Leaving school does not mean losing your last chance of gaining qualifications. Throughout the country, Colleges of Further Education and local Adult Education Institutes offer a wide range of evening, day-release and weekend courses at GCSE and a level or a technical qualification. They include courses in languages, computing skills, secretarial and office skills and sports coaching. Many cater for hobbies and leisure pursuits. Some colleges build up close relationships with local employers and tailor courses to meet the needs and interests of local people. Larger colleges often offer crèche facilities for students with children.
Your local library and town hall will have details of courses, methods of application and fees. Public sector colleges are usually subsidised, and offer a relatively inexpensive method of continuing your education after leaving school and/or starting work. But, beware of some pitfalls. For popular subjects, class sizes can be large and consequently there is little individual attention given to students. Classes that fall below a minimum size because students drop out can suddenly be cancelled. If you have a very specialised interest, you may have to travel some distance to find a suitable class.
