Techworks / JRG Partners Techworks / JRG Partners - I confirm: This is a company that tries to exploit the desperation of job-seekers to wrangle thousands of pounds in return for access to their on-line courses. London, UK

I am joining Zak in his opinion about Techworks, their poor customer service and all the misleading, forceful and over- persuasive techniques they use to make people sign the contract (see: Report: Techworks UK Ltd - JRG Partners).

I was sold an IT course by Techworks. I agreed to purchase the MCSA/MCSE package (one year on-line course) as a novice in IT, after they assured me that there is no experience needed to pass MCSA and MCSE exams. I decided to go for it, as they promised to find me a job after I pass those exams. I didn't know anything about Microsoft exams so they used that fact. They told me: Don't worry about exams. We'll make sure you'll pass. They promised things which cannot be delivered, but because it was done verbally they believe they can go unpunished.

After some time, when the materials turned out to be very difficult, I did some research through different websites, including Microsoft, and I found that without hands-on experience it is highly unlikely to pass the exams and that working in industry for at least 6-12 months is highly recommended.

On Microsoft website it clearly says:
Without hands-on experience with the product, it is highly unlikely that you will be able to pass the exam.
Or
..hands-on experience working with the product is highly recommended.

I can also find the candidate's profile concerning MCSA and MCSE certification:

'An MCSA candidate should have one to twelve months of experience in working with a desktop operating system, a network operating system, and an existing network infrastructure.'
(http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcsa.aspx)

'An MCSE candidate should have one to two years of experience in designing, installing, configuring, and troubleshooting network systems.'
(http://www.microsoft.com/learning/en/us/certification/mcse.aspx#tab1)

Unfortunately, based on the deceitful information I was given, I have entered the contract and now I am fighting for a refund.
I sent many complaint letters to Techworks and Hitachi - finance company, who is involved in the contract, but this has not resulted in any reasonable outcome.

I would appreciate any advice.

Alex
London
United Kingdom