Returning to education

So you hated school and didn't get the grades? Going back to education might seem like a backwards step, but since most jobs these days require you flash the right pieces of paper it'll never be a waste of time.

"Competition for jobs is fierce right now, so getting qualifications makes you more attractive to employers."

Why go back?

Two-thirds of people who leave school at 16 go back into education. There are many reasons why, including a fresh approach to studying after taking time out and striving towards a better quality of life, but earning potential, it seems, is a big incentive. A report by Universities UK suggests you can earn up to £4000 a year more for having A-levels, or £185,000 over a lifetime, while getting a degree is claimed to increase earnings again by £160,000 over your working life.

Also, competition for jobs is fierce right now, so getting qualifications makes you more attractive to employers, plus you'll meet new people and discover new skills and abilities.

What do you need to think about?

You need to get some basic points straight before proceeding, so grab some paper and jot down the answers to these questions:

What am I hoping to achieve – do I want to go to uni or just get some basic qualifications?
What qualifications do I already have?
Do I want to study part-time or full-time?

Do I want to study from home or go to university or college?
Do I want to study an academic or vocational (work-related) course?

Money matters

Unfortunately, once you're over 18 studying is no longer free. Your local college will offer GCSEs, A-levels, BTECs, NVQs and possibly Diplomas, but you'll have to pay for course fees and to sit the exams. Prices vary across the country, so always check before you commit to a course. There are, however, grants and bursaries available, so it's worth enquiring to see if you qualify.

What kind of qualification?

If your aim is just to prove your basic maths and English skills, you can take a free Adult numeracy and literacy certificate at any Learndirect centre. Learndirect also offers a variety courses – many of which could be funded. Meanwhile, Skills for Life – also known as Basic Skills – are college courses for over-16s without GCSEs in English or maths. Studying to a level that suits you, they're designed to showcase your skills in reading, writing, maths or computing and can help you prove your employability (LINK).

If you want to do a work-based, practical qualification, consider an Apprenticeship(if you're living in England), BTEC, NVQ, a Scottish Higher National Certificate (HNC)or British Higher National Diploma (HND)

If you're aiming to go to university, the Access to Higher Education Diploma will help you get the qualifications you need as well as give you essential study skills. If you're under 26 and this is your first level 3 qualification (equivalent to an A-level) then it's free. Subjects include nursing, art and design and business studies. This diploma generally takes about a year at college, based on a 16-hour study week. It's also possible to study part-time or via distance learning.

If you're studying with a particular career in mind, make sure you research the correct qualifications by checking the Prospects website and using UCAS to find out which universities offer the relevant courses.

Where shall I study?

You can go anywhere, but if you have commitments distance learning is a good option. Studying from home, it can be useful for people with caring commitments or disabilities (or those who don't fancy going to college with a bunch of 16- year-olds!). All levels of qualifications are available, from GCSEs to an Open University degree.

By Emma Rubach and Susan Young

Updated:15/07/2010

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If you are working, it's worth checking with your employer to see if they will fund a training course or put you on an Apprenticeship.Talk over your plans and ideas with a careers or student advisor.
Call Learndirecton 0800 101 901to discuss qualifications and funding options.
Apply for financial help if you're starting uni; there are supplementary grants available for disabled students and parents. If you live in Scotland, tuition is free at a local university and maintenance loans are available.
If you are worried about rusty study skills or being the oldest student on your course, check college or university websites before you apply. Many institutions actively welcome mature students and organise lots of support.
Socialise before you start by using Facebookto help you find people who are in the same boat.

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