CASE STUDY 1

PHAROS TUTORS

WHICH COURSES DID YOU DO?

I’ve completed Pharos Tutors’ Family History Skills and Strategies (Intermediate) course, and am now into the final year of the twoyear Advanced course.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THOSE COURSES?

Because being online, the courses fit around my life and it doesn’t matter where you live. I started with the five-week ‘Victorian Families – Your Ancestors in the Census’ before committing to the Certificate, opting for tutor-led because I prefer having an expert to guide me.

HOW MUCH DID THEY COST?

The cost varies depending on length, whether they are tutor-led and if your Advanced five-week work is assessed. The courses cost £62 unassessed and £76 of the assessed, and can be paid for as part Advanced certificate course – £1,364 over two years.My five-week course cost £49.99.

HOW LONG DID THEY TAKE TO COMPLETE?

It actually ranges from three to five weeks. I spent a minimum of 10 hours a week going through the course material and doing the exercises, because I wanted to get as much as I could from them. The assignments took me about two days.

WHAT WAS THE EXPERIENCE LIKE?

Although the courses are online, there is support via the tutor, plus online chats. The courses have introduced me to a wider range of sources, and taught me how to plan research strategies and conduct research – and the importance of keeping accurate records. I left my job in the Civil Service, was accepted as an AGRA associate, and now do research for others!