Thinking of making your New Year’s resolution to learn a new skill, brush up on your maths or English or maybe get qualified for a whole new career?
Durham County Council’s Adult Learning and Skills Service offers a wide range of courses and details can be found in its new Spring 2016 Learning Guide.
As well as helping people boost their skills, confidence and job prospects, courses offer the chance to meet new people and many can also lead to nationally recognised qualifications.
This year’s classes include maths and English at all levels up to GCSE equivalent, information computer technology courses and vocational qualifications in subjects including childcare, health and social care and business and administration.
The service also offers apprenticeships at intermediate and advanced level in a wide range of employment-related areas including business administration, ICT, supporting teaching and learning in schools and customer service.
There’s also a range of self-improvement courses including starting your own business, confidence building and family fitness.
Most courses are held in community venues, where they offer a friendly and welcoming learning environment. However, some are also available online, offering people the chance to learn at a time and place that is convenient for them.
Cllr Maria Plews, Cabinet member for leisure, libraries and lifelong learning, said: “If you’re looking to make a positive change in the New Year our courses are an ideal place to start. Meet new people, feel more confident in your skills, get the new job you deserve or start a whole new direction in life. With courses on getting back into work, setting up your own business or a recognised qualification to take you onto a new level in your career, there really is something for everyone.”
With courses starting in January, people are being encouraged to enrol now. The Spring Learning Guide is available to download at www.durham.gov.uk/adultlearning.
For further information on courses and how to enrol, contact the Adult Learning and Skills Service on 03000 266 115 or email alss@durham.gov.uk