Adult Education and Qualifications

If you are interested in doing some lifelong learning and thinking about starting some education and training at college, university or in the workplace then there is lots of choice.  There might even be grants and loans available to support you.  As an adult learner, you can choose from a huge range of qualifications. You could go for GCSEs or A levels, or a vocational qualification such as an Apprenticeship which is directly related to your job.  

Doing a course can boost your chances of getting on at work, or finding a new job as many courses lead to a qualification, which can prove to an employer that you've gained knowledge and developed certain skills.  

Universities and further education colleges offer both academic and work-related courses. Depending on the subject and the type of job you're interested in, you can gain one of many types of qualifications.

GSCE’s and A-Levels - If you are an adult returning to education then you are likely to do these at a local further education college.

Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Higher National Diplomas (HNDs)  - HNCs and HNDs are work-related courses provided by higher education colleges and further education colleges. They are available in a wide range of subjects from accounting to video production

Higher education diplomas and certificates - As well as HNCs and HNDs, you can study for a range of higher education diplomas in subjects as varied as accounting, construction, engineering, nursing, science, technology and textile design. They usually take two years and certificates of higher education are academic, rather than vocational qualifications. There are broadly equivalent to an HNC, and usually take a year of full-time study to complete

Degrees - Degrees are higher education qualifications that help you develop a thorough understanding of a subject. They are usually done at a university and can be full or part time. There are several different types and a vast number of subjects to choose from

Vocational learning in the workplace

Apprenticeships - Apprenticeships give you the chance to learn - and gain nationally recognised qualifications - while getting a weekly wage.  Entry requirements will depend on the Apprenticeship you want to do. There are three levels available:

• Intermediate Apprenticeships (equivalent to five good GCSE passes)
• Advanced Level Apprenticeships (equivalent to two A level passes)
• Higher Apprenticeships (lead to qualifications at NVQ Level 4 or, in some cases, a Foundation Degree)

National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) - These are undertaken in the workplace and shows that learners have proved their competence against a set of nationally agreed occupational standards. This means they need to be doing their job at the same level as the qualification they are taking. To achieve an NVQ, a qualified NVQ Assessor will visit the workplace to assess the learners competence and related knowledge in practice.

BTEC, City and Guilds and OCR National Qualifications - These qualifications BTECs, City & Guilds and OCR Nationals are particular types of work-related qualifications, available in a wide range of subjects.  People take them if they are interested in learning more about a particular sector or industry. They have been designed in collaboration with industry, so they can equip you with the skills and knowledge that employers are looking for.  The qualifications offer a mix of theory and practice, and can also include an element of work experience.

Free careers and skills advice

Get free careers and skills advice for adult learners from Next Step. Help is available online, over the phone or by email - or you can meet an adviser near where you live.  Next Step advisers are professionally qualified and provide individual advice to help you make the right choices about learning and work