Free Level 1 Employability and Personal Development Course in Cambridge

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start3 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNOCN awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Skills for Employment, Training and Personal Development Course in Cambridge. Classes run full-time at Cambridge Regional College. There are no entry requirements. You'll have an initial assessment to make sure this is the right level for you. The course runs over one year and covers the skills and knowledge you need to move into further study or work. It sits alongside Maths and English qualifications where needed. A free skills for employment, training and personal development qualification that gives you a solid foundation for your next step.

Who this course is for

We understand that the last few years in mainstream education may have been challenging for some students. For others, the pressure of choosing a course to study after finishing school can be overwhelming, and they may need more time to find the right path.

Our 16-19 Meta Programme is a one-year, flexible course designed to help students work towards qualifications in Maths and English (if needed) and achieve a Level 2 Certificate in Vocational Studies. As part of our Alternative Learning Provision, this programme provides the necessary support and flexibility for students to explore their options and make informed decisions about their future.

Optional courses to study on the programme are:

Level 1 Award in Art and Design

Level 1 Award in Sport and Fitness

We aim to build on variety of skills including:

  • Improving own confidence
  • Team working
  • How to manage stressful situations
  • Communication

-Work Experience

  • Life skills (including money management) Early Years - Cambridge

Early Years - Cambridge

Entry requirements

No entry requirements.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical skills for the workplace and further training.
  • You'll build your understanding of personal development and how to set goals.
  • You'll work toward Maths and English qualifications if you need them.
  • You'll explore different career and study options to help you choose a direction.
  • You'll practise communication and teamwork skills used in everyday work settings.
  • You'll learn how to manage your own learning and take responsibility for your progress.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Cambridge Regional College, with a mix of coursework, practical tasks, and tutor-led activities. Assessment is ongoing throughout the year rather than through a single exam. Your tutor will track your progress and give you feedback as you go. The flexible structure means your learning can be shaped around what you need.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cambridge Regional College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Classroom or teaching assistant support role in a school or nursery
  • Customer service assistant in retail, hospitality, or administration
  • Care assistant in a residential or community care setting
  • Warehouse or logistics operative with a structured employer
  • Receptionist or admin support in an office environment
  • Early years or childcare worker in a nursery or playgroup setting

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Certificate in Vocational Studies: a natural next step if you want to go deeper into a specific subject area before choosing a career route.
  • Functional Skills Maths and English Level 2: the recognised equivalent of GCSE Maths and English, often required by employers and for entry to Level 3 courses.
  • Level 3 qualifications in your chosen sector (such as childcare, business, or health and social care): the route into skilled work or higher study.

Related courses at Cambridge Regional College

More courses near you