Free Level 1 Self Employment Course. Study online at your own pace, from wherever suits you. The course typically takes 2 weeks to complete. It covers the practical knowledge and skills you need to move a business start-up idea forward. You'll explore what self-employment involves, how to plan your business, and what steps to take to get started. Entry requirements apply: you need to be 19 or over, unemployed or volunteering, currently on benefits, and living in Peterborough or Cambridgeshire.
Who this course is for
The Level 1 Award on Preparing for Self-Employment is designed for those who are considering starting their own business and need the basic knowledge, skills and understanding to progress their business start-up idea from paper to reality.
Entry requirements
19+
Unemployed, or Volunteering
Currently on benefits
Living in Peterborough/Cambridgeshire
What you will learn
You'll explore what self-employment means and whether it suits your situation.
You'll identify the key steps involved in starting a business.
You'll learn how to develop and test a basic business idea.
You'll understand the financial basics of running your own business.
You'll look at the legal and practical responsibilities of being self-employed.
You'll build a plan to move your business idea from concept toward reality.
How you will learn
You'll study online, working through course materials at your own pace. Assessment is based on written tasks and assignments that you complete and submit online. There are no exams. You can fit your study around other commitments, making this a practical option if you need flexibility.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Steadfast Training will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sole trader. Run your own small business independently.
Freelancer. Offer services in your area of skill or expertise.
Market trader or online seller. Sell goods through markets or online platforms.
Childminder or home-based carer. Self-employed care work from your home.
Tradesperson. Self-employed work in a trade such as cleaning or gardening.
What you could study next
Level 2 Award in Business and Enterprise. Builds on your business knowledge and covers planning and finance in more depth.
Level 2 Certificate in Business Administration. Useful if you want to manage the admin side of your own business.
Level 3 Award in Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. A step up for those ready to develop a more detailed business plan and strategy.
