Pathway to Employment: Is Self-Employment for You?
Course summary
Code: M251165T
Location: Medway Learning and Skills Hub
Cost: £0.00 to £95.00
Starting: Tuesday 07 July 2026
Duration: 2 sessions over 1 week(s)
Time: 09:45
By continuing you confirm that you are 19 or over on 31 August and have agreed to the the Terms and conditions
Description
Thinking about going freelance, starting a side hustle, or launching a small business? This practical, no-jargon session helps you decide if self-employment fits your skills, goals, and circumstances. You'll explore ideas, money basics, legal essentials, and what day-to-day life is really like.
This course is part of a series of short employability courses designed to empower learners with the key skills needed to succeed in today's job market and increase their confidence. From discovering your transferable skills to moving to a different career, to putting together your CV specially tailored to that particular job role, to creating your Personal Profile to provide a professional snapshot of your experience and skills, to practising and polishing your interview skills.
What will I learn on this course?
Learners will:
1) Assess your personal fit for self-employment (skills, motivations, risk tolerance, support network).
2) Describe your business idea.
3) Consider who your target customers are, and outline simple ways to test demand.
4) Estimate start-up and monthly running costs.
Is this course suitable for me?
This course is for adults considering self-employment or freelancing. It is suitable for complete beginners—no prior business knowledge required.
Is there anything I need to know about this course?
It would be helpful to bring a pen and note pad to make notes.
What could I go on to do after this course?
If you wish to explore your learning, work or career options, you can speak to a fully trained careers advisor on 0800 100 900. https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk.
If you need further advice, please telephone 01634 338400.
How are digital skills used and enhanced?
You may have the opportunity to use computers / laptops with internet access in class time. You may need to use the internet for some or all of your course - using a mobile phone, tablet or computer. The tutor will speak to you about useful websites, apps and online resources which you may be asked to use for homework.
Attendance Policy
In order to get the most out of your course, you will need to attend as many sessions as possible. We recommend at least 90%. If you do have a holiday booked during term time, please let the tutor know in advance so that we can help you catch up on missed sessions and ensure that you still achieve the course outcomes. If you are unavoidably ill or unable to attend, please contact 01634 338400 so that we can let your tutor know, and so they can send you any work you may have missed.
Health and Safety
We try to make sure your class is as safe as possible. If you are worried about anything, please talk to your tutor or our Safeguarding Officer.
Will there be any additional costs?
No
Location
Medway Learning and Skills Hub
Unit 2
Britton Farm Street
Gillingham
ME7 1GX