GCSEs are a standard qualification in the UK for school children between the ages of 14 – 16. They were the first time we were able to tailor our education towards our interests and our future endeavours.
And even though time has passed, the value of those qualifications is still relevant today.
Studying a GCSE as an adult can still benefit you as much, if not more than it did. When we were younger, we might not have truly understood the value of education whereas now we do.
This means you’ll be more dedicated and determined to do well as you’ll value your time (and money) more.
Through education, we’re able to realise academic ambitions and improve our potential career prospects by simply getting qualified.
And although GCSEs remain an important qualification for many adults, they are not the only route available. Alternative qualifications, such as Functional Skills Level 2, can help learners gain essential English and Maths skills and continue progressing towards their goals.
And here’s why gaining recognised qualifications as an adult can make a difference.
Developing your skills
Completing a GCSE, or any course, as an adult learner can be a fulfilling experience. This is because as an adult you’re in control of how and what you learn about.
This means you’re able to focus on what interests you and what you genuinely need, for either academic or professional gain.
You’ll have the maturity and experience to understand how to reach your goals. So, you’ll approach learning in a completely different way to how you did at school.
Not only does this mean you’ll be more disciplined, but you’ll most likely enjoy your learning more.
Once you’ve completed your GCSE you’ll have a new qualification and new knowledge too. However, you’ll also have developed a transferrable set of skills that can be utilised in any workplace, such as:
- Time management
- Determination
- Critical and analytical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Organisational skills.
These skills, alongside your qualification, can help broaden your horizons to new opportunities for employment and further study.
GCSEs build a strong foundation
GCSEs alone aren’t enough to get you into professions like engineering or teaching, however, they’re a stepping stone to those goals.
It’s not uncommon for universities to ask for 5 GCSEs to support an application for an undergraduate degree. And the majority will ask for GCSEs in English and maths at grade C/4 or above. This shows that you are academically capable to handle studying at a higher level.
Through your studies, you’ll gain a solid base to build upon in whichever route you choose.
If you don’t have the GCSEs you need, there are alternative ways to gain recognised qualifications and continue your education journey.
Stonebridge Associated Colleges offers Functional Skills English & Maths Level 2 Including Exams, providing adult learners with a flexible online route to gaining essential English and Maths qualifications.
At school, it was mandatory to study GCSEs even if they didn’t interest you or help you reach your goals. Now you’re free to choose what you like and what will be of greatest benefit to you.
For example, if you want to get into nursing, gaining English and Maths qualifications before progressing onto an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Nursing) can help you prepare for university-level study.
So, it’s important even as an adult learner to gain qualifications that support your chosen pathway.
Employment prospects
Studying a GCSE as an adult could enhance your employability.
GCSEs are the standard qualification for students in the UK. That means they’re nationally recognised by all employers and can offer opportunities that would otherwise be closed off to you.
Many employers specifically ask for GCSEs or equivalent qualifications in English and maths.
These qualifications show that you have developed your literacy and numeracy skills to a solid standard.
By completing these qualifications you’ll have more choice when considering potential career moves. As well as further developing your time management, problem-solving and analytical skills.
Functional Skills Level 2 qualifications are also widely recognised as an alternative to GCSE grade 4/C in English and Maths for many employment and education purposes.
Even if you aren’t personally interested in the subjects you should consider taking GCSEs or equivalent qualifications for professional development. An accredited qualification on your resume can be the difference between getting your foot in the door and not.
Studying qualifications from home
It’s never been easier to study recognised qualifications as an adult learner thanks to online learning providers. Distance education provides an alternate route for learners to get qualified without affecting their current schedule.
Whether you have a full-time job or you’re caring for a dependent, online learning provides a solution. You’ll be able to study in your own time whenever suits you best.
You won’t have to give yourself a headache trying to rearrange your timetable and find cover for shifts to attend class. Simply login and begin learning.
Stonebridge Associated Colleges offers flexible online courses designed to fit around work, family and other commitments.
Through Stonebridge’s subscription-based learning model, learners can access course materials and tutor support for an affordable monthly fee, with the option to pause or cancel their subscription whenever needed.
This gives adult learners greater control over their education journey.
Continue your learning journey with Stonebridge Associated Colleges
Whatever your plans are for the future, gaining qualifications as an adult can help you take the next step towards your goals.
Stonebridge offers a range of flexible online courses, including:
– Functional Skills English & Maths Level 2 Including Exams
– Access to Higher Education Diplomas in subjects including Nursing, Midwifery, Health and Social Care, Business, Psychology, Criminology and Veterinary Science
– Career-focused qualifications in areas such as education, childcare, health and social care, and animal care
With expert tutor support and flexible online learning, Stonebridge helps adult learners build confidence, gain recognised qualifications and progress towards their future ambitions.
If you’re ready to get back into education, explore Stonebridge Associated Colleges’ online courses today.
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