HIGHER SKILLS, APPRENTICESHIPS AND SKILLS FOR EMPLOYMENT
YOUR GUIDE TO ADULT EDUCATION
Welcome to central bedfordshire college
Your study options are wide-ranging! We offer a variety of courses, from Entry level to Degree level, ensuring there’s something for everyone. With flexible programmes designed to fit around your needs, you can pursue your educational goals at a pace that suits you.
Why choose us
We place our students at the centre of everything we do, supporting them in both their employment and everyday life.
OUR CAMP USES
Central Bedfordshire College has four satellite sites with close links to transport and town centre locations.
We aim to raise aspirations and reduce inequality to create a sustainable future for all.
If you’d like to get more information, why not come to an Open Day? Scan the QR code or visit our website for more information on dates and how to register.
Support for Part-time Adults:
Student life at Central Bedfordshire College
Student life at Central Bedfordshire College is designed to be supportive, diverse, and enriching. The College offers a wide range of courses and facilities aimed at catering towards the needs of adults returning to education, whether for career advancement or personal development.
Support Services
Central Bedfordshire College provides extensive student support services, as well as access to tutors who offer one-on-one support throughout your course. Tutors can help with academic progress, personal development, and career planning.
The College also offers a dedicated counselling service to assist with a variety of personal issues, such as stress, financial hardship, and mental health concerns. Our Student Services team are trained in careers, advice, and guidance, ensuring highquality professional support.
Learning Environment
Adult learners at Central Bedfordshire College benefit from modern facilities and dedicated
study spaces. The College ensures that classrooms and workshops are equipped with top resources, and tutors bring practical industry experience to their teaching. This hands-on approach helps adult learners connect theory with real-world application, enhancing their educational experience.
Community and Activities
At College, you can be as involved in campus life as you choose. Whether you want to participate in Student Union activities or simply relax in the coffee shop, the choice is yours.
Flexible Learning Options
To accommodate the varied schedules of adult learners, Central Bedfordshire College offers flexible learning options, including part-time and distance learning courses. This flexibility allows students to balance their studies with work or other commitments. The College’s strong ties with over 1000 organisations also help shape their courses and provide direct recruitment opportunities for students.
SCAN ME TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR PART-TIME ADULT COURSES
SUBJECTS NEAR YOU!
Whether you’re looking to study Full-time or part-time, we offer a diverse range of courses to suit your needs. Below, you’ll find a detailed listing of all the subjects we offer at the Central Bedfordshire College and where you can study them.
case study
When I decided to return to education, my main reason was to improve my English for work. I wanted to feel more confident when writing my CV, filling in applications, and speaking in interviews. I knew that better English skills would give me more choices and help me move into the kind of job I really want. The Functional English course seemed like the right place to start because it was practical and focused on skills I could actually use in everyday life and in the workplace.
I chose this College because I had heard good things about the support for adult learners. I also needed a course that I could do part-time, so I didn’t have to give up my other responsibilities. The flexible study route made it much easier for me to commit, and the College felt welcoming from the very first day.
I found the course really helpful. The tutors were friendly, patient, and explained things in a way that made sense. I never felt uncomfortable asking questions, and I could see myself
improving week by week. The support services at the College were also great, I was able to get advice on career planning and next steps, which gave me even more motivation to keep going.
What I gained most were practical skills that I can use straight away. I learned how to write a proper CV that looks professional, and how to communicate more clearly in workplace situations, but it wasn’t just the technical skills, I’ve also grown in confidence. Before, I used to doubt myself, but now I feel much more prepared for interviews and more positive about applying for jobs.
Looking back, I can honestly say this Functional English course gave me the confidence I needed. I can now write a stronger CV, handle interviews without as much stress, and feel ready to take the next step in my career.
Iryna Suska
Part-time courses
Part-time courses provide a flexible way to get back into education. Whether you are balancing work, family commitments, or other responsibilities, part-time study allows you to pursue your educational goals without sacrificing your current lifestyle. These courses provide the same high-quality education as Full-time programmes but with a reduced time commitment, typically involving evening classes. This flexibility enables you to advance your career, acquire new skills, or explore personal interests at a pace that suits you, making it easier to manage your time and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life.
We offer part-time courses aiming to:
• improve your confidence
• enhance your life skills
• increase your employment opportunities
• get you promoted
confIdence
Our courses are designed to improve confidence and wellbeing, while also uplifting the communities we serve.
SKILLS FOr LIFE
Our courses provide essential skills for both life and work, covering areas such as English & maths, ESOL, and Digital Skills. employment
Our courses offer extensive support for employment, equipping you with the skills and resources to effectively navigate and succeed in the job market.
Professional enhancement
These training opportunities are tailored for professional enhancement, aimed at expanding your career possibilities through the development of specialised skills and advanced knowledge.
DISTANCE LEARNING
GAIN A FREE QUALIFICATION WITHOUT DISRUPTING YOUR DAY-TO-DAY LIFE
Our FREE online Distance Learning Courses give you the opportunity to further your education by gaining skills, knowledge and a certified qualification.
Provided you are over 19 and have lived in the UK for the past 3 years, all of our Level 2 courses are free.
Each course lasts for up to 16 weeks and can be started at any time throughout the year. They can be completed online at times to suit you with access to specialist support from dedicated tutors throughout the programme.
Unlock your potential with our exciting range of free online courses for adults.
Levels Explained
We are committed to helping you and guarantee your progression on to the next level of study with us. We can support you to progress all the way from Level 1 up to Level 5.
LEVEL 1
EQUIVALENT LEVEL (3-1) GCSEs entry level
Entry level courses in ESOL, Adult English and maths, and Pre-employment are designed to build confidence and foundational skills for further education or employment.
We offer Distance Learning courses for the following subjects:
• Adult Care Services
• Business & Admin
• Childcare
• Digital
• Employment & Wellbeing
• Green Skills
MORE INFORMATION
See our full list of courses by scanning the QR code or by searching ‘Distance Learning Courses’ on our website.
Level 1 qualifications include GCSEs at grades 3-1 (D-G), NVQs, and Functional Skills. These courses focus on developing basic skills and knowledge, providing a solid foundation for further education or entry-level employment. They are ideal for those starting their educational journey or needing to build confidence in key subjects.
LEVEL 3
EQUIVALENT LEVEL
A LEVELS
Level 3 qualifications include Access, A levels, BTEC Nationals NVQs, CMI and CPCAB. These courses provide in-depth knowledge and skills, preparing you for higher education or advanced apprenticeships. They are essential for those aiming to progress to university or gain higher-level vocational qualifications.
Level 4/5
EQUIVALENT LEVEL
LEVEL 2
Completing
The Dallow Centre
At The Dallow Community Centre, we offer a diverse range of courses tailored for Adults, including vocational training in Teaching Assistant Levels 2 and 3, Child Care courses, ESOL, Functional skills English and maths and many more.
Our programmes are designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge that enhance their employability and confidence in the workplace. By focusing on hands-on learning and real-world applications, we ensure that our students gain relevant experience and qualifications that meet industry standards. Additionally, our supportive learning environment fosters collaboration and personal growth, empowering students to achieve their career goals and positively impact their communities. Through these courses, individuals not only develop their professional skills but also build valuable connections and increase their overall quality of life.
Where to Find Us
THE DALLOW CENTRE
234 Dallow Road, Luton LU1 1TB Head of School for Adults - Noor Nazir nnazir@bedford.ac.uk
The Dallow Centre Case Study
I joined our ESOL programme in 2023 at Central Bedfordshire College and made excellent progress. I wanted to gain employment but needed to improve my English skills, especially speaking and listening. With the completion of ESOL Entry Level 2 successfully, I then progressed to Entry Level 3.
I feel more confident at work now and can use a wider vocabulary when speaking to customers. When they speak fast, I can understand them better. I can also fill invoices accurately and complete spreadsheets. My manager supports me to attend ESOL classes and I want to keep improving my English skills and move to higher level courses.
Maria Konica
I can communicate with customers and understand their needs
Transform your future
Professional Courses
Our professional adult courses are level 4 and 5 qualifications, that aim to provide you with the specialist skills you need to move on in your existing career or make the jump to something new.
We offer a range of day or evening classes, the course you choose can live alongside your life, and work around your work. We
The Bedford College Group offers Skills Bootcamps, flexible and intensive training programmes designed to equip you with in-demand skills that employers value.
These programmes provide a direct pathway to employment, career progression, or transitioning into new industries.
Skills Bootcamps:
Government-funded training programmes designed to help adults gain the skills needed to secure a job, progress in their current role, or move into a new industry.
These short, flexible courses are tailored to meet local employer needs, ensuring participants are job-ready upon completion.
• open to adults aged 19+
• no prior experience required for many courses
• must be looking for career progression or a change in career direction
• fully funded if you are unemployed or if employed contribution of 10% (SMEs) or 30% payable at the start of your Skills Bootcamp READY TO GAIN JOB-READY SKILLS AND TAKE YOUR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL?
Expert-Led Training: Learn from industry professionals with hands-on experience.
Flexible Learning Options: Evening and weekend sessions available.
Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Stay ahead with courses designed in partnership with local employers.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders and potential employers.
Free or Subsidised Costs: Government funding covers the majority or all of the tuition fees.
Scan here to explore our professional courses
Commercial Courses
If you’re currently employed but looking to enhance your abilities in your trade, or further your knowledge of your industry, our part-time commercial CPD courses could be perfect for you. These professional development qualifications will allow you to increase your skills, knowledge and self-awareness in a wide range of industries alongside your full-time job. They’re also perfect for businesses and employers looking for cost-effective training solutions for their staff, as we offer certifications in compliance and technical areas.
If you’d like to enquire about our bespoke packages or discuss all things professional development, you can also contact us directly on 01234 291747 or training@bedford.ac.uk.
We currently offer commercial CPD courses in the following subjects:
Alongside these courses, we also offer bespoke training packages for local businesses looking to upskill their staff.
To explore our full offering of professional development courses, scan the qr code.
Higher Skills
Our Higher Skills courses offer you the opportunity to gain qualifications, enhance your career prospects or retrain to gain the skills you’ll need for work. We offer excellent vocational courses including HNC and HND, HTQs and Higher Apprenticeships, as well as Access to Higher Education. Our courses are taught by industry experienced tutors to provide you with hands-on experience in your chosen career path.
Our Higher Skills courses offer university-level study on your doorstep designed with your family and other commitments in mind. With lower course fees and small class sizes offering specialist academic support, our programmes provide an affordable and flexible alternative to university study.
We offer a wide range of Level 4 and above courses at Central Bedfordshire College, including HNCs, HNDs, HTQs, Foundation degrees and Top-Ups.
Our Higher Skills courses provide the opportunity to gain qualifications, boost career prospects, or retrain for work.
Why Study Higher Skills
Save money by studying closer to home
Gain the skills you’ll need to progress in your career
Smaller classrooms mean more 1:1 support
Learn from industry experienced tutors In subjects
Teacher Education
We offer the Certificate in Education (Cert Ed) at Level 5 and Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (ProfGCE) at Level 6, and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at Level 7, which are designed to build your teaching skills if you’re looking to begin or develop your teaching career within post-compulsory education.
Our Cert Ed and PGCE courses take one or two years to complete depending on the study route you choose. The courses are mapped to the Professional Standards and successful completion will allow you to become a fully qualified teacher for FE and Skills.
We also offer a Level 5 Certificate in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in Coaching and Mentoring Practice. This is a course that can be completed after the teaching qualification for those that go on to perform coaching or mentoring roles. This course is delivered on a part-time basis via classroom learning, distance learning or through a combination of both, and takes a year to complete.
Become a fully qualified teacher within 1 or 2 years
HIGHER Apprenticeships
We offer Higher Apprenticeships in the following area:
• Business & Management
• Construction
• Engineering
HIGHER TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Higher Apprenticeships give you the opportunity to study towards a high-level qualification, the equivalent of a Foundation Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree, whilst working.
To start a Higher Apprenticeship, you will need to have Level 3 qualifications such as A Levels, an Advanced Level Diploma, NVQ Level 3 or an Advanced Apprenticeship.
We are the largest provider of Apprenticeships in Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, training over 1,350 apprentices last year and working with over 750 employers.
CENTRAL BEDFORDSHIRE COLLEGE
CENTRALBEDS.AC.UK 01582 477 776
This publication is also available in large print and audio formats. Call: 0345 658 8990 for a copy
DISCLAIMER: While every effort is made to ensure that the information within this prospectus is correct at the time of printing, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford College Group reserves the right to make amendments to the study programmes, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if student numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course, we will refund any fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.