Returning to education to retrain or upskill may seem like a pipe dream to many but it could be easier than you think.
Mike Jones, employability and enterprise manager at City College Plymouth, dispelled some of the worries people associated with returning to education.
“I know one of the main worries for adults is the cost. When you have other financial responsibilities, like a mortgage and family expenses, finding money for course fees can be challenging.
“However, adult education has never been more accessible with the government offering free English and maths sessions to those who did not achieve level 4/C grades, and a new one-year initiative for those aged 19+ who are employed or self-employed and earning less than 15,700, which lets them study for free.
“This one-year scheme is a fantastic opportunity for adults to retrain or gain a recognised qualification via entry level, level one and level two courses. This programme isn’t about household income, but an individual’s own salary from full, part-time or self-employment, so loads of people could be eligible.
“Not many people know that you can still study up to 16 hours per week and still claim benefits so you won’t be out of pocket. Also, if you are working full-time, City College Plymouth has a whole range of courses designed to fit around your work and home life including part-time and evening courses.
“…you can still study up to 16 hours per week and still claim benefits so you won’t be out of pocket.”
“There is, of course, an understandable apprehension about returning to education after many years out of school … not to mention the worry that can come along with learning new technologies or the thought of enrolling in classes with people half your age.
“Every year, City College Plymouth welcomes people of all ages into its diverse and friendly environment. There is also lots of support available to help make the transition back in to education a smooth one.
“We want you to have a great time while you’re working towards your dream career. So we’ll give you all the practical help and advice you need to settle in and enjoy your time with us.”
City College Plymouth is enrolling now! Find out about the wide range or full and part-time study programmes, university-level study, English and maths courses and apprenticeships at City College Plymouth’s Course Information and Enrolment Sessions every Wednesday in September, 4.30pm to 6.30pm at Kings Road.
Visit cityplym.ac.uk or call 01752 305300 to register an interest.
