female psychologist providing counselling

 

At NCC, it’s important to us to celebrate the achievements of our learners in their educational journey, whether it’s advancing academically, transitioning careers, or simply enjoying the process of learning. We aim to inspire others by showcasing what is possible and by sharing real-life experiences from the journey.

Elaine explains how she has been able to use her online qualifications with NCC to help kick-start her journey towards a career in counselling.

 

 

 

 

Elaine used her NCC course to help her get into university

NCC learner psychologist

“I had children very young, and so I never really went on to further education when I left school. My youngest boy was diagnosed as a child with ADHD, but when he left school we discovered that he was also autistic. I felt somewhat let down by the NHS psychiatrist for missing that diagnosis, as I feel that it would have made a difference to him growing up had we known about his autism diagnosis.

As I was nearing 40, I began to regret that I had not had the opportunity to go on to higher education and make a proper career for myself, and I wanted to be able to work in child mental health to help an already overwhelmed CAMHS to support many needy families. During COVID I was laid off at work, and although I was able to find work thank goodness, it really opened my eyes to the fact that I was in a career where I didn’t matter, I was just a number.

I decided to embark on a home learning course through NCC, and chose to do the two course bundle which covers both counselling skills and mental health. I thought that this would be a good entry qualification into a career within the NHS, however, I quickly learned that it wasn’t going to be that simple. I really enjoyed the course and was amazed at how quickly I managed to complete it. I think because of my personal experience and interest in the topic, that I really found it interesting and so was eager to get back to it in the evenings.

When I achieved my certificate I started looking towards the next steps. This was a knowledge-based qualification, and so would require further study before I would be able to join BACP, although there was the option to sign up with another counselling body ACCPH*. However, what it did provide me with was evidence of my ability to still manage study for university, and when I looked into what I was able to achieve in financial support I realised that university was possible. My course also provided UCAS points, which enabled me to scrape through the minimum requirements for university with my previous A level qualifications. I was really pleased about this because I thought in order to go to university I would be forced to complete a foundation year as a mature student, so using my online learning to demonstrate my ability to research and study was really useful.

graduates

I started university this September, and boy is it challenging! However, I am having the time of my life, and although I am so much older than my peers I have been welcomed into the group. I think that now I am getting to the end of my first term, I am proud of what I have achieved. I am now hoping to actually work towards becoming a child psychiatrist, but we’ll see what happens. No matter what, I know I will appreciate what I have accomplished and will enjoy giving something back and helping others.

Thank you to NCC for helping me get started on this journey, and for the excellent tutor support that actually pushed me to put more effort into researching for myself and providing more than I initially thought. I was upset initially when I was getting my assignments referred, but now I completely understand what my tutor was giving me, and I have to say a huge thank you to him for pushing me that bit more.”

How to become a child psychologist

Becoming an NHS (National Health Service) child psychologist in the UK typically involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience. Here is a general guide to help you navigate the path to becoming a child psychologist in the NHS:

1. Educational Requirements:

2. Postgraduate Education:

3. Doctoral Training:

4. Registration and Licensing:

5. Specialise in Child Psychology:

6. Gain NHS Experience:

7. Continuous Professional Development (CPD):

Remember that the specific requirements and pathways may vary, so it’s important to research the specific requirements of the NHS and any accrediting bodies in your region. Additionally, networking with professionals in the field and seeking guidance from mentors can be valuable throughout your educational and professional journey.

*  ACCPH is an independent professional body and registry catering to counsellors, coaches, psychotherapists, and hypnotherapists. While headquartered in the UK, they welcome members and accredit courses from organisations globally.

To ensure credibility, they thoroughly vet professionals before accepting them into the ACCPH membership register. They verify qualifications and require practitioners to provide current Professional Liability Insurance certificates upon joining and annually thereafter.

Their accreditation process adheres to the highest standards, aligning with benchmarks set by Ofqual, the Open & Distance Learning Quality Council, Frameworks for Higher Education, and similar bodies. This commitment to transparency, coupled with their comprehensive membership profile database, allows interested parties to make well-informed decisions about therapists or coaches. Their website profiles are intentionally concise, providing essential information to verify qualifications, while practitioners’ websites serve as comprehensive resources for additional details on their practices.

For practitioners, ACCPH offers a robust professional platform to transparently market skills, qualifications, websites, blogs, and social media to a targeted audience. This approach ensures a powerful and trustworthy presence in the professional community.

NCC is happy to provide further information or respond to any questions regarding these courses, or any of our courses on our website. Simply email [email protected] to communicate with one of our dedicated sales team, who will be happy to clarify anything that is unclear after reading the course details on our website.

References: About ACCPH, https://www.accph.org.uk/about

image of a nurse career transition

 

At NCC Home Learning we are all about celebrating the success of our students, and a recent email from a learner prompted us here to consider writing this article to demonstrate how you can use your NCC adult care or health and social care course to get you on track to starting a more rewarding career as a nurse within the NHS.

 

Lisa’s journey into nursing

Lisa joined our community of learners in September 2020 as she embarked upon the Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care RQF regulated qualification.

associate nurse female learner

 

“I really found the NCC tutor support exceptional, as I struggled initially to know where to start as I was a more mature student returning to education for a change of career. After facing redundancy for the second time, I realised that I needed to leave the retail sector and I decided that I wanted to give something back.

I wanted to become a nurse, but I couldn’t give up work to do that as I had a family to take care of. I took the Adult Care course with NCC and then managed to gain a placement within a care home nearby. It certainly was a challenge initially. I was obviously used to hard work, but the demands and responsibilities on care workers was a lot to take on initially, particularly as I was learning the role.

This unfortunately caused me to not be able to complete the course within the 12 months, but NCC were great, and I was able to purchase an extension and complete my course and gain my official qualification.

Last year I applied for a Trainee Nurse Associate vacancy at my local hospital in Bath, and I am now employed doing what I love. I will have to do a number of different placements within the hospital in order to meet my training needs, but so far, I am really enjoying my new job.

Thank you NCC for helping me get this far!”

 

What is a Nursing Associate?

Nursing associates collaborate with healthcare support staff and registered nurses to provide care for patients and the public.

In their professional role, nursing associates operate across various nursing domains, including adult, children’s, mental health, and learning disability. The scope of their skills and responsibilities depends on the specific care environment in which they are employed.

The standard working week for this role typically spans 37.5 hours, covering a variety of shifts, including nights, early mornings, evenings, and weekends. As a trainee nursing associate, your remuneration will typically align with band 3 on the Agenda for Change (AFC) pay system, progressing to band 4 upon qualification.

In addition to competitive pay, you’ll enjoy access to a comprehensive pension scheme and health service discounts.

Entry requirements

Embarking on your journey as a nursing associate requires GCSEs graded 9 to 4 (A to C) in both maths and English, or Functional Skills Level 2 in these subjects. Some employers may also seek a level 3 qualification, such as the Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care RQF or the CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care RQF (if you don’t have a work placement in the care sector that is willing to mentor you). Demonstrating your ability to pursue a foundation degree level of study and successfully complete the Nursing Associate Apprenticeship programme is essential.

FAQs

Who are NCC?

Originally, NCC stood for the National Consortium of Further Education (FE) Colleges, bringing together these institutions to optimise educational provision. Regular national meetings convened Colleges and Government agencies, fostering collaboration and facilitating the efficient delivery of training to students. Over a span of more than 25 years, NCC has evolved to specialise in delivering exceptionally high-quality online training. This training is accessible to a diverse range of students, including those who are self-funded, sponsored by schools, employers, or training providers.

What is online learning or distance learning?

Online learning enables you to access course materials and study from anywhere in the world and at any time that suits you. Some of our courses have been customised with a reputable Awarding Organisation to provide evidence of knowledge in a particular area where there might not be a formal qualification available. Or alternatively we have a large number of ofqual regulated courses that you can access from the comfort of your own home. Once completed you are usually certificated within approximately 6 weeks subject to moderation.

Online learning enables you to access course materials and study from anywhere in the world and at any time that suits you. Some of our courses have been customised with a reputable Awarding Organisation to provide evidence of knowledge in a particular area where there might not be a formal qualification available. Or alternatively we have a large number of ofqual regulated courses that you can access from the comfort of your own home. Once completed you are usually certificated within approximately 6 weeks subject to moderation.

giving the gift of learning

Selecting Christmas presents can pose a challenge, especially when it comes to individuals who appear to possess everything. It may be challenging to come up with a unique and meaningful gift that truly expresses your care and thoughtfulness. Offering the gift of learning stands out as one of the most considerate and meaningful gestures you can make.

Why give the gift of learning?

As cliché as it may sound, presenting the gift of learning is genuinely one of the most meaningful gestures you can make. By offering this invaluable present, you’re not only providing a lasting benefit but also opening up avenues for personal growth.

Throughout life, numerous obstacles and challenges may hinder individuals from realising their full potential—health issues, family commitments, and even past academic choices. However, these obstacles don’t have to dictate one’s journey, and the gift of learning serves as a powerful tool to overcome such barriers.

Let’s face it; we’ve all experienced moments where we desired self-improvement but lacked the necessary resources. This is especially true during our early professional years when we were navigating the professional landscape. Imagine the impact of giving someone the crucial opportunity to enhance their CV and seize that well-deserved promotion.

Here a just a few reasons that giving a course for Christmas can be a thoughtful, meaningful and unique gift idea:

When choosing a course as a Christmas gift, consider the recipient’s interests, aspirations, and the type of learning experience they might enjoy. Whether it’s a language course, a creative workshop, or a professional development programme, the key is to tailor the gift to the individual’s preferences and goals.

A Gift of Learning Can Be Fun

Quite frequently, we tend to forget how enjoyable it can be to learn, especially when the subject is of personal interest. Consider the person you’re purchasing for. You might want to buy them something that not only captivates their interest but also contributes to enhancing their mental well-being. It’s never too late to embark on a learning journey, and with the technology available today, there are numerous accessible ways to do so.

The gift of learning is also an incredible gift for a loved one who is retired. It is never too late to learn again, and new research shows that brain function declines rapidly after retirement. It appears that the lack of regular stimulation takes a heavy toll on cognitive function and could play a part in speeding up memory loss and dementia, some researchers warn.

Numerous medical studies suggest that continuous learning during retirement can positively impact brain health. Retirement often leads us to neglect exercising our minds, and an article from Age UK delves into this topic, exploring whether “Brain Training” genuinely improves cognitive health. In essence, the article concludes that learning something new, whether a skill or academic pursuit, yields the most favourable results in terms of stimulating the brain and enhancing cognitive abilities. The inherent wisdom gained through learning is a key factor.

Some popular courses that learners choose to do for personal interest rather than personal development are Creative WritingPsychology of Criminal ProfilingDigital Photography Diploma or Genealogy, to name but a few. Why not take a look at what we have to offer online and see if you can find that unique gift for someone you love.

A Gift of Learning Can Change Lives

By investing in a course for a loved one, you have the potential to enhance their quality of life and financial security. It’s possible that they lack the financial means to enrol in a course independently and presenting them with the gift of a course this holiday season could mark the beginning of a more fulfilling career journey.

This could also serve as a chance for individuals currently not employed to build the confidence needed to re-enter the workforce. Numerous courses are accessible to assist learners in transitioning back to work. Consider enrolling in a Principles of Customer Service Certificate RQF, NCFE Level 3 Certificate in Principles of Business Administration course or a similar program to showcase your acquired knowledge and skills to prospective employers.

Not only does unemployment hinder individuals from entering the workforce, but the responsibilities of raising a young family can also lead to periods of joblessness. Engaging in a distance learning course offers parents the flexibility to study at their own pace, accommodating their family obligations. This preparation equips them for a successful return to work in the future. By undertaking a course tailored to align with industries conducive to work-life balance, such as becoming a teaching assistant, parents can gain relevant skills.  Our Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Award Level 3 RQF is designed to provide learners with a foundational knowledge qualification, which should help them in securing employment as a teaching assistant. Subsequently, once employed, they can leverage the completed units to progress to the next level of Ofqual-regulated qualifications.

Regardless of their particular circumstances, providing the gift of learning can deeply impact an individual’s life and journey. It offers a chance to demonstrate your support for their personal growth and development, demonstrating encouragement for them to thrive and reach their full potential.

The benefits of home learning courses

With home learning courses, you can choose to study at any level with very few, if any, pre-requisite qualifications needed. 

We have hundreds of home learning courses available. From nail art to psychology, from autism awareness to maths, we have a course that is suitable. It can be helpful to split the courses into two broad categories as you consider which course would make the best Christmas gift: vocational or career related courses can be an important springboard from one role or career into another. Interest courses are another category which includes all kinds of courses that many people find interesting or are passionate about. Learning does not always have to mean a bigger pay packet or more responsibility. Qualifications and learning can be about widening and broadening horizons in subject matters that people find fascinating and stimulating. 

Embarking on an online course is a convenient and flexible way to engage in learning, allowing individuals to proceed at their own pace and accommodate other commitments. This flexibility ensures that learning can seamlessly integrate into one’s life, empowering personal development and providing control over enhancing employability. Online learning has democratised knowledge, enabling people from all walks of life to boost their understanding and career prospects at any life stage. Whether preparing for a new chapter when children start school or seeking to break free from a stagnant routine, the gift of learning during the holiday season could be a valuable investment in personal growth.

Online Learning Courses At Affordable Prices

At NCC we provide quality courses at affordable prices, and in addition we also offer the option to purchase over 12 months without a credit check so that education is accessible for all.

Imagine the look on your loved ones face this Christmas morning upon opening a box and inside finding that they have been signed up for a course to enable them to work towards a new career in counselling or health care, for example. Or perhaps a course that enables them to start being their own boss such as Dog Grooming or Beauty Therapy, or if they can learn about something that is of personal interest such as Creative Writing, Genealogy or even delving into the Psychology of Criminal Profiling. We have lots of interesting options and a variety of directions, take a look at what’s available today and consider a new and unique gift idea for a loved one this year.

If purchasing an entire course feels overwhelming, consider the option of NCC gift vouchers. For further information, feel free to reach out to us at 0333 344 5690 or via email at [email protected].

FAQs

Who are NCC?

Originally, NCC stood for the National Consortium of Further Education (FE) Colleges, bringing together these institutions to optimise educational provision. Regular national meetings convened Colleges and Government agencies, fostering collaboration and facilitating the efficient delivery of training to students. Over a span of more than 25 years, NCC has evolved to specialise in delivering exceptionally high-quality online training. This training is accessible to a diverse range of students, including those who are self-funded, sponsored by schools, employers, or training providers.

How do I sign up for a course for somebody else?

You have two options in terms of buying a course for someone else:

You can purchase the course and use the “Ship To” details to fill in the learner’s details, so that the course is signed up in their name.
If you want to keep the purchase a surprise until Christmas Day, simply purchase the course and contact us by email at [email protected] to inform us of your intention to give this as a gift, providing us with the recipient’s details. After Christmas, we will ensure that the course is transferred to the learner, and details of how to log in and start learning will be sent out via email. The support start date will not begin until the course details have been sent out to the recipient.

What is online learning or distance learning?

Online learning enables you to access course materials and study from anywhere in the world and at any time that suits you. Some of our courses have been customised with a reputable Awarding Organisation to provide evidence of knowledge in a particular area where there might not be a formal qualification available. Or alternatively we have a large number of ofqual regulated courses that you can access from the comfort of your own home. Once completed you are usually certificated within approximately 6 weeks subject to moderation.

Online learning enables you to access course materials and study from anywhere in the world and at any time that suits you. Some of our courses have been customised with a reputable Awarding Organisation to provide evidence of knowledge in a particular area where there might not be a formal qualification available. Or alternatively we have a large number of ofqual regulated courses that you can access from the comfort of your own home. Once completed you are usually certificated within approximately 6 weeks subject to moderation.

What does the gift of knowledge give us?

The gift of knowledge provides several benefits, including:

Empowerment: Knowledge empowers individuals by giving them the tools and information they need to make informed decisions and take control of their lives.
Personal Growth: Knowledge allows individuals to expand their horizons, develop new skills, and grow personally and intellectually.
Problem Solving: Knowledge equips individuals with the ability to solve problems, overcome challenges, and adapt to new situations effectively.
Innovation: Knowledge serves as the foundation for innovation and progress in various fields, from science and technology to art and culture.
Opportunities: Knowledge opens doors to new opportunities, whether in education, career advancement, or personal development.
Connection: Knowledge fosters a sense of connection with others by enabling individuals to communicate, share experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions.

Sources

Brumberg, R., (2023) Retirement Is One Of Life’s Major Transitions—Maintaining Cognitive Health Can Make It Easier. Forbes. [online] Available at: https://www.forbes.com/health/healthy-aging/cognitive-health-in-early-retirement/ [accessed 30/11/23]

AgeUK, Dr Alan Gow, (2022) Exercise for the brain? [online] Available at: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/mind-body/staying-sharp/looking-after-your-thinking-skills/exercise-for-the-brain/ [accessed 30/11/23]

BBC, David Robson (2017) The amazing fertility of the older mind. BBC. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20170828-the-amazing-fertility-of-the-older-mind [accessed 30/11/23]

The Telegraph, Sarah Knapton, (2018) Retirement causes brain function to rapidly decline, warn scientists. [online] Available at: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/2018/01/22/retirement-causes-brain-function-rapidly-decline-warn-scientists/ [accessed 30/11/23]

Teaching assistants are a valuable asset in the classroom. They bring much-needed skills and expertise to challenge ‘more able and talented’ students, as well as work closely with those students with additional learning needs and, it has to be said, a class as a whole.

They are an invaluable colleague in the teaching team, and an asset when working with all students in primary and secondary education. TAs are also become welcomed colleagues in college settings too.

Can-I-get-Teaching-Assistant-Qualifications-Online1

Teaching assistants are a valuable asset in the classroom.

Become a qualified TA
There is a lot involved in becoming a proficient teaching assistant, one of the reasons why teaching assistant courses online are fast becoming popular. Like many professions, the need for an all-round, comprehensive qualification to underpin practice is essential.

NCC Home Learning TA courses cover major aspects of working in a classroom, and working with children and young people, some of whom will be vulnerable. Understanding best practice when it comes to appropriate interactions and forming relationships, for example, is imperative, especially in the modern age in which TAs and teaching colleagues are at the forefront of spotting child abuse and so on.

The Level 3 Teaching Assistant Diploma also covers child development, as well as working individually with students with disabilities and so on.

Become a specialist
Many TAs find themselves working in specialist environments or working with students displaying specialist needs and behaviours.

For example, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a syndrome many children are diagnosed with. Typically, they exhibit a range of behaviours that can make teaching and learning difficult and challenging for the student, their peers, and the teaching team.

A TA with specialist knowledge, as well as skills and abilities is invaluable in such a situation. Understanding behavioural signals and triggers, along with other learning needs, can make a skilled and qualified TA an asset to any classroom and school as a whole.

There are many additional teaching assistant courses online that can be completed, and not just in behavioural issues. Being qualified in working with children with autism or speech and language difficulties are all valuable additional, specialist skills a TA can have.

Career opportunities
The opportunities for progression for TAs has opened even wider in recent years, especially since more and more educational establishments are realising the value of highly qualified TAs in a classroom setting.

Education is a fast-paced world, one where changes are common place. What remains steadfast is the desire to keep students at the centre of learning. There is the increasing emphasis on making learning accessible to all, and that learning is lifelong, not one that ends when a student leaves school.Can-I-get-Teaching-Assistant-Qualifications-Online2

As a result, TAs are becoming commonplace in education, and not just in a primary school setting where, traditionally, TAs have been in abundance. TAs are commonplace in secondary schools, as well as in college settings.

There are also opportunities in specialist education settings, such as pupil referral units (PRUs) where those exhibiting challenging behaviour continue their education, as well as additional learning needs of students in specialist schools and units. Many TAs go on to managerial roles in some of these settings too, and is not the ‘dead-end’ profession that many people think it is.

Why study from home?
Taking up a new course for a new career or expanding on your current role can seem like a distant dream because giving up your work to attend college on a daily basis is financially impossible.

With work and family commitments, it can be difficult to commit to attending class on a certain day at a certain time each week, and for months on end. By choosing to study at home, you negate all these problems.

You study at a time that suits you and at your own pace. Home courses, either studied in paper format or via online, are cheaper too. But this does not mean the quality is any less; in fact, the quality and value of TA course online are on a par with those taught in a classroom setting.

How to apply
Applying for any course with NCC Home Learning is simple. If you want a new career as a TA or want to expand your current skills set, log on to their website and browse the 20+ courses relating to TA qualifications and specialist skills.

When you find the course you want, simply enrol online either by paying a small deposit and paying monthly, or in one lump sum. You can start studying straightaway and with a great tutor support package too, when you have questions or concerns, there is always help at hand.

Not sure which course is the right one? Just give out Student Support team a call, and they will happily talk through the online courses with qualifications with you.

TAs are invaluable in the classroom – and you could be too!

People commit crimes for all kinds of reasons – out of ignorance or fear, for example. Sometimes they do so as a result of complex psychological reasons or compulsive behaviours. Some people have a blatant disrespect for the law, for the safety of others but other people are not always aware that their actions and behaviours are criminal or breaking the law.

In this complex field, there are many professionals and one is a criminologist. These professionals and their teams work with perpetrators and the victims of crime in an attempt to right a wrong, as well as to inform the criminal justice system of how to work in a way that favours the victim, without trampling the human rights of the perpetrator.

It is a balancing act but presents an opportunity for a dynamic career. It is not a career that suit everyone, but if you enjoy learning how people tick, why people can act in the way that they do and so on, then criminology could be the career-field for you.

Criminology-Online1

Criminology is a wide career field.

A wide career field
Criminology is a wide career field, with many interesting avenues to explore. People with qualifications in psychology and criminology can work in various settings, such as law enforcement agencies, youth work settings, the prison service and so on.

There is no doubt, however, that to work in this field you need not only a heightened sense of self-awareness but also a qualification that underpins your practice. This is why choosing a valuable and valued qualification is key, from your initial qualification to any specialist or advanced course you complete in your career.

Studying from home – do home study courses have the same value and quality?
Many people still assume that there is one drawback of studying online or at home – the courses are not of the same value and not as well respected.

This has changed, as educational establishment and employers, as well as students themselves, realise that just because a student is not sat in a classroom that the course is of a lesser value. In fact, the self-discipline required to study at home can be a skill that is very much needed in a career, including work within the criminology and justice fields.

But how else will you benefit with studying at home?

Apply today
You do need to be realistic about committing to an online criminology diploma. You will need to commit several hours a week to your study, although when you study depends on you.

But, you can start today! Enrol online either choosing to pay in one lump sum, or in handy instalments. Some courses come in both paper and online format so choose the one that suits you best and the way that you think you will learn best.

You could be taking the first steps into a new and exciting career. Why not find out more about criminology and whether this is the career choice for you?

Crime scene investigators, also known as CSIs, are an important cog in the process of solving crime. Sometimes, perpetrators are not caught at the time but, as science and our knowledge expands and develops, many people who committed crimes decades ago are now being brought to justice.

To be a CSI, you need to be methodical, with clear and logical thinking when faced with a crime scene. You need to know what to look for but you also need to understand that not all evidence and not all clues are left in obvious places to find. Some clues can make little sense too but, these small pieces come together to create a bigger picture.

For those affected by crime, the results are devastating. People can feel unsafe in their own homes but knowing that the authorities are doing everything they can, is a shred of comfort. For many people, this is the motivating factor at becoming qualified with online forensic science courses, knowing that they can and will make a difference.

You could be the CSI at a scene that finds the pieces of evidence that links everything together, effectively solving the crime.

You-Can-Gain-Forensic-Science-Qualifications-Online1

To be a CSI, you need to be methodical, with clear and logical thinking when faced with a crime scene.

Studying from home – can it be done?
You would think that a forensic science officer would spend years honing their skills at university; some officers do but there are many scenes of crimes officers (SOCOs), CSIs, forensic photographers, ballistic experts and so on who honed their craft piece by piece, by studying various courses online and gaining experience in the field.

You too, could take this career path and work in a career that is fulfilling and exciting. But it is not for everyone. There are many crime scenes that are difficult to witness, with obvious signs of struggle and assault. There will also be some scenes in which the victim remains, and you will need to work in this high pressured and difficult environment.

But, with a comprehensive qualification underpinning your practice, you will have the skills and professionalism you need to process the crime scene, ensuring you note and bag all the evidence, take photographs of the scene and the various components within it – and do so correctly so that the investigation and any convictions are not compromised.

But can you study from home and still gain a forensic science qualifications online that are valuable and valued in the field. In fact, studying from home can bring many benefits;

Apply today and start studying today too
With home study courses, you can start them at any time so there is no need to wait until the stat of the next academic year.

Enrol online today and take the first steps to an exciting new career using online courses with qualifications.

Curiosity or obsession? Hobby or career?

In the last thirty years, researching family history has become popular. The ability to access records online has made some of the research easier and more accessible. Whereas once you would have had to travel to archives, possibly in various parts of the country to access paper documents, with a click of a mouse, you can now access all kinds of records and information online.

For some, this is a pleasant hobby, a way of tracing family roots centuries into the past. For others, it is an obsession, almost akin to detective work through the ages, finding lost ancestors and providing proof of lineage.

Genealogy is not just the study of your own family history. It is acquiring a set of skills to know where to look for information, how records were kept through the ages and what certain symbols, signs and language you will come across is actually telling you.

The history of genealogy
The study of lineage has been around for a long time, and is not a new or modern phenomenon. Those of noble birth in Europe sometimes had a hard time holding on to their crowns, titles and lands and as such, need to be ready to prove their lineage through the years. This way, they could prove they were entitled to the throne or the mass of land or titles they were wanting.

Using key information such as birth, death and marriage certificates and records, a genealogist can look back through centuries of information, tracing the line back of a family through generations.

It varies slightly from family history as this is more of an in-depth look at names, dates of birth and so on. With genealogy, there is so much more that you need to know from location of events, things that happened, the part family members played in events such as wars or rebellions. It is a richer history, a wider net that is cast and more information that is sought.

A genealogist produces something known as a pedigree chart – or, in layman’s terms, a family tree – that charts everyone who was born and died in a family, who they married, their children and then who they married and so on.

It can be complex and complicated, especially once adoption is added to the family and how, over the years, the nuclear family has changed. There are many dead ends, many obstacles and hurdles and it takes time, as well as dedication.

It is a skill and one that many people studying genealogy courses will testify too. Learning to understand records from different eras, how they kept information and why is all part and parcel of unravelling the mystery that is before you.

Genealogy is not just the study of your own family history. It is acquiring a set of skills to know where to look for information, how records were kept through the ages and what certain symbols, signs and language you will come across is actually telling you.

Genealogy is not just the study of your own family history. It is acquiring a set of skills to know where to look for information

It can be a mathematical puzzle, as well as a historical one. There are two parents, four grandparents, so many children, and then spouses. With death or divorce, come more spouses and so on.

Finding ancestors and their stories
A genealogist will use a variety of sources for information and pieces of the puzzle:

Studying online
Online genealogy courses are a great way of studying this interesting subject. Courses such as these will equip you with the skills you need to unravel the mysteries of the past, and be able to piece those parts together in the modern-day.

From understanding language used in years gone by, to understanding how referencing works in archives, you too can unravel the events of the past and the part that your ancestors played in it. This is more than just drawing up a family tree, it about looking at their lives and perhaps an explanation of why you are where you are today.

For some, this is a hobby but for others, it can become a possible career too. Although there are no formal qualifications needed to become a genealogist, it takes more than just being able to construct your own family tree.

Studying online means you can do so at your own pace, manage your own learning and, more importantly, study at a time that suits you.

You can enrol today on one of our genealogy courses online. There are no pre-requisites to our courses meaning you can enrol on the course you want!