Free Level 2 Counselling Course in Widnes. Evening classes run at Riverside College Kingsway Campus, so you can fit study around your existing commitments. The course runs over 5 months, part-time. You'll develop the counselling skills used in support, care, and education roles, including how to listen actively, build rapport, and respond to people in difficulty. You'll have an initial assessment after you apply to make sure this is the right level for you. Completing the course earns you the NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills.
Who this course is for
Aimed at 19+ learners
Entry requirements
Initial assessment after application
What you will learn
You'll develop active listening skills used in counselling and support work.
You'll learn how to build rapport and communicate empathetically.
You'll explore the values and ethics that underpin counselling practice.
You'll understand how to respond to people experiencing emotional difficulty.
You'll examine different counselling approaches and how they are applied.
You'll reflect on your own communication style and how it affects others.
How you will learn
Classes are delivered in the classroom on weekday evenings at Riverside College Kingsway Campus. You'll take part in group discussions, practical exercises, and reflective activities. Assessment is based on written assignments and portfolio work that you build up over the course. There are no formal exams.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Riverside College Kingsway Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Support worker: use counselling skills in community or residential settings.
Care assistant: support clients' emotional wellbeing alongside practical care.
Teaching assistant: help pupils with social and emotional needs in school.
SEN teaching assistant: support students with additional learning needs.
Youth support worker: work with young people facing personal challenges.
Adult educator: support learners in further education or community settings.
Counselling volunteer: build experience in a counselling service or charity.
What you could study next
Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Counselling: the next step if you want to work toward becoming a qualified counsellor. Most accredited counsellor training programmes require a Level 3 qualification as a minimum entry point.
Level 3 Health and Social Care Diploma: broadens your options across care, support, and education roles.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training: useful if you're moving into teaching, training, or adult education.
