6. Combining learning with work Studying part-time while in a job Even if you’re in a job, it’s vital to keep updating your skills and gaining new ones. It’s the only way of staying ahead in the competitive job market and making sure you don’t fall behind in the skills stakes. And the good news is that earning a wage doesn’t have to stop you from qualifying for financial help! You may be planning to study at an FE college or have selected a course that’s being run by a private training organisation. Or you may have decided that the flexibility of a distance learning course or learning via the Internet is what suits you best. Whatever your chosen route, you may be eligible for a Career Development Loan (CDL) to help cover costs such as fees, books and travel. In fact, a CDL can be the key to improving your working life, transforming your career prospects and unlocking a whole new future. CDLs can be used for all sorts of vocational courses, including management and technical training, NVQs, Open University and postgraduate qualifications. Please click here for more information about CDLs and how they work. Tax Credits If you’re working but on a low or middle income, you may be able to claim a Working Families or Childcare Tax Credit which are part of the same scheme and are designed to provide extra help with childcare. You can find out more by picking up a leaflet in your local tax office, Inland Revenue Enquiry Centre or Benefits Agency office. You can also find the leaflets on the Internet at www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk. Alternatively, call the Tax Credits Helpline on 0845 609 5000. Find out more! If you want to explore other ways of paying for your learning, try talking to the human resources (HR) department at the organisation where you work. You may well be able to get some funding from your employer, particularly if you’re planning to do a course such as one of the new foundation degrees that will improve your performance at work. Alternatively, if you are in a Trade Union, talk to your Union Learning Representative who may be able to point you in the direction of union-supported courses.

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