Finding The Right Training Course
A training course is an excellent way of keeping your skills and knowledge up-to-date. They can also be a perfect option for starting a new career. Reed.co.uk found that 66% of workers completed online training in 2020 to upskill or reskill and improve their job prospects. (Source: Business Leader)
Whatever industry you’re looking for a new career in, you’ll want to ensure you’re getting the best training you can that will lead to industry-recognised qualifications. However, enrolling on a training course can be a big step, so how do you find the right one for you?
- Review Your Interests
- Decide What You Want to Learn
- What Do You Want From The Course?
- Research Providers
- Training Course Recommendations
- Review Training Course Outlines
- Course Requirements
- Course Duration
- Cost
- Career Opportunities
1. Review Your Interests
They say, “if you love your job, you’ll never work a day in your life”.
A career in a field you have a genuine passion for is something most people desire, so when you’re considering a new career, think about going into a field related to something you already enjoy. Start by reviewing your current interests and find something you can see yourself launching a career in.
For instance, do you like working with your hands? A career spent mainly in an office probably isn’t for you, but a career in the trades might well be.
2. Decide What You Want To Learn
Once you’ve figured out what your interests are, it’s now that you need to get specific and choose what you want to learn.
For example, someone passionate about DIY who has experience in basic plumbing tasks may increase their skills with a domestic gas training course and become a gas engineer.
3. What Do You Want From The Training Course?
Any course is a great starting point, but it’s worth dreaming big if you’re looking to launch a career that will see you through to retirement.
For example, while a domestic electrical course is a significant first step into the electrical industry, the NVQ Level 3 Electrical Training Course will provide you with broader knowledge and skills, opening more doors in your future career.
4. Research Possible Providers
You’ll spend most of your time researching the different training providers available in your chosen area.
Several providers may offer the same or similar courses locally and with so many options, take time to thoroughly research your options and find the right place for you. This could be based on location, size, training schedule, etc.
5. Review The Training Course Outline
Now that you’ve found a provider who delivers the course you want, and you’re confident it’ll be a great place to train, you need to understand the course in-depth.
You should find a syllabus or outline on the course page to show you a breakdown of the training. A syllabus will help you better understand what will be involved.
6. Training Course Recommendations
While a course may sound good on paper, you need more than that; you need recommendations.
The best recommendation you can get is from someone you know personally who has completed the course. Failing that, consult online reviews.
Google, Facebook, and Feefo are just some places where you can find reviews. In addition, they will provide you with plenty of information about the training provider, course and aftercare.
7. Course Requirements
Depending on the course you’re interested in, you may be required to have previous qualifications or experience.
To be accepted into university, you’ll likely need A-Levels or BTECs. While some courses have requirements, not all do.
Any requirements should be stated within the course information – if you’re unsure, speak to an advisor.
8. Course Duration/Schedule
If possible, training full-time is the best way to go. The fewer breaks in training, the quicker you’ll be able to launch your new career.
Whether you undertake a full-time or part-time training course, you must ensure you can commit to the schedule. For example, consider your existing commitments, how long it will take you to get to the training centre, etc.
Each course will have a different duration and schedule. Generally, part-time courses will only take up a few hours of your week, while a full-time course could mean taking time off work.
9. Cost
Review the costs involved before enrolling. And not only do you need to be able to afford the course costs, but you also want to get your money’s worth.
Your employer may cover the costs if the course is related to your current role. Otherwise, many providers offer finance options and payment plans, which are great if you don’t have the entire amount upfront. Whatever your financial situation, enquire about the different payment options.
10. Career Opportunities
For those looking into training courses as a platform for a new career, understanding the career options available at the end of the course is a must.
Many training providers will be able to help you here. However, the best way to start is by asking about previous students’ career paths to understand what’s possible.
Make The Most Of Your Training
Once you’ve chosen your course, enrolled and got your start date in your calendar, it’s time for some more research.
Whatever course you’re undertaking and for whatever reason, you should do what you can to make the most of the opportunity.
