Skip Ribbon Commands
Skip to main content Can't find what you're looking for?

Courses and learning

Why learn?

People never stop learning. Whether you are doing a course, in work, or volunteering, you are increasing your skills and your confidence. The more skills you have, the better your chances of finding the right job and getting more out of life. Open a Lifelong Learning Account and you will be able to keep track of all the study you do.


Getting a qualification

A qualification is proof that you have knowledge or a skill in a certain area. Qualifications aren’t the only way to show your skills: work experience or volunteering are other ways of showing what you can do. But qualifications are a good way to let an employer see what skills and knowledge you have. Don’t worry if you haven’t studied for a while. Many people return to learning after a break, and really enjoy the experience. You can study in a variety of different ways now, including at home.


Beginning with the basics

You may have left school without qualifications and have worries about your maths and English. You might think your IT skills need some updating. Getting more confident about the basics is a great way to start improving your skills. There are many courses to choose from, in colleges, learning centres and libraries. Another good way to begin is through a leisure course, in a subject you enjoy, such as photography, cookery or crafts.


Which qualification?

There are many opportunities for gaining a qualification at different levels. Some are work-based, others concentrate on a particular subject. Levels range from basic qualifications to university degrees and diplomas. You need to think about where you would like to go in your career and what qualifications you need to get there.


I need some advice

If you'd like more help with qualifications, simply visit the Contact us page to find out how to get in touch.






What you're saying

Join in on twitter

What are people talking about today?

View our Forums


Career Tools

We’re interested in your opinion!

We’d like to know what you think of the National Careers Service website.

If you would like to take part in a short survey after you have finished using the website, please click ‘yes’ below.