Adult Learning

Whether you’re looking to upskill or want to learn basic skills employers look for, we have a course for you - and many are free*

Learning doesn’t stop when you become an adult and you’re never too old to learn a new skill or earn your next qualification.

Whether you’re looking to upskill in your current job, secure employment or change to a new career altogether, our range of Adult Skills courses can help you to get the career you want.

You can study many of our courses for free if you are aged 19-plus, are unemployed, or earn below £25,750. Also, if you are aged 19-23-years-old who do not already hold a qualification of the course level or higher. You must also meet UK residency requirements.

Access to Higher Education

Want to study at university but not sure of your options? Our intensive one-year course equips you with the study skills and knowledge to progress to a degree

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Accounting

An Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) course is ideal for anyone wishing to pursue or progress their career in accountancy or finance

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Digital

We offer digital courses for adults from Level 3 to Level 5, including in some cases an apprenticeship option

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Employability Skills

Offering free short courses to those who are unemployed or claiming out of work benefits

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Hospitality and Catering

Discover the exciting world of hospitality and catering, where creativity, customer service and practical skills come together. Our adult courses can help you start a new career or develop your talents in this fast‑paced, rewarding industry.

Green Energy and Skills

Our Green Energy and Skills Centre has been created alongside development of new courses to support a more sustainable future for Cumbria

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HR and People Development

We offer Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) courses at Level 3 and Level 5, including an apprenticeship option

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Maths and English GCSEs

Add the skills and qualifications employers want to give you the best chance of success

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Teaching

Our courses offer a sound introduction to teaching, giving you an integrated overview of the theory and practice of teaching across the Further Education (FE) and Skills Sector

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Business

Build valuable workplace skills with our flexible short courses designed to boost confidence, knowledge and performance. Whether you’re looking to improve customer service, enhance your mentoring abilities or grow professionally, we have options to support your development.

Health and Social Care

Develop the skills and confidence to support people’s wellbeing and make a real difference in your community. Our adult courses offer practical, professional training for anyone looking to start or progress in this rewarding sector.

Beauty Therapy

Enhance your skills in a creative and confident industry with our practical beauty therapy courses. Whether you’re starting out or upskilling, we offer hands‑on training to help you progress in this growing sector.

Four students and one staff member cycling on the spinning bikes in the Lakes College reception.

Sport and Fitness

Boost your health, confidence and performance with our practical sport and fitness courses. Whether you’re aiming to start a career or simply build your skills, we offer hands‑on training to help you reach your goals.

Art and Design

Explore your creativity and develop new artistic skills with our inspiring art and design courses. From photography to ceramics, our hands‑on training helps you express ideas, build confidence and produce work you’re proud of.

Education, Inclusion and Wellbeing

Build your understanding of how to support others by exploring key topics like learning difficulties, equality and diversity. Our adult courses provide practical knowledge that helps you create inclusive, supportive and positive environments in any setting.