What is Skills Lab
The Skills Lab is a practical, workshop-based programme hosted at the West Hub, created to help participants build and strengthen essential academic, research, and professional skills. It provides an accessible space where learners at all levels can develop confidence, exchange ideas, and gain tools they can immediately apply in their studies, projects, or workplace.
Run by experienced facilitators and specialists, including the West Hub Library Team and invited trainers, the Skills Lab emphasises learning by doing. Sessions are interactive, collaborative, and supportive, ensuring participants leave not only with new knowledge but also with the ability to put it into practice.
Whether you are a student preparing for assessments, a researcher looking to sharpen your communication skills, or a professional seeking to enhance your toolkit, the Skills Lab offers opportunities to support your growth and success.
Types of sessions
The Skills Lab covers a broad range of topics, each tailored to meet the diverse needs of the University and wider community. Workshops are designed to be short, focused, and highly interactive, giving participants the chance to practise skills in real time and receive feedback.
Examples of sessions include:
Present Like a Pro – Build confidence in public speaking and learn practical techniques to engage audiences effectively.
Poster Like a Pro – Discover how to design impactful academic or professional posters that communicate your ideas clearly.
Introduction to Computer Languages – Get started with coding fundamentals in an accessible, beginner-friendly environment.
Information Skills – Learn how to search, evaluate, and manage information resources effectively for study, research, or work.
Special Topics – Skills Lab also offers sessions on emerging tools, digital skills, and personal effectiveness, depending on community interest and demand.
Each session is delivered in small groups to encourage discussion and peer-to-peer learning, with resources provided so you can continue practising afterwards. Together, the sessions build a well-rounded set of skills that can support both academic progress and professional development.
