If you are not sure which course to choose, have a chat with one of our friendly Learning Advisers. They offer free, impartial advice on all types of learning and help you choose the best course to suit you. Our experienced advisers are on hand to help and advise with:
- Returning to study
- Education and training opportunities across Somerset
- Financial support for your studies
- Childcare support
Contact the Information and Advice Shop to find out more.
Learning Support
If you have a learning difficulty, special language requirements or a disability, our Project Workers will be delighted to make sure that help is in place before you start your course. We have dedicated equipment and software and our team of learning support assistants will provide specialist support, where possible, from note taking, interpreting to sign language assistance.
Financial Support
If you are on a low income, or facing financial hardship, we may be able to help with the cost of childcare. If you are on an accredited course we may also be able to help with the cost of travel, exam fees, textbooks and other course materials. It is important to note that this is a limited fund, so we may not be able to support everyone.
How to Enrol?
Cancelled Courses
Adult Learning and Leisure hopes to be able to run all the courses within the advertised programme. However, for reasons beyond our control, courses may have to be cancelled or discontinued, course tutors rearranged, classes re-timetabled or held at different locations. If this happens, we will do our best to notify you of any changes. We may be able to offer you alternative courses or provide a refund of any fees paid for the remaining length of the course.
Confirming your place
Payment must be made with enrolment. Your place will not be confirmed without payment. If the cost of the course fee is over £50 you are entitled to pay in two instalments. For details contact your local centre.
If you are entitled to a concession we will need to see photocopy evidence of your entitlement to be able to confirm your place. Your place will be reserved for seven days to allow time for you to present this. If you are unsure please call your local centre.
How Much Will The Course Cost?
The cost is the amount you pay for the course tuition including exam fees. Some materials may be included, we suggest you do not buy any materials for your course until after your first session. When you enrol, you’ll receive a course information sheet that will advise you of any additional materials you will require. The cost covers the fee per year so, if you’re on a two year course, additional fees will be payable in your second year.
Concessions
You could be entitled to a reduction in tuition costs if you are aged 16-18, receive the allowances or benefits listed or are a dependant of someone who does. The examination fee, and/or costs of materials will still be required.
- Income Support, Housing Benefit or Council Tax
- Income-based support as an asylum seeker
- Jobseekers’ Allowance
- Pension Guarantee Credit
- Working Tax Credit
Refunds and Transfers
At your first session your tutor will discuss the course outline with you. If you decide that this is not the course for you, we can transfer you to another course, or offer a refund. We are unable to offer refunds after this point, unless there is a medical reason for you leaving the course (a doctor’s note will need to be produced). Refunds will be given for any fees paid for the remaining length of the course. Please note that holiday commitments do not qualify for fee refunds.
If you would like an interview with one of our advisors please contact us:
Frome
Michael Andrews 01278 459 023
mandrews@somerset.gov.uk
Street, Glastonbury, Shepton Mallet & Wells
Suzanne Ashworth 01749 677786
sashworth@somerset.gov.uk
Burnham & Highbridge, Cheddar, Bridgwater
Sally-Anne Herrington 01278 783057
sherrington@somerset.gov.uk
Castle Cary, Wincanton
June Carty 01963 33246
jcarty@somerset.gov.uk
Chard, Crewkerne, Ilminster, Langport, Somerton
Kate Priddle 01460 53195
kmpriddle@somerset.gov.uk
Yeovil
Karen Hopkins / June Carty 01935 410555
khopkins@somerset.gov.uk / jcarty@somerset.gov.uk
Taunton
Gill Keniston 01823 332056
Gmkeniston-goble@somerset.gov.uk
Wellington
Tim Lewis 01823 663000
thlewis@somerset.gov.uk
Dulverton & Winsford, Williton Minehead & Porlock
Jo Horne 01643 702986
mailto:thlewis@somerset.gov.uk
