Building an Excel spreadsheet model that forecast profits and cash flows across a regular series of future dates is a common requirement for the financial analyst and professional modeller. Modellers undertaking such assignments require sound commercial and accounting knowledge, and need to make important design and construction decisions in relation to their models. Modellers using the FAST Standard will have made the task considerably easier for themselves by following a standard approach that is recognised by others. Financial Statement Modelling reminds you of the basic construction and design skills you need and applies them to the complexities that arise from a case study - in this instance the acquisition of a concession to run an airport over a 30 year period. The financial statements - income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement - form the core content around which the course fits. In addition, you will cover valuation techniques, sensitivities and scenario managers. On completing the course and its assessments, you will be in a position to start building models that are FAST compliant and meet all the requirements of a financial statement forecast model. Videos are ordered in such a way as to build up your learning in layers. By all means ignore the videos where you have the knowledge already. Here is a quick guide to the different categories: QUICK REMINDERS - knowledge that you should have picked up from our introductory courses. Quick Reminder videos are there just in case you need them. HOW TO - knowledge that is specific to Excel and - in particular - Excel functions. How To videos are there to build up your spreadsheet engineering abilities. ROUGH WORK - knowledge that is specific to the case study being modelled. In Rough Work videos look out for heavy use of placeholders and template coding. CASE STUDY - in Case Study videos, an experienced FAST modeller will model the case study solution. There is no audio accompaniment to Case Study videos. ANALYSIS - knowledge that is specific to reviewing models and obtaining insight. In Analysis videos expect lots of charting and lots of talking. To get started, please work through Excel Proficiency Skills and then Model Construction Skills if you are new to F1F9 training. Then you'll be ready to start the Financial Statement Modelling sub-courses. Do remember we're here to support you - you can use the "Discuss" tab to post in the forums, the "Feedback" button to send us questions, or simply email us at support@f1f9.com.
Producing well-structured and coherent academic papers is a crucial skill for students at all levels. Whether writing essays, term papers, or research assignments, understanding the essential principles of academic writing helps in presenting ideas clearly and persuasively. Strong writing skills not only improve grades but also enhance critical thinking and communication abilities. One of the first steps in crafting a high-quality paper is selecting a strong topic. When given the freedom to choose, students should focus on subjects that genuinely interest them while ensuring there is sufficient research material available. Exploring analytical research paper topics can be a useful approach, as these require students to evaluate, interpret, and provide evidence-based arguments. Choosing a topic with depth allows for a more comprehensive analysis and makes the writing process more engaging. Once a topic is established, conducting thorough research is essential. Gathering information from reputable sources such as scholarly journals, books, and academic databases helps strengthen arguments. Organizing research notes efficiently prevents last-minute scrambling for sources and ensures proper citation of references, which is vital for maintaining academic integrity. Keeping track of key points during research also helps in structuring the paper effectively. A well-defined thesis statement is the foundation of any strong academic paper. This statement should clearly express the main argument or perspective of the work and provide direction for the entire essay. A precise and arguable thesis helps keep the content focused and ensures that every paragraph contributes to supporting the central claim. Without a solid thesis, papers may lack cohesion and appear unfocused. Structuring the paper effectively is another crucial aspect of academic writing. A logical arrangement of ideas enhances readability and allows readers to follow arguments easily. Standard academic papers typically follow an introduction-body-conclusion format. The introduction should present background information and introduce the thesis, while body paragraphs should each focus on a single supporting point, providing evidence and analysis. The final section should reinforce key arguments and leave a lasting impression on the reader. Time management plays a significant role in producing high-quality academic work. Many students struggle with deadlines, often resulting in rushed assignments that lack depth and clarity. Breaking the writing process into manageable steps—such as brainstorming, researching, outlining, drafting, and revising—allows for a more structured and less stressful approach. Planning ahead also ensures there is enough time to refine arguments and improve the overall presentation. Careful editing and proofreading are essential to producing polished work. After completing the first draft, students should review their writing for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy. Reading the paper aloud can help identify awkward phrasing and inconsistencies. Additionally, seeking feedback from peers, professors, or even using a review essay writing service can provide valuable insights for improvement. Tools like grammar checkers and plagiarism detectors can further enhance the final version before submission. Mastering academic writing requires consistent practice and attention to detail. By focusing on topic selection, thorough research, logical structuring, and careful revision, students can develop their writing skills and create compelling, well-argued papers that stand out in any academic setting.
Course Duration: Half-day or full-day program (with virtual and in-person options) Target Audience: Professionals working remotely, hybrid teams, managers, HR leaders, and individuals looking to improve their work-life integration in today’s fast-paced, digital-first work environment. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the concept of work-life integration versus work-life balance. Recognise the challenges and benefits of working remotely or in hybrid settings. Learn practical strategies for managing boundaries, time, and energy. Cultivate habits that support both productivity and personal well-being. Apply tools to foster sustainable work-life integration in their teams and organisations. Course Outline Module 1: Rethinking Work-Life Integration The difference between work-life balance and work-life integration The challenges of work-life boundaries in a remote-first world The impact of technology on personal and professional lives Why flexibility matters: remote work as a tool for integration, not separation Module 2: Understanding Your Energy and Time Identifying personal energy patterns throughout the day Time audit: understanding how you currently allocate time and energy The role of breaks, boundaries, and rituals in energy management Tools for task prioritisation: Pomodoro, time blocking, and task batching Module 3: Managing Boundaries in a Digital World Setting and communicating clear boundaries for work and personal time Managing "always-on" culture in a remote environment Tools for setting expectations with colleagues and managers Creating a dedicated workspace and establishing personal rituals Saying no effectively: how to manage overcommitment and avoid burnout Module 4: Navigating Flexibility and Productivity The benefits and challenges of flexible working hours Time management strategies for remote and hybrid work settings Overcoming distractions: creating a productive work environment at home Staying focused and motivated without the physical office Managing work interruptions and creating space for personal time Module 5: Well-Being in Remote and Hybrid Work Importance of self-care and mental health in work-life integration Strategies for staying physically active, social, and mentally engaged remotely Building habits for sleep, mindfulness, and recovery Setting clear personal and professional goals to stay aligned with values Techniques for managing stress and avoiding burnout in a remote environment Module 6: Building a Remote-First Culture Leading with empathy: supporting remote teams’ well-being Fostering communication, trust, and accountability in hybrid teams Encouraging regular check-ins, feedback loops, and work-life check-ups Building a culture of flexibility and autonomy while maintaining performance Best practices for team collaboration and social connection in remote environments Module 7: Action Planning for Sustainable Integration Developing a personalised work-life integration plan Identifying areas of improvement: time, energy, boundaries, and well-being Setting achievable goals for short-term and long-term work-life integration Peer sharing: tips and strategies that have worked for you Building accountability structures: partners, progress tracking, and revisiting goals Delivery Style Highly interactive, with a mix of discussions, reflection exercises, and case studies Practical tools, tips, and templates that participants can apply immediately Group activities to share experiences and learn from peers Guided self-reflection and action planning for immediate impact Course Materials Provided Work-Life Integration Guide Time Audit Worksheet and Energy Mapping Tools Setting Boundaries Framework and Template Remote Work Well-Being Checklist Personal Action Plan for Sustainable Integration Resource list: Apps, podcasts, and books on work-life integration Optional Add-ons Post-course coaching or check-in sessions Customised team workshop focused on hybrid work challenges Leadership session on managing remote-first teams effectively Follow-up webinars on remote collaboration and staying connected
Course Duration: Half-day or full-day program (with virtual and in-person options) Target Audience: Professionals working remotely, hybrid teams, managers, HR leaders, and individuals looking to improve their work-life integration in today’s fast-paced, digital-first work environment. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the concept of work-life integration versus work-life balance. Recognise the challenges and benefits of working remotely or in hybrid settings. Learn practical strategies for managing boundaries, time, and energy. Cultivate habits that support both productivity and personal well-being. Apply tools to foster sustainable work-life integration in their teams and organisations. Course Outline Module 1: Rethinking Work-Life Integration The difference between work-life balance and work-life integration The challenges of work-life boundaries in a remote-first world The impact of technology on personal and professional lives Why flexibility matters: remote work as a tool for integration, not separation Module 2: Understanding Your Energy and Time Identifying personal energy patterns throughout the day Time audit: understanding how you currently allocate time and energy The role of breaks, boundaries, and rituals in energy management Tools for task prioritisation: Pomodoro, time blocking, and task batching Module 3: Managing Boundaries in a Digital World Setting and communicating clear boundaries for work and personal time Managing "always-on" culture in a remote environment Tools for setting expectations with colleagues and managers Creating a dedicated workspace and establishing personal rituals Saying no effectively: how to manage overcommitment and avoid burnout Module 4: Navigating Flexibility and Productivity The benefits and challenges of flexible working hours Time management strategies for remote and hybrid work settings Overcoming distractions: creating a productive work environment at home Staying focused and motivated without the physical office Managing work interruptions and creating space for personal time Module 5: Well-Being in Remote and Hybrid Work Importance of self-care and mental health in work-life integration Strategies for staying physically active, social, and mentally engaged remotely Building habits for sleep, mindfulness, and recovery Setting clear personal and professional goals to stay aligned with values Techniques for managing stress and avoiding burnout in a remote environment Module 6: Building a Remote-First Culture Leading with empathy: supporting remote teams’ well-being Fostering communication, trust, and accountability in hybrid teams Encouraging regular check-ins, feedback loops, and work-life check-ups Building a culture of flexibility and autonomy while maintaining performance Best practices for team collaboration and social connection in remote environments Module 7: Action Planning for Sustainable Integration Developing a personalised work-life integration plan Identifying areas of improvement: time, energy, boundaries, and well-being Setting achievable goals for short-term and long-term work-life integration Peer sharing: tips and strategies that have worked for you Building accountability structures: partners, progress tracking, and revisiting goals Delivery Style Highly interactive, with a mix of discussions, reflection exercises, and case studies Practical tools, tips, and templates that participants can apply immediately Group activities to share experiences and learn from peers Guided self-reflection and action planning for immediate impact Course Materials Provided Work-Life Integration Guide Time Audit Worksheet and Energy Mapping Tools Setting Boundaries Framework and Template Remote Work Well-Being Checklist Personal Action Plan for Sustainable Integration Resource list: Apps, podcasts, and books on work-life integration Optional Add-ons Post-course coaching or check-in sessions Customised team workshop focused on hybrid work challenges Leadership session on managing remote-first teams effectively Follow-up webinars on remote collaboration and staying connected
Course Duration: Half-day or full-day program (with virtual and in-person options) Target Audience: Professionals working remotely, hybrid teams, managers, HR leaders, and individuals looking to improve their work-life integration in today’s fast-paced, digital-first work environment. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Understand the concept of work-life integration versus work-life balance. Recognise the challenges and benefits of working remotely or in hybrid settings. Learn practical strategies for managing boundaries, time, and energy. Cultivate habits that support both productivity and personal well-being. Apply tools to foster sustainable work-life integration in their teams and organisations. Course Outline Module 1: Rethinking Work-Life Integration The difference between work-life balance and work-life integration The challenges of work-life boundaries in a remote-first world The impact of technology on personal and professional lives Why flexibility matters: remote work as a tool for integration, not separation Module 2: Understanding Your Energy and Time Identifying personal energy patterns throughout the day Time audit: understanding how you currently allocate time and energy The role of breaks, boundaries, and rituals in energy management Tools for task prioritisation: Pomodoro, time blocking, and task batching Module 3: Managing Boundaries in a Digital World Setting and communicating clear boundaries for work and personal time Managing "always-on" culture in a remote environment Tools for setting expectations with colleagues and managers Creating a dedicated workspace and establishing personal rituals Saying no effectively: how to manage overcommitment and avoid burnout Module 4: Navigating Flexibility and Productivity The benefits and challenges of flexible working hours Time management strategies for remote and hybrid work settings Overcoming distractions: creating a productive work environment at home Staying focused and motivated without the physical office Managing work interruptions and creating space for personal time Module 5: Well-Being in Remote and Hybrid Work Importance of self-care and mental health in work-life integration Strategies for staying physically active, social, and mentally engaged remotely Building habits for sleep, mindfulness, and recovery Setting clear personal and professional goals to stay aligned with values Techniques for managing stress and avoiding burnout in a remote environment Module 6: Building a Remote-First Culture Leading with empathy: supporting remote teams’ well-being Fostering communication, trust, and accountability in hybrid teams Encouraging regular check-ins, feedback loops, and work-life check-ups Building a culture of flexibility and autonomy while maintaining performance Best practices for team collaboration and social connection in remote environments Module 7: Action Planning for Sustainable Integration Developing a personalised work-life integration plan Identifying areas of improvement: time, energy, boundaries, and well-being Setting achievable goals for short-term and long-term work-life integration Peer sharing: tips and strategies that have worked for you Building accountability structures: partners, progress tracking, and revisiting goals Delivery Style Highly interactive, with a mix of discussions, reflection exercises, and case studies Practical tools, tips, and templates that participants can apply immediately Group activities to share experiences and learn from peers Guided self-reflection and action planning for immediate impact Course Materials Provided Work-Life Integration Guide Time Audit Worksheet and Energy Mapping Tools Setting Boundaries Framework and Template Remote Work Well-Being Checklist Personal Action Plan for Sustainable Integration Resource list: Apps, podcasts, and books on work-life integration Optional Add-ons Post-course coaching or check-in sessions Customised team workshop focused on hybrid work challenges Leadership session on managing remote-first teams effectively Follow-up webinars on remote collaboration and staying connected
This seminar supports you to implement ideas from the Six Stages Framework. It is designed for those who are reading or have read my book Understanding and Dealing with Everyday Racism- The Six Stages Framework
Course Duration: Half-day or full-day program (with options for virtual delivery) Target Audience: Professionals, managers, leaders, and HR teams looking to build resilience, manage stress effectively, and prevent burnout in today’s always-on, high-pressure work environment. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Recognise the signs and symptoms of stress and burnout. Understand the impact of chronic stress on health, performance, and well-being. Learn effective strategies for stress management and emotional regulation. Identify personal and workplace practices that reduce the risk of burnout. Develop a personal action plan for building resilience and maintaining well-being. Course Outline Module 1: Understanding Stress and Burnout What is stress? Types of stress (acute, chronic, eustress, distress) Defining burnout: symptoms, causes, and long-term effects The impact of a 24/7 world on mental health and performance How stress and burnout affect physical health, cognition, and relationships The role of work culture, technology, and societal expectations in stress Module 2: The Physiology of Stress and Burnout Understanding the body's stress response: fight or flight, cortisol, and adrenaline The effects of prolonged stress on the nervous system and health How burnout manifests in the brain and body The difference between stress and burnout: a deeper dive into emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and reduced personal accomplishment Module 3: Identifying Personal Stress Triggers and Early Warning Signs Conducting a stress audit: when and where does stress show up? Personal stress triggers: how work, environment, and relationships contribute Warning signs of burnout: physical, emotional, and behavioural red flags Self-assessment: Are you at risk of burnout? Understanding your personal stress responses and coping mechanisms Module 4: Effective Stress Management Techniques Mindfulness and relaxation practices: breathing exercises, meditation, and guided imagery Cognitive reframing: challenging negative thoughts and building resilience Time management and prioritisation: setting boundaries, saying no, and avoiding overwhelm Progressive muscle relaxation: tension release for mind and body Movement and exercise: how physical activity reduces stress Sleep hygiene: strategies for better rest and recovery Module 5: Building Resilience and Preventing Burnout The concept of resilience: bouncing back and growing stronger from adversity Strategies for emotional regulation: staying calm under pressure The role of social support: leaning on peers, mentors, and family Building psychological flexibility: accepting what we can’t change and focusing on what we can Creating work-life boundaries in a 24/7 world: disconnecting from work and technology Cultivating gratitude, positive psychology, and self-compassion in daily life Module 6: Creating a Sustainable Work Culture How leaders can foster a culture of well-being and prevent burnout Encouraging breaks, time off, and restorative work habits Organisational practices that support mental health: workload management, flexibility, and support resources Role of HR and leadership in promoting a healthy work-life balance The importance of feedback, recognition, and regular check-ins to prevent stress escalation Module 7: Personal Action Plan for Stress Management and Burnout Prevention Reflecting on key learnings and takeaways Developing a personal stress management toolkit Building a balanced daily routine that integrates self-care practices Creating a self-care action plan for the next 30 days Accountability partners and follow-up strategies to track progress Final thoughts: Small changes for big impact Delivery Style Interactive and experiential with a mix of individual reflection, small group discussions, and practical exercises Case studies and real-life examples to illustrate stress management strategies Guided relaxation techniques and mindfulness practices Personal assessments and action planning for immediate application Course Materials Provided Stress Management Handbook Personal Stress Audit Worksheet Relaxation and Breathing Exercise Guide Resilience Building Tools and Templates Self-Care Action Plan Template Resource list: Apps, podcasts, and books for stress management Optional Add-ons One-on-one coaching or follow-up sessions to discuss personal stress management strategies Leadership or team coaching to create a stress-resilient culture A series of wellness webinars focused on specific stress-management tools (e.g., sleep hygiene, mindfulness, movement, etc.) Ongoing email support or resource sharing to reinforce learning
Course Duration: Half-day or full-day program (with options for virtual delivery) Target Audience: Professionals, managers, leaders, and HR teams looking to build resilience, manage stress effectively, and prevent burnout in today’s always-on, high-pressure work environment. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Recognise the signs and symptoms of stress and burnout. Understand the impact of chronic stress on health, performance, and well-being. Learn effective strategies for stress management and emotional regulation. Identify personal and workplace practices that reduce the risk of burnout. Develop a personal action plan for building resilience and maintaining well-being. Course Outline Module 1: Understanding Stress and Burnout What is stress? Types of stress (acute, chronic, eustress, distress) Defining burnout: symptoms, causes, and long-term effects The impact of a 24/7 world on mental health and performance How stress and burnout affect physical health, cognition, and relationships The role of work culture, technology, and societal expectations in stress Module 2: The Physiology of Stress and Burnout Understanding the body's stress response: fight or flight, cortisol, and adrenaline The effects of prolonged stress on the nervous system and health How burnout manifests in the brain and body The difference between stress and burnout: a deeper dive into emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and reduced personal accomplishment Module 3: Identifying Personal Stress Triggers and Early Warning Signs Conducting a stress audit: when and where does stress show up? Personal stress triggers: how work, environment, and relationships contribute Warning signs of burnout: physical, emotional, and behavioural red flags Self-assessment: Are you at risk of burnout? Understanding your personal stress responses and coping mechanisms Module 4: Effective Stress Management Techniques Mindfulness and relaxation practices: breathing exercises, meditation, and guided imagery Cognitive reframing: challenging negative thoughts and building resilience Time management and prioritisation: setting boundaries, saying no, and avoiding overwhelm Progressive muscle relaxation: tension release for mind and body Movement and exercise: how physical activity reduces stress Sleep hygiene: strategies for better rest and recovery Module 5: Building Resilience and Preventing Burnout The concept of resilience: bouncing back and growing stronger from adversity Strategies for emotional regulation: staying calm under pressure The role of social support: leaning on peers, mentors, and family Building psychological flexibility: accepting what we can’t change and focusing on what we can Creating work-life boundaries in a 24/7 world: disconnecting from work and technology Cultivating gratitude, positive psychology, and self-compassion in daily life Module 6: Creating a Sustainable Work Culture How leaders can foster a culture of well-being and prevent burnout Encouraging breaks, time off, and restorative work habits Organisational practices that support mental health: workload management, flexibility, and support resources Role of HR and leadership in promoting a healthy work-life balance The importance of feedback, recognition, and regular check-ins to prevent stress escalation Module 7: Personal Action Plan for Stress Management and Burnout Prevention Reflecting on key learnings and takeaways Developing a personal stress management toolkit Building a balanced daily routine that integrates self-care practices Creating a self-care action plan for the next 30 days Accountability partners and follow-up strategies to track progress Final thoughts: Small changes for big impact Delivery Style Interactive and experiential with a mix of individual reflection, small group discussions, and practical exercises Case studies and real-life examples to illustrate stress management strategies Guided relaxation techniques and mindfulness practices Personal assessments and action planning for immediate application Course Materials Provided Stress Management Handbook Personal Stress Audit Worksheet Relaxation and Breathing Exercise Guide Resilience Building Tools and Templates Self-Care Action Plan Template Resource list: Apps, podcasts, and books for stress management Optional Add-ons One-on-one coaching or follow-up sessions to discuss personal stress management strategies Leadership or team coaching to create a stress-resilient culture A series of wellness webinars focused on specific stress-management tools (e.g., sleep hygiene, mindfulness, movement, etc.) Ongoing email support or resource sharing to reinforce learning
Course Duration: Half-day or full-day program (with options for virtual delivery) Target Audience: Professionals, managers, leaders, and HR teams looking to build resilience, manage stress effectively, and prevent burnout in today’s always-on, high-pressure work environment. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Recognise the signs and symptoms of stress and burnout. Understand the impact of chronic stress on health, performance, and well-being. Learn effective strategies for stress management and emotional regulation. Identify personal and workplace practices that reduce the risk of burnout. Develop a personal action plan for building resilience and maintaining well-being. Course Outline Module 1: Understanding Stress and Burnout What is stress? Types of stress (acute, chronic, eustress, distress) Defining burnout: symptoms, causes, and long-term effects The impact of a 24/7 world on mental health and performance How stress and burnout affect physical health, cognition, and relationships The role of work culture, technology, and societal expectations in stress Module 2: The Physiology of Stress and Burnout Understanding the body's stress response: fight or flight, cortisol, and adrenaline The effects of prolonged stress on the nervous system and health How burnout manifests in the brain and body The difference between stress and burnout: a deeper dive into emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and reduced personal accomplishment Module 3: Identifying Personal Stress Triggers and Early Warning Signs Conducting a stress audit: when and where does stress show up? Personal stress triggers: how work, environment, and relationships contribute Warning signs of burnout: physical, emotional, and behavioural red flags Self-assessment: Are you at risk of burnout? Understanding your personal stress responses and coping mechanisms Module 4: Effective Stress Management Techniques Mindfulness and relaxation practices: breathing exercises, meditation, and guided imagery Cognitive reframing: challenging negative thoughts and building resilience Time management and prioritisation: setting boundaries, saying no, and avoiding overwhelm Progressive muscle relaxation: tension release for mind and body Movement and exercise: how physical activity reduces stress Sleep hygiene: strategies for better rest and recovery Module 5: Building Resilience and Preventing Burnout The concept of resilience: bouncing back and growing stronger from adversity Strategies for emotional regulation: staying calm under pressure The role of social support: leaning on peers, mentors, and family Building psychological flexibility: accepting what we can’t change and focusing on what we can Creating work-life boundaries in a 24/7 world: disconnecting from work and technology Cultivating gratitude, positive psychology, and self-compassion in daily life Module 6: Creating a Sustainable Work Culture How leaders can foster a culture of well-being and prevent burnout Encouraging breaks, time off, and restorative work habits Organisational practices that support mental health: workload management, flexibility, and support resources Role of HR and leadership in promoting a healthy work-life balance The importance of feedback, recognition, and regular check-ins to prevent stress escalation Module 7: Personal Action Plan for Stress Management and Burnout Prevention Reflecting on key learnings and takeaways Developing a personal stress management toolkit Building a balanced daily routine that integrates self-care practices Creating a self-care action plan for the next 30 days Accountability partners and follow-up strategies to track progress Final thoughts: Small changes for big impact Delivery Style Interactive and experiential with a mix of individual reflection, small group discussions, and practical exercises Case studies and real-life examples to illustrate stress management strategies Guided relaxation techniques and mindfulness practices Personal assessments and action planning for immediate application Course Materials Provided Stress Management Handbook Personal Stress Audit Worksheet Relaxation and Breathing Exercise Guide Resilience Building Tools and Templates Self-Care Action Plan Template Resource list: Apps, podcasts, and books for stress management Optional Add-ons One-on-one coaching or follow-up sessions to discuss personal stress management strategies Leadership or team coaching to create a stress-resilient culture A series of wellness webinars focused on specific stress-management tools (e.g., sleep hygiene, mindfulness, movement, etc.) Ongoing email support or resource sharing to reinforce learning
Are you an aspiring actor, a seasoned professional, or simply someone curious about the world of acting? The Actors Café invites you to our Taster Class, the perfect introduction to our dynamic and comprehensive training programs. Whether you’re new to the craft or looking to refine your skills, this session offers a unique opportunity to explore what we have to offer before committing to regular classes.