NCC Home Learning

The trusted home learning experts

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General FAQs

What does NCC stand for?

NCC originally stood for the National Consortium of FE (Further Education) Colleges. This brought together the FE Colleges to achieve the best provision. Regular national meetings were attended by both Colleges and Government agencies who funded them. This was very helpful to them both to best deliver training to their students.

For more than 25 years NCC has supplied FE Colleges with learning materials as well as student marketing.

NCC now specialise in online training of a very high quality to students both self-funded, paid for by schools, employers and training providers.

What is distance learning?

Distance learning is the most flexible and convenient approach to studying. There is no need for you to attend college and you can study anytime, anyplace, anywhere that fits in with your lifestyle. Distance learning programmes are ideal for people who may have a job, family commitments, or any other commitment that won’t allow them time off to study.

What is the difference between the online and paper versions of courses?

Both our online and paper courses are completed via an online learning portal (LMS) which you can access after you receive your login details by email. Please ensure that you check your junk email if you do not receive your login details within 48 hours.

All learners will submit their assignments, receive feedback and correspond with their tutor directly through the LMS. If you require help from our support team, then simply email [email protected].

If you opt for the online course, you will not receive any course materials through the post. Everything is available via the LMS.

If you opt for the paper version, you are simply paying for a study book to be printed and posted to your home, or place of work. You will use this book as a reference guide, but you will still be required to upload your assignments and correspond with your tutor via the LMS.

If you are unable to access our online LMS, we do have alternative options available, so please email [email protected] in order to request further support.

What do I need to do to get started?

We recommend that you choose a course that will interest you and help you to achieve your ambitions. If you would like some advice, or further information, contact us here or dial 0333 3445 690.

To purchase a course, simply click on the ‘Buy now’ button against your chosen course and follow the on screen instructions. Alternatively if you would prefer to purchase the course over the phone, call 0333 3445 690 and speak to one of our expert course advisors.

How much will it cost?

The price largely depends on the size and duration of the course. The course cost is determined by the expenses associated with its provision, taking into consideration the course's size and complexity, development costs, study materials, and the level of tutor support required. Some courses also necessitate additional in-person assessments by assessors, which incur additional expenses and consequently affect the course's cost.

The cost for each course is always listed clearly on the course description page before you make a purchase.

Additionally, extra fees may apply for courses that require externally monitored assessments (such as A Levels or ICB qualifications). For more details, it's best to consult with one of our course advisors.

How do I enrol?

Once you've chosen your course, you have two options for enrolment:


  1. You can purchase the course online by clicking the "Buy now" button, which will enrol you automatically.
  2. Alternatively, you can call our helpline at 0333 3445 690, and our expert course advisors will assist you in signing up for the course and arrange for the delivery of any requested additional learning materials to your address.

All courses are available to purchase in full or via affordable monthly payments over 12 months. A £29 non-refundable deposit is required for monthly payments, and you will be required to set up a monthly direct debit.

We do not require you to complete a credit check to sign up for monthly payments.

How quickly will I receive my course materials?

We ensure that you will receive your ordered course materials within 5 working days of registration, though for many courses, delivery may take as little as 48 hours.

Your course materials will be sent through a tracked courier service to guarantee delivery of your study book within the specified timeframe.

Do I need any additional books or equipment to do my course?

All the relevant information required to complete your course is available via the LMS. Additional research via the internet is encouraged, depending on the level you are working at, to bolster knowledge of the subject area.

There is no requirement to purchase any additional materials.

What support will I receive?

You will have access to a dedicated personal tutor whom you can contact through the Learning Management System (LMS) for assistance and guidance on any course-related matters. Your tutor will only initiate contact in response to your messages. If you encounter any difficulties reaching your tutor, please don't hesitate to email us at [email protected].

Many courses require you to submit work to your tutor during the period of study, and your tutor will assess your work and provide feedback to you within 10 working days. Your tutor is available to you as much as you need them.

Please note that the course includes tutor support for a duration of 12 months. If you require additional time, please inform us, and we will make every effort to provide you with an option for a paid extension, if feasible, to assist you in completing your course.

Please be aware that our tutors are actively assisting multiple learners, and to ensure they are not inundated with excessive workloads, we have implemented a policy limiting learners to submitting a maximum of three units of work for evaluation at any given time. We recommend that you upload your completed units as you finish them. This way, you can benefit from your tutor's feedback to enhance your future assignment submissions.

How long will it take for my work to be marked by my tutor?

Your work will be marked and feedback returned to you within 10 working days after submission. This is because our tutors are required to provide detailed, considered feedback to our learners that may take a while to formulate. We find that by working this way, our learners actually complete their course in less time, as they rarely need to submit an assignment more than twice.

Whilst it is possible to submit multiple assignments at the same time, we advise that our learners submit only one at a time. We want our learners to develop as they progress through their course, and find this is best achieved when a student embarks on a new module having taken into account tutor feedback from the previous submission.

Kindly note that our tutors are currently supporting multiple learners simultaneously. In order to maintain a balanced workload for them, we have established a policy that restricts learners to submitting a maximum of three units of work for evaluation at any given time.

How long should it take to complete a course?

The time needed to complete your course depends on the specific course you've chosen and the time you're able to dedicate. Generally, it can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 12 months. You'll usually have up to 12 months from the date of purchase to complete your course if you wish to receive your certificate, this is your end of support date.

One of the biggest advantages of distance learning is the flexibility it offers. You can study at your own pace, fitting your coursework around your personal schedule and commitments. There's no pressure—no one will be chasing you to submit work or asking why you haven't turned in an assignment.

That said, we recommend considering your availability before enrolling to ensure you can devote enough time to stay motivated and complete the course within a reasonable timeframe.

Will I have to sit an examination?

All of our courses are fully accredited, and to successfully complete them, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding. Depending on the course you choose, this could involve an examination, but the assessment methods can vary.

For some courses, you'll be continuously assessed throughout your studies, while others may require a final exam or an assignment, which can be done from home and submitted to your tutor.

For specific qualifications like A-levels and GCSEs, you will need to sit invigilated exams at a registered test centre. You'll be responsible for arranging and covering the cost of these exams, but full guidance will be provided by the centre delivering the qualification.

If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to email us at [email protected]. We can help or connect you with the course provider for more details.

Will I receive a qualification when I complete the course?

All of our courses are accredited and you will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the course.

For more information about this please see the section of the website that details how awarding bodies work and what the different types of qualifications are: https://www.ncchomelearning.co.uk/awarding-organisations

Can I take more than one course at a time?

Yes, you can take as many courses as your time allows, but we would recommend that you clearly evaluate how much time you can commit to your courses of study.

The good news is that if your circumstances change you can always take a limited break and come back to your studies to save your paid for support.

If you decide to enrol on more than one course at the same time, speak to our enquiries team for any bundle deals or offers.

Can I enrol and study outside the UK?

Absolutely! In most cases, our courses are accessible regardless of where you're located. However, some courses may have geographical restrictions set by the Awarding Organisation, and any such limitations will be clearly outlined in the course details.

Keep in mind that all of our tutors are UK-based, and while most work can be submitted via email, there may be rare instances where submissions need to be sent by post.

For courses that require a monitored exam, there are many test centres available internationally. If you're planning to study from abroad, we recommend reaching out to us before purchasing the course to ensure everything is in place for your studies.

What if I’ve chosen the wrong course?

If, after receiving the course, you decide it isn’t the right course for you, you may return the materials within 14 days, provided you have not yet submitted any coursework for evaluation. Please note that you will be responsible for covering the return shipping costs. We will refund your payment, minus a non-refundable deposit of £29. Additionally, you have the option to select an alternative course that better matches your goals and aspirations.

For any help on cancelling your course please email [email protected], we will only deal with cancellation enquiries via email.

What is a Totum Card?

Totum is the new brand for UK student cards and replaces the old NUS student card. NCC students are eligible to sign-up for the Totum card where applicable, giving access to a multitude of retail, food and travel special discounts. For more information, you can visit their website: https://www.totum.com/

More more

If you have a query or question - check the FAQs first as it is often quicker than waiting on the phone.

frequently asked questions...
  • What is distance learning?

    Distance learning is the most flexible and convenient approach to studying. There is no need for you to attend college and, therefore, you can study anytime, any place, anywhere that fits in with your lifestyle. Distance learning programmes are ideal for people who may have a full-time job, or other commitments, that won’t allow them time off to study.

  • What do I need to do to get started on a course?

    You need to be able to commit your time to the course. To help you understand the commitment needed, each of the course descriptions estimates the amount of time it will take you to complete the course. This is based on an average study period of approximately 10 hours per week.

    It is best to choose a course you think will interest you, and help you to achieve your ambitions. If you would like some advice, or further information, please call our helpline free on 0333 3445 690.

    To purchase a course, simply click on the ‘Buy Now’ option against your chosen course and follow the on screen instructions. Alternatively if you would prefer to purchase the course over the phone or by post, call our helpline free on 0333 3445 690.

  • How does the distance learning/home study method work?

    The course operates through a study pack and access to your own personal tutor. Once you have chosen your course we will send you your study pack, which you will be required to work through before completing the course.

    Depending on the course you have chosen, you will either be required to complete assignments and submit these for marking as the course progresses and/or be required to sit an end exam. The end exam could be in the form of multiple choice questions, or be an invigilated exam at a registered test centre.

    Your completed assignments will need to be sent to your tutor for marking/assessment, you will then receive written feedback and guidance. It may be possible to submit your assignments by email, however you will need to check this with your tutor. Please be aware that your assignments will be maintained by NCCHL for moderation and audit purposes.

    These requirements will always be listed on the course description page, so please refer to this for details of what is required for each individual course.

  • How long should it take to complete a course?

    Depending on the course you have chosen, and the amount of time you can commit, it could take from six weeks to nine months to complete your course.

    The duration of the course is largely down to you though. The beauty of home learning is that it allows you complete flexibility to fit your studies around your lifestyle and other commitments. You can dedicate as much, or as little, time as you want to your studies - no one will be chasing you for your work or asking why you haven’t submitted an assignment.

    We do strongly recommend, though, that before you purchase a course you assess your ability to commit the necessary time to completing the course in a timeframe that will not leave you losing your motivation.

  • How quickly will I receive my course material?

    We guarantee that you will receive your course materials within 5 days of purchase, but for many courses we would anticipate that you will have to wait no more than 48 hours.

    The course materials are always sent to you via a tracked courier service, to ensure that you receive your study pack within our stated period.

  • How much will it cost?

    The cost is largely dependent on the type of the course. The longer the course is the higher the cost will be, due to the size of the study pack and the nature of the qualification.

    All prices are clearly stated on the course description page and will always be displayed prior to you committing to purchase a course.

    Please note that there may be additional fees required should your course have an external assessment, such as A Levels, ICB qualifications etc. To clarify, please speak to a course advisor. 

  • What support will I receive?

    You will be allocated your own personal tutor who can be contacted via e-mail, telephone, fax or post for help and advice on any aspect of the course.

    Many courses require that you submit work to your tutor during the period of study and your tutor will assess your work and pass comments back to you. Your tutor is available to you as much as you need them.

    Please be aware that officially the tutor support provided with the course is for a period of 12 months, although if you need longer let us know and we’ll endeavour to extend that.

  • Will I have to sit an examination?

    All of our courses are accredited, so you need to show that you have acquired the knowledge to pass the course – this may involve sitting an examination, but it depends on the course you have chosen.

    Some courses require you to be continually assessed throughout the course, while others may require an end of course exam or assignment (which may be completed at home) to be submitted to your tutor.

    Certain types of qualifications, A-levels and GCSEs for example, do require you to sit an invigilated exam at a registered test centre. You will need to organise the examination yourself, however full details of what you need to do will be included in your study pack.

    The details of what sort of exam/assignment (if any) is required for a course will be stated on the course description page, so please check these for full details.

  • Can I study from outside the UK?

    Yes, there are no geographical limits to where you can study.

    You just need to be aware that all tutors are based in the UK and work may need to be submitted to them via post, although in most cases e-mail can be used.

    Where the course requires that you sit an invigilated exam at a test centre, there are many exam centres outside of the UK. However, we would advise that you check with us before purchasing one of these courses if you want to study from abroad.

  • Will I receive a qualification when I complete the course?

    All of our courses are accredited and you will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the course.

    For more information about this please see the section of the website that details how awarding bodies work and what the different types of qualifications are.

  • Can I take more than one course at a time?

    Yes, you can take as many courses as your time allows. But we would recommend that you clearly evaluate how much time you can commit to your courses of study.

    The good news is though that if your circumstances change you can always take a break and come back to your studies.

    Additionally, discounts are available if you buy more than one course at the same time.

  • How long will it take for my work to be marked by my tutor?

    Your work will be marked and feedback returned to you within 12 working days after submission. This is because our tutors are required to provide detailed, considered feedback to our learners that may take a while to formulate. We find that by working this way, our learners actually complete their course in less time, as they rarely need to submit an assignment more than twice.

    Whilst it is possible to submit multiple assignments at the same time, we advise that our learners submit only one at a time. We want our learners to develop as they progress through their course, and find this is best achieved when a student embarks on a new module having taken into account tutor feedback from the previous submission.

  • Do I need any additional books or equipment to do my course?

    No, we provide everything you need to pass your course.

  • How do I enrol?

    Once you have chosen your course, you can either purchase the course online which will enrol you, or you can call our helpline on 0333 3445 690 who will sign you up for the course and arrange to have all your learning materials sent to you.

  • What if I’ve chosen the wrong course?

    If, after receiving the course, you decide it isn’t the right course for you, you can simply return the goods within 14 days and we will send your money back in full for the majority of courses (excluding postage and packaging) or you can choose another course that you feel would suit your needs and ambitions better.

  • What is the difference between the online and paper versions of courses?

    Our online courses are completed through our online learning system after receiving login and access instructions. You will not receive any course materials through the post. The paper based version is posted out in a binder to your home or place of work and requires completion of a portfolio of work that is submitted to your tutor for marking.

  • Where can I find your Equality and Diversity Policy?

    All NCC policies and procedures can be provided on request from NCC directly by emailing [email protected] or calling 0333 3445 690.

  • Can reasonable adjustments be made to help reduce the effects of a disability or difficulty that may place me at a disadvantage?

    A reasonable adjustment is any action that helps to reduce the effect of a disability or difficulty that places the candidate at a substantial disadvantage in the assessment situation. Reasonable adjustments must not affect the integrity of what needs to be assessed, but may involve:

    Changing standard assessment arrangements, for example allowing candidates extra time to complete the assessment activity Adapting assessment materials, such as providing materials in Braille Providing access facilitators during assessment, such as a sign language interpreter or a reader Re-organising the assessment room, such as removing visual stimuli for an autistic candidate.

    Reasonable adjustments are approved or set in place before the assessment activity takes place; they constitute an arrangement to give the candidate access to the assessment activity. The use of a reasonable adjustment will not be taken into consideration during the assessment of a candidate’s work.

    Awarding organisations and centres are only required by law to do what is ‘reasonable’ in terms of giving access. What is reasonable will depend on the individual circumstances, cost implications and the practicality and effectiveness of the adjustment. Other factors, such as the need to maintain competence standards and health and safety, will also be taken into consideration.