prime wrote: »

Delighted you got some satisfaction Lesley. Its just a shame it took someone that runs the Pitman franchise to take the time to meet you when the center owner couldnt be bothered.

Derek while i appreciate you taking the time to respond and trying to arrange a meeting I will pass thank you. This whole experience has seriously effected my opinion of the Munster training centers and I would rather put it all behind me.

Im am currently training elsewhere at a far cheaper rate than i was being offered before. I just wanted to make people aware of what type went on.

Thanks - and yes I agree, management in Tralee should have met with me instead, has been disappointing but as it is so recent and fresh, I will still give them a chance and see what happens, will keep you posted and you should give Derek an email, just to see can he sort a refund even and wish you well in whatever course your doing - Les

Lesleybabe32

Lesleybabe32 wrote: »

Thanks for the support - meeting went well spent over an hour talking and listening, he is going to look into it and get back to me in ten days! I have to say he was very nice and possitive - will keep ye posted!

GREAT NEWS ALL PITMAN DID NOT LET ME DOWN IN THE END, thank ye all for your support - Lesley

Authorisation has been given for the Medical Secretary Diploma to be issued and I would expect you to receive it within the next ten to fourteen days.

Optimus_Prime

Pitman Trainings head office did not let you down the center owners however is a different story. Im sure after the Tralee owners getting a dressing down from superiors they were left with no option but to grant you your Diploma . Congratulations on the achievement and best of luck in your future career pursuits.

Optimus

Lesleybabe32

Optimus_Prime wrote: »

Pitman Trainings head office did not let you down the center owners however is a different story. Im sure after the Tralee owners getting a dressing down from superiors they were left with no option but to grant you your Diploma . Congratulations on the achievement and best of luck in your future career pursuits.

Optimus

Thanks!!

Killemall

Lesleybabe32 wrote: »

GREAT NEWS ALL PITMAN DID NOT LET ME DOWN IN THE END, thank ye all for your support - Lesley

Authorisation has been given for the Medical Secretary Diploma to be issued and I would expect you to receive it within the next ten to fourteen days.

Great news. Bet you didn't think telling your problems on boards would help but it did. Fair play to Pitman.
Now all you have to do is find a job as a Medical Secretary, that's the real hard part. Good luck!

Lesleybabe32

Killemall wrote: »

Great news. Bet you didn't think telling your problems on boards would help but it did. Fair play to Pitman.
Now all you have to do is find a job as a Medical Secretary, that's the real hard part. Good luck!

Thanks, I know I am delighted with the outcome, good to talk and yes Derek from Pitman was nothing but a Gent and proved very profressional, my case was a once off I am sure, but I have to give credit where credit is due and thank ye all for supporting me all the way x Lesley

wantsuntoshine

pitmanireland wrote: »

From: Derek Smith, Director, Pitman Training Ireland

I have in the last few days viewed a number of postings from two students expressing concerns regarding their experiences at our centres in Cork and Tralee. My first wish is to express our sincere regret to both students (Lesleybabe32 and Optimus Prime) that they have found learning with us to be a frustrating experience. As a responsible training provider we are of course sensitive to criticism, and it is our hope that we will be give the opportunity to investigate what has happened in these two instances. It is appropriate for me to meet with the two students and personally listen to their concerns. Where the conclusion points to any need for a change to our procedures, we will put those steps in place. Our view though is that it would be wrong for us as an organisation to engage in any open discussion regarding any student and their individual experience. To that end I hope that Lesleybabe32 and Optimus Prime will consider what I suggest below:

· Lesleybabe32 – You have raised a number of points in your postings and these need to be thoroughly investigated. This is a task that I will personally undertake. I am visiting our centre in Tralee on 1st March and will be available to meet with you at any time between 9am and 2pm. Please let me know via email to ireland@pitman-training.ie if this is convenient and where you would like to meet. If the short notice is a problem I will be back in Tralee in 2 to 3 weeks, so please let me know a date and time that fits for you.

· Optimus Prime – As is the case with Lesleybabe32 I need you to email me with your name, contact details and information relating to the training course fees that you paid. There were a couple of occasions in late 2011 when we had problems with the supply of training materials, which was an issue for us. These problems were resolved and no student should ever find themselves in the position of not having workbooks in order to commence study. I am presuming that you may have been affected by these delays and if this is the case you have my personal assurance you will receive a full refund, and should you wish to meet then this can be arranged in Cork at your convenience.


In proposing the above, each of the two students has my assurance of confidentiality in our dealings. Boards.ie and other similar sites have an important role to play in providing an opportunity for the exchange of views and experiences. Where any student has a complaint or expresses concern we always hope it will be immediately brought to our attention so that we can put things right in a prompt and fair manner. Equally, many thousands of our students are appreciative for what Pitman Training has done for them and I am reminded of this when I visit our training centres and see the gifts to our staff, thank you cards and the letters of praise they receive.

I do hope to hear from both Lesleybabe32 and Optimus Prime very soon regarding this.

Derek Smith

Dear Derek Smith,

Please please can you help my niece? She has an issue with a Pitman training centre in the South East, which has been ongoing since 2009. The way she's been treated has been absolutely terrible to say the least. She's rang and emailed them on numerous occasions with regards to the issue and was told by 2 different individuals that under the circumstances, she would be due a refund. Unfortunately it is still unresolved and so us, her family are now in the process of helping her seek legal action as if she walks away she will be losing over €1500!!

It is such a long story and has upset me so much, you would not belive the immense stress that she has been put through. Yet I feel I have no other option but to warn others against this training centre, in case they go through a similar situation as hers

Here is her story and I hope we can speak to you personally as I am not being unreasonable. I just want this issue resolved for her at this stage and to put Pitman training behind us

First of all, may I STRESS, the ladies who work in the Pitman centres have treated her kindly and sympathetically on almost all occasions and I will give you specific names when I speak to you but not on here. But they have been put in an extremely uncompromising position where they have had to play piggy in the middle between my niece and the woman who owns this south eastern Pitman franchise. Right here goes.....:( I will call my niece 'Z'.

In summer 2009 Z had a breakdown, was hospitalised and went on sick leave from work for almost 2 months. In Oct Z joined Pitman Training to do the Executive PA diploma and gave bank details to pay 100 per wk until all fees were paid. Z paid money upfront also but I do not have exact amnt to hand. Just 9 days later Z was admitted to a psychiatric unit where she remained for almost 5 months When she came out of hospital in Feb 2010, she was obviously not the same person. Her mother(my sister) cancelled the direct debit and contacted the centre to tell them that as Z was on 9, yes NINE dif meds, that she would not be doing the course. At this stage Z had paid €2100!! Z's Mum was told she could not get a refund as she had signed a contract to pay over €4000, but that they would extend the course. Her Mum argued that Z was a very unwell woman at the time of signing contract and that she could get hospital, gp, psychiatrist and psychologists reports to back up same, that she went into hospital 9 days later. But they said they would just extend the course. Z's mum said it would be a long time before Z would be ready to partake in it.

In late 2010 Z attempted her first module. The lady in the centre said Word would be the easiest. In Dec she failed it miserably. She explained she could not concentrate or retain info even tho she'd tried her hardest. In Jan 2011 Z asked once again for a refund and explained she was still on a ridiculous amount of medication. Z was told they could only extend the course. Z told the lady she would try attempt it again in Sept 2011 as she had hoped to be a bit better by then and hopefully off at least half of the meds that prevent her from being able to concentrate, function properly or think straight and retain info. By Summer 2011 Z had become worse. One of her docs wrote a letter in June 2011 stating that she would not be capable of partaking in this course for the near distant future and attached a letter pleading for a refund of fees minus the money for the Word module.

They said this letter was not recieved even though I sent it by registered post for her THREE TIMES?? then after a wk Z's mum rang again and one of the letters turned up. She explained how ill Z was and the additional stress that this was causing her. The lady on the phone told her that Z would most definately get money back as it was circumstances beyond Z's control and considering she went into hospital for almost 5 whole months only a few days after signing that contract

That was mid August 2011. From that date until April 2011, Z's mum, or Z herself called every single wk at least once and sometimes twice. Every time they were told by "A" that a certain individual "B" had to deal with it and that "B" would call back, I was called back only twice by this person and she told me that it was actually ANOTHER woman called "C" who owns the centre who had to make the decision, but that she was sure Z would be entitled to a refund. Each time we called we were passed from person to person and each time were told the owner on the centre could not be contacted personally. Yet each time she was either out of the office, on holiday or sick etc etc.
Z eventually got a letter from the lady who owns the centre apologising but that Z would not be getting a refund but that she wished her a speedy recovery!

The very next day I myself called to arrange a meeting with the owner face to face. I was told by the girl to come on Monday at 12pm to speak with "D"...yes "D", another person! I told her I would be taking the day off work along with Z's uncle and that Z would be with us if she was well enough. On monday we drove over an hour to this main centre for our county. At 12 we were told that we could not meet with "D" afterall. We eventually ended up meeting with the owner after much persistance as we said we would wait all night if we had to. To get answers as to why Z had been told for so long that refund would be possible, why her calls had been ignored for 8 whole months and why then was she told she could not get a refund even though she is sick and clearly signed a contract when she had been sick before signing and sent to hospital only 9 days later?? Surely that constitutes as an exceptional case? Another letter was recieved a wk later, once again refusing any refund, yet it is clear my niece will not be able to do this course any time soon.

Please please contact me so that I can fill you in with the rest of the story or please please someone tell us who else can be contacted or do we have to continue this legal route? This girl has seriously been through enough and she does not need any additional stress, yet the way she has been treated is absolutely shocking
She remains on 6 different types of medication and attends a psychologist and psychiatrist on a regular basis and is still an outpatient with the HSE.
Please someone help her
Thank you so much for reading this x x x

wantsuntoshine

Huge apologies to all for my spelling mistakes etc above. I have only joined this forum as I stumbled across it while looking for info to help my niece and so I registered so that I could reply to you all. We are desperate at this stage
Plus its almost 2am because it took me so long to type as unfortunately Im not a typer.
Thanks again to all of you x

pitmanireland

Dear 'wantsuntoshine'
I have just read your posting with refence to Student Z, and understand that you are her aunt. At this stage I am not personally aware of the circumstances of what has happened, but you do have my assurance that I will fully investigate the history of this case. What you have related is an extremely upsetting series of events and clearly much has taken place since Student Z's enrolment.
In order that we can progress this as a matter of urgency, can you please email me (Derek Smith) direct at ireland@pitman-training.ie. Please include your landline and mobile telephone numbers and I will telephone you this afternoon, or let me know a time that is most convenient for you.
When we speak, we will then be able to arrange a meeting next week in order to discuss of this matter.
It was very concerning to read your posting regarding the student's health concerns. The comments in the posting are though of a highly personal and private nature and it is vital that her rights to confidentiality are fully respected.
Please accept my genuine apology that you have experienced some frustration here and I trust our meeting and investigation will bring about a swift conclusion. I hope too that you will pass on my concerns to your niece and that her health improves in the future.
Yours sincerely
Derek Smith

Lesleybabe32

What a sad story to read, terrible that we have to go this route to get justice, but I can assure you Derek Smith is an absolute gent and will look after ye, you are a wonderful Auntie for the support you are giving your niece and keep us posted x Lesley

Optimus_Prime

I'm sorry to hear about your troublesome ordeal. I wish I could say I was surprised to learn of their actions .