How do the learning programmes work?
You work through our specially prepared learning materials at your own pace, and at times convenient to suit you, so usually there is no need to attend a college or training provider to gain the qualification.
Certificate and award programmes are divided into units, with a workbook for each unit. In most cases, you will complete a written assessment for each unit, which will then be then marked by a competent tutor. You may also receive individual tutor support, via telephone, e-mail or in person, to help you progress through the course.
NVQ programmes are structured differently. You will work through units in the same way as for certificate and award programmes, but NVQs often involve work-based assessments.
How will I be assessed?
For certificate and award programmes your assessment will involve completing a series of questions that you submit to your tutor, who will give you detailed feedback on your work. At the beginning of your course you will be given contact details for your tutor (telephone and e-mail) so that if you need help or guidance with your work you can contact them.
For NVQ programmes your written work will be assessed in the same way but usually you will have to do a workplace assessment, which will be observed and marked by a tutor.
Will I have to take an exam?
For most of our programmes there is no exam – the assessment is done by completing a series of questions that you then submit to your tutor. However, some programmes do have an exam at the end, usually a multiple-choice question paper.
You will be given full details about how you will be assessed before starting your programme. Course assessment information is available for most courses in the products section.
Will I need to go to college?
There is usually no need to go to college. You work through the course materials when it's convenient to you. If you need help or guidance you can contact your tutor by telephone or e-mail.
How long will the course take to do?
You will be given information about the length of the programme at the start of your course. Typically our certificate programmes take between twelve and sixteen weeks. For NVQ programmes the courses will usually last longer (between six and nine months, depending on which level you are working at).
One of the benefits of distance learning is that learners can work at their own pace and at times and places convenient to them, so course lengths will vary depending on how quickly you want to work through the materials.
How much do they cost?
The courses vary in price according to the level and length of the course. Colleges can access government funding for some programmes and may be able to offer courses at a reduced rate. If you wish to study direct with us, contact us for further information about prices.
Are the courses accredited?
Most of our courses lead to qualifications that are accredited by nationally-recognised awarding bodies.
Can I progress on to other courses?
There is a wide range of progression opportunities from all of our courses. Your tutor can discuss progression opportunities with you and you will also find suggestions for progression in the details for each of our learning programmes shown in our course summaries in the products section of this website.
How do I find out more?
To find out more about our programmes, visit the products section, go to contact or register your interest by completing the learner register interest form.