Adult learners week was Oct 17th-23rd in Wales. This week encouraged adults to upskill or learn something new – giving them a fresh start and improving their lives! It’s true that it is never too late to learn something new or improve your career. And there has never been a better time to consider your training options. Training can bring about a whole new you, and improve all aspects of your life. In fact, adult learning can bring only positives.
First of all, just by deciding to make a change in your life and career, you are off to a good start. It can be scary to start something new, but all you have to do is take small steps towards your goals. Just know, you can refresh your whole career and bring a new path in your life when you learn something new.
If you have decided to embark on a learning journey, there are many things to consider beforehand. By making a plan, you are more likely to stick to your studies and follow through. Here are a few things to consider when you want to upskill.
Consider What You Should Study
So you have decided you want to upskill or train for a new career. When it comes to training, the first thing you should consider is what your end goal is. Do you want to get a promotion, or just learn a new skill that will help you on the job? Or, do you just want to learn something new for fun? Next, you should consider the steps you need to achieve your goal. Here are a few key skills needed in today’s workforce and how they can help you reach your goals.
Business Training
From tech startups to large corporations, business principles are key to success. As such, gaining business skills will open up many job opportunities. With training, you can gain the real hard skills required in businesses. Business training allows you to start or grow a career in a variety of companies and work fields. You can learn about project management, data analysis, HR, and more. The best part is, you do not need prior experience in this field to start!
Microsoft Office Training
The importance of Microsoft Office skills can be overlooked. However, it is valuable to have a full understanding of this software package. Over a million businesses around the world use Microsoft Office. So it pays to have a solid understanding of how to use it.
Microsoft Office qualifications boost your resume. What’s more, employers will be more likely to hire you when they see that you can utilise the software without needing guidance. It shows them that you are ready to hit the ground running at work.
Consider Whether You Will Study Online or In-person
One important factor to consider is whether you want to study online or in person. Nowadays, you have plenty of options to choose from. This news means that courses previously only available in person are now found online. Here is a quick overview of the different learning methods, to help you decide.
Online Learning
Online learning has seen a huge boom in the last few years because of the pandemic. Because it has become part of our lives, it will continue to experience growth moving forward.
This learning style allows you to study in a place that suits you. If you have a busy schedule, online learning allows you to fit upskilling into your routine. Another benefit is that you are not limited to studying local courses. Note, if you choose online learning, you must be diligent in order to make the most of your studies.
In-Person Learning
This study style is the most well-known and traditional. In training, you will commute to a common location, where you will complete your studies. There will either be a teacher or advisor to help you complete your course.
In addition, learning in person allows you to make more connections. It also provides a more in-depth learning experience. This type of learning style is best when you have plenty of time to prioritse your learning experience.
Blended Learning
Blended options combine the best aspects of online and in-person learning. Studies found that engagement is higher when students take blended courses. They have the flexibility of online courses, with the driving motivation of in-person studies.
By having the option to study in two different environments, you boost your chance for success. If one day, you do not have time to commute, you can study at home. If you feel that you would be better off studying in person, you can go to your training location. You are not tied down to one form of study. This choice makes studying less monotonous, and more freeing.
Consider Funding That May Be Available
Often, training centres can offer flexible funding options to help you get to where you want to be. You should enquire about options at your desired training centre or programme.
One example of possible funding is the Redundancy Action Scheme (ReAct). If you live in Wales and you are under formal notice of redundancy or have been made redundant within the last 3 months, you may be eligible for a training grant of up to £1,500. This funding can allow you to gain the skills employers need. Then, you can get back into employment as soon as possible.
Pitman Training centres support ReAct funding throughout Wales. (You can find their centres in both Cardiff and Swansea.) Pitman can help with fully supportive training, employability skills and live job vacancies. You can get the training you need to get into a new role. If the centre locations are not convenient, there are also online training options.
Many training centres, also offer payment plans so you do not have to pay your entire course off right away. You can pay off as you go, and reap the benefits of your new career or role. Or, if you are currently employed, you can consider asking your company to fund your training. Many companies are happy to assist with training because they know how beneficial it is.
Training
With this guide, you can begin to map out your upskilling or training plan. Choose the options that are best for you and you will enjoy learning even more. Now that you have gained momentum – don’t lose your drive now! Continue reminding yourself that you are doing something good for your life. And note that upskilling is an important part of career growth. Either way, follow the path of upskilling or training and you will be so glad you did.
