Improve your English, maths and IT skills

You need basic reading, writing and maths skills to apply for most jobs or to study further, for example, for many qualifications which are in the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).

If you’re over 16 and you’ve left school, you normally do not have to pay to do:

  • English or maths to GCSE level
  • some information and communication technology (ICT) courses
  • English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) - courses are also normally discounted or free depending on your employment status and how long you have been resident in England

If there’s a fee, you may be able to get Learner Support.

Find a course

Search for a course on the National Careers Service course finder or call the helpline.

National Careers Service helpline
Telephone: 0800 100 900
8am to 10pm, 7 days a week
Find out about call charges

You can also ask for an adviser to call you - this will not cost you anything.

Where you can learn

You can do courses at:

  • further education colleges
  • adult education centres
  • some libraries, children’s centres and other community venues
  • other training providers

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