There has never been a better time for adults to step back into education. Whether you’re looking to reskill, take a change of direction, or progress in your career, NPTC Group of Colleges welcome students of all ages and are very proud of our adult learners.

There’s a course for everyone at NPTC Group of Colleges. We work closely with a number of partners to provide a high-quality learning experience across Neath, Port Talbot and Powys to provide learning in the heart of your community. From essential skills such as Maths, English, IT, ESOL, and Access to Higher Education Courses to Professional Qualifications, Vocational Training and even Degrees; there really is something to suit everyone.

Our courses run throughout the year and are flexible to fit around work and family commitments. We understand the importance of having help along the way which is why we offer small class sizes offering one-to-one support; our dedicated lecturers are there to support you every step of the way, making sure all your questions and needs are met.

And what’s even better, some are even totally free, depending on your circumstances, through a Personal Learning Account (PLA).

PLAs is a programme for employed individuals to access funding for courses that will allow you to gain the right skills to either change careers or progress in employment at a higher level. These flexible fully-funded (FREE) courses will allow you to study and work around your family and employment commitments. The courses are specifically designed to provide vocational training in sectors where there is a skills shortage, to ensure the future needs of the economy are met.

These sectors include:

  • Creative
  • Digital
  • Engineering
  • Financial services
  • Health
  • Tourism and leisure (including hospitality and catering)

To be eligible for a Personal Learning Account, individuals will need to be over 19 and living in Wales, in employment earning under £29,534 a year, or have been furloughed. There is also specific PLA funding available for companies.

Adult Learners Enjoy Success through PLA Funding

This year Personal Learning Accounts have enabled our students at NPTC Group of Colleges to develop and upskill their Accountancy expertise through AAT qualifications. The funding has enabled many students who would have been unable to afford to study during this very difficult time, to continue their studies and reach their aspirations.

“The support has been incredible. My lecturer is always at the end of an e-mail and has been a driving force behind my personal success.” - Teri Davies, AAT Student and World Skills Gold Medallist.

Ace Accountants, Teri Davies, 33 from Maesteg and Kelly Hammett, 44 from Neath, both studying AAT Advanced Diploma at Neath College, achieved Gold Medals at this year’s Skills Competition Wales.

Skills Competition Wales, funded by the Welsh Government, is designed to raise the profile of skills in Wales. Focussing on growth areas and the needs of the economy, the competition helps boost the skillsets of the future workforce. Skills Competition Wales is aligned to WorldSkills, with many competitors going on to compete in WorldSkills UK competitions.

And that is just what Terri and Kelly have done. Both students, along with another PLA funded student, Jemma Cocks, have now progressed onto the National Qualifier Stages of the World Skills UK competition, with the chance to be crowned the best in the UK.

Emma Johnson, Accountancy Lecturer at Neath College said: “I am delighted with all of our PLA funded AAT student’s achievements this year. It is a privilege to be able to offer such conscientious students an opportunity to advance in their chosen careers, and of course develop the highly skilled, industry-focused individuals that our local businesses are looking for.”