Working in conjunction with our partners across Essex and the South East, the Bright Futures Training Centre have a range of free* training courses available for you to study whilst social distancing measures are in place.

These short courses are FREE* and typically take 6-8 weeks to complete, based on 4 hours of study per week. There is no need to attend face to face lessons, the courses are delivered online so all you need is an electronic device with internet connection and you can study at your own pace, anytime, anywhere. These varied learning programs cover many areas of interest and will help you to further your subject knowledge and understanding that could be vital in helping you to progress in your current employment or if you are currently looking for work, secure a new job. Whilst you study you will have the full support of a dedicated Assessor to assist with any questions, they will also be responsible for assessing your completed assessments, providing feedback on your work.

You may only apply for ONE course at a time. Once you have completed that course you can apply for another up to a maximum of four courses. Please do not submit more than one application as doing so will delay your application being processed. If you choose to study the Health and Safety in a Construction Environment course, please note that this is joined with the L1 Certificate in Employability Skills.

REMEMBER: There is no cost whatsoever, so sign-up today and start learning something new!

The courses are free* to study if you are:

• Aged 19 or over
• Living in UK and an EU resident for the last 3 years
• Have settled status in the UK if you are not a UK or EU national

*Costs for adult programmes has changed. If you live in a devolved area you may have to pay for your programme(s). This includes residents of Greater London or Greater Cambridge and Peterborough. More about funding

 

COURSES

Business and Administration – (EIS) 

There were an estimated 5.5 million private sector businesses in the UK at the start of 2016. Despite the recent economic difficulties, the trend has been steadily increasing in the business  population. Today's global economy brings with it a wealth of new markets, shrinking profit margins and increasing operating expenses; the need for good business administration has never been greater.

Creating a Business Start-Up – (EIS) 

Over half a million businesses are started every year; however, 30% of these fail within the first two years. Having a better understanding of the initial processes and requirements of a business start-up can increase the chances of your business succeeding. If you’re looking to start your own business, or already have a business but want to develop and progress your business plan, this qualification will support you with the skills and knowledge you need.

Customer Service – (EIS) 

In order to have a truly successful business, you need to provide good customer service. It is believed  that 96 per cent of unhappy customers don't ever complain; however, 91 per cent of those simply leave and never come back. The main reason for customer churn is not price, but bad customer service. Handling a business's issues in a professional and courteous manner is an essential day-to-day task. 

Customer Service for Hospitality – (EIS) 

In the hospitality sector, staff are often the forefront of the business and first impressions are vital.It is therefore important that those working in hospitality are highly professional. Understanding how to communicate effectively, the importance of teamwork and the importance of maintaining food hygiene is essential for staff in these roles.

Digital Skills – (EIS) 

In an increasingly digital world, it’s becoming more important to have the right skills in order to use computers and other technological devices. This course is designed to help support your development with digital literacy skills, encouraging progression into roles where digital literacy is required.

Employability Skills – (EIS) 

Learning key skills for the working environment is vital for improving confidence and communication skills to prepare for employment or a change in employment. This course will teach you the skills that are necessary for any working environment.

Health and Safety in a Construction Environment – (EIS) 

On this course you will complete the Level 1 Award in Health & Safety in a Construction Environment which provides an important foundation to Health and Safety for individuals working or intending to work within the Construction industry. The qualification covers risk assessment, working at height, manual handling, improving health and safety at work and the safe operation of equipment. Once enrolled you will be sent online learning materials that you can complete at home, you will have the support of a dedicated tutor who will help guide you through the course. This qualification, along with the CITB Health and Safety Operatives test is required before you can apply for a CSCS card. Please be advised that following the recent closure CITB testing centres are beginning to open but due to social distancing guidelines there is reduced availability, once you have completed this course we will contact you to arrange a test booking. This course must be selected together with the L1 Certificate in Employability Skills, please apply for both courses, your application and enrolment will be delayed if you fail to do this.

Retail Operations – (EIS) 

The retail industry is subject to a number of pressures. These include changes in shoppinghabits  and the recent economic downturn which reduced consumer spending. However, as consumer confidence begins to grow, it is important that retail support staff are fully trained and equipped  to represent  your  business and to meet the needs of yourcustomers. As removing staff from the 'shop floor' applies pressure to rotas, this training can be carried out in the learner's own time via our tried and tested flexible learning approach.

Warehousing and Storage – (EIS) 

The warehousing and storage of goods is an essential part of logistics operations within a business. Roles within this industry require great skill and organisation to coordinate the demand and supply of goods and ultimately meet customer needs.