Demand triples for Walsall College’s free distance learning courses
Lockdown and the rise in the key worker roles encourages hundreds to access free professionally-recognised qualifications online, with new courses launched to meet business and community needs
Not only are local people stepping up to fill key worker roles, they are also stepping up for healthcare training through Walsall College’s distance learning courses.
Demand for the college’s free online courses in health, social care and learning support has trebled this month, with everyone keen to gain new qualifications by the summer.
In the past four weeks, 1,800 people have applied for Walsall College’s distance learning courses. This is seen as a phenomenal uptake.
The college says it is heartening to see people seizing the opportunity to boost their skill set and prepare for the thousands of current and merging roles available during this lockdown situation.
The health and social care sector is destined to stay in the spotlight for the foreseeable future. In response to this, the college has developed new courses aimed at people coming forward to support and care for others – either in a personal, voluntary or professional capacity.
Those interested in supporting children in an education setting or a community-based environment can complete an introductory course in caring for children or learn more about understanding children’s mental health.
For adult care, there are courses in dementia awareness, falls prevention and end of life care.
Mandatory training in areas such as equality and diversity, safeguarding and infection control are also available to boost people’s job and career prospects.
Distance learning courses in mental health awareness and understand autism encouraged Natalie Guy to carry on studying at college and go on to university.
“Becoming a student again is one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life,” said Natalie.
“Having spent eight-years as a healthcare worker, I wanted to try other avenues.”
“It was an ambition of mine to support people experiencing mental health problems. Being on a degree in mental health nursing means I’m well on the way to making this a reality.”
Distance Learning courses are suitable for individuals aged 19 and over, who can commit to studying for a period of up to four months, They must also be able to meet regular coursework deadlines throughout this time.
To explore Walsall College’s range of distance learning courses, click here.
