Solihull College & University Centre is proud to be one of only 16 providers across the West Midlands to offer adult learners a new way of topping up their skills or completely retraining, with a more flexible finance system.
From September 2026, local people will be able to access student finance for shorter, flexible, bite-sized courses, known as “modules”, as well as traditional full university degrees.
The change is part of the Lifelong Learning Entitlement, as set out in the government’s Post-16 Education and Skills White Paper last year. Under the new system, people will be able to access relevant funding – per module – currently worth up to £39,160. This can be borrowed in small chunks making it easier to budget.
The funding of these new smaller courses mean people can gain qualifications over time, rather than completing a three-year full-time degree in one go.
Head of Higher Education at Solihull College & University Centre, Claudine Barnes, comments: “We are excited for the launch of the LLE, as it means learners no longer have to commit to full programmes if that doesn’t suit their lifestyle. People can study smaller, bite-sized credits that can stack to form full qualifications if they want – or they may just want to study 30 credits to upskill in their current role.
“This makes it easier for some people to balance work, life and home responsibilities, studying at a pace that suits them. Being able to access the funding to pay for smaller courses also removes barriers to education, as previously funding was only available for whole qualifications.
“Our first offering will be modules in Leadership and Management, ideally suited to those who want to progress their career in any sector. We do also offer the traditional route with university level courses at College, plus a variety of top up degrees with established universities.”
Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said: “Financial support should be available whether you want to do a degree, take a short course, or retrain later in life. Our changes will make that happen, with the option to access student finance in any stage of life.
“Whether it’s fitting study around a job, retraining for a completely new career, juggling childcare, or getting qualifications later in life, the new Lifelong Learning Entitlement will open up new opportunities for thousands more people to build the careers they want and get on in life.”
Applications for student finance will open in September 2026, for anyone starting courses or the new modules from January 2027.
