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Help for learners


Additional Learning Support

Are you a learner with additional needs?

The Cornwall Adult Education Service (CAES) is committed to ensuring that we will make reasonable adjustments to ensure that learning opportunities and facilities are accessible to all with the aim of enabling all learners, including any who may have additional needs or disabilities to participate fully and effectively in their chosen learning programme and to develop skills that will support an active role within the community.

It is important to us that you are placed on the right course and have the support you need to get the most from your learning. For example we may be able to help you by providing:

  • Learning materials that suit your needs, for example, large print handouts
  • Physical access to the buildings and facilities
  • Support equipment, for example, a Conversor or hearing loop
  • A helper to support you in class
  • Someone to interpret, read or sign for you
  • Information and advice on courses and possible progression routes

Please let centre staff know what your needs are when you enrol by recording this on the enrolment form or by contacting us on 0300 1231 117 if you require any assistance. Any information provided will only be used to support you, the learner and if you would like to talk to someone in confidence, we will put you in touch with one of our Equality and Accessibility Advisers.

Financial Hardship

Will the Adult Education Service help with my course fees?

If you are on a Cornwall Adult Education Course you may be able to apply for concessionary fees.

For some courses you may be able to access ‘learner support funds’, and this is intended to support learners who face financial barriers that could impact on their ability to study with us.

Advanced Learner Loan

Have you heard about the Advanced Learner Loan?

If you're aged 19* or over and want to study A levels, an Access to Higher Education Diploma, or a level 3 to 6 Vocational Qualification, you'll need to pay your college or training organisation for the cost of your course.

The Advanced Learner Loan is a government funded loan to help learners. It's easy to apply for, doesn’t take your household income into account and doesn’t involve a credit check.

For further information, contact us on 0300 1231 117.

*There are no fees for learners aged 19-23 studying towards their first full level 3 qualification.

Is there help for childcare whilst I attend my Adult Education course?

You may be able to access ‘learner support funds’ which is intended to support learners who face financial barriers that could impact on their ability to study with us. For learners aged 24+ enrolling on level 3/4 and who take out a loan, there is a learner bursary fund which you may be able to access and is intended to support learners who face financial barriers that could impact on their ability to study with us.

Enrol on a course

For more information on how to join a course please see our how do I join a course? page.

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