Ways to be eligible for fee remission

If you are:

  • working, or
  • self-employed, and
  • studying up to and including a Level 2 qualification

Then you can be eligible for fee remission.

This does depend on your income, and where you live. If you live in the areas or Mayoral Combined Authorities listed below, this is the maximum you can earn to qualify for fee remission (fees updated for 25/26 academic year):

  • Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority: £30,491
  • Cornwall: £26,009
  • East Midlands Combined Country Authority: £25,750
  • Greater London Authority: £28,860
  • Liverpool City Region Combined Authority: £35,864.40
  • North East Combined Authority: £30,000
  • South Yorkshire Combined Authority: £26,227.50
  • West of England Combined Authority: £25,570
  • West Midlands Combined Authority: £34,194
  • West Yorkshire Combined Authority: £25,750
  • York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority: £25,750

If you do not live in one of the areas listed above, you qualify for ESFA funding, and your maximum is £25,750.

When you book, we will show the threshold applicable to you. You will need to complete a Low Wage Declaration and submit proof of your income when booking.

This could be in the form of:

  • a payslip dated within 3 months of the course start date, or
  • a current employment contract that shows your gross salary.

If you are self-employed and on a low income you could provide :

  • a copy of your latest tax return, or
  • personal tax calculation/computation statement from HMRC, or
  • a statement of your accounts, or
  • an accountant’s letter, or
  • a copy of your annual tax summary

If you are on benefits, you can also claim fee remission. Learn more here.

Further questions?

Our friendly learner services team are always happy to help.

You can fill out the form on this page, and we'll be back in touch as soon as we can with you by email.

Live chat is available between 9am and 4pm Monday-Friday, which you can access by clicking the 'Chat with our team' button on your screen at any time. (The chat button will not show if no chat agents are available).

Lastly, you can call us on 0300 303 3464, Monday - Friday, 9am to 4:30pm.

Ways to qualify for fee remission

If you claim any Income Related Benefits you will be eligible for fee remission. This means you will get your course for free, or at a reduced cost.

For example:

  • you claim JSA (Job Seeker's Allowance), or
  • you claim ESA (Employment and Support Allowance), or
  • you claim Universal Credit.

You must provide your National Insurance number when booking.

  • you earn less than £494 per month (not including benefits), or
  • have a joint benefit claim and earn less than £782 per month,
  • you claim Council Tax Reduction, or you are dependent on someone who claims Council Tax Reduction.

This does not include a single occupancy discount.

  • you claim Working Tax Credit,
  • you claim Income Support,
  • you claim Pension Guarantee Credit,
  • you claim, or are dependent on someone who claims, Housing Benefit,
  • you are claiming Asylum in the UK. You will need:
    • to have been a resident in the UK for six months or more
    • have an Application Registration Card (ARC) or Standard Acknowledgement letter (SAL)
    • a current Asylum Support Agreement from UK Visas and Immigration.

Please note: There could be other criteria based on where you live, or the course you are wanting to join. You must also meet general eligibility requirements, such as being over 19 years of age.

Functional Skills qualifications are free if you don't already have a GCSE in English or Maths at grades A*-C, or 4-9. We'll check your level and any previous qualifications before you start. This ensures you are on the correct course. Some other courses may be listed as free, please check any eligibility criteria before applying.

If you have low wages, you can also claim fee remission: Learn more here.

Further questions?

Our friendly learner services team are always happy to help.

You can fill out the form on this page, and we'll be back in touch as soon as we can with you by email.

Live chat is available between 9am and 4pm Monday-Friday, which you can access by clicking the 'Chat with our team' button on your screen at any time. (The chat button will not show if no chat agents are available).

Lastly, you can call us on 0300 303 3464, Monday - Friday, 9am to 4:30pm.

A career choice for compassionate people

If you’re a caring and compassionate person, health and social care jobs can be very rewarding. From mental health awareness training to care assistant courses, counselling skills to our unique Step into Care programme. We offer a wide range of courses to help you get into and succeed in a heath or social care role.  

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Care work

Adult social care work covers a wide range of jobs. Care assistants and support workers support vulnerable adults in their day-to-day life. They often work in care homes, day centres or in a patient's own home. Personal assistants provide one on one support to someone who wants to manage their own support, often building a strong personal relationship with the person they care for. There are other roles in care homes, such as cleaning staff, working in the laundry or kitchens.  All of these roles are essential for helping people to live dignified and comfortable lives. 

Counselling skills

Doing a counselling skills qualification isn't just about training to become a counsellor. Build counselling skills to help in work or volunteer roles in healthcare, education, HR or charities. Open up new work opportunities and find a job where you can make a real difference to people’s lives.  Counselling skills can help improve your communications skills, particularly listening skills, for any job role where you work with other people.

Short courses or long qualifications

From short courses to give you an insight into working in the NHS or in a care job. To longer qualifications such as a Certificate to Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care or a Diploma in Counselling Skills. 

Get the skills, confidence and qualifications you need for different roles in health and social care. 

If you are looking for work, need to get a better job, or want to improve your work skills, the WEA is here for you. We have a great track record of helping people like you gain the skills and confidence they need for work. Best of all, most of our work skills courses are free*.    

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You can improve your job opportunities with the WEA.  

Reach your potential  

We know you can reach your potential in three simple steps:  

  • Build your confidence and essential skills  
  • Develop skills related to specific types of jobs  
  • Progress in your current job by boosting your current skills and learning new ones  

Supportive classes

The WEA and our team of supportive tutors are here for you at every step.  Whether you’re a jobseeker, have recently been made redundant or you simply want to move up the ladder, we have a course for you.   

Improve your English, maths or digital skills to earn more money.  Find courses in health and social care, community interpreting, schools and childcare and more.   

Find out more about job hunting, take courses to become more employable or change your career. Boost your employability skills and stand out on that job application.    

Learn your way with the WEA

Take a short, informal course or gain a national qualification. Learning in a classroom, in a work setting or at home, you’ll always have the same great support from your tutor.  

There’s something for everyone.

*Over 90% of applicants for skills courses do not need to pay a fee. Subject to status  - courses are free for unemployed people, job seekers and people on low wage. If you do not qualify you will be alerted during the application process.

Building Confidence. Building Skills. Building Scotland’s Care Workforce.

Course Overview

This programme brings together ten core modules from the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and NHS Education Scotland’s National Induction Framework for Adult Social Care. It provides jobseekers with essential foundational knowledge for entering the adult social care sector and offers the chance to gain up to ten NHS Education Scotland certificates.

The modules also support existing staff who want to refresh their knowledge or build skills as part of their CPD. Delivery can be tailored—from single introductory sessions to longer group or one‑to‑one programmes—helping learners build confidence using Turas and preparing them for ongoing professional development. An accessible version is available for ESOL learners at SCQF Level 4+.

The course can be delivered online across Scotland with live tutor support and 24‑hour access to materials through Canvas. In‑person delivery may be available in some areas. 

Module Selection 

Ten modules have been chosen from the 26 in the National Induction Framework, focusing on knowledge and skills linked to the SSSC Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers. Each module includes two hours of tutor‑led learning plus up to two hours of self‑directed study through Canvas and Turas. 

Learners can build a programme that suits their needs—from a single 2‑hour taster to a full 22‑hour course. Completion provides up to ten NHS Education Scotland certificates and updates to the SSSC MyLearning app for sharing with employers. 

All modules support Code 6: Uphold public trust and confidence in social services with additional links to specific codes listed below. 

Core module:  

Introductory Session (2 hours): Course overview, Canvas/Turas setup, and developing a personal learning plan. 

Modules by SSSC Code 

Code 1: Protect and promote rights and interests  (Equality and Diversity (2 hours)  and Data Protection (2 hours)) 

Code 2: Build and maintain trust and confidence (Communication Support Needs (2 hours) and Communication in Everyday Life (2 hours))

Code 3: Promote wellbeing and independence; protect from harm (Meaningful Activities (2 hours) and Moving and Handling: Module A (2 hours))

Code 4: Support individuals’ right to take risks (Adult Support and Protection (Level 1) (2 hours) and Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act – Introduction (2 hours))

Code 5: Be accountable for quality of work; maintain skills (Introduction to Skin Care (2 hours) and Nutrition and Hydration (2 hours))

We are happy to expand our module offer to support specific learner groups. To discuss developing this or for any further information please contact Bex: [email protected]. 

We also provide bespoke CPD sessions for current adult care staff, helping teams refresh or extend skills in line with organisational needs. 

List of all modules within the National Induction Framework

List of all modules within the National Induction Framework

Want to learn more? Can we help you?
Complete the form below and one of our friendly team will be back in touch!

Contact us

How do we use the information we gather from you?
Please see our privacy policy

Many thanks for your interest in our English and maths provision.  

The next step is for you to complete the online application form through the button below.

Once this has been received, we will send you out a link to an online assessment tool called BKSB.

This is a key part of getting you off to the best possible start.  Please be reassured that this isn’t a test you need to prepare for, and there’s no pass or fail: it simply helps us understand your current starting point so we can make sure the support and teaching you receive are just right for you.

It’s really important that you complete the assessment on your own, without help or using any additional tools. 

We’re not looking for perfection: just an honest picture of where you are right now. That’s what allows us to tailor your learning experience and set you up for success.

Finally, when you have completed the both the application form and BKSB assessments, we will arrange for an Agent to call you to support you through some advice and guidance to ensure we source the appropriate course level, time and date to suit your needs. 

We will require some evidence from you in order to support your application: you can see what evidence is needed by clicking here.

We look forward to welcoming you on your learning journey with the WEA.

Many people think they’re “not good at maths” or that their English isn’t strong enough - but that’s simply not true. Every day, you already use English and maths skills: managing money, reading messages, completing forms, helping with homework or communicating at work. Our Functional Skills courses help you build on those everyday abilities, grow your confidence and gain a recognised qualification. 

You will learn through live, online teaching sessions and then sit an in-person exam to successfully complete your qualification. Your exam will take place in one of our exam centres located all across England.

It’s not like being back at school

Learning with the WEA is practical, supportive and designed for adults. You’ll develop real-world skills you can use straight away - from working with percentages and measurements to improving your reading, writing and communication skills. Whether you want to feel more confident in daily life or take the next step in your career, our courses are tailored to help you succeed.

Why improve your English and maths?

Good maths and English skills open doors. Many employers ask for GCSEs, and Functional Skills qualifications at Level 2 are equivalent to a GCSE Grade 4 (Grade C). Achieving a Functional Skills qualification can improve your job prospects, support further study and help you feel more confident at work and at home.

We offer courses from Entry Level 3 through to Level 2. You’ll learn in small classes with friendly, experienced tutors who understand that everyone starts at a different place. Your tutor will support you in preparing for the relevant assessments as part of your course, helping you feel fully prepared and confident.

Frequently asked questions

Am I eligible for a funded place on a Functional Skills course?

If you are aged over 19 and ordinarily resident in England then you are likely to receive full funding. If you do not qualify, we will let you know as part of the application process. You can cancel at any time. Please contact us if you would like to check your eligibility. Please note that due to funding restrictions we are unable to offer places on these courses to learners in Tees Valley. Learners in Greater Manchester must be unemployed in order to be eligible for a place. 

What is a BKSB assessment?

A BKSB (Basic Keys Skill Builder) assessment is an online assessment that you'll take before you start your course. It will assess your current level of English or maths, and allow us to tailor your learning experience so that your course is right for you. It’s really important that you complete the assessment on your own, without help or using any additional tools.

What is learning with the WEA like?

Learning with the WEA isn't like being back at school. You'll learn at your own pace in a supportive and friendly atmosphere. We believe in keeping group sizes down too, making it easier for our learners to speak up, get to know their group and get actively involved in learning.

You can learn the inspiring stories of some of our learners here

Join our sessions for parents and carers, designed to help your young person succeed in their Nat 5 Maths exams

Join our relaxed and supportive 2-hour online sessions with an experienced tutor, designed specifically for parents and carers. We will help you guide your young person through effective revision and exam techniques—especially if prelim results didn’t go as planned.

What’s included?

  • Practical study and exam tips
  • Useful links and websites for revision
  • Strategies to boost confidence and performance

During the course, you’ll:

  • Explore what your young person is learning in school
  • Get to grips with the Nat 5 maths framework
  • Learn how to use simple tools and strategies to support both your learning and theirs

Eligibility for the Course

The course is free to anyone who is 19+; who lives, works or volunteers in Aberdeenshire and who does NOT have a NAT 5 C / Intermediate 2 / Standard Grade Credit or above (or equivalent). The courses are funded from a UK wide government project named Multiply; the funds we have for this project were allocated to us by Aberdeenshire council.

The course is currently full, but we hope to offer it again in the future.

To be added to the waiting list please complete the application form below.

If you would like further information please contact [email protected]

The WEA privacy notice (https://www.wea.org.uk/privacy-policy) explains how we will use your personal information.

Logos of UK Government, Multiply, Aberdeenshire council
Personal details
Gender
Employment status
If you have disability, a learning difficulty, a health issue or other support needs, we will do our best to provide specialist staff and resources to help you succeed on your course. Would you like to discuss any support you may need with your learning with your WEA tutor/course organiser?
Course questions
Do you work/live/volunteer in Aberdeenshire?
What is your highest maths qualification?

The WEA works with hundreds of partners annually to bring adult learning within reach for thousands of learners each and every year.

Our partnerships play a vital role in reaching communities that other organisations cannot.

These partnerships range from large-scale projects working with adults facing multiple disadvantages to small projects working with local delivery partners in communities.

We work with over 450 partners, and these partnerships play a vital role in our delivery, enabling us to reach 30,000 learners across England and Scotland each year.

Some of our larger scale partners include:

Logos showing main WEA partners

These in turn link to our regional partners across England and Scotland.

If you would like to partner with WEA, whether you have a learning need, support or you require our bank of expert tutors to help you deliver your own contracts, please get in touch through the form below.

Session dates and times:

Tuesday 2nd December, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Tuesday 9th December, 10:00am - 12:00pm

Tuesday 16th December, 10:00am - 12:00pm

 

Course tutor:

Allen Fisher

 

What will this course cover?

This course will explore the connection between art and faith, exploring great devotion, artistry and worship through both eras and artworks.

 

What will I get out of this course?

You will gain a deeper understanding of how art and faith intertwine, along with social, historical and political contexts that shaped these works. Additionally, you will join a likeminded community of people and engage in thought provoking class discussions.

 

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills or experience?

This is an entry level course with no experience needed, simply an interest in art, faith and their fascinating connection.

 

What do I need to bring with me?

You do not need any extra equipment, but you may wish to bring a notepad and pen to jot down your thoughts.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to buy a ticket for each session?

No - one ticket gives you admission to all sessions for this course.

How do I join my online sessions?

Eventbrite will email you a Teams link to join your live online sessions.

What does my ticket cover?

This ticket gives you individual access to this WEA course.

How is the class taught, and will I be expected to do work between sessions?

Group sessions are led by a subject specialist via Teams video calls. The WEA approach to learning is inclusive and interactive, meaning there will be opportunities to take part in group discussions and share your own knowledge and opinions, should you wish to.

What do I need to bring to sessions?

You don't need any specialist equipment for this class. However, you might want to bring along a pen and paper to take notes.

What can I do after I've finished the course?

Your tutor will highlight courses that you might be interested in progressing to.

Where can I find the information to join the course?

Eventbrite will send you a course reminder email with joining instructions twice - three days and one day before your course starts. If you can't find these emails, please check your junk/spam folder.

I've never taken part in an online course before - is there digital support?

Yes! You can contact our support team at [email protected], or call us on 0300 303 3464 from Mon - Fri, 9 - 5pm.