Developing your skills
Improving your skills can help you manage your money, get a better job, help your child with homework, fill in forms and give you confidence you never knew you had. We all need skills in reading, writing, maths and using computers to get on in life and work. These are called ‘Skills for Life’ and many people struggle with one or all of them for a range of reasons. However, you easily boost your skills, and work towards a qualification.
You'll be able to learn in your local area in a way that suits your lifestyle - part time, full time, during the day or in the evening. And you'll be with other like-minded adults - it's not at all like being at school.
If you want an informal and confidential chat about improving your skills, call the FREE adviceline - Get On helpline: 0800 66 0800
Lines are open from 8.00 am to 10.00 pm, seven days a week. You can also book a free call back at a time to suit you by using the interactive telephone service.
Improving your computing and IT Skills
Improving your computer skills can help you keep in touch with friends and family, get on at work, or learn to use the computer to find out new things. IT skills can help you access a variety of resources and services, such as online banking or shopping.
You can choose from a range of courses - from online taster sessions, to courses leading to qualifications. There are computing courses at all levels, for beginners and beyond. Many courses are flexible, so you can learn when you want and at your own pace. Courses are often called IT or ICT (Information and Communications Technology). You can also do specific courses on topics such as using the internet or email, and learn to touch-type.
There will be lots of places locally where you can do these courses. You could call a Nextstep adviser who can help you find a course near you: 0800 1954 700
English for speakers of other languages (ESOL)
Improving your English can help you get more out of your life in the UK. It will also help if you want to study, improve your CV, or apply to become a British citizen. If English isn't your first language, you can do a course to help you improve your English. These courses are called ESOL or English for Speakers of other Languages.
Improving your English will make it easier to:
- talk to doctors and teachers
- understand the laws and customs of the UK
- do a course and get a qualification
- help your child with homework
- pass the Life in the UK test and become a British citizen
There are ESOL courses throughout the UK and advice is available to help you choose the right course for you. For free advice call the Get On helpline on 0800 100 900. Lines are open from 8.00 am to 10.00 pm, seven days a week.