Further education and training
There are many places in Southend where you can further your education. There are schools, colleges and institutions where you can study in the day or evening in a range of subjects.
Academic courses
These help you prepare for higher education at either:
- university
- college
They aim to develop your:
- analytical skills
- critical thinking
- knowledge
They will usually lead to a qualification, including:
- A levels
- BTECs
Vocational and professional courses
These give you the skills and qualifications you need to enter and succeed in your chosen career. They offer technical training and skills for the workplace, along with qualifications.
Many courses are free of charge if you are aged 16 to 18.
If you are older, unemployed and in receipt of benefit or subsistence, the college fee will still be very reasonable.
Fees are charged according to the length of the course. There may be extra charge if you need to borrow special tools.
The classes are usually graded:
- beginners (where you may know very little)
- intermediate (where you have some knowledge)
- advanced
Many classes are designed for a specific examination, such as GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education). People of any age can take the exam.