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Upskilling for your Return to Work
Taking time out of work - whether for caring responsibilities, health reasons, redundancy, personal commitments or simply life's unexpected turns - is more common than you think. And now that you're ready to take your next step, this page is here to support you every step of the way.
Whether you're feeling excited, uncertain or a bit of both, there are plenty of opportunities in Kent designed to help you rebuild confidence, refresh your skills and reconnect with the world of work. From free employability courses and job-ready training to professional coaching, qualifications and flexible learning options, you'll find a wide range of support to help you return to work or education at your own pace.
No matter how long you've been away, your experience still has value - and your next chapter is well within reach. Take your time, explore what's available and choose the opportunities that feel right for you. Your return to work starts here - and we're here to help you make it a strong, positive and successful one.
Discover learning opportunities for adults returning to work
At Kent Adult Education, our KAE Skills courses are designed to help you gain the essential qualifications and confidence you need for work, further study and everyday life. Whether you're looking to improve your English, Maths or Digital Skills, or you're learning English as a second language, we're here to support your journey.
Find out more about English, Maths and Digital Skills courses at Kent Adult Education
Kent Adult Education offers a range of free* online Employment Essentials courses which can help you if you are looking for a new job or if you want to progress in your career. These courses will support you with gaining skills to help you in your job or next interview.
Skills Bootcamps are free, flexible training courses lasting up to 16 weeks, designed to help you gain sector-specific skills that are in high demand. The aim of the programme is to help individuals upskill, retrain or formalise their skills to access in-demand jobs, apprenticeships, new opportunities and potentially higher income levels. Upon completion, you'll receive a guaranteed job interview for a role that matches your new skills.
Connect to Work is a voluntary employment support programme launched by the UK Government as part of the Get Britain Working Strategy. It's designed to help people who face barriers to employment - such as health conditions, disabilities or specific disadvantages - find and stay in meaningful work.
The Restart Scheme helps long-term unemployed people to start working. They provide a wide range of support options, including skills training, job application and interview preparation, financial help, online tools and health and wellbeing support.
Apprenticeships are real jobs that combine work with training and study. You'll earn a wage, gain skills and have the opportunity to put what you learn into practice.
The government might pay for you to take a course that helps you learn new skills or apply for work, depending on your circumstances.
Find free support near you with the Joy Platform. From mental health to housing, money advice to loneliness - get the help you deserve, all in one place.
The Local Kent Directory provides information of local activities, events, support services and education options available in Kent.
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