Getting back into study mode – 8 tips for returning to study

September, with its connotations of ‘Back to School’, is traditionally the time to think about what you are doing, what you want to do and what training you need to get there. When you have been out of education for quite a while, it can seem daunting to return to study. Try these 8 tips to get you started this autumn.

1. Work out what your ultimate aim is – do you want to change career? Are you looking to certify your existing skills with a formal accredited qualification?  – An accredited qualification will come with inbuilt and verified quality and it may be more credible. Concise Training offer City & Guilds accredited qualifications as well as short unaccredited courses.
2. Identify courses that will satisfy this aim and suit you – do your research!  – For example, our ITQ Social Media Certificate is a practical “hands on” qualification and our Diploma in Social Media for Business is more marketing based.
3. Find out what time commitment the courses require from you and work out whether you can fit this into your lifestyle – we would encourage learners to commit around 10 hours per week to our Diploma but our individual unaccredited E-learning courses can give plenty of skills (without accreditation) and can be completed by a determined learner in just a couple of weeks.
4. Find out what the total cost of the course is and if you can spread the payments – Many providers (including Concise Training) offer payment plans to help you spread the cost of your qualification.
5. Research funding that may be available in your area – this changes regularly. At the moment, registered businesses can claim up to £500 towards the cost of our Social media for Business Diploma or you may want to consider a 24+ advanced learning loan to pay for it.
6. Plan ahead – decide when you want to start your studies. There is probably no point enrolling for a course if you are then immediately going away on holiday. Make sure your dates work with the provider.
7. Set yourself targets and organise a study schedule from the start – Perhaps you need to set aside an evening a week for study. Make a list of due dates for your course and tick them off as you submit the work. This will help to keep you motivated.
8. Build a support network around you – each of our distance learning qualifications and courses come with support from your tutor but you are also given access to a group forum where you can get in touch with others who are also doing the course. You can, of course, keep in touch with peers and your tutor on social media!

If you would like to know more about our E-learning courses and social media qualifications, please do get in touch.