Free Level 2 Information, Advice or Guidance Course. Study online. This free information, advice or guidance course is self-paced, so you can fit your learning around work, family, or other commitments. Over 11 months, you'll develop practical skills in questioning, listening, and communication, and learn how to handle confidentiality and overcome common barriers. The course suits people working in roles that involve giving information, advice or guidance, as well as those moving into that kind of work. You must be aged 19 or over and live in England to qualify for funded study.
Who this course is for
Gain the practical skills needed to successfully convey information, advice or guidance across a wide range of situations and sectors. This course covers a variety of key topics including questioning, listening and communicating techniques, the importance of confidentiality and how to overcome barriers.This nationally recognised qualification is suitable for anyone working in, or looking to work in, a role which involves the giving of information, advice or guidance. It is applicable to a wide range of sectors.This course is delivered online. Studying via distance learning means you can choose when and where you study. All of our award-winning, online learning resources are of the highest quality and are designed to be engaging and interactive to keep you focused on your learning at all times.
Entry requirements
Learners must be aged 19+ and live in England to qualify for funding.
What you will learn
You'll develop questioning and active listening techniques for advice-giving situations.
You'll learn how to communicate information clearly across different settings and sectors.
You'll understand the importance of confidentiality and how to apply it in practice.
You'll identify common barriers to giving and receiving guidance and how to overcome them.
You'll explore the boundaries and responsibilities of an information, advice or guidance role.
You'll learn how to refer people to other services when their needs fall outside your remit.
How you will learn
You study entirely online, working through course materials at your own pace. Assessment is based on written assignments and portfolio evidence that you submit online. There are no exams. You'll complete tasks that relate directly to real advice and guidance situations, building a body of evidence across the 11-month course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Herefordshire College Hereford will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Information and advice worker, supporting clients in community or charity settings.
Guidance adviser, helping people with employment, housing, or benefits queries.
Careers adviser, supporting individuals with career planning and job search.
Welfare rights adviser, guiding people through benefit entitlements.
Support worker, providing information and signposting alongside care duties.
Customer services adviser, handling complex enquiries in public-sector roles.
Volunteer coordinator, advising and supporting volunteers across an organisation.
What you could study next
Level 3 Award, Certificate or Diploma in Information, Advice or Guidance: the natural next step if you want to take on more complex casework or move into a senior adviser role.
Level 3 Diploma in Advice and Guidance: recognised for roles in Citizens Advice, housing, and employment support services.
Level 4 qualifications in Careers Information and Advice: relevant if you are working toward a professional careers adviser role.
