iLearn - Free courses to help you get back into work
If you're unemployed or on a low income and looking to develop new skills, iLearn offers a range of free courses designed to help you return to the workplace or move into a new career. These practical, career-focused programmes provide valuable knowledge, industry-relevant skills and recognised qualifications to support your next step.
Courses are available in a wide range of professional and vocational subject areas, including Accounting, Marketing, Childcare, Health and Social Care, Hospitality, Office Skills, Security and Forklift Operations.
Delivered at our Basildon, Southend City and Thurrock Colleges, iLearn courses provide a quick and practical way to gain new skills, build confidence and improve your employment prospects. Most courses run over 3 weeks, with opportunities to start throughout the year.
These courses are ideal if you:
- Are looking to return to work
- Receive Universal Credit or other eligible benefits
- Want to gain skills that employers value
- Are employed and earn below the current income eligibility threshold
iStudy - Free online courses with nationally recognised qualifications
Study when and where it suits you with iStudy, our flexible distance learning offer. These free online courses allow you to gain a nationally recognised Level 2 qualification from the comfort of your own home, making it easier to fit learning around work, family and other commitments.
Whether you're looking to upskill in your current role, explore a new career path or improve your employability, iStudy provides the flexibility to learn at your own pace while developing valuable skills for life and work.
All courses are fully funded for eligible learners and are completed online within a maximum of 12 weeks.
Ideal if you:
- Want to study flexibly around work or family commitments.
- Are looking to upskill in your current role.
- Need additional qualifications to support career progression.
- Are unemployed and want to improve your employment prospects.
- Prefer to learn independently from home.
iQualify Adult Courses
For industry-recognised training and professional development, our i-Qualify provision offers short accredited courses and training programmes throughout the year. From First Aid and Food Safety to SIA Security Training and Conflict Management, our courses support both individuals and employers looking to develop skills, meet compliance requirements and achieve professional qualifications.
Group booking discounts may also be available for employers and organisations.
Whatever your goal, whether it's finding work, changing career, gaining a qualification or developing new skills, the Adult Skills College Workforce Team at South Essex Colleges Group can help you get there.
Industry Training
Our Industry Training programmes are designed to help individuals and businesses develop the skills, qualifications and knowledge needed to succeed in today's workplace. Whether you're looking to advance your own career, invest in staff development or access professional CPD opportunities, we offer training that delivers practical value and real-world impact.
From commercial training courses to professional driving qualifications through our Essex and Midlands Driving Schools, we'll help you find the right training solution to meet your goals.
For bespoke training programmes or to discuss your specific requirements please email training@southessex.ac.uuk
Industry Training: HYBRID VESSELS
Designed for individuals working on commercial vessels, these courses meet MGN 550 requirements and support the growing use of hybrid and electric vessel technologies across the commercial and private marine sectors.
As the only UK courses aligned to the Workboat Code (MGN 550) for hybrid and electric propulsion systems, they provide specialist knowledge and practical skills for working safely with this emerging technology through a combination of industry relevant theory and hands on training using state of the art equipment.
Industry Training: HYBRID VEHICLES
Designed for professionals working in the motor vehicle industry, these courses develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to safely maintain, service and repair electric and hybrid vehicles.
Learners will gain experience working with low and high voltage electrical systems, electric drivetrains, safe working practices and fault diagnosis techniques. On completion, technicians will be able to demonstrate the competencies required to work confidently with electric vehicle technologies and support progression within the evolving automotive sector.
Industry Training: COMPEX
CompEx training courses are designed for those responsible for managing personnel working in flammable atmospheres or hazardous areas where DSEAR 2002 regulations apply, including company directors, project managers, facilities management teams, site supervisors and HR professionals.
They are also ideal for electrical professionals with limited hazardous area experience, providing a solid understanding of hazardous area safety and compliance, and preparing learners for the full CompEx Ex01 to Ex04 competency qualification.
Industry Training: HGV DRIVING
Whether you're looking to develop drivers within your workforce or start a career in logistics, our driving schools provide accredited training across Essex and the Midlands. Delivered through DSA Accredited Testing Centres, our offer includes LGV training, Skills Bootcamps, logistics apprenticeships and licence acquisition for C1, C and C&E vehicles, helping individuals and businesses develop the skills needed to succeed in the transport and logistics sector.
