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Home » Adult Learning » Free courses for adults

Courses funded by the government

The UK government announced its ‘free courses for jobs’ initiative recognising the need to remove the obstacles adults in England face getting back into education. It offers a selection of fully funded Level 3 (A Level equivalent) courses to adults (19+) who do not yet have a qualification at this level.

This offer is also available to adults in England who earn less than £25,000 or for those who are unemployed and in receipt of means tested benefits as below.

Benefit waivers – if you are in receipt of Government benefits such as:

  • Job Seeker’s Allowance
  • Employment Support Allowance (work-related)
  • Income Support
  • Universal Credit and take home pay is less than £892 and £1437 a month (2024/25) if this is a joint benefit claim (with partner)
  • Released on temporary licence 

Those who are unemployed and not in in receipt of means tested benefits may only claim the offer if they have not already achieved a Level 3 or higher.

There’s also lots of financial help available for adults earning less than £35,000 a year, including bursary entitlement for childcare, travel, kit, equipment, IT, and materials.

This offer is part of the government’s long-term commitment to help everyone gain skills for life. Short or online courses are also available, to support adults to get the skills they need to boost their careers. You may be able to get help to pay for childcare, travel and other costs.

South Devon College are pleased to offer a diverse range of courses with this available funding to teach you the skills that are high in demand right now.

Not sure what Level of qualification you should be working towards? Click here for more information.

CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING SERVICES
  • NVQ Electrical Installation Level 3
Teacher Training student delivering lesson from front of the classroom
EDUCATION AND SEND
  • Understanding Mental Health Certificate Level 3
  • Understanding Autism Certificate (Online) Level 3
  • Early Years Workforce Level 3
  • Principles of SEN (Online) Level 3
Chef Ollie Williamson in his restaurant in Torquay.
CATERING
  • Professional Cookery Level 3
PROFESSIONAL COURSES
  • AAT Advanced Certificate In Bookkeeping Level 3
  • AAT Accounting Advanced Diploma Level 3
  • CMI Principles of Management and Leadership Diploma Level 3
COUNSELLING
  • NCFE CACHE Counselling Skills Diploma (Online) Level 3
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HEALTH AND CARE
  • Adult Care Diploma Level 3
  • Healthcare Support Diploma Level 3

We also offer…

FREE Online Courses

Online courses are one of the most flexible learning styles available. They are fantastic for anyone with a busy schedule as you can choose your learning environment whether that’s at home, out and about or in your work environment.

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Free and Discounted Courses Starting Now

There are plenty of options for you to take your first steps toward a new or improved career. With funding options available to help you retrain or return to learning, it’s likely you’ll be able to study for free or with a discount!

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Cuihong Ai in South Devon College

Further Support

We strive to offer both support and encouragement to adults hoping to study with us. Whether you would like to learn a new skill, embark on a career change or return to learn after a break, it’s never too late to follow your ambition. We can offer you the support you may need to break down any barriers. There are plenty of funding options available to you, not matter what level of study meaning it’s likely you will be able to study for free or with a discount!

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Still not sure on your next step?
Book a Free Adult Advice and Guidance Session

We’re always happy to help find the right option and support for you. Please fill out the form below and a member of the team will be in touch to arrange your appointment to discuss your options in more detail.

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