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School Leavers

Free courses for 16-18 year olds at our Skills Centres across Greater Manchester.
Why Choose GC Education & Skills?

If you know a young person that's still undecided about their next steps, we're here to help. Our courses can help them gain qualifications, build confidence and progress into employment, an apprenticeship or further study.

We understand that choosing the right next step can feel overwhelming. Our supportive learning environments help young people develop the skills, confidence and qualifications needed for their future.

✅ No formal entry requirements on many courses
✅ Supportive and experienced tutors
✅ Maths and English support available
✅ Practical, hands-on learning
✅ Multiple locations across Greater Manchester
✅ Progression into apprenticeships, employment or further education

Explore Courses
Level 2 in Sport, Fitness and Active Leisure

Learn about the sport, fitness and active leisure sector, develop practical skills, and build important employability skills that can support progression into further education, apprenticeships or employment. 

Apply for the Level 2 in Sport, Fitness and Active Leisure here.

This course is delivered at the following centres:

Click on the link for the location and contact details.

 

Level 1 in Health and Care

 

 

Level 1 in Health and Care

 

Our Level 1 and Level 2 Health and Care courses for 16-18 year olds provide an ideal introduction to the health and social care sector. Learners will develop their knowledge of health, wellbeing and caring professions while building the practical skills, confidence and qualifications needed to progress into further study, apprenticeships or employment.
Apply for the Level 1 in Health and Care here.
Apply for the Level 2 in Health and Care here.

This course is delivered at the following centres:

 

Level 1 in Construction Multiskills
Gain practical construction skills and explore a range of trades with the NOCN Level 1 Award, Certificate or Diploma in Construction Multiskills.
Through hands-on training, learners will gain experience in a variety of construction disciplines, build confidence in a workshop environment, and develop valuable employability skills. Whether you're looking to explore different trades or take the first step towards a career in construction, this course offers a strong foundation for future success.
Apply for the Level 1 in Construction Multiskills here.

This course is delivered at the following centres:

Click on a centre the location and contact details.

Level 2 Certificate in Customer Service

Develop the skills and confidence needed to deliver excellent customer service in a wide range of industries. The City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate in Customer Service provides learners with the knowledge and practical skills required to meet customer needs, communicate effectively and provide a positive customer experience.

Apply for the Level 2 Certificate in Customer Service here.

This course is delivered at the following centres:

Click on a centre the location and contact details.

Level 2 in Business and Administration

 

Develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to succeed in a modern business environment with the Gateway Qualifications Level 2 Certificate in Business and Administration. This course provides an introduction to business operations, administration and workplace practices, helping learners build the practical skills valued by employers. Ideal for those interested in business and office-based roles, the qualification supports progression into further study, apprenticeships or employment across a wide range of industries.
Apply for the Level 2 in Business and Administration here.

This course is delivered at the following centres:

Click on a centre the location and contact details.

 

 

Level 1 in Carpentry and Joinery

Develop practical woodworking and construction skills with the NOCN Level 1 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery. This hands-on qualification provides an introduction to the carpentry and joinery trade, helping learners build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to progress into further study, apprenticeships or employment within the construction industry.

The qualification focuses on developing trade-specific skills while also building an understanding of health and safety, workplace expectations and employability.

Apply for the Level 1 in Carpentry and Joinery here.

This course is delivered at our Wigan Skills Centre, where learners will benefit from a supportive learning environment and guidance from experienced tutors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Who can apply?

 

Our courses are designed for young people aged 16-18.

 

What if my child doesn't have GCSE Maths or English?

 

That's not a problem. We can support learners to work towards maths and English qualifications alongside their vocational course.

 

Are the courses free?

 

Yes, eligible learners aged 16-18 can access our courses free of charge.

 

What can learners do after completing a course?

 

We work closely with our learners to help them take their next step. Depending on their goals, learners may progress into apprenticeships, employment or higher-level study. We can also support progression by offering additional qualifications, employability support and careers guidance to help learners continue developing their skills and achieve their ambitions.

 

How much time will learners spend in the classroom?

 

This varies by course, but learners can expect a structured timetable that combines classroom learning, practical activities and independent study.

 

How do you support learner safety, wellbeing and inclusion?

 

We are committed to providing a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment where all learners can thrive. Our dedicated teams are on hand to support learners throughout their studies, helping them to feel safe, respected and valued. To find out more about our approach to safeguarding, wellbeing and inclusion, visit our Safeguarding and Inclusion page.

Safeguarding and Inclusion