One of the simplest ways of undertaking a course of study is to enrol with your local FE or HE College. Colleges in your area will offer a variety of courses and methods of study. Courses will lead to nationally recognised qualifications such as the GCSE and NVQ through to a degree, whilst studying can be fitted around work by applying for day release or night classes.

You will be able to find out more about what is on offer at your local college by visiting your local Training/Learning Centre. Your local Resettlement and Education Co-ordinator (REC) will have copies of the college prospectus and be able to offer advice on enrolment dates. Most conventional courses run from Sep/Oct through to the following May/Jun, but many colleges now run flexible courses on an open learning basis and you can start them at any time.

If you decide to follow a course that leads to a nationally recognised qualification you will be able to claim your Standard Learning Credit.  If you wish to make a claim, however, you must register your intention to study on MOD F1950 available from your local REC. Your line manager must agree to you undertaking a course of study and you must also provide proof of payment. You will also be able to claim assistance with some travel costs; your REC will have all the details.

Finally, if you are unable to find a course to meet your needs exactly, it may be worth trying to speak to the college. Learning is much more flexible than it used to be and with the introduction of Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL), you may be able to negotiate the perfect learning package for you. If you wish to know more you should contact the PLA at your unit or Sqn Ldr Learning Forces/Flt Lt Learning Forces on High Wycombe Ext 6551/5603.

Click opposite to learn about the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education
Click opposite to access the Universities & Colleges Admission Service Website
Click opposite to access a detailed Website on Welsh Colleges
HERO is the national website for higher education in the United Kingdom.
Click opposite to access a site on Higher Education resources.