Explore the funding options available to learners

If you are an adult learner in England, there are various funding options available to help cover the costs associated with undertaking a professional qualification, including Mindful Education’s Online and On Campus courses. The cost of your course can be partly or even fully-funded through government funding, depending on the level of the qualification you are doing. This funding is usually only available through further education colleges. 

Ask your local college for “Learning and Funding Information” which will give you information on fees and funding available for the courses you are interested in. Below are some examples of funding options to gain qualifications with links to helpful resources. 

Level 2: Adult Education Budget

For level 2 courses, the Adult Education Budget will allow you to co-fund your chosen course. This means the government will provide part of the course fee, which reduces the amount you are paying. Depending on where you live and your personal circumstances the course may also be free.

Level 3: Free Courses for Jobs

Hundreds of level 3 courses qualify for Free Courses for Jobs funding, including bookkeeping, accounting, and management qualifications. The scheme is aimed at helping individuals improve their wage outcomes, job prospects, and gain skills that employers value. For eligible learners this means that you will not need to pay anything for your course. Ask your local college for more details. 

In addition to those courses in the Free Courses for Jobs scheme, courses may also qualify for funding via the Adult Education Budget or in devolved areas under what is called “Local Flexibilities”. This aside, there is also the option to fund the course via Advanced Learner Loans.

Level 4: Advanced Learner Loans

Advanced Learner Loans may also be available for courses at Level 3, 4 and above. These loans provide access to financial support, similar to costs associated with tuition costs in higher education and are administered by Student Finance England. These loans can depend on your provider of choice so it is best to discuss this option with them directly. 

Learners living in devolved areas may qualify for free courses where certain qualifications are viewed as a local priority need. Your local college should know of these opportunities.

Resources:

• Information on Adult Education Budget
• Information on Free Courses for Jobs
• Information on Advanced Learner Loans 

We deliver our flexible courses in partnership with colleges and training providers, so our partners are best placed to discuss the various funding options available to you. Visit the locations page on our website to see which of our partners is nearest to you and speak to them about our part-time, professional courses here.