Under the new system, local people balancing work, caring responsibilities and family life will soon have a new route into further education.
Marion Plant OBE FCGI, Principal and Chief Executive of NWSLC, said: “We are delighted that NWSLC has been chosen as one of the first colleges in the country to deliver courses through the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE).
“This is a hugely important development for adult education and skills training, giving people greater flexibility to learn, retrain and progress throughout their careers. As a college with a strong commitment to widening opportunity and supporting local economic growth, we are proud to be part of this landmark national programme.”
NWSLC will deliver new bite-sized courses that will open up opportunities for thousands of adults across North Warwickshire, South Leicestershire, Nuneaton and surrounding areas to access flexible higher-level learning helping people to build qualifications over time instead of choosing between a three-year degree or nothing.
People will be able to access funding equivalent to four years of post 18 study, currently worth up to £39,160. This can be used flexibly across modules, shorter courses, or full degrees throughout their working lives.
Eligible students will also be able to apply for maintenance support to help with living costs, with funding provided in smaller amounts linked to the size of the course rather than full academic years.
The first wave of approved modules will focus on key growth sectors including engineering, computing, health and social care, construction, economics and the sciences, helping to address skills shortages and support economic growth across the country.
People who already hold a degree may still be able to access the new funding if they have remaining entitlement or wish to retrain in priority subject areas.
Jodie Gosling MP said: “People in Nuneaton are amongst the hardest working across the country, be it in their personal lives, or professional lives they work tirelessly and as a result juggle busy lives.
“For far too long, local residents have had to choose between maintaining their livelihoods or developing new skills and getting the job they want. This Labour government is backing working people across Nuneaton, giving them every opportunity possible to unlock new skills, explore different careers and to get on in life.”
Applications for learners are expected to open later this year, with the first funded modules beginning in January 2027 as part of the phased national rollout.
For more details about NWSLC visit www.nwslc.co.uk.
