ADULT COURSE GUIDE
Learn Something New This Year
Welcome to your journey of growth and opportunity with Chichester College –proudly rated Outstanding by Ofsted for our exceptional adult education provision.
If you’re thinking of learning something new this year, then Chichester College is the place to start. Whatever your ambitions – leisure learning and hobbies, skilled trades, access to higher education, or professional courses – we will have a course to help you succeed. And whatever you decide to study, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way.
We offer a range of free accredited online courses in different subjects including business, management, childcare, health care and more. Plus, GCSE English and maths – free for adults who do not currently have these qualifications –and a highly successful ESOL programme. You can also check out our adult courses at Brinsbury College, our sister college offering land-based courses in Pulborough, near the end of this course guide.
Whether you want to study for personal satisfaction, to progress your career or to make new friends, you'll find something that sparks your interest, and we look forward to seeing you on campus soon.
Don’t Let Financial Concerns Stop You Studying
We’ll work with you to find out what support you may be entitled to and help you access any funding available. Here are just some of the options available to help you fund your education.
Level 2 and 3 entitlement
Fee waivers may be available for students aged 19-23 at the start of their course who are studying their first government-designated full level 2 or level 3 qualification.
Unemployed and low wage earners
You may be eligible for fee waivers on level 2 and below courses if you are either unemployed and in receipt of certain benefits, or you earn less than £25,000 annual gross salary.
REFUND POLICY
One-day courses
Free courses for jobs
Free courses for jobs offer is intended to help adults gain the skills needed to improve their job prospects. Learners aged 19+ may be eligible for a fee waiver if they are unemployed and in receipt of certain benefits for earning less than £25,000 gross annual salary. Learners aged 19-23 may also be eligible if they earn above the threshold but do not already hold a full level 3 qualification.
Advanced Learner Loan for level 3 courses and higher
An Advanced Learner Loan can cover the cost of course fees and you don’t need to start repayments until your income is over a certain amount (the ‘threshold’ amount).
University Level
If you are applying for a university-level course, for example a foundation degree or top-up degree, then you can apply for a loan via Student Finance England.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR FULL INFORMATION ON FEE GUIDANCE AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT
Apply and Enrol
How to apply for your course
Online
Many of our courses can be enrolled and paid for online at chichester.ac.uk or brinsbury.ac.uk. You can apply online by searching for your course and clicking on the ‘APPLY’ button found on each course page.
Alternatively, we can send you an electronic application form by email upon request. We’ll let you know when we’ve safely received your application with an acknowledgement letter, usually within two weeks.
No refund will be granted to students who withdraw from a one-day class less than 14 days before the start date. In all other cases, if a student cancels their place more than 14 days prior to the course commencement a £50 administration fee is due.
Courses with a duration of less than 13 weeks
No refunds will be given where a student withdraws from the course less than 14 days prior to commencement or once the course has started. In all other cases, if a student cancels their place more than 14 days prior to the course commencement a £50 administration fee is due.
Course duration of 13 weeks or more (excluding university-level students)
Where a student withdraws within the first 28 days following course commencement a £50 administration fee will be due. If a student attends beyond 28 calendar days from the course commencement, the full fee is payable.
It is the student’s responsibility to inform the college in writing that they are leaving their course. Where a student feels that there are exceptional circumstances that prevent them from continuing with their studies, a written application for fee review can be made to a senior CCG representative. Each case will be judged on its merits. Applications must be made within one month of the withdrawn date held on the central student records database. Supporting evidence must be provided with the application. Applications should be emailed to salesledger@chichester.ac.uk
Chichester Brinsbury
OUR FACILITIES & CAMPUSES
At Chichester College Group, we believe learning is a lifelong journey. Across our seven colleges in Sussex and Brighton & Hove, we offer inclusive, modern facilities designed to support and inspire learners at every stage of life. With the student experience at the heart of everything we do, our mission is to change lives through learning –creating welcoming spaces where adults can grow, retrain, and thrive.
Brighton MET
Brighton MET is home to two vibrant campuses. Our newly refurbished Central Brighton campus, in the heart of the city's creative quarter, offers high-tech workshops and digital studios.
Just minutes from the Marina, our Brighton East campus sits near the stunning countryside and houses our impressive £9 million construction and trades centredelivering top-tier training in practical skills.
Brinsbury
Set across 570 acres of beautiful countryside near the South Downs National Park, Brinsbury College is where nature meets learning. It offers a unique, hands-on experience where your classroom includes fields, dairy, and livestock. With an animal centre, specialist labs, and a state-of-the-art forge, Brinsbury is the perfect place to study land-based courses in a truly rural setting.
Chichester
One of the largest colleges in the region, Chichester College welcomes thousands of students each year - including over 1,000 from more than 80 countries. It features industry-standard engineering workshops, modern computer labs, and a well-equipped library and learning resource centre.
Worthing
Located between Brighton and Chichester, Worthing College offers easy access to surrounding areas and the town centre. It features excellent sports facilitiesincluding floodlit courts, rugby pitches, and a fully equipped gym - alongside a well-stocked library and collaborative study spaces.
Crawley
Crawley College is perfectly located between Brighton and London, just minutes from Gatwick Airport. Renowned for construction and engineering, it boasts cutting-edge facilities - including the Advanced Technology Centre, IT Academy, and a multi-million-pound STEM hub - for innovative study in IT, media, and engineering.
Northbrook
With over a century of creative excellence, Northbrook is perfectly placed between buzzing Brighton and the South Downs. We offer inspiring courses in art, design, music, and performance.
Our West Durrington campus boasts top-tier facilities - studios, theatres, darkrooms, and a pro-level recording complex. At Shoreham Airport, get hands-on with real vehicles in our advanced motor, hybrid, and motorsport workshops.
ACCESS TO HE
Our Access to Higher Education courses are designed for adults who have taken a break from their education and are ready to take the next step towards a degree. These intensive courses cover key subject areas and helps you build the academic skills needed for university or other higher education pathways.
Taught part-time over two to three days per week, with a study commitment of 30 hours per week.
ARTS & CRAFTS
Whether you're looking to pick up a new hobby or build on your existing skills, our hands-on courses in art, design, fashion, and crafts offer a creative outlet for all levels. These relaxed, enjoyable sessions are a great way to unwind, express yourself, and connect with others who share your interests.
Digital
Printmaking
Sewing for Beginners Part 2
Sewing for Beginners Part 2
BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT
Advance your career or take a new direction with our business and management courses. Whether you're aiming to upskill, gain a recognised qualification, or switch careers, our professional courses offer practical knowledge to help you succeed. With a variety of options available, there’s something to suit every goal and experience level.
Construction
Whether you're updating your skills, working towards a new qualification, renewing essential accreditations, or exploring a new trade, we offer a wide range of courses to support your goals.
PLUMBING, GAS, OIL & RENEWABLES
Counselling
Build the skills to support others through life’s challenges with our counselling course. Learn from experienced professionals in a supportive setting and take the first step toward a rewarding and meaningful career.
EDUCATION
ENGINEERING
Develop practical skills in our industry-standard workshops, designed to simulate real working environments. Our expert tutors will guide you throughout the course, equipping you with the knowledge and experience employers are looking for.
ENGLISH & MATHS, ESOL
Our maths and English GCSE courses are designed for adult learners.
GCSES FOR ADULTS
Whether you are looking to get your GCSE qualification or improve your confidence in English, maths or science, we can help. Our tutors are supportive, friendly and experienced. We have excellent achievement rates and will work with you to help you reach your goals. GCSE classes are in the morning, afternoon and evening and all classes last for three hours.
For more information, please visit chichester.ac.uk/adults
ESOL COURSES
We run highly successful ESOL courses for young people and adults. We have a range of courses to suit all learners and support with literacy and employability skills.
For more information, please visit chichester.ac.uk, search ESOL
Hair & Beauty
Join an exciting, fast-moving industry where creativity and innovation are key. Our hairdressing and beauty therapy courses open doors to a variety of career paths, offering you the skills to succeed in a constantly evolving field.
HOSPITALITY
Build your kitchen confidence with our enjoyable, hands-on cookery classes led by professional chefs. From complete beginners to passionate home cooks, our wide range of courses will help you explore new flavours, techniques, and cuisines in a fun and friendly setting.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to improve existing skills, our modern foreign language courses offer a friendly, supportive environment to learn and grow your confidence in speaking a new language.
Spanish
Spanish
motor vehicle
Advance your skills with our specialist motor vehicle courses at Chichester College. From technical updates for experienced technicians to training in electric/hybrid vehicle systems, we support professionals in both the automotive industry and public service sectors.
LEarn in the great outdoors
With a working farm, forge, stables and animal centre, Brinsbury College is set in 570 acres of stunning countryside on the edge of the beautiful South Downs National Park (near Pulborough). It offers the opportunity to study subjects you wouldn’t normally find in a classroom.
Adult learners can choose to study part-time or full-time, so you can update your skills ready for a career move, gain a qualification to get your dream job, or pursue an interest with one of our leisure learning options.
AGRICULTURE
Step into a thriving, multi-billion pound industry with our hands-on agriculture courses. Gain real-world experience in our fields, commercial dairy, and livestock sheds as you explore the essentials of modern farming.
ANIMAL CARE
Whether you're interested in pet first aid, understanding animal behaviour, or learning practical skills like poultry keeping and lambing, our animal care courses offer something for every animal enthusiast.
blacksmithing
Experience the timeless craft of blacksmithing in our fully equipped forge. Learn essential techniques and develop your skills as you explore this traditional trade.
Forestry & Arboriculture
If you’re drawn to the outdoors and working with nature, our forestry and arboriculture courses are the perfect fit. Whether you're an aspiring professional or a hobbyist gardener, you'll develop practical skills for a fulfilling green career.
HORTICULTURE
Turn your passion for plants into a rewarding pursuit. Our horticulture courses cover everything from garden design to sustainable growing methods, making them ideal for budding professionals or keen hobbyists alike.
HOBBY
Unlock your potential with Skills Bootcamps
Your fast-track to career progression
Ready to develop sector-specific skills?
Skills Bootcamps are flexible, intensive training programmes lasting up to 16 weeks. Whether you’re looking to boost your career or make a career change, these programmes are designed to fast-track your career by giving you the skills that employers are looking for.
Designed for adults aged 19+, Skills Bootcamps focus on delivering practical training and support, helping you gain the confidence needed to excel in your chosen sector.
Proudly delivered with:
Why
choose Skills Bootcamps?
Industry-Aligned Training: Developed with employers to meet sector-specific needs.
Flexible & Practical: Structured programmes tailored to help you gain real-world experience.
Fast-Track Career Progression: Whether you're in work or transitioning into a new role, Skills Bootcamps accelerate your career.
Who can join?
> Adults 19+ who live or work in Brighton and Hove for courses located in Brighton
> Adults 19+ who live or work in West Sussex for courses located in Chichester, Crawley and Worthing
> In work or self-employed professionals looking to upskill or grow their business
> Recently unemployed or those returning to work
Bootcamps available in these high-demand sectors:
Business
Project Management - Build core project management skills and tools.
Chichester College
Digital
Software Development – Advance your programming skills in Python, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and more.
Brighton MET College (Brighton Central Campus)
Green Technologies
Electric Vehicle Installation, Green Construction Technologies. Crawley College
Hospitality & Catering
Customer Service, Food Safety & More –Launch your career in hospitality.
Brighton MET College (Brighton Central Campus)
Construction
Bricklaying, Drylining, Heritage Construction Skills, Painting & Decorating
Brighton MET, Chichester, Crawley and Northbrook Colleges
Early Years
Child Development & Safeguarding – Start a fulfilling career in early years education.
Brighton MET College (Brighton Central Campus)
Health & Social Care
Adult Social Care, Nursing, Social Care. Chichester & Brighton MET Colleges
Upskill your workforce
Give your staff the skills they need to succeed in new roles or advance in their current positions. Enjoy substantial discounts on course fees by referring employees to Skills Bootcamps. Eligibility Criteria Apply.
For more information or to register your interest, visit chigroup.ac.uk and search Skills Bootcamps.
FIND YOUR FOCUS
with University courses at CCG
Ready to boost your career, change direction, or chase that dream job? At CCG we've got your back with local University-Level qualifications.
Study locally at CCG and graduate with a degree accredited by top universities like:
Scan me for more information! chigroup.ac.uk/university-level
Our courses
> Animal Management & Care
> Business & Management
> Computing & Digital Tech
> Construction
> Creative Media
> Digital Media (Graphics, Illustration & Photography)
> Engineering & Technology
> Fine Art, Textiles & Fashion
> Healthcare Practice
> Motorsport
> Music
> Sport, Health & Exercise Sciences
> Technical Theatre & Performance
> Theatre & Dance
Our colleges
Free Online Courses
Looking to expand your skills, start your dream career, or gain CPD? Distance learning could be for you!
Access course content anytime via our online platform and receive detailed feedback from your assessor. Our friendly team is here to support your return to education. Boost your CV with our free online courses and gain the edge you need!
Subject areas include:
> Business & Management
> Childcare
> Health Care
> Sport & Fitness
> Workplace Skills
Why Choose Us?
> Get help and support from your assigned tutor
> Achieve a recognised level 2 certificate
> No college attendance required
> Courses take 4 – 12 weeks to complete. At your own pace, any time of day.
> Receive online course materials and log in to your own learning portal.
To view our full list of courses, access sample content and apply online, please go to: ccg.theskillsnetwork.com
Please Note: To be eligible to complete a VRQ you must be at least 19 years of age and/or over and you will need to be living in England for 3 consecutive years or more. This is due to Government funding rules. If you have any enquiries relating to our free courses, please email: DistanceLearning@chigroup.ac.uk
Routes into Employment
Chichester College Group, working in partnership with West Sussex County Council, is delivering its ‘Routes into Employment’ programmes in the following sectors:
• Routes into Construction
• Routes into Health and Early Years
• Routes into the ‘Green’ sector
These professional courses lead to nationally recognised qualifications which can help boost your career prospects.
Courses have an attendance over one or two weeks at Chichester, Crawley and Worthing colleges. All courses have practical elements which simulate real work environments.
These courses are open to adults resident across West Sussex and neighbouring areas (East Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire).
Quotes from recent attendees across our courses:
I was glad to join and study in your course. This course helped me to be more confident and to find a new job. Now I have been working in a Nursery in Worthing for four months and I am very satisfied with my new job. Thank you very much for the training, this certificate is the basis of my work”.
I feel like construction courses like this are great to help people see if this is what they want to pursue instead of going straight to a full course.”
Never done anything like this before and really enjoyed it. Lots of information and great teachers.”
I think the course is such a broad one and has opened many avenues in further interests of employment.”
Everything I’ve learned will be so helpful in my intended career.”
This course helped me to understand about job interviews.”
To find out more visit chigroup.ac.uk/routes
CHANGING LIVES THROUGH LEARNING
Disclaimer: Information contained in this guide is accurate at the time of printing (June 2025). Please ensure you check our website or speak to an admissions advisor for latest course information.
Open EVENTS
We look forward to welcoming you to one of our open events. For more information, visit our websites or scan the relevant code below:
Chichester College
Autumn:
• Tuesday 7 October 2025 4.30-7pm
• Saturday 8 November 2025 10am-1pm
Spring:
• Thursday 5 March 2026 4:30-7pm
Scan me for Chichester Open Events
Brinsbury College
Autumn:
• Saturday 11 October 2025 10am-1pm
Spring:
• Saturday 7 March 2026 10am-1pm
Scan me for Brinsbury Open Events
01243 786321