If you’ve been considering a career change, construction trades are an appealing option, offering job security and long-term prospects – we’ll always need skilled tradespeople.  

The ongoing demand that we’re currently seeing in the construction sector is creating new opportunities.  So, if you’ve been thinking about a new career, now could be the time. But if you’re already working full-time, how do you do it? What if there were flexible trades training options where you could learn from home with an online construction course while still receiving hands-on practical training and an industry qualification?

The answer: Able Skills home study courses.

Why home study is perfect for career changers

Many of us will automatically think of apprenticeships as a route into the trades. If you’re in your forties, working full-time, with a family and a mortgage to pay, it’s unlikely to be a viable path to your new career, as it typically means lower pay and years of training. Taking time out of your paid work to get qualified isn’t always possible either, with only five weeks' holiday each year. So, what is a viable option?

A home study construction course allows you to study towards your chosen qualification in your own time, around your current job.  They’re a flexible and affordable route into the trades without giving up your income, giving you the freedom to confidently move from one career to another.

  • Home study is for anyone interested in pursuing a new career in plumbing or electrical
  • A popular choice for career changers, as learning can fit in around current employment
  • Accessible and flexible route into a trade

How Able Skills home study courses work

At Able Skills, the home study courses are the same City & Guilds qualification that you’d do if you were in the centre on a full-time or part-time course. The difference is that all the theoretical side of the learning you get to do from home.

You can take as much time as you need to study this part of the course. You’ll be provided with one of our instructor-built training packs and City & Guilds learning materials – this includes access to the SmartScreen portal.

When you are ready, you contact us to book your time in the centre for your practical training, assessments and exams.

It offers a flexible alternative to a more rigid structure that’s typical of full-time or part-time construction courses, but you work towards the same qualification.

Start your new career today - home study electrical or plumbing?

Benefits of home study

  • Freedom and flexibility - no fixed start date, no fixed completion time. Fit studying in around your life, in your own time
  • Financial stability – budget on your terms, spread the course fees over the duration of your training
  • Career confidence – start your new career with confidence in your skills and qualifications

What our students say

“I have no prior experience but now feel fully confident to start my electrical career….If you've taken the time to go through the courseware, then the onsite training brings it all together.” (review via Trustpilot)

“Just finished my diploma 2365-03 Electrical Home study. It was a great experience.
I did some research before coming here and found my course more affordable than anywhere else. As soon I signed for course I got a folder with lots of study material a 2365-03 Text book and a plan for week 1, 2, 3.” (review via Trustpilot)

“I recently completed the Able Skills home study course in Level 2 & 3 Electrical Installation and the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. The course provided comprehensive study materials, including online videos and a learning portal, which were incredibly helpful whenever I got stuck.” (review via Trustpilot)

Home Study Courses at Able Skills

We offer home study courses in plumbing at level 2 and electrical installation at levels 2 and 3.

Take the first step today

Embarking on a new career is a big step. Start building your new career on your terms.

If you have any questions, let's chat. We recommend that you come down to visit the centre to see the facilities for yourself. If it’s not possible, our team are at the end of the phone or email.

Call 01322 280 202 or email hello@ableskills.co.uk to start your new construction career.