Excel For Beginners

 

This three-part Excel course is designed to take learners from the very basics through to key intermediate skills, building confidence and practical ability step by step. It is ideal for anyone who has inherited existing spreadsheets, needs to understand and maintain them, or wants to create clear, functional spreadsheets of their own.

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Excel is widely used across schools and organisations, yet many users rely on guesswork or only use a small fraction of its capabilities. This course helps delegates understand how Excel works, not just which buttons to click. By developing structured, transferable skills, participants can work more efficiently, reduce errors, and feel confident managing data rather than being intimidated by it.

 

The course is particularly valuable for staff who need to present information clearly, manage lists or records, perform basic calculations, or produce summaries and charts for others. It supports learners in moving from basic data entry to using Excel as a practical problem-solving tool.

 

Each session includes a short assignment. Upon completion of each session and its assignment, delegates receive a Certificate in Excel for that level, allowing clear recognition of progress and achievement.

 

Session 1 – Excel Basics
Delegates will learn how to create a new spreadsheet and edit an existing one, insert and edit text and numbers, change layout and formatting, enter and check calculations, and print spreadsheets in the most effective and professional format.

 

This session builds a strong foundation, ensuring participants understand the structure of spreadsheets and feel confident navigating and editing Excel files.

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Session 2 – Formatting and Formulas
This session focuses on improving clarity and usability through formatting techniques such as row and column sizing, text alignment and rotation, number formatting, borders and shading, table formatting, and use of the format painter. Delegates will also learn to use formulas, the smart drag handle, and basic protection features.

These skills help participants create spreadsheets that are easier to read, easier to use, and less prone to errors.

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Session 3 – Managing and Analysing Data
Delegates will learn how to sort, filter and subtotal data, create charts, and work with multi-sheet and multi-workbook links.

This session enables learners to turn raw data into meaningful information, making Excel a more powerful and time-saving tool for everyday tasks.

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Outcomes - By the end of the course, participants will be able to confidently create, edit, format, and manage spreadsheets, apply formulas correctly, and present data clearly. They will also have gained recognised certificates for each completed level, demonstrating their developing Excel skills.