Admin professionals are the backbone of any organisation, keeping things running smoothly, supporting teams, and ensuring efficiency. But to stay ahead in this ever-evolving field, upskilling is key. Whether you’re looking to boost your IT skills, refine your communication, or take on more responsibilities, you’ll love our summary of the best courses for admin professionals.
Here’s a detailed guide to the best training options in the UK, from nationally recognised qualifications to specialist skill-building courses.
1. Nationally Recognised Qualifications
If you’re looking for a qualification that boosts your CV and career prospects, these officially-recognised courses are a great place to start.
📌 Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas in Business Administration
✔ Ideal for beginners and those looking to formalise their experience.
✔ Covers office procedures, IT skills, communication, and business principles.
✔ Offered by City and Guilds, OCR, and local colleges across the UK.
📌 T Level in Management and Administration
✔ A two-year qualification combining classroom learning with real-world industry placement.
✔ Perfect for school leavers or those entering the administration field.
📌 Business Administration Apprenticeships (Levels 2 and 3)
✔ Combines on-the-job training with formal study, so you earn while you learn.
✔ Available through employers, training providers, and colleges.
✔ Great for those starting out or looking to progress into higher-level admin roles.
2. Specialist Skills Courses
Want to sharpen specific skills? These courses focus on key admin capabilities to help you stand out in the workplace.
📌 Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
✔ A must-have for any admin role.
✔ Available from beginner to advanced levels.
✔ Providers: NextGen Learning, Pitman Training, LinkedIn Learning.
📌 Minute Taking
✔ Learn how to capture key details quickly and accurately in meetings.
✔ Provider: Pitman Training.
📌 Touch Typing and Shorthand
✔ Still valuable for legal, medical, and executive support roles.
✔ Providers: Pitman Training, Staff Skills Academy.
📌 Business Writing and Communication
✔ Covers email etiquette, report writing, and professional communication.
✔ Providers: UK Professional Development Academy, Reed.co.uk.
📌 Customer Service Skills
✔ Essential for handling client enquiries and problem-solving.
✔ Providers: UK Professional Development Academy, Staff Skills Academy.
📌 Organisational and Time Management
✔ Helps with prioritisation, workload management, and efficiency.
✔ Providers: Staff Skills Academy, online courses via Coursera.
📌 Project Management Basics
✔ Many admin roles involve coordinating projects – this gives you a structured approach.
✔ Providers: Pitman Training, Reed.co.uk, LinkedIn Learning.
📌 Industry-Specific Training
✔ Legal admin? Try the Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs (ILSPA).
✔ Medical secretary? Look for medical admin courses with recognised healthcare providers.
3. Professional Development and CPD (Continuing Professional Development)
If you’re looking to maintain and grow your skills continuously, CPD-accredited courses are an excellent option.
📌 Short Courses and Workshops
✔ Fast, focused learning on specific admin skills or software.
✔ Many are CPD-accredited and can be completed in a day or two.
✔ Providers: UK Professional Development Academy, Staff Skills Academy.
📌 Online Learning Platforms
✔ Flexible and affordable – learn at your own pace.
✔ Popular platforms:
- Reed.co.uk – lists admin courses from multiple UK providers.
- LinkedIn Learning – great for business skills and IT training.
- Coursera – offers professional certificates from universities.
4. Best Course Providers in the UK
Not sure where to study? Here are some of the top training providers for admin professionals:
🏅 Pitman Training – Offers a wide range of admin, IT, and secretarial courses, available both online and in training centres.
🏅 Reed.co.uk – A marketplace for various admin courses, from beginner to advanced levels.
🏅 UK Professional Development Academy (UKPDA) – Specialises in CPD-accredited business and admin skills courses.
🏅 Staff Skills Academy – Focuses on admin, HR, and office management training.
🏅 Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs (ILSPA) – The go-to provider for legal secretary training.
🏅 Colleges and Universities – Many offer business admin diplomas, degrees, and T Levels.
5. How to Choose the Right Course
With so many options, how do you pick the right one?
✅ Match your course to your career goals – Do you need a qualification or just to improve specific skills?
✅ Choose a format that suits you – Prefer in-person learning or a self-paced online course?
✅ Check accreditation – Make sure it’s recognised by UK employers (look for CPD or awarding body recognition).
✅ Compare costs and time commitment – Does it fit your budget and schedule?
✅ Read reviews – See what past students say about the course provider.
Final Thoughts: Investing in Your Admin Career
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your admin career to the next level, the right training can open new doors.
✔ Want formal qualifications? Look at diplomas or apprenticeships.
✔ Need specialist skills? Choose short courses in software, communication, or project management.
✔ Keen to keep improving? CPD-accredited courses ensure you stay up to date.
Now’s the time to invest in your skills and take your admin career to the next level! 🚀
🔎 Next step: Browse training providers, compare courses, and start upgrading your skills today.
