So i found 2 training courses I want right. One is a 5 day intensive “Programming with SQL”, the other is a 2 day intensive “MS Reporting Services”. If i sign up and take them in the next month, the government will pay 60% of the cost!! Some sort of “upskilling” initiative they doing. At any rate, i just cannot pass this up right.
So, I approached the director of my dept and was told with a big smile that if wanted training in the things that the rest of the staff go for, then i could. If i felt the course i wanted was of interest to others, then put it forward and it would be looked at. I tried not to be too rude as i informed her that “Intro to Word” was a bit basic for me, and no others would be interested in my courses as they were specialised and not meant for “Users”.
Policy is, we can take up to 5 days training a year, but for the courses they want you to take(these are all basic users stuff..MOUS and all). I suggested if i could prove that they were of benifit to the company would i be able to get a couple days off (as everyone else gets 5 days a years to take) OR some financial assistance.
Problem is, I’m actually in a non-IT dept, and they don’t have a clue what goes on. They think the Database is a pretty blue web page where they click on menu buttons..if only is was so easy eh?
We are looking at overhauling our reports using MS Reporting Services hence my excitement (yes, i’m actaully excited about this) at the course. It seems that because in the past i have “figured out how to get things done”, that this is what is expected now. Fair enough, I normally figure it out, but the course would take a lot of learning time off the actuall implementation of the reports.
Anyways, i am putting together some info for my manager, but if they say no, is it wrong of me take the holiday days and pay for it myself, but then not “use” the new skills.
I know this sounds horrible, but i have to look out for my future, where to them i’m just someone who “learns how to do what they need me to”. I should note that I am on long term contract, but so are others who DO get thier training.
I don’t think i am asking for a lot..a couple days off or a few bucks to help pay..which would be tax deductible for them anyways..