With tough times predicted for the UK economy in the coming months, and the job market also expected to take a knock, this is a crucial time to ensure you have all the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the workplace. Fircroft College of Adult Education in Selly Oak has launched a number of short courses aimed at helping you stand out from the crowd if you’re currently applying for jobs, or to help develop your skills if you’re already in work.

The College offers a number of two-day short courses covering areas such as personal career planning, teamwork and communication, customer service skills, problem solving at work, building a career portfolio and preparing for interview. You can take as few or as many of these courses as you want – if you successfully complete all seven you will achieve an NOCN Progression Certificate, a qualification recognised by all employers. Fircroft can also help with putting together job applications and with interview planning and preparation. All courses at Fircroft are residential, which means you stay overnight at the college with meals included. Courses are free for learners claiming certain benefits, including Job Seekers Allowance and Income Support.