Work with training or study

What does working and learning mean?

When you finish school, sixth form or college you might want to start work, rather than stay in full-time education. Working and learning means having paid work and, as part of that work or alongside it, working towards a recognised qualification.

Sometimes it is good to get started with any job to build your experience. Remember, where you start is not likely to be where you end up – you are probably going to have lots of jobs in your career.

Ways to work and learn

A job with training

Learn as part of your job

Many employers are supportive of training. Look for a job you can combine with training that leads to a nationally recognised qualification.

Part-time study alongside a job

Evenings, weekends or day release

Many colleges, universities and training providers offer part-time courses. Sometimes your employer will pay, as the course helps you in your work.

Online and distance learning

Study in your own time

The Open University offers degrees you study at home, at a pace to fit you. FutureLearn has short online courses from universities – a good way to find out if a subject is for you.

Higher or Degree Apprenticeship

Earn while you learn

You are paid while you work, and your employer funds your degree level course. Find out about apprenticeships at 18.

Employer-sponsored degree

A company pays for your degree

An employer funds your degree in return for your commitment to work for them during your course and after you graduate. The terms vary from employer to employer.

Foundation Degrees, HNCs and HNDs

Linked to a job sector

Higher level courses designed with employers, which you can often study part-time. After a Foundation Degree you can “top up” to a full honours degree.

Why keep learning while you work?

Employers are increasingly looking for people with higher level skills and qualifications
A job with training could give you better long-term prospects
You could have more job satisfaction as you develop and use higher skills
It could mean you get more pay in the future

Help with time and cost

Time off for training. If you are an employee, have worked for your employer for at least 26 weeks, and at least 250 people work there, you have the right to ask for time off for training that helps you do your job better. It is usually unpaid unless your employer agrees to pay.
Free or reduced course fees. If you are aged 18 to 23 and do not yet have a full Level 2 or Level 3 qualification, you may be able to get free or reduced fees for your first full Level 2 or Level 3 course. Check with the college or learning provider.
Degree level study without a loan. You usually need a government loan for a degree level course. A Higher or Degree Apprenticeship, or an employer-sponsored degree, can mean you get there without one.

Good to know: starting work at 18 does not close doors. You can carry on learning and gain qualifications at any age – right up to degree level.

Things to think about

Ask about training when you are job hunting. Find out what training the company offers and what the opportunities for promotion might be, so you have chances to move on.
Talk to your employer about the training opportunities that might be available and where they might lead.
Found your perfect job, but no training on offer? You can still develop your skills and gain qualifications – for example by studying part-time in the evenings or at weekends, or through online learning.
Be sure it is the area of work you want. Routes like apprenticeships and sponsored degrees train you for a particular job or sector.
Some routes are competitive, so be ready to put yourself forward and explain what you have to offer.
Read the small print on a sponsored degree. You might have to work for the company after you graduate, or repay them if you leave early.
Ask your local college. They often have the most up-to-date information on part-time courses.

Not sure? Talk to a careers adviser, or get advice from people who know you well, like parents, carers and teachers.

Find out more or apply

How to apply: You apply for jobs directly with employers. For a part-time course, you apply directly to the college, university or training provider that runs it.

What you will learn on this page: