Free Level 1 Employability Skills Course in Nelson. Classes run full-time at Nelson and Colne College, one day a week of which is spent on voluntary work or a work placement. The course runs for one year. You'll develop communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, explore different career pathways, and strengthen your maths and English. CV writing and interview preparation are also part of the programme. To join, you'll need Entry Level 3 in Functional Skills English and Maths. You'll take an initial assessment before starting so the college can confirm the programme is right for you.
Who this course is for
Take your next step with confidence on Steps to Success - Work Matters! This one-year programme is all about helping you build the skills, confidence, and experience you need for the world of work. You’ll explore different career pathways, boost your maths and English, and take part in projects and work placements that bring learning to life. Along the way, you’ll sharpen your communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, while preparing for interviews and CV success. If you’re ready to focus on your future, Work Matters is the perfect place to start.
Entry requirements
This course is designed to help you build the skills and confidence you need for the workplace. Learners will be expected to find and take part in voluntary work or a work placement on their study day, so having a strong aspiration to work is essential. To join this course, you’ll need to already have Entry Level 3 in Functional Skills English and Maths. Before starting, you’ll take part in an initial assessment so we can make sure the programme is right for you.
What you will learn
You'll develop communication and teamwork skills for the workplace.
You'll build problem-solving skills through projects and practical activities.
You'll explore different career pathways to help you decide what direction to take.
You'll strengthen your maths and English alongside your employability training.
You'll gain work experience through voluntary work or a work placement.
You'll prepare a CV and practise for job interviews.
You'll build the confidence and skills employers look for.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions, group projects, and hands-on work placements or voluntary work. Learning is built around practical activities that reflect real workplace situations. Assessment is through coursework and portfolio evidence gathered throughout the year. Your initial assessment at the start helps the college plan your learning and confirm the right level for you.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Nelson and Colne College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Retail assistant, supporting customers and handling stock
Warehouse operative, picking, packing, and dispatching orders
Care assistant, supporting people in care settings
Receptionist, meeting visitors and handling admin tasks
Catering assistant, working in kitchens or food service
Cleaner or facilities assistant, maintaining buildings and spaces
Childcare assistant, supporting children in nursery or school settings
What you could study next
Level 2 Functional Skills English and Maths. Strengthens your core skills and meets the entry requirement many employers and colleges ask for.
Level 2 Certificate or Diploma in a vocational area (such as health and social care, business, or retail). Takes your employability skills into a specific sector.
Apprenticeship at Level 2. Combines paid work with structured training in a job role that suits you.
