Further education: the basics
Tuesday 1 July 2008
Further education can be for everyone.
Courses can take place in a sixth-form college, a further education college or in a college of higher education.
- People of all ages can enter further education
- Courses can be academic or vocational.
- You can enter further education for personal satisfaction or to advance your career ambitions.
Why choose further education?
Many people decide to take up further education because some options weren't available to them in school or because they want to study in a more adult environment.
Others may decide to return to education after a break simply to build on their natural talents. This can include anything from attending writing courses to learning a new language. First Aid courses are very popular, as they show people how to help others in emergencies.
Many people look to further education for help with their careers. For example, a course in typing and computer skills will boost the skill set of anyone hoping to work with computers.
Businesses often organise training schemes for their staff. If a member of staff feels they aren't able to fully take in events at work, it may be possible for them to go on an assertiveness training course that helps them make their voice heard at work.
How can further education help my career?
Further education shows first and foremost that you are eager to learn, keen to improve upon your skill set, and prepared to go the extra mile to better yourself.
Even if you choose your course for personal interests alone, further education shows you are motivated, passionate, lively and take a great interest in the world around you.
The web is a great source of information for those hoping to get into further education. Take a look at our list of recommended links to find out what options are available to you.
How to find further education courses
There are many ways to find the right course for you:
- Ask local colleges and schools
- Check your local paper
- Visit your local community centre.
- Check the notice board at work
Clearly, one of the easiest ways to search for a course is via the web, so why not take a look through our list of recommended links for help with your search.
Help with costs
If you're hoping to enrol on a course at a school sixth form or college, you might be able to get some help with your living and learning costs.
For example, a Learner Support Fund can help with things like transport, childcare, books and equipment. There are even schemes that can help with accommodation costs if it's vital that you need to move closer to a specialist college.
Another, called the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) scheme, encourages young people between the ages of 16 and 19 to stay on at further education. Students studying any course up to and including A Levels can earn up to £30 per week.
If you're a parent and want to get back into training and employment, then you could try visiting the Government's SureStart web site, which is available in our list of recommended links.
Although information on all of the funding schemes open to you should be available from your school, college or educational department of your local council, you can ask to speak a personal adviser at Connexions Direct on 080 800 13-2-19.
