VLE > Learn and Work > Returning to learning

Legacy information from the Aim Higher Learn and Work Website

f you have been out of the workplace for a number of years or if you are thinking about moving to a new job role within your current organisation or of changing employers or even career you may find it useful to gain a further qualification.

You may already have achieved an Advanced Apprenticeship or similar Level 3 qualification a few years ago or you may have moved directly from ‘A’ levels into work and are now wondering how you can further your career by gaining a higher level qualification.

It is now easier than ever to combine work and study as the use of the internet and e-mail for communication has made distance and flexible learning so much easier and many Colleges and other providers now offer part-time study options which enable you to continue earning as you learn.

If you have few or no qualifications and want to go onto Higher Education, Access to HE offers a flexible one or two year course to help you get there , follow this link to a website to find out more www.access-students.org.uk

Take a look at the Open University options. Whether you start with an Openings course, a Level 1 course, or a higher level course in a subject you have already studied, you will earn points towards a degree. For most courses at the OU, there are no requirements for entry, but it's important to choose a first course that will get you started at the right level.

What are the Benefits of Studying at a Higher Level?

There a many benefits to be gained by studying at higher education level both personally and also financially. Here are a few:

  • · To gain the qualifications you need for better paid jobs in the future
  • · to prove to yourself that you can achieve a higher level qualification
  • · to find out more about a subject you enjoy
  • · to prove that you can!