ADULTS in Newton Abbot are being offered new opportunities to gain skills and qualifications as Learn Devon’s latest programme of free adult education courses gets underway this month.

Around 200 courses are being offered across Devon through Learn Devon, the adult education service run by Devon County Council, with a number of courses being delivered in Newton Abbot and online.

The programme is designed to help adults develop skills for work, whether they are looking to change career, progress in their current job or return to learning.

Newton Abbot is among the Devon locations hosting free Digital Skills and IT courses, covering essential and functional digital skills.

The courses are aimed at helping learners build confidence using technology and develop practical skills that can be used in everyday life and the workplace.

Free English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses are also being delivered in Newton Abbot from Wednesday, September 9.

The courses help learners develop their speaking, reading, writing and listening skills, with opportunities to work towards recognised qualifications and progress into further training or employment.

Other courses available through Learn Devon this month include free online GCSE Maths and GCSE English courses, starting on September 8.

A Level 2 Food Safety and Hygiene course begins online on September 10, followed by a Level 2 Certificate in Health and Social Care from September 11.

Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for adult education, said Learn Devon offered flexible options to make it easier for adults to gain essential workplace skills.

She said courses could help people build confidence with technology, develop their English and Maths skills or study for a GCSE.

Places on the courses are limited.

Adults in Newton Abbot and across Devon can check course details and availability through Learn Devon - www.learndevon.co.uk

Learning Advisers can also provide guidance on returning to education, finding the right course or qualification and deciding on the next steps.

They can be contacted on 01392 384094 or [email protected]