Free courses for jobs: Seven findings from early analysis of the scheme

Three quarters of learners on the government’s free courses for jobs (FCFJ) scheme would not have studied had it not been free, early analysis has found – with plenty of learners retraining for new careers.

The FCFJ scheme was established last year for learners aged 19 and upwards without a level 3 qualification or higher to achieve a recognised qualification for free.

It was extended to those who already hold a level 3 but earned below the national living wage, and those who are unemployed.