Question 1

Can I get a reduction on course costs?

Accepted Answer

We need to check what course you are enrolling on and what your age and income status is first.You may be entitled to a free or reduced cost place if you’re income is below £25,000 pa.You will need to provide evidence which could include the following;Job seekers allowance (JSA)Employment support allowance (ESA)Universal CreditIncome supportHousing BenefitPension guarantee creditBank statementsIn most cases you must be enrolling on a course to help gain employment either now or in the future.Other terms and conditions also apply.

Question 2

What do the concession prices mean?

Accepted Answer

This is the reduced fee you will pay if you are eligible for a reduction.

Question 3

What financial help can I get?

Accepted Answer

Help with course fees, childcare payments (to a registered nursery), travel costs and internet costs is available for eligible learners.

Question 4

Can I pay by instalments?

Accepted Answer

You can spread the cost of your course if it is more than 15 weeks, see the fees policy for more information

Question 5

Can I get a refund?

Accepted Answer

Refunds are not generally given. However, fees may be refundable, on application, in specific circumstances, please refer to the refund policy.

Question 6

Can I get an Advanced Learner Loan?

Accepted Answer

Some of our courses are eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan. You can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan from the Student Loan Company to pay for your course if you are aged 19 or over. Your loan does not have to be repaid until you finish your course and are earning over £27,295* a year. For more information please visit our Financial Support page.

Question 7

What types of online qualifications do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a range of online qualifications designed to help you develop professional skills and knowledge in various business and vocational sectors. These include Level 2 qualifications and courses tailored for the voluntary and community sectors.

Question 8

How do I enroll in an online course?

Accepted Answer

To enroll, visit our website, select your desired course, and follow the enrollment instructions. You will be directed to a survey to provide information required by the Education Skills Funding Agency (ESFA).

Question 9

Are the online courses flexible?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our online courses are fully flexible. You can choose when and where to study, access learning through any device, and study at your own pace.

Question 10

How long do I have to complete an online course?

Accepted Answer

You have up to 20 weeks to complete most online courses. However, for Access to HE qualifications, learners must be on the program for a minimum of 6 months.

Question 11

Are the online courses accredited?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all our online courses are accredited, and you will receive a certificate upon completion.

Question 12

Does the funding cover my course tuition fees?

Accepted Answer

The Turing Scheme covers the costs of the international placement. While it doesn't cover OCSW tuition fees, most participants are eligible to access their chosen course at little or no cost.

Question 13

What if I have already been on a Turing trip?

Accepted Answer

You are still welcome to apply for the 2025/26 term! We look forward to helping you build upon your previous experiences.

Question 14

I am a Supported Intern—can I go?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Supported Internships have separate Turing trips scheduled within their specific programmes. Please speak directly to the Supported Internship Team for your dates.

Question 15

Have a question we haven't answered?

Accepted Answer

Contact our Learner Services Team on 01752 660713 or email us at info@oncoursesouthwest.co.uk.

Question 16

What types of courses do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer a wide range of courses including daytime and evening classes, online learning, qualification courses (Level 2 & 3), GCSEs, functional skills in maths/English/digital, apprenticeships, traineeships, skills bootcamps, programmes for parents and families, and more.

Question 17

How do I enrol on a course?

Accepted Answer

You can contact our Learning Services Team via phone (01752 660713) or email (info@oncoursesouthwest.co.uk) to book an appointment with a Learning Advisor. They will walk you through the process, check eligibility, and help you register.

Question 18

Who can enrol as a learner?

Accepted Answer

Anyone aged 19+ (and in some cases younger) who wants to retrain, upskill, pursue a qualification or try something new can enrol. Please check individual course details for specific eligibility.

Question 19

What are the fees and is financial help available?

Accepted Answer

Fees vary depending on the course. Some courses may be free (e.g., funded by adult learning budgets) or eligible for subsidies. Financial support may also be available for Level 3 courses. Please refer to our “Course fees and financial help” section for full details.

Question 20

Are courses available online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide online learning options so you can study in your own time from home or on the go, as well as in-person classes.

Advice & Frequently Asked Questions