Free Level 2 Information, Advice or Guidance Course. Study online, with weekly sessions that fit around your other commitments. There are no formal entry requirements, so you can start without any specific prior qualifications. The course runs over 8 weeks and covers how to provide clear, accurate and ethical information, advice and guidance. You'll learn active listening, effective questioning, how to assess client needs, and when to refer someone to another service. It also covers confidentiality, safeguarding, data protection, and equality and diversity.
Who this course is for
Our Information, Advice and Guidance course shows how to provide clear and accurate information and provides knowledge of what can be shared legally, as there are some fundamental rules for successful information sharing and ensuring staff are aware of these is key.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements.
What you will learn
You'll understand the difference between providing information, offering advice and giving guidance.
You'll develop active listening and effective questioning skills.
You'll learn how to assess a client's needs and identify the right support for them.
You'll know when and how to refer someone to another service.
You'll understand confidentiality, data protection and safeguarding requirements.
You'll apply equality, diversity and inclusive practice in IAG settings.
You'll learn how to research and present reliable information to clients.
How you will learn
Sessions run weekly online. You'll join live meetings and work through course material at your own pace between sessions. Assessment is based on written assignments and knowledge checks that you complete online. There are no exams. You submit your work digitally, and your tutor will give feedback throughout the 8 weeks.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Total Training Provision will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Advice worker: supporting people with housing, benefits or employment queries
Information officer: providing accurate guidance in a public or voluntary sector role
Careers adviser: helping people explore work and training options
Support worker: using IAG skills alongside care or community support
Customer service adviser: handling enquiries in a professional, person-centred way
Referral coordinator: connecting clients to the right services and agencies
Community outreach worker: delivering information and guidance in local settings
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 IAG role.
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills: useful if you want to develop deeper listening and support skills alongside your IAG practice.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training: relevant if you want to deliver training or workshops as part of an IAG or community role.
