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Childcare & Early Education

Community Learning

We are so proud to have been a Derby based adult learning centre for so many years, fully supporting learning at all ages in the community.

All of the knowledge and skill-based courses that we supply at Derwent Stepping Stones are aimed at a variety of ages, abilities and stages of life within Derby and the surrounding area. From building business and digital skills to improving mental health awareness, we are open to all adults in Derby communities looking to further their education and interests.

Through our partners at Derby College, we have great resources available, and our newly refurbished IT suite is also a fantastic asset to adult learning. So, whether you are looking to refresh rusty skills or you’re excited to try something new, why not get in touch to sign up to one of our courses or just learn a little bit more about the adult learning opportunities we have available at the moment.  

Awareness of Mental Health - Level 2

This is a knowledge-based distance learning qualification. You will receive a nationally recognised Level 2 certificate.

Mental health is one of the greatest challenges to our society, with an estimated 450 million people worldwide suffering from a mental health problem. Around a quarter of British adults will experience some form of mental health problem within the course of a year. While many elements of mental health are still not understood, having a good knowledge of the information that is available is essential. You will develop your understanding of stress, anxiety, phobias, depression, post-natal depression, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, dementia, eating disorders, ADHD and OCD.

Counselling Skills - Level 2

This is a knowledge-based distance learning qualification. You will receive a nationally recognised Level 2 certificate.

Many people find it helpful to seek the support of counselling at some point in their lives. People in any situation could benefit from counselling; those with the correct understanding, knowledge and skills can provide them with support to improve their personal wellbeing. Content includes:

  • Diversity and ethics in the use of counselling skills
  • Introduction to counselling skills theories
  • Counselling skills and personal development
  • Using counselling skills

Creating a Business Start Up - Level 2

This is a distance learning knowledge course. You will receive a nationally recognised Level 2 certificate.

Over half a million businesses are started every year but 30% of these fail within the first two years. A better understanding of the initial processes and requirements of a business start-up can increase the chances of your business succeeding. This qualification will support you with the skills and knowledge you need to develop or start your own business. Content includes:

  • Initial steps for a business start-up
  • Marketing for a business start-up
  • Legal and financial considerations when starting a business
  • How to develop a business plan
DSS 1
DSS 2

Digital Skills for Work - Level 2

This is a distance learning knowledge course. You will receive a nationally recognised Level 2 certificate.

Digital skills are becoming increasingly more essential in the workplace, but 11.3 million UK adults are currently estimated to lack basic digital skills. This course enhances your competency in digital skills, supporting your current job role or giving you new opportunities for progression. Content includes:

  • Understand how to protect devices and data
  • Communicate socially and professionally using technology
  • Apply digital skills in personal and business situations
  • Use digital resources to facilitate career progression

Digital Skills - Level 1

This is a distance learning knowledge course. You will receive a nationally recognised Level 1 certificate.

This course allows students to gain understanding and to demonstrate competency in digital skills at Level 1. An android device or access to a tablet, laptop or computer is necessary to complete the course. An initial understanding and some experience with using a computer is an advantage. Contents include:

  • Using a computer
  • Finding and using information
  • Communication and collaboration online
  • Using word processing software

Community Volunteer Training Course

This is a distance learning knowledge course. You will receive a Derby College Group Certificate.

Volunteering can be a way of gaining new skills, knowledge and experience, developing existing skills and knowledge, enhancing a CV and improving one's employment prospects. This short course will help you gain the knowledge and skills required to be a volunteer in your local community. Contents include:

  • Food Hygiene
  • Food Allergens
  • Customer Service
  • Equality and Diversity
  • GDPR