Thinking about self-employment

Overview

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to work for yourself? Perhaps you have a business idea, a skill you could share, or you simply want to explore whether self-employment could be right for you. This friendly taster session will help you take that first step, build your confidence and find out what turning an idea into action could look like.

You will explore what self-employment means and think about the skills, qualities and confidence you may need to get started. You will look at and consider what you would like to do as a business and why you think you would be good at it and the rewards and challenges of running your own business. This can help you to decide whether this could be the right path for you.

You will learn in a relaxed session through tutor input, discussion and practical activities. You will have the chance to share ideas, ask questions and use worksheets to help you think through your next steps.

Entry requirements

This course is free for adults aged 19 and over who are interested in finding out more about self-employment.

Assessment criteria

There is no formal exam or test. You will complete an Individual Learning Plan, which will help you and your tutor see what you have learned and reflect on your progress during the session.

What do I need?

You will need a laptop or computer and good wifi to be able to do join this course. This course cannot be completed on a mobile phone.

You may also find it useful to have a pen, pencil or notebook so you can write down your ideas.

What can I do next?

After this workshop, you may choose to continue your journey with Learn Devon’s Preparing for Self-employment course. You may also be interested in the Devon Business Support programme, delivered by Devon County Council, which offers bespoke advice, workshops, networking, mentoring support and guidance around start-up grant opportunities.

Funding information

We provide Tailored learning opportunities on behalf of the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority (DTCCA) who fund this learning and have to collect personal data for government monitoring of funding. You must live in Devon and have been normally resident in the UK for the past 3 years and have a legal right to receive this funding. We normally provided these courses free of charge, but if a fee is charged to you as a learner or your employer then we only receive half the funding from the DTCCA.