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Digital – Essential Skills

If you’re aged 19 or over and have little or no experience using computers and other digital devices or have low digital skills, you can study an Digital Essential Skills qualification for free.

These courses will give you the essential digital understanding you need for work and everyday life, such as using a computer or other digital devices, and staying safe online.

Available to:

Adults who do not have the essential digital skills needed for work and everyday life

Duration:

around 30-55 hours

Age restriction:

19 and over

Course type:

Classroom-based

Cost:

Free

How to apply:

Use Find a Course to find the right opportunity for you, or contact your local authority or further education college.

Find a course (Opens in a new tab)

About the digital essential skills qualifications:

The qualifications are for those with little or no experience of using digital devices and cover essential areas including:

  • how to handle information securely
  • how to create and edit digital documents
  • how to successfully communicate online 
  • how to register for online services and carry out online transactions
  • how to stay safe and responsible online

Courses are flexible and can be classroom-based or online. Depending on your local provider, full-time, part-time and evening class options may also be available.

How to Apply:

  • Use Find a Course to find the right qualification for you
  • Contact the provider of the course to apply.

You can also contact your local authority or college to find out more about opportunities in your area.

 

Find a Course link opens in a new tab

Advice and Guidance

National Careers Service

If you need more help to understand which opportunity might be right for you, speak to a qualified careers adviser at the National Careers Service for free, impartial careers advice.

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