Free Level 2 Information, Advice or Guidance Course. Study online at your own pace over 6 weeks. This free information, advice or guidance course is open to adults aged 19 or over living in England who meet the eligibility criteria. Please note that some combined authority areas are excluded. You study by distance learning, with optional online workshops on Teams. The course covers how to give effective advice and guidance, best practice in IAG, interaction skills, signposting and referral, and storing information in line with the law.
Who this course is for
A distance learning training course, accompanied by online workshops on Teams for those who would like to learn effective ways to provide advice and guidance to people, best practice guidelines in relation to IAG and how to develop interaction skills. Signposting and referring are also covered as well as how to store and retrieve information in a way that complies with the law
Entry requirements
Candidates must provide one of the following forms of identification:
Valid in-date passport (any nationality)
Signed in-date UK photocard driving licence
UK biometric residence permit card
Birth certificate (BUT, if a birth certificate is presented as proof of identification, an additional form of identification such as a signed bank card, utility bill or a letter issued by a government department must also be provided).
What you will learn
You'll learn how to provide effective information, advice and guidance to people
You'll explore best practice guidelines in IAG work
You'll develop interaction and communication skills for advisory roles
You'll understand how to signpost and refer people to appropriate services
You'll learn how to store and retrieve information in line with legal requirements
How you will learn
You study by distance learning, working through course materials online in your own time. Optional live workshops run on Microsoft Teams for those who want extra support. You'll need to complete the course within 6 weeks. Assessment is based on the work you complete during the course. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you.
What you will need to bring
You'll need to provide valid photo ID before you start. Accepted documents include a valid passport, a signed UK photocard driving licence, a UK biometric residence permit, or a birth certificate with a supporting document such as a signed bank card, utility bill, or government letter. South Essex College will confirm anything else you need before you begin.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Advice worker: supporting people in community or voluntary settings
Information and guidance officer: helping clients access services and support
Employment adviser: guiding people into work or training
Careers adviser: providing guidance on career options and next steps
Support worker: advising clients in health, housing, or social care settings
Customer service adviser: handling enquiries and signposting in public services
Welfare benefits adviser: helping people understand and access entitlements
What you could study next
Level 3 Award in Information, Advice or Guidance: deepens your knowledge and is suited to more senior advisory roles.
Level 3 Diploma in Careers Information and Advice: a route toward professional careers adviser work.
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills: useful if you want to develop deeper listening and support skills alongside your IAG practice.
