Learners - Home
Is Skills for Life for you?
Reading, writing and maths are essential parts of everyday life, from reading the newspaper to working out sales discounts when shopping.
These 'Skills for Life' affect our confidence, what we do and our quality of life.

Brushing up these skills, and getting a qualification, can improve your work prospects and make everyday tasks easier.
Skills for Life is aimed at people aged 16 upwards who do not have
qualifications in English and maths at Level 2 (that’s GCSE Grade C and above).
Click HERE for a list of Frequently Asked Questions for Learners.
Why bother?
Many adults struggle with everyday tasks, like filling in forms or working out bills in restaurants.
Remember literacy and numeracy courses are free!
To find your nearest college or course provider visit direct.gov.
Improving your skills and getting a qualification can make a real difference to your life, at work and at home.
Take a look at some of the real life stories we've collected and see how others have benefited from improving these skills.
Being at ease with your reading, writing and maths skills can be a great boost to your confidence and open many doors.
70% of the UK population haven't achieved GCSE English and maths.
What next?
Recognising you could benefit from improving your skills is the first important step.
This site offers loads of information to set you on the right path, alternatively visit nextstep...
What is nextstep?
nextstep is a free friendly service that offers face-to-face help and support about training, learning and the world of work.
Helpful external links
Money & funding
- Adult Learning Grant
- Funding advice for over 18s (Directgov)
- Financial help for higher education students (Directgov)
Careers & Options
- The Careers Advice Service
- Apprenticeships website
- Find your dream career with information from Direct gov
- Job Centre Plus website
- Get On website
- Visit Direct gov for courses in your area
- Search for local training providers in your area on the Careers Advice Service
- If you missed out the first time round, you can do still do GCSEs
- Foundation Degrees
- Find out more about volunteering
Young People