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Course Overview

This six-week course forms part of the Hospitality Skills Passport SWAP programme, designed to prepare learners for entry-level roles in the hospitality industry. The programme develops both front-of-house and back-of-house skills, combining classroom learning with practical training in college kitchens.

Learners gain hands-on experience in barista skills and basic food preparation, building confidence and industry-relevant knowledge that supports progression into hospitality, catering and customer service roles, or further vocational study. A three-day work experience placement may also be included, subject to availability and suitability.

Course Duration

Six weeks

Entry Requirements

You must be aged 18 or over and meet one of the following criteria:

• Unemployed
• Economically inactive
• In receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), or Universal Credit (UC)
• Able to commit to the full duration and scheduled times of the course

You should also demonstrate:

• Excellent customer service skills
• A passion for helping and supporting others
• A positive and can-do attitude
• A commitment to making a difference
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to follow instructions

Qualifications Achieved

There are no optional units. Learners will complete:

• Level 1 Award in Employability Skills, NCFE
• Level 1 Award in Customer Service, Highfield
• Level 2 Certificate in Food Hygiene and Catering, BIIAB
• Level 1 Award in Hospitality, Catering and Tourism, OCN

Units include:

• Time Management
• Professional Behaviours in the Workplace
• Developing Barista Skills
• Basic Food Preparation and Cooking

Assessment

Assessment methods include:

• Written assignments
• Practical observations
• Professional discussions
• Written invigilated examination (Food Hygiene and Catering)

Learning Environment

The course is delivered through a mixture of classroom-based learning and practical skills development within the college kitchens.

Lewisham College is proud to present the Bus Driver Sector-Based Work Academy, in partnership with Transport for London and Transport UK London Bus. This programme equips learners with the essential skills and qualities required to begin a rewarding career as a bus driver.

The course is designed to develop customer service, problem-solving, and communication skills, preparing learners for the variety and challenges of life on London’s roads. Applications from women are especially encouraged, helping to build a diverse and talented workforce.

Course Units:

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills

• Highfield Level 1 Award in Customer Service

Key Dates: 

• Pre-Assessment: Monday 3 November 2025
• Course Start: Monday 10 November 2025
• Course End: Tuesday 9 December 2025
• Guaranteed Job Interview: December 2025

Career Path:

Learners who successfully complete the pre-employment training and interview will:

• Undertake 6–8 weeks of practical bus driving training at Battersea depot
• Complete classroom and practical sessions, working at least 38 hours per week, including early mornings and late nights
• Receive local depot induction and route training
• Progress to full-time bus driving roles

Entry Requirements:

Applicants must:

• Be 19 years or older
• Hold a UK bank account and valid Right to Work documents
• Have a full UK driving licence (category B) with at least six months of UK driving experience
• Maintain an excellent driving record – no more than six penalty points and no drink-driving offences in the last five years
• Computer skills

Training and Salary Benefits:

During training:

• Hourly pay: £13.15, rising to £15.05–£15.90

On completion:

• Full Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) training
• Paid theory and practical driving tests
• Comprehensive route and service training

Additional Benefits:

Transport UK London Bus provides employees with:

• Free travel on all TfL routes for employees and a friend or family member (available after three months, valued at approximately £8,000).
• Comprehensive training and development to support career progression.
• Annual safe driving bonus and high street vouchers for excellent performance.
• Contributory pension scheme – employees contribute 5% of their salary, with an additional 3% contribution from Transport UK London Bus. Life insurance is also provided for participants in the scheme.
• Salary sacrifice options, allowing employees to obtain items such as laptops, smartwatches, TVs, or phones in exchange for slightly reduced pay.
• Discounts at major retailers, including Apple, Adidas, Nike, Vue, Odeon, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons, and more.
• Eye test vouchers to support employee health and wellbeing.
• Employee Assistance Programme, offering free personal and professional support, including private physiotherapy.
• Opportunities to increase earnings through the annual safe driving bonus, referral schemes, and recognition via golden tickets for exceptional driving and customer service.

Lewisham College is supporting the next generation of London bus drivers.

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Course Overview

This classroom-based programme is designed to support learners who wish to broaden their job search to include opportunities within the Civil Service. The course develops knowledge and skills related to Civil Service recruitment processes, helping learners understand application methods and selection procedures.

Learners will strengthen their awareness of their own skills and abilities, enabling them to apply confidently for a wider range of roles, including Civil Service vacancies. The programme includes Level 1 digital skills training delivered within a college computer suite.

Course Duration and Start Dates

• Start dates:
  • March 2026
  • May 2026
  • June 2026

Entry Requirements

Candidates must:

• Be aged 19 or over
• Be in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or Universal Credit
• Be able to commit to the full duration and scheduled times of the course

The IT element of the course requires learners to have some basic knowledge of computers and IT.

Qualifications Achieved

There are no optional units. Learners will complete:

• Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills, NCFE
• Level 1 Award in Customer Service, Highfield
• Level 1 Award in Digital Skills, Pearson

Assessment

Assessment methods include written assignments, completed workbooks and a paper-based examination.

Civil Service Areas Covered

The programme prepares learners for roles across a range of Civil Service departments, including:

• Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency
• Home Office
• National Crime Agency
• Department for Education
• Department for Work and Pensions
• Ministry of Defence

Progression

There is no direct progression route attached to this programme. However, learners will leave with greater confidence, improved employability skills and a stronger understanding of Civil Service recruitment processes, enabling them to apply for a broader range of roles and sectors.

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This programme will introduce you to the essentials of working in Business Administration. You will gain an understanding of the role of an administrator; the procedures for making and receiving calls, delivering effective customer service, diary management, confidentiality and data protection.

You will develop your communication, teamwork and organisation skills, as well as understanding the job application process and effective interview techniques.

Qualification: 

• BIIAB Level 1 Award in Business Administration
• NCFE Level 1 Award in Employability Skills

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Course Overview

This 20-day programme is designed for learners interested in working in the education sector. It introduces the key knowledge and understanding required to work in a range of school and college settings and prepares learners for entry-level roles in educational environments.

The course covers a broad range of job roles within a school setting, including Teaching Assistant, Classroom Assistant, Lunchtime Supervisor, Playground Assistant, Receptionist and School Administrator.

Course Duration

• 20 days
• Start dates:
  • April 2026
  • June 2026

Entry Requirements

Candidates must:

• Be aged 19 or over before 31 August 2025
• Be in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or Universal Credit
• Be able to commit to the full duration and scheduled times of the course

Qualification Achieved

Learners will complete:

• Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges

There are no optional units.

Units Covered

• Understand Schools and Colleges as Organisations
• Understand Children and Young People’s Development
• Understand Communication and Professional Relationships with Children, Young People and Adults
• Understand Children and Young People’s Health and Safety
• Safeguarding Children and Young People
• Understand Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Work with Children and Young People

Assessment

Assessment methods include written assignments and group presentation activities.

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This Level 1 Award Health and Safety qualification is aimed at learners who want to work in construction. Successful completion will enable you to move on to take the CITB health, safety and environment test, and obtain the Green Labourer Card.

You will develop your communication, teamwork and organisation skills, as well as understanding the job application process and effective interview techniques.

Qualification:

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills & CSCS

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Course Overview

This six-week programme runs Monday to Friday and is designed to prepare learners for entry-level roles within the adult social care sector. The course equips learners with the essential knowledge, practical understanding and professional behaviours required to work safely and effectively in care settings.

On successful completion of the programme, learners will receive a guaranteed interview.

Course Duration

Six weeks

• Monday to Friday
• Start dates:
  • March 2026
  • May 2026
  • June 2026

Eligibility

Candidates must:

• Be aged 19 or over before 31 August 2025
• Be in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or Universal Credit
• Be able to commit to the full duration and scheduled times of the course

Qualifications Achieved

There are no optional units. Learners will complete:

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills
• NCFE Level 1 Award in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
• Highfield Level 2 Award in Understanding Infection Prevention and Control
• NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Safeguarding in Care Settings

Key Benefits

• Career opportunities: These qualifications support progression into roles such as Care Assistant, Support Worker, Personal Assistant, Domiciliary Care Worker and Healthcare Assistant. Learners also develop essential skills for supporting and safeguarding adults.
• Job satisfaction: Social care offers meaningful and rewarding work, supporting individuals to maintain independence and improve their quality of life.
• Personal and professional growth: Learners develop valuable skills, including empathy, communication, and problem-solving. There are opportunities to gain further qualifications and progress into more senior roles.
• Social impact: Social care professionals contribute to building inclusive communities and promoting equality, making a significant difference in people’s lives.
• High demand and job security: An ageing population, increased focus on mental health, and national workforce initiatives are driving strong demand for skilled social care workers nationwide.

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This programme is delivered in partnership with a popular bakery chain, and has been designed to support those looking for Team Leader, Shift Leader and Supervisor roles. 

You will study a range of sector-specific units that cover the essentials health and safety in the workplace, the world of retail and food safety in catering. 

You will also develop a range of employability skills whilst building confidence, enhancing your CV and understanding the application process by undertaking mock interviews and practice tests. 

Qualifications: 

• NCFE Level 1 Award in Employability Skills  
• BIIAB Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering 
• BIIAB Level 2 Award in Health and Safety in the Workplace  
• BIIAB Level 2 Certificate in Retail Knowledge 

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Course Overview

This 25-day programme is designed to equip learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to develop a career within a further education setting as a trainer or assessor. The course prepares learners for entry into teaching and training roles and provides a strong foundation in professional practice, safeguarding and equality.

Successful completion of the programme guarantees an interview with the College and consideration for inclusion in the pool of freelance trainers.

Course Duration and Start Date

• 25 days
• Three days per week
• March start date
• Delivered by Ella Rhoomes

Entry Requirements

You must:

• Be aged 19 or over before 31 August 2025
• Be in receipt of Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Employment and Support Allowance
• Be able to commit to the full duration and scheduled times of the course

Qualifications Achieved

There are no optional units. Learners will complete:

• Level 3 Award in Education and Training, NCFE
• Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Safeguarding and Prevent, NCFE
• Level 2 Certificate in Equality and Diversity, NCFE

Assessment

Assessment methods include:

• Written assignments
• Completed work booklets
• Presentations
• Observations, including delivery of a micro-teach session

Progression

Successful completion of the course leads to:

• A guaranteed interview with the College
• Consideration for addition to the College’s pool of freelance trainers

This programme is designed to support adults prepare for the world of work with a detailed insight into employment and practical experience to help them with job applications, preparation for interviews, and an understanding of how to detail with different situations in a work setting.

Qualification

• NCFE E3 Certificate in Employability Skills

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Lewisham College, in partnership with local childcare providers, offers the Early Years Sector-Based Work Academy Programme (SWAP). This programme combines hands-on experience with essential training, giving you the skills and confidence to start a rewarding career in early years education.

Why Choose This Programme?

• 3-day work placement to gain real-world experience
• Guaranteed job interview on successful completion
• Level 1 Certificate in Childcare with Employability Skills

This course is designed to help you make a real difference in the first five years of a child’s life. We encourage people of all genders to apply, particularly men, to help diversify the sector workforce.

Programme Benefits

• Practical work placement providing real workplace experience
• Professional training tailored to local employer needs
• Development of key skills in childcare and employability
• Opportunity to positively impact your community
• Understanding child development to support children and families
• Potential for career progression and higher-level roles

Course Units

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills with ICT
• NCFE Level 1 Award in Caring for Children
• 3-Day Work Placement

Key Learning Areas

• Childcare Fundamentals: Explore child development and age-appropriate teaching methods
• Employability Skills: Build communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and professionalism

Key Dates

• Pre-Assessment: January 2026
• Course Start: February 2026
• Course End: March 2026
• Work Placement: March 2026
• Guaranteed Job Interview: Date to be confirmed

Career Path

After completing the programme, you can pursue entry-level roles in early years education, including:

• Nursery Assistant
• Nanny or Babysitter
• Playgroup Assistant
• Creche Assistant

Completion may also open doors to further study or higher-paying positions in the sector.

Entry Requirements

• No prior academic qualifications required
• Enthusiasm for working with children
• Commitment to professional development

Eligibility
Applicants must be aged 19 years+ (before 31 August 2024) and in receipt of UC, JSA, or ESA, and be able to commit to the times and duration of the course.

For more information, and to make a referral please call the Employment and Skills Team on 02037574350. Alternatively, you can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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TfL Activate is a 12-week programme designed for people aged 19+ in receipt of benefits*, with little or no work experience. Combining theory, practical learning, and bespoke TfL training, this programme helps you gain the confidence, skills, and workplace experience needed to progress in your career.

Why Join TfL Activate?

• Complete Business Administration, Customer Service, and Employability qualifications

• Take part in 4 weeks of work experience in customer-facing roles

• Receive tailored TfL training to build practical and technical skills

• Gain insight into job roles and career opportunities within TfL and the wider transport sector

Programme Benefits

• Hands-on work experience in a professional environment

• Development of transferable employability skills, including communication, problem-solving, and teamwork

• Exposure to a range of customer service roles and industry practices

• Increased confidence to overcome barriers to employment

• Opportunity to explore career progression within TfL or the transport sector

Placement Area Snapshots

Lost Property (East London)
Provide world-class customer service by managing the lifecycle of lost items across the TfL network. Work involves both front-of-house and behind-the-scenes tasks, including manual handling.

Visitor Centres (Pan London)
Be the first point of contact for millions of visitors, offering advice on tickets, travel, and services to ensure a positive visitor experience.

Customer Contact Centre (East London)
Deliver personalised support via multiple channels, resolving enquiries, complaints, and issues for transport users across London.

Pre-Programme Assessment

Programme recruitment includes a two-stage assessment process:

1. Stage 1: English, IT, and Maths diagnostic tests to confirm readiness for programme qualifications

2. Stage 2: Interactive assessment for successful Stage 1 candidates

Key Dates

• Initial assessment: To be confirmed

Eligibility and ID Requirements

Applicants must be aged 19+ and in receipt of JSA, ESA, or Universal Credit, and able to commit to the full 12-week programme

• They must provide:

  • JCP referral letter or UC payment printout (dated within last 3 months)

  • Valid UK/EU passport OR indefinite leave to remain/recourse to public funds for other passports

  • UK birth certificate

Referral process
For more information, and to make a referral please call the Employment and Skills Team on 02037574350. Alternatively, you can email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Please highlight any reasonable adjustment requirements during referral.

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Course Overview

This six-week programme is designed for learners interested in starting a career in the private security industry. Lewisham College offers the Level 2 Door Supervision qualification, including preparation for the essential SIA badge, providing a recognised route into employment in the security sector.

The course equips learners with the knowledge, practical skills and confidence required to work safely and professionally in security roles. It combines classroom-based learning with practical demonstrations, including conflict management and first aid techniques delivered under supervision.

Course Duration

Six weeks

• Start dates:
  • March 2026
  • April 2026
  • June 2026

Eligibility

Candidates must:

• Be aged 18 or over
• Be unemployed or economically inactive, or in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or Universal Credit
• Be able to commit to the full duration and scheduled times of the course

Qualifications Achieved

There are no optional units. Learners will complete:

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills
• Highfield Level 1 Award in Customer Service
• Highfield Entry Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work
• Pearson BTEC Level 2 Award for Working as a Door Supervisor in the Private Security Industry

Assessment

Assessment methods include written assignments, completed workbooks, observations, practical demonstrations of techniques, and online examinations.

Progression

There is currently no direct progression route attached to this programme. However, holding an SIA Door Supervisor licence is likely to increase employment opportunities and support career development within the security industry.

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This four‑week programme provides learners with core knowledge and practical skills in UK data protection and GDPR, business administration, employability, and operational support within an Exams Team environment.

Learners gain an understanding of compliant data handling, professional communication, administrative workflows, and the expectations of working with the Exams Team during key periods, including entry processing, timetable support, candidate data management, and results handling.

The course blends theory with practical application to prepare learners for real administrative and exams support responsibilities. The course aims to upskill candidates and provide employment to successful candidates.

Target Audience

• Individuals seeking entry‑level administrative, exams support, or customer‑service roles.
• Staff or learners who require GDPR awareness and practical administrative skills.

Entry Requirements

• Basic digital literacy and English at Entry Level 3/Level 1
• 19+ age group
• No prior experience in exams administration required
• In receipt of Universal Credit or another benefit

Duration and Delivery

• A four-week programme
• Delivered in‑person, hands-on experience

Programme Outcomes

By the end of the programme, learners will be able to:

• Explain the fundamentals of UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, and apply them in administrative and exams-related tasks.
• Handle candidate and learner data securely and responsibly following data minimisation, access‑control and retention rules.
• Support core business administration functions, including email management, record‑keeping, meeting support, and customer service.
• Work confidently alongside an Exams Team, supporting processes such as candidate registration, timetable preparation, rooming lists, secure handling of assessment documentation, and post‑results administration.
• Produce professional employability documents (CV, cover letter) and demonstrate confident interview and workplace communication skills.
• Develop a personal progression plan for employment or further study.

Unit breakdown

GDPR Foundations & Professional Conduct

Focus:

• Understanding data protection in administrative and exams‑related environments.

Covered Topics:

• Personal data, special category data, and common data processed by Exams Teams (candidate IDs, access arrangements, exams timetables).
• Data protection principles: lawfulness, fairness, transparency, minimisation, accuracy, confidentiality, accountability.
• Professional behaviour: confidentiality, impartiality in exams settings, secure verbal communication.

Practical Activities:

• Identifying personal data within mock exams entry forms.

Scenario practice:

• Responding professionally to enquiries about exams arrangements.

Applied GDPR, Records Management & Exams Processes

Focus:

• Applying GDPR to real administrative workflows.

Covered Topics:

• Lawful bases for processing learner/exams data.
• Secure storage and sharing of exams documents (e.g., candidate lists, access arrangements paperwork, seating plans).
• Retention schedules and secure disposal in an exams context.
• Subject Access Requests (SARs) and what this means for exams records.
• Communication protocols when sharing exams‑related information (timetables, results enquiries).

Practical Activities:

• Redacting candidate data from mock exams reports.
• Creating a secure process map for handling exams entry data from collection to submission.

Business Administration, Customer Service and Exams Support Skills

Focus:

• Administrative performance and providing operational support to the Exams Team.

Covered Topics:

• Task prioritisation during busy periods (e.g., exams entry deadlines, timetabling schedules).
• Email etiquette for responding to student, parent, and staff queries.
• Minute‑taking for pre‑exams briefings or admin meetings.
• Customer service techniques for handling exams‑related queries (access arrangements, timetable clashes, room locations).

Working with the Exams Team on:

• Exams entry processing and quality checking.
• Preparing candidate labels, registers, and ID checks.
• Organising files, seating plans, and attendance sheets.
• Logging issues or anomalies and escalating appropriately.

Practical Activities:

• Role‑play: resolving an exams‑day query via phone/email.
• Creating a mini workflow to support an exam series.

Employability, Professional Presentation and Exams‑Support Readiness

Focus:

• Job‑readiness and understanding the expectations of administrative/exams roles.

Covered Topics:

• Creating a high‑quality CV and cover letter tailored to administrative and exams‑support roles.
• Preparing for interviews: scenario questions for administration and exams roles (e.g., handling confidential documents, working to deadlines, managing busy periods).
• Professional behaviours during exams periods: punctuality, accuracy, communication, and data security.
• Personal skills audit and progression plan.

Practical Activities:

• Mock interviews with a focus on administrative and exams‑support competencies.
• Final portfolio compiling tasks completed across the programme.

Assessment Method

• Face to Face
• Literacy Paper
• Numeracy Paper

Progression Opportunities

• Work alongside Exams Teams in Lewisham College

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Course Overview

This six-week programme is designed to support learners aged 40 and over in building confidence and refreshing the skills needed to work in an office environment. The course focuses on developing practical business administration and customer service skills while strengthening employability and self-confidence.

Learners will gain a clearer understanding of their strengths, motivations and transferable skills, helping them expand their job search and consider opportunities within office-based roles.

Delivery is classroom-based.

Course Duration

• Six weeks
• Start dates:
  • March 2026
  • May 2026

Entry Requirements

You must be aged 18 or over and meet one of the following criteria:

• Unemployed
• Economically inactive
• In receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or Universal Credit
• Able to commit to the full duration and scheduled times of the course

Qualifications Achieved

There are no optional units. Learners will complete:

• Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills, NCFE
• Level 1 Award in Customer Service, Highfield
• Level 1 Award in Business Administration, BIIAB

Assessment

Assessment methods include:

• Written assignments
• Observations
• Group presentations

Progression

There is no direct progression route attached to this programme. The aim is to increase learner confidence and broaden job search opportunities, particularly within office-based and administrative roles.

Course Overview

Lewisham College is pleased to partner with LEYF to deliver a Sector-Based Work Academy Programme designed for those interested in working within the Early Years education and care sector.

This 35-day programme prepares learners for entry-level roles in Early Years settings. The course includes a three-day work placement and, upon successful completion, learners are guaranteed a job interview.

Course Duration

• 35 days
• Start dates:
  • April 2026
  • May 2026
  • June 2026

Entry Requirements

Your customer must:

• Be aged 19 or over before 31 August 2025
• Be in receipt of Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Employment and Support Allowance
• Be able to commit to the full duration and scheduled times of the course

Units and Qualifications

Learners will complete:

• NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills with ICT
• NCFE Level 1 Award in Caring for Children
• Three-day work placement

There are no optional units.

Progression

Successful completion of the programme leads to a guaranteed interview for roles within the Early Years education and care sector.