1349 Courses

Do you dream of starting a career in art, design or media? Are you interested in doing a creative Undergraduate or Postgraduate degree? Are you curious about studying art at University level but need a bit more experience, a confidence boost or want to immerse yourself in a few new creative techniques before you start your degree? Join us on our free two-week Making Change course. This course has been designed to prepare you to start university, alongside building a portfolio and gaining support for your application. You will get an art school experience, and during the course you will get the chance to meet the lecturers for the subjects you are interested in studying. You will learn how to work with different painting and printing techniques, test your skills as a fine artist, and get hands-on with materials, all while building a portfolio. This course has been designed to support you commencing your Undergraduate or Postgraduate studies with Arts University Plymouth in September 2025 or 2026. “Honestly, I can't believe the course was only three weeks long. The connections we all made were genuine, positive and have created a new opportunity for me that I have been trying to achieve for the past 20 years without success!” MAKING CHANGE STUDENT, MARCH 2022 What will I learn? During the course you will make, discuss and experiment with materials and ideas, whilst preparing for entry onto one of our Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses. You will be supported in making an application, and you will improve your knowledge of the higher education sector. Are you a mature student? Did you know that 31% of students at Arts University Plymouth are mature students? We pride ourselves on being a creative environment for all ages. As well as support in completing your application, you'll be given advice and tips on how to prepare your portfolio, as well as comprehensive student finance advice. Previous graduates of our Making Change courses have gone on to study at degree level on subjects including Fashion, Textiles, Fine Art, Craft and Material Practices and Painting, Drawing & Printmaking, and across our range of postgraduate courses. What are the entry requirements for this course? You don’t need to have a portfolio prepared - you just have to bring your enthusiasm and meet the following criteria: At the start of the course I am between the ages of 18 - 70, I'm eligible to work in the UK (i.e. I have a National Insurance number), I am interested in studying at Arts University Plymouth in September 2025 or 2026. I want to explore higher education opportunities at an undergraduate or postgraduate level, I am eligible for at least two years of student funding or I am looking at self-funding a Higher Education course,* I am able to attend all six sessions (see dates below). *More information on whether you are eligible for financial support can be found at www.gov.uk/student-finance/who-qualifies. If you are unsure if you are eligible, we can discuss this with you once you have applied. When does this course run? This course takes place on campus at Arts University Plymouth with sessions from 10am to 3:30pm, every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday from 4th - 13th June 2025.

FREE Certification:QLS Endorsed + CPD Accredited | Instant Access | Round-the-Clock Tutor Support | All-Inclusive Cost

QLS Endorsed + CPD QS Accredited | Instant Access | 24/7 Tutor Support | All-Inclusive Cost

FREE Certification: QLS Endorsed + CPD Accredited | Instant Access | Round-the-Clock Tutor Support | All-Inclusive Cost

This coaching programme is for aspiring women leaders in higher education, delivered in real time, fully online. Five workshops have been designed to support you in a group environment to work actively towards realising your professional goals, whatever they may look like, focused on leadership at all levels in higher education. HE needs leaders like you - workshops with Coach Academic will help to propel you to becoming one. For all academics who are female/identify as female. During this coaching experience you will explore and learn from: - your values and beliefs, and how they impact on your professional identity and actions - your beliefs about higher education, leadership, and yourself - your strengths and how to harness them for impact - your areas for development, and embracing the actions you choose to address these - your internal and external blockers, and how to manage these - your motivation - why do you want to lead in HE? From these you will be able to build your confidence and your leadership identity, and take concrete steps towards becoming the leader you aspire to be.

This coaching programme is for aspiring women leaders in higher education, delivered in real time, fully online. Five workshops have been designed to support you in a group environment to work actively towards realising your professional goals, whatever they may look like, focused on leadership at all levels in higher education. HE needs leaders like you - workshops with Coach Academic will help to propel you to becoming one. For all academics who are female/identify as female. During this coaching experience you will explore and learn from: - your values and beliefs, and how they impact on your professional identity and actions - your beliefs about higher education, leadership, and yourself - your strengths and how to harness them for impact - your areas for development, and embracing the actions you choose to address these - your internal and external blockers, and how to manage these - your motivation - why do you want to lead in HE? From these you will be able to build your confidence and your leadership identity, and take concrete steps towards becoming the leader you aspire to be.

Elite EA/PA Forum We are delighted to announce the Elite EA/PA Forum for the UK & Ireland will be on the 13th November 2025. Our workshop aims to: Enhance your influence and impact by mastering assertive communication, negotiation, and self-advocacy skills. Stay composed and solution-focused in high-pressure situations with practical tools for crisis management and clear decision-making. Embrace evolving technology by understanding how AI and automation can streamline your role and boost efficiency. Future-proof your career by building strategic value, resilience, and adaptability in an ever-changing professional landscape. Keynote Address with Q&A from the audience: What to expect from Sam's Keynote: With over 30 years supporting leaders at the highest levels, Sam Cohen brings a wealth of insight, experience, and stories (the kind she can share) to the stage. From 18 years serving within The Royal Household - including as Deputy Private Secretary and Press Secretary to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II - to working with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, running the Prime Minister’s Office at Downing Street, and serving as Chief of Staff to the global CEO of Rio Tinto, Sam’s career is a masterclass in discretion, diplomacy, and delivering at the top. In this exclusive keynote, Beyond the Role, Sam will explore how Executive Assistants don’t just support leaders - they shape leadership, drive strategy, and build legacy from behind the scenes. Join us for this rare opportunity to hear from someone who’s been at the epicentre of power - and bring your questions! The keynote will include a live Q&A, where you can ask Sam about her remarkable career, leadership insights, and how to truly excel in high-performance environments. (Don’t ask her what the Queen kept in her handbag - she’s not telling.) Sam Cohen Career Bio: Sam Cohen has spent the last 30 years working to support leaders in the public and private sectors. Sam spent 18 years serving The Royal Household, as Deputy Private Secretary to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Press Secretary to The Queen. Sam also served as Private Secretary to The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Following this time, Sam worked as Director of the Prime Minister’s Office at Downing Street under Boris Johnson and, most recently, was Chief of Staff to the global CEO at Rio Tinto. Source: ABC News - YouTube Channel. Facilitator - AM: Monika Turner The Confident Assistant - Speak Up, Go After What You Want & Create The Future You Deserve: Develop practical strategies to negotiate workload, boundaries, and career growth with confidence. Learn assertive communication techniques to handle challenging conversations effectively. Build self-advocacy skills to articulate your value and influence outcomes in the workplace. Monika Turner Career Bio: Monika Anna Turner is an ICF-certified Leadership and Executive coach with over seven years of experience helping professionals unlock their confidence, elevate their voice, and lead with authenticity. Before stepping into coaching, she built a successful career as a Personal Assistant, Executive Assistant, and ultimately Chief Of Staff —giving her a deep understanding of the unique challenges and strengths of support roles. Originally from Poland, Monika knows firsthand what it’s like to question your voice and your value—especially in a second language. Her journey from self-doubt to self-assurance informs everything she does today. Through her coaching, she empowers assistants and leaders alike to move beyond fear, speak up and create fulfilling careers they’re proud of. Panel Suzie Joughin Senior Executive Assistant at the Houses of Parliament Restoration & Renewal. Suzie is an experienced senior executive assistant, specialising in the public and third sectors.  Suzie’s career highlights include senior administrative roles in Cancer Research UK, the largest independent cancer research charity in the world; UK Research and Innovation, the UK’s national funding agency investing in science and research in the UK during the Covid-19 pandemic; and her current role on the Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal Programme.  Rebecca Polson Executive Support Manager to the Chief Executive An award-winning Executive Assistant with over 10 years’ experience across the higher education, charity, private, and public sectors. Currently Executive Support Manager to the Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Research UK, she provides high-level support in the fast-paced, mission-driven environment of the largest dementia research charity in the UK. Her previous roles include supporting senior leaders at the Natural History Museum, the Incorporated Society of Musicians, and the Royal College of Music. She brings expertise in executive support, governance, stakeholder engagement, and complex diary and project management. Named PA of the Year in 2023 and a finalist in the SecsintheCity PA of the Year Awards, she is known for her professionalism, discretion, and ability to stay ahead of the needs of the people and organisations she supports. Ola Boddington Senior Executive Assistant As a seasoned Executive Assistant, she has honed her skills in management and project planning over the years. She has worked with various organisations, including Zoa, Signal AI, and ConsenSys, where she provided high-level administrative support to senior executives. Her expertise lies in managing complex schedules, coordinating travel arrangements, and ensuring seamless communication among team members. She is also proficient in using various software tools to streamline workflows and enhance productivity. She is passionate about delivering exceptional service and contributing to the success of the teams she works with. Claudine Martin Senior Executive Assistant Claudine is a highly skilled Senior Executive Assistant, currently supporting the Head of BNY Pershing EMEA. With a distinguished career spanning nearly 17 years in the British Army, Claudine retired in 2023 at the rank of Staff Sergeant, bringing a wealth of experience in high-pressure environments and strategic operations to her current role. Throughout her military career, Claudine specialised in Human Resources, and served as the Personal Assistant to the Army Director of Engagement and Communication at the Ministry of Defence. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in the planning and execution of significant events and initiatives, showcasing her exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail. Her dedication and professionalism were recognised when she was awarded PA of the Year in 2019 by PA Life. An advocate for the Executive Assistant profession, Claudine is also a sought-after public speaker. She regularly shares her insights at industry events, including the PA Show, and serves as an advisory board member, contributing to the ongoing development and recognition of the profession. Claudine is passionate about empowering others and has previously mentored young people through the Diana Award, a programme established in honour of Princess Diana to support disadvantaged youth. Additionally, she has participated in Fast Forward 15, a mentoring initiative aimed at women aspiring to build careers in events, hospitality, or related industries. With her extensive experience, dedication to excellence, and commitment to mentorship, Claudine continues to make a significant impact in her field and inspire the next generation of leaders. She proudly represented the UK at the Invictus Games 2023, showcasing her unwavering determination and unwavering spirit. In her spare time, Claudine enjoys park run and writing poems. The Importance of Becoming a Strategic Advisor Learn how to shift from reactive to proactive. Develop the mindset and behaviours of a strategic advisor. Understand how to add value beyond your job description. Facilitator - PM: Justin Kabbani AI Is Not Here to Replace You. It's Here to Upgrade You. We'll explore Justin's proven 3P framework: Priming – How to set up AI like a strategic advisor by feeding it context, tone and mindset Prompting – How to craft clear, structured instructions to get consistently great results Producing – How to turn AI outputs into high-leverage work that makes you stand out Your session outcomes: Real examples from admin professionals already using AI to elevate their work Prompts you can copy, adapt, and test live Interactive exercises to build confidence fast A practical challenge to implement right after the session If you’ve been overwhelmed by AI, or underwhelmed by its impact, this session will change that. You'll leave with tools you can use today, and a mindset you’ll carry forward for the rest of your career. Justin Kabbani Career Bio: Justin Kabbani is one of Australia’s most in-demand AI trainers and keynote speakers, known for making AI feel simple, powerful, and immediately useful. He’s worked with brands like Uber, Treasury Wine Estates, and Udemy, helping their teams embed AI into daily workflows, strategic planning, and executive communication. Over the past two years, Justin has trained more than 2,000 professionals across Australia and beyond, consistently earning feedback like “mind-blowing,” and “game-changing”. His signature Prime, Prompt, Produce framework has transformed how business leaders, executive assistants, marketers, and teams think, work, and communicate with AI, without needing to be “tech people.” Justin believes AI isn’t here to replace people. It’s here to take the robotic work off our plate, so we can focus on what humans do best. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinkabbani/ Website: https://justinkabbani.com/ Speed Connections Networking Session Join us for Speed Connections, a lively 30-minute networking session designed to foster meaningful connections in a fun, fast-paced environment. Every 10 minutes, attendees will be placed into new breakout rooms with small groups, giving everyone the chance to meet a diverse range of peers. Each breakout session will feature engaging prompts to spark conversations and make networking enjoyable and memorable! Who will attend this event? Executive Assistant (EA) Personal Assistant (PA) Virtual Assistant (VA) Legal Secretary Legal Executive Assistant Administrative Assistant Office Manager Health Care Office Manager Chief of Staff Additional roles may be relevant depending on role responsibilities along with development opportunities. This workshop is open to females, male including trans women/males and non-binary professionals. Group Rate Discounts To discuss our group rates in more detail, please email support@elite-forums.com and provide the following: Group Number (How many would like to attend) Event Date (If numerous dates, please advise if we are splitting attendees across multiple dates) Attendee Contact details (Or request our Group Rate Document. Complete and return - we'll sort the rest.) Group discounts are on request - see below group rate discount brackets: 🧩 You just need one piece to come together - to unlock your Elite Potential. 🔑 Media outlets/organisations will not be permitted to attend this event.

FREE Certification:QLS Endorsed + CPD Accredited | Instant Access | Round-the-Clock Tutor Support | All-Inclusive Cost

The objective of the fast track Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies is to provide learners with a foundation to provide an entry route to UK and international university courses. It is designed to ensure that each learner is equipped with knowledge of study skills, mathematics, computing, society and culture, business and accounting, providing the knowledge and skills to adapt rapidly to change and progress with their learning. Successful completion of the fast track Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies provides learners with the opportunity to progress to further study or employment. Key Highlights of Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies - Level 3 (Fast track mode) Program Duration: 6 Months (Regular duration of 9 months also available) Program Credits: 120 Designed for working Professionals Format: Online No Written Exam. The Assessment is done via Submission of Assignment Tutor Assist available Dedicated Student Success Manager Timely Doubt Resolution Regular Networking Events with Industry Professionals Direct entry into Year 1 of a three-year UK Bachelor's degree LSBR Alumni Status No Cost EMI Option Who is this course for? Open Entry. No formal qualification is required Career path After completion of this course qualification will meet the University standard academic entry requirements. However, each applicant will be subject to individual assessment and other entry requirements which may affect university entry. University of Sunderland, UK Progress to all Undergraduate courses within the Faculty of Business, Law and Tourism Certificates Certificate of Achievement Digital certificate - Included Othm courses: Once you complete the course, you would be receiving a digital copy of your Diploma along with its Transcript which can be downloaded from the awarding body website without any additional charge. You can also order Hard copy certificate by paying a nominal cost directly to the awarding body.

QLS Endorsed + CPD QS Accredited - Dual Certification | Instant Access | 24/7 Tutor Support | All-Inclusive Cost