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Crawley Adult Guide 2026/27

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There is a course for every goal, whether you want to gain qualifications, retrain, build confidence or do something for yourself.

This time it’s for you

There comes a point when you start thinking about what’s next. A new direction. A fresh start. Or simply doing something that’s just for you.

At Crawley College we support adults at every stage of life – whether you’re looking to progress at work, change careers, build confidence or explore a personal interest, this is your opportunity to put yourself first. No matter how long it has been since you last studied, you’re not starting from scratch, you’re starting with life experience.

Why study with us?

• Rated Outstanding by Ofsted for our adult education provision

• Flexible part-time, evening and full-time study options

• Financial support available for eligible learners

• Campuses across the region with excellent facilities

• Supportive tutors with industry experience

Whatever your goal, there is a course for you

From leisure learning and hobby courses to skilled trades, professional qualifications and Access to Higher Education, there are opportunities to suit every ambition.

You can also study GCSE English and Maths, ESOL programmes, and a wide range of free accredited online courses – all designed to help you move forward with confidence.

Whether you’re taking the first step, changing direction or building on existing skills, this could be the year you do something for you.

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 £25,750 annual gross salary.

Free courses for jobs

Free courses for jobs offer is intended to help adults gain the skills needed to improve their job prospects and is available for some designated Level 2 and 3 courses. Learners aged 19+ may be eligible for a fee waiver if they are unemployed and in receipt of certain benefits or earning less than £25,750 annual gross 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

Refund Policy

One-day courses

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.

Apply and Enrol

How to apply for your course

Online

Many of our courses can be enrolled and paid for online at crawley.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.

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

Our Facilities & Campuses

At Chichester College Group, we believe learning is a lifelong journey. Across our seven colleges in Sussex and Brighton & Hove, you’ll find modern, inclusive facilities and a wide range of courses for adult learners. Each campus offers something different, helping you find the right fit for your goals, interests and routine.

Public Transport

Restaurant Parking Shops

Learning Support

Brinsbury

Learn practical, land-based skills in a unique countryside setting. With specialist facilities, a state-of-the-art forge and an animal centre, Brinsbury is ideal for adults looking to retrain or build practical skills/hobbies with animals, agriculture or the environment.

Brighton MET

Study in the heart of Brighton with access to modern workshops, digital studios and industry-relevant facilities. Choose from two campuses offering creative, technical and trade-focused learning, all within easy reach of the city and coast.

Chichester

Join a well-established college with a wide range of adult courses and strong support. Benefit from industry-standard facilities, flexible learning options and a diverse community that helps you progress with confidence.

Crawley

Gain career-ready skills in a college known for construction, engineering and STEM. With cutting-edge facilities and excellent transport links, it’s a convenient choice for an adult balancing study with work or home life.

Northbrook

Develop your creativity in a specialist arts environment with professional studios and performing spaces. Perfect for adults pursuing creative careers or building new skills or hobbies in a collaborative, inspiring setting.

Worthing

Enjoy a supportive learning environment with great facilities and easy access to the town centre. Ideal for adults looking to return to study, with flexible courses and spaces designed for focused, independent learning.

Haywards Heath

Fit study around your day with a campus close to transport links, shops and cafés. With dedicated creative studios, a professional theatre and quiet study spaces, Haywards Heath makes it easy to return to learning.

Access to HE

Our Access to Higher Education course is designed for adults who have taken a break from their education and are ready to take the next step towards a degree in healthcare professions.

Scan here to find out more & apply

This intensive course covers key subject areas and helps you build the academic skills needed for university or other higher education pathways. The course is taught part-time over two or three days per week and requires 30 hours a week study commitment.

Business & Management

“I chose AAT when I decided to change my career. You do need to spend some time revising after each lesson but, as a full-time working mum, I’m happy to have achieved a Merit in Bookkeeping.”

Computing & IT

Whether you’re a complete beginner looking to get comfortable with new technology or want to boost your existing digital skills, our computing & IT courses are here to help.

Scan here to find out more & apply

for Beginners

“Very

helpful and informative course. I would definitely recommend!”

Christian Blake, studied Excel Intermediate

This time it’s for Chris

“Working with Crawley College has been a fantastic experience. The support and customer service from the team has been exceptional, and nothing has ever been too much trouble, even when we’ve needed something more specific. With the help of the college, we’ve been able to develop our use of analytic type software such as Excel, helping us formulise our results and take that forward to use within gardening advice for our members and the wider community.”

Construction

C&G Level

Counselling

Explore a path in counselling with our dedicated courses. Whether you’re taking the first step towards a new career or looking to deepen your understanding of mental health and wellbeing, our courses provide you with the help you need to grow personally and professionally.

“The course feels really supportive and well structured. I’m gaining practical skills that I can already apply in real situations. It’s a great, safe space to learn. There’s a lot of respect in the classroom between the tutor and all the students and I think the mix of theory and practice works really well.”

Scan here to find out more & apply

Counselling Stage 1 11 Weeks Day/ Evening

Counselling Stage 2 22 Weeks Day/ Evening

Education

Make a difference and inspire future generations with a career in education. This course equips you with the skills to contribute to student success and help shape a positive learning environment.

Course Duration Mode Fees

CACHE Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools 22 Weeks Day £330

Scan here to find out more & apply

English & Maths, ESOL

Scan here to find out more & apply

GCSEs for Adults

Gain the confidence and qualifications you need with our adult GCSE courses. All learners must complete an assessment before enrolment to ensure you are placed on the right pathway.

*Free for adults who have not achieved a C/4 in their GCSEs and meet the Home Residency requirements. Fees may apply if this criteria is NOT met.

ESOL Courses

Develop your English skills in a friendly and supportive environment. Our ESOL courses help improve reading, writing, speaking and listening, while preparing you for work, further study and everyday life.

“I’m delighted to say the college is a wonderful place to learn and practice as we have a great teacher who is understanding and supportive and makes the learning easier. I feel confident and comfortable and I hope this will help me to succeed in my GCSE exams.”

Hairdressing & Barbering

Develop practical, professional skills in a creative and people-focused industry. Our courses provide hands-on training and industry-recognised qualifications to help you start a new career, enhance your existing skills, or turn your passion into a profession.

Scan here to find out more & apply

Languages

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to improve existing skills, our modern foreign language courses provide a supportive and engaging environment to help you develop your skills and communicate with confidence.

Motor Vehicle

Scan here to find out more & apply

Advance your skills with our specialist motor vehicle courses. 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.

IMI Level 1 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Awareness 1 Day Day £195

IMI Level 2 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle Hazard Management for Emergency and Recovery Personnel 2 Days Day £275

IMI Level 3 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle System Repair and Replacement 2 Days Day £495

IMI Level 4 Award in the Diagnosis, Testing and Repair of Electric/Hybrid Vehicles and Components 14 Weeks Day £595

IMI Technical Specialist in Automotive Refrigerant Handling (F-Gas) 1 Day Day

Welding & Fabrication

Whether you’re new to welding or looking to build on existing skills, you’ll gain hands-on experience in a range of welding techniques in our industry-standard workshops, supported by expert tutors with real industry experience.

Scan here to find out more & apply

Made of more

University-level at Crawley College

Whether you’re looking to progress in your current career, change direction or gain the qualifications needed to take the next step, our courses give you the skills, confidence and support to get there.

Study locally while benefitting from industry-focused teaching, specialist facilities and tutors with real-world experience. Through practical learning and strong employer links, you’ll develop the knowledge employers value and graduate ready to succeed in engineering, construction, computing and technology.

Our degrees:

+ HNC Construction & Management

+ HNC & HND Computing

+ HNC & HND Electrical Engineering

+ HNC & HND General Engineering

To learn more about our courses scan here or visit: crawley.ac.uk/made-ofmore-2027-university-level/

BRINGING TOGETHER THE LATEST IN

A modern, high-tech learning environment at Crawley College supporting the next generation of technical and professional careers.

The Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology (SSIoT) delivers higher-level technical education designed around the needs of modern industry. Its specialist focus is on Engineering, Construction and Digital subjects, areas where technical expertise and advanced skills continue to be in strong demand.

Developed in partnership with employers, colleges and universities, SSIoT combines academic learning with practical, industryinformed experience. This helps students build the knowledge, technical ability and confidence needed for progression into employment, apprenticeships or further higher-level study.

At the heart of SSIoT is a modern, purpose-built facility located on the Crawley College campus. Designed to reflect professional industry environments, it includes specialist workshops and advanced technical spaces featuring CNC machining, robotics and automation, electronics laboratories, CAD suites, 3D printing and collaborative project areas. Students benefit from hands-on learning using industry-standard equipment and technologies.

To find out more, visit our website at: sussexsurreyiot.ac.uk

To find out more, visit our website at: sussexsurreyiot.ac.uk

BENEFITS TO EMPLOYERS

Employers work closely with SSIoT to help shape curriculum content and contribute to live projects, mentoring opportunities and industry insight. This gives students valuable experience of current industry practice and helps them develop the knowledge, technical skills and confidence needed for employment, career progression and further higher-level study.

■ Tackle current skills gaps and prepare for future skills needs

■ Develop and retain local talent, reducing the need to recruit out of the region

■ Courses and programmes designed by employers, for employers

■ Industry standard, specialist training facilities

■ Opportunities to retrain and upskill existing staff through high-quality provision and assist them to gain prestigious and industry specific qualifications

■ Attract new talent to the digital, engineering and construction sectors by working with students that are gaining the skills you need

■ Provide strategic leadership across STEM provision

EDUCATION PARTNERS

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.

Why choose Skills Bootcamps?

Industry-aligned training: Developed with employers to meet sector-specific needs.

Flexible and 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+ (as of start date)

In work or self-employed professionals looking to upskill or grow their business

Recently unemployed or those returning to work

Adults seeking career changes into a new sector

Adults not already enrolled in formal education

Bootcamps are available in these high-demand sectors:

Business

Digital

Green Technologies

Hospitality & Catering

These Bootcamps are delivered across our colleges: Brighton MET College, Chichester College, Crawley College and Northbrook College. Please check the website for the most up-to-date information.

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.

Construction

Early Years

Health & Social Care

For more information or to register your interest, visit chigroup.ac.uk and search Skills Bootcamps. Scan

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

Coding & Digital Marketing

Health Care

Sport & Fitness

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

This qualification is particularly meaningful to me. I was diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of 14, and completing this course has allowed me to better understand my own learning profile, as well as the experiences of so many children and young people today.”

Jessica McMahon, Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties

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 three 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, Northbrook and Haywards Heath 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).

To find out more visit chigroup.ac.uk/routes

Quotes from recent attendees across our courses:

I was glad to join and study 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–I 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.”

Open Events

We look forward to welcoming you to one of our Open Events. For more information, visit our website or scan the QR code below:

Autumn:

• Thursday 8 October 2026 4.30-7pm

• Saturday 7 November 2026 10am-1pm

Spring:

• Tuesday 9 March 2027 4.30-7pm

Scan me for Crawley Open Events

01293 442200 info@crawley.ac.uk crawley.ac.uk

Disclaimer: Information contained in this guide is accurate at the time of printing (July 2026). Please ensure you check our website or speak to an admissions advisor for latest course information.

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