Sponsored Editorial

There’s a new way for adults to conveniently pick up new skills and qualifications, and you can apply today.

Even those in full-time work can now access fantastic training at EKC Group’s Canterbury College, thanks to the new weekend courses on offer there.

Learners are already raving about the opportunity, which sees people of all abilities either honing their skills or starting from scratch.

With the next round of courses beginning in January, you can apply now for a course in Barbering, Bricklaying, Carpentry, or Welding.

With Level 1 and Level 2 options, both beginners and experienced practitioners can make the most out of the opportunity.

Chris Allen is completing his Level 2 in Welding, which he took up not because of his profession but because of a hobby.

He said: “I’m a computer technician but I wanted to do something different. I’ve been looking around at courses for a while, basically ever since I left school 25 years ago, but they’ve all been too expensive or too far away. When I saw this one come up, I decided to apply as it was neither.

“Being a single parent, it’s hard to find the time and money to do these things, but luckily I was eligible for funding support from the College.

“On the rare occasion I get to do something for myself, I like to tinker with bikes and do them up which welding’s an integral part of. A real dream of mine would be to turn it from a hobby into a business, with some fabrication of things like chairs and tables on the side. This course will really help me pursue that ambition.”

Chris appreciates that it can be daunting to re-enter education at an older age, but says he has absolutely no regrets in enrolling.

He added: “Definitely make enquiries if you’re even slightly thinking about it. Don’t be afraid to be middle-aged and go back to College. There’s a great social side, I’ve made new friends and learnt new skills at the same time.”

Meanwhile Greg Shea is hoping to hone his Carpentry skills as a potential ‘Plan B’ career. He said: “I really wanted to learn more about the trade as I come from a family of carpenters, with myself being probably the least competent one.

“I was made redundant this year and, though I found a job, I still wanted to learn these skills as I’ve never had a trade I could fall back on as a Plan B.”

When asked what he would tell people considering applying for a course, Chris said: “Don’t be nervous, you’ll be in good company and it doesn’t matter if you are a complete beginner or you know some skills already.

“The lecturers really do adapt to your level of knowledge and your learning style, and work hard to make sure you’re actually taking in the information so you can get a qualification at the end of the course.”

To find out how you can apply for weekend courses, click here.