Adult Learning Course Guide
2025/2026
Lackham Campus
Chippenham Campus
Trowbridge Campus
ABOUT US
At Wiltshire College & University Centre (WCUC), we know it is never too late to learn something new or achieve new career goals. We have an excellent provision for adult learners and offer a number of free courses as well as part-time courses.
Our part-time courses are open to all adult learners and are a great way to enhance your skill set, allowing you to balance studying alongside every other aspect of your busy lifestyle.
Whether you are looking to strengthen your business skills, enhance your career prospects, take up a new hobby or simply learn something for fun, we offer a wide range of courses for adults at locations across the county.
The majority of our courses are taught on one of our four main campuses at Chippenham, Lackham, Salisbury or Trowbridge, but some take place at smaller sites or partner locations across the county.
Shaping skills, stories and futures for 25 years. Since 2000, we’ve supported thousands of careers – helping learners of all ages to discover their passions, grow in confidence and achieve their ambitions. With deep roots in our communities, we’re proud to keep inspiring futures every day.
Salisbury Campus
CHOOSING THE RIGHT COURSE
The most up-to-date information you will need about the wide variety of courses we offer can be found on our website.
You can also attend one of our Open Events, where our Adult Careers Advisors will be available to provide any further help or information you need, ensuring that the course you choose is the right one for you.
If you think you may need help or support for your course, then please tell us about any learning difficulties or disabilities you have at the time of enrolment. A member of the Inclusion & Support team will then get in touch with you before your course starts. We will make reasonable adjustments to enable you to participate fully
Location Key
Our part-time courses do not always take place on our main campuses, and classes are held in other locations across the county. Use the key below when looking through our course pages to find out exactly where the classes you are interested in are being held.
CH – Chippenham Campus
CO – Corsham Methuen Centre
DL – Distance Learning
LA – Lackham Campus
SA – Salisbury Campus
TR – Trowbridge Campus
Please check the relevant course page on our website for the most up-to-date information.
HOW TO APPLY
All of our part-time courses are available to view on our website. When you have found the course you would like to study, click ‘apply’ and follow the simple steps. You will be asked to complete a form before proceeding to payment. Once we have processed your application, you will receive confirmation from WCUC along with the additional information you need before you start your course.
Some courses require an appointment with a tutor to ensure the course is right for you before you enrol and pay. Once you have submitted the application form online, our Customer Services team will contact you to book a convenient appointment with a tutor.
Distance Learning
Many of our Professional Development or Health, Care and Early Years programmes are Distance Learning (DL) courses, meaning you can study at home at your own pace. You can start these courses at a time of your choosing. Many of these courses are free for most people, providing you meet the criteria listed on this page. These courses are listed as Free*. Your fee status will be determined during your application.
Please note that you may only enrol onto one course at a time and must meet the following entry requirements:
• Learners should be over the age of 19 at the start of the academic year.
• Learners need to have been a resident in the UK or EEA/EU for at least three years prior to enrolment.
• Learners cannot be enrolled if they are currently funded for another course.
• Learners must reside in England with a postcode outside of a devolved area, which includes The West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, to be eligible for funding.
questions?
If you have any questions or need more information, please contact DistanceLearning@wiltshire.ac.uk.
FEES & FUNDING
Students over the age of 19 will usually need to pay for their tuition, exams and registration fees. We have tried to make our courses as affordable as possible and we offer a number of courses free of charge. Payment is due at enrolment, although instalment plans are available in some cases. Below you will find all the information you need on how to pay for your courses.
How can I pay for the course?
We can take credit card and debit card. Many courses are available to pay online. We can set up an instalment plan for you in some situations.
Can my employer pay for the course?
Yes - absolutely. If you’re employer has agreed to pay for your course, they would need to complete an Employer’s Undertaking Form. You can let us know during your fee assessment and we’ll send your employer the form or you can contact us at info@wiltshire.ac.uk to request a form from our Customer Services Team.
Can I get help with my course fees?
Not all of our courses are eligible for fee remission, so you may still need to pay fees even if the course is open to enrol on.
Some courses that lead to a recognised qualification may qualify, depending on your circumstances - for example, if you are on a low income, receive benefits, or already hold certain qualifications.
If you are enrolling on an eligible Level 3 course, you may be able to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to help wiht the cost of your studies.
I have not been a resident in the UK, EU or EEA for three years — can I start a course?
If you have not been a resident in the UK/EEA for the last three years, you can still complete a course but you may have to pay the overseas fees, which are higher than the advertised price. It depends on your immigration status and the course you are enrolling on.
Once I have enrolled and paid, can I get a refund?
You can apply for a refund up to 14 days after you have paid as long as the course has not yet started. If WCUC close a course, we will tell you as soon as possible and you will get a full refund.
Can I get any help to cover travel or childcare costs to help me come to college?
If you have a low income and are studying an eligible course which leads to a recognised qualification, you may get help from the Learner Support Fund. You can apply from August each year. Apply early because funds are limited. Ask for an application form from Customer Services.
AGRICULTURE, ANIMAL CARE & LAND BASED STUDIES
HORTICULTURE & FLORISTRY
Turn your love for flowers and design into beautiful creations – whether in floristry, gardens or beyond.
• Flower School - Beginners
• Flower School – Intermediate
• Flower School - Advanced
• RHS Lvl 2 Certificate in Practical Horticulture
• RHS Lvl 2 Certificate in Principles of Horticulture
Protect crops and the environment with accredited training and build the skills to use pesticides safely and effectively in today’s industry.
• City & Guilds Award in The Safe Application of Pesticides Using Pedestrian Hand Held Equipment (QCF) (PA6)
• NPTC Lvl 2 Award in Safe Application of Pesticides Using Self Propelled, Mounted or Trailed Horizontal Boom Sprayers (QCF) (PA2)
• Principles of Safe Handling and Application of Pesticides (PA1)
Grow new skills across our 500-acre Wiltshire woodlands with our part-time Forestry, Arboriculture, Horticulture and Floristry courses. You’ll blend classroom insight with hands-on sessions in woodlands, gardens and glasshouses –perfect for advancing a hobby, expanding your business or launching a new career.
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
ART, CRAFTS & PHOTOGRAPHY
ART & DESIGN
Unleash your creativity and build confidence in drawing, painting, printmaking and more.
• Art and Craft for Wellbeing
• Building Confidence with Art
• Contemporary Drawing
• Drawing and Watercolour Painting
• Painting in Acrylics
• Printmaking Workshop
PHOTOGRAPHY
Step behind the lens with hands-on training in creative techniques, camera skills and portfolio work.
• Creative Photography and Portfolio Development (Beginners)
• Photography, Film and Darkroom (Beginners)
Unleash your creativity through inspiring part-time courses in art, design, fashion, and photography. You’ll sketch, sculpt or shoot at your own pace, guided by practising creatives who encourage experimentation and growth.
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
Boost your career with part-time courses in business, project management, bookkeeping, customer service and personal finance. Taught by industry professionals, they deliver practical tools and nationally recognised credentials that elevate your CV and power your next move.
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
BUSINESS, FINANCE
& MANAGEMENT
BUSINESS
Drive your business ambitions with practical part-time qualifications that equip you for diverse opportunities.
• NCFE Lvl 2 Certificate in Creating a Business Start Up
• NCFE Lvl 2 Certificate in Principles of Business Administration
• NCFE Lvl 2 Certificate in Principles of Customer Service
• NCFE Lvl 2 Certificate in Understanding Business Improvement Techniques
• NCFE Lvl 2 Certificate in Understanding Retail Operations
EMPLOYABILITY SKILLS
Hone your core workplace skills – from customer service to communication – to stand out and succeed.
• Level 1 Customer Service
• Level 1 Employability Skills
PROFESSIONAL FINANCE
Master bookkeeping and accounting essentials with recognised qualifications that prepare you for real-world financial roles.
• AAT Lvl 2 Certificate in Bookkeeping
• AAT Lvl 2 Foundation Certificate in Accounting
• AAT Lvl 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting
• AAT Lvl 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting
PROFESSIONAL HR
Gain highly recognised professional people practice/ management qualifications, supporting your development and progression within the Human Resources sector.
• CIPD Lvl 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice
• CIPD Lvl 5 Associate Diploma in People Management
CATERING
HOSPITALITY
Deliver outstanding guest experiences through hands-on training in hospitality service skills and industry best practices.
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Excellence in Customer Service for Hospitality
Serve up new opportunities with part-time courses in front-of-house service. Taught by industry professionals in fully equipped restaurant spaces, you’ll gain the hands-on experience to step into any dining room with confidence.
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
COMPUTING & IT
CODING
Build your coding foundations and bring digital ideas to life with hands-on programming projects.
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Coding
CYBER SECURITY
Master the skills to defend, detect and outsmart cyber threats with accredited, practical security training.
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Cyber Security
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Data Protection and Data Security
IT
Stay confident and connected with essential digital skills.
• Basic IT Skills for Confidence Programme
Embark on a new digital path with our part-time Computing & IT classes. You’ll cover coding fundamentals, cyber-security principles and essential IT applications in a supportive environment that keeps you confident in our ever-evolving digital world.
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
CONSTRUCTION & TRADES
BRICKLAYING
Build essential bricklaying skills through hands-on practice, working toward nationally recognised industry-standard qualifications.
• City & Guilds Level 2 Construction Diploma in Bricklaying
ELECTRICAL TECHNOLOGY
Power up your electrical expertise with theory and handson sessions, earning industry-recognised credentials.
• City & Guilds Level 2 Construction Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings & Structures)
Get site-ready with part-time courses in bricklaying, electrics and more. You’ll blend clear classroom theory with hands-on practice in our dedicated construction centre and specialist workshops, earning the certificates and experience employers are looking for.
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
EARLY YEARS & TEACHING
EARLY YEARS TEACHING
Nurture tomorrow’s learners through flexible, hands-on training in early childhood development, safety and care techniques.
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Introducing Caring for Children and Young People
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Safeguarding and Prevent
• NCFE/CACHE Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner
• Supporting Neurodivergent Children: Understanding and Empowering Unique Minds
Equip yourself to inspire and support students with training in curriculum planning, assessment and inclusive teaching.
• City & Guilds Level 3 Award in Education & Training
• NCFE/CACHE Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges
• CFE Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities
• NCFE/CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties
Shape young lives without pressing pause on your own. Our flexible part-time Early Years & Teaching courses combine expert-led classes with hands-on learning, equipping you to make an immediate impact in nurseries, early-years settings and primary classrooms.
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
ENGLISH, MATHS & ESOL
ESOL
Boost your English and life skills with flexible ESOL courses that prepare you for work, study, and everyday life.
• ESOL for Family Life in Wiltshire
• ESOL for Employment
• ESOL for Resettlement
• Part-time ESOL Application
• ESOL Speaking and Listening in English
• ESOL Reading in English
• ESOL Writing in English
ENGLISH
Upgrade your reading, writing and communication skills to open doors to work, study, and everyday confidence.
• Part-Time Functional Skills English Application
• Part-Time GCSE English Application
Build the skills employers value or boost your everyday confidence with flexible English, Maths and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses. Supportive, adultonly classes help you gain GCSE-equivalent grades or master practical language skills for work, study and daily life.
MATHS
Build your numeracy and problem-solving confidence with flexible Maths courses for work, study and daily life.
• Part-Time GCSE Maths Application
• Part-Time Functional Skills Maths Application
Scan the QR code to explore part-time ESOL courses
Scan the QR code to explore part-time English & Maths courses
HEALTH & CARE
Build professional listening and therapeutic skills to support others and advance your career in mental wellbeing.
• CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Studies
• CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies
• CPCAB Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills
COUNSELLING HEALTHCARE
Gain in-demand skills in mental health, physical wellbeing and social care with our flexible healthcare training.
• NCFE Level 2Certificate in Awareness of Men’s Mental Health Problems
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Awareness of Mental Health Problems
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Children and Young People’s Mental Health
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Common Health Conditions
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Improving Personal Exercise, Health & Nutrition
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health First Aid and Mental Health Advocacy in the Workplace
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Behaviour that Challenges
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Cancer Support
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Domestic Abuse
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Nutrition and Health
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Care and Management of Diabetes
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the safe handling of Medication in Health and Social Care (QCF)
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Working with People with Mental Health Needs
• NCFE/CACHE Level 2 Diploma in Care
• STEP into Gym Instructing
• Mindfulness: Cultivating Presence and Peace
• The Art of Saying No: Empowering Your Boundaries
Turn compassion into a career with our part-time Health & Social Care courses. You’ll explore how to support individuals and families in our hospital-style training wards, gaining practical skills, confidence and nationally recognised credentials.
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
HEALTH & SAFETY
HEALTH & SAFETY
Safeguard people and workplaces with accredited, practical training in first aid, risk assessment and safety management.
• HABC Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work
• HABC Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Warehousing and Storage
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Tenant Support in Social Housing
Keep workplaces safe, compliant and confident with our part-time Health & Safety courses. Covering everything from First Aid to risk assessment, these accredited programmes pair clear theory with practical experience.
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
LANGUAGES
FRENCH
Say bonjour to new horizons with French classes that build real-world speaking confidence.
• Year 3 – Parts 1 & 2
• Conversation – Parts 1 &2
• Beginners – Parts 1 & 2
SPANISH
• Beginners - Parts 1 & 2
PORTUGUESE
ITALIAN
Master Italian conversation – from café orders to confident discussions for travel, work and cultural engagement.
• Beginners – Parts 1 & 2
• Intermediate – Parts 1 & 2
Open doors to Spanish fluency with practical classes for travel, work and everyday conversations.
Unlock confident conversations in a new language for business, travel or fun. Our friendly small-group classes blend practice with cultural insights, making every session feel like a mini trip abroad.
Discover the culture and charm of this language and bring a little Portuguese flair to your conversations
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
SCIENCE
SCIENCE
Ignite your curiosity with hands-on experiments and lab projects that develop key analytical and technical skills.
• GCSE Biology
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Climate Change and Environmental Awareness
• OCN Level 2 Award in Progression
Turn curiosity into capability with our parttime Science courses. In purpose-built labs you’ll pair cutting-edge theory with real experiments and case studies to develop the analytical and technical skills employers are looking for.
Explore these part-time courses by scanning the QR code
Apprenticeships
Why study an apprenticeship?
You may be asking yourself, why should I study an apprenticeship? How will it benefit me? We are an innovative college working with around 900 employers to deliver a wide range of apprenticeships in a variety of sectors, to suit your needs. We also deliver bespoke programmes with some of the largest employers across Wiltshire and the wider South West, meaning there is something for you.
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a job where you learn and gain experience as well as getting paid. You are an employee who will benefit from having the right skills and knowledge needed for your chosen career. Apprenticeships are a great alternative to traditional learning.
What are the benefits of apprenticeships?
• Earn a wage while you are training
• Learn job specific skills and gain practical experience
• Develop professionally alongside experienced colleagues
• Achieve nationally recognised qualifications
• Support from a dedicated college assessor
• Paid holiday
• Progression onto higher level qualifications or university
• Fast track into full-time employment
UNIVERSITY CENTRE
You don’t need to move away to university to get a good degree. At WCUC, we offer local Higher Education with excellent teaching from industry specialists.
All of our Higher Education courses are taught in smaller groups, in supported learning environments and using friendly and collaborative working practices.
We offer university-level courses in the following areas:
• Animal Management
• Business, Finance and Management
• Computing and IT
• Crime and Criminal Justice
• Early Years Education and Childcare
• Engineering
• Film Production and Cinematography
• Healthcare
• Motorsport Engineering
• Sport
Future Courses
We are always looking to refresh and expand our part-time course offering to best suit the evolving needs of our learners. We would appreciate your feedback to help determine any potential courses we will offer in the future.
To find out more information about these courses and to complete an Expression of Interest Form, scan here:
You can also use the form to let us know about any additional course areas you would be interested in studying.
We reserve the right to make any amendments, cancellations or deletions to our scheduled courses. In the event of a course being cancelled, we will give enrolled students as much notice as possible and, where appropriate, offer alternative courses. If you do not wish to accept an alternative, we will refund any fees paid.
