Training

First Class Support provides comprehensive accredited training to individuals, businesses and academic institutions across the UK either in-person or remotely. The training that we currently offer is listed below:

Sighted Guide

Our accredited Sighted Guide training has been specifically developed to allow those acting as Sighted Guides to gain an in-depth understanding of how to safely and appropriately guide visually impaired individuals from one location to another. This course is provided free of charge to all FCS staff who are required to work in a Sighted Guide capacity. The training typically takes 3 hours to complete and is only accessed online. Key elements within this training will include:

  • The role and purpose of a Sighted Guide
  • Safe Sighted Guide techniques
  • Implementing Sighted Guide practice
  • Online Assessment (80% Needed to Pass)

All learners will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the training and will be able to act as a sighted guide in an NMH capacity.

There is a cost of £79.00 + VAT to purchase this course.

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Specialist Notetaking

Our accredited Specialist Notetaking training has been approved by the Department for Education (DfE) and is CPD accredited, enabling notetakers to provide Specialist Notetaking support to disabled students in receipt of Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA).

The training is delivered fully online and typically takes approximately 4 hours to complete. Key areas covered include:

  • Understanding the role and responsibilities of a Specialist Notetaker
  • Identifying and adapting support to meet individual student needs
  • Understanding the impact of visual and hearing impairments on learning
  • Working professionally, including confidentiality and boundaries
  • Applying effective notetaking strategies and methods
  • Producing clear, accurate, and accessible notes throughout the support process

The course includes assessments throughout, with a minimum pass mark of 80% required to successfully complete the training. All learners will receive a certificate on successfully passing the training and will be able to perform specialist notetaking work in a NMH capacity.

There is a cost of £299 + VAT per learner to purchase this course.

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Disability Awareness

Our accredited Disability Awareness training will; help develop an understanding of how to be more inclusive of disabled people. This is achieved by becoming confident and knowledgeable about the barriers that disabled people face and by developing skills to find solutions to these barriers. Our accredited disability awareness training is designed specifically for businesses within all sectors and academic institutions. The training typically lasts half a day. Key elements within this training can include:

  • Causes of Anxiety and Depression
  • Mental Health at Work
  • Addressing Mental Health
  • Autistic Spectrum Disorder
  • Specific Learning Difficulties
  • Physical Disabilities at Work
  • Chronic Illness
  • Sensory Impairment

All learners will receive a certificate on successfully completing the training and will be offered further training annually, to rebuild on their existing knowledge.

There is a cost of £49.95 + VAT per learner, with a minimum number of six learners needed for this course.

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Mental Health Awareness

Our accredited Mental Health Awareness training has been specifically developed to increase understanding of the effect that Mental Health can have on an individual, both within education and in the workplace. This training includes guidance on how to assist individuals in managing their mental health, how to reach out to colleagues/students who may be in distress and explains different Mental Health diagnoses. The overall purpose of this training is to educate individuals to understand Mental Health and know how and when to act. The training typically lasts half a day and can include bespoke elements on request. Key elements within this training will include:

  • Mental Health Diagnoses (eg. Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, etc)
  • Coping with Stress at Work
  • Dispelling Mental Health Myths
  • Active Listening
  • Auto-Immune Disorders and Mental Health
  • Helping Someone in Distress 
  • Managing Feelings

All learners will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the training and will be offered further training annually, to rebuild on their existing knowledge.

There is a cost of £66.00 + VAT per learner, with a minimum number of six learners needed for this course.

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Safeguarding Children with Disabilities

Our accredited Safeguarding Children with Disabilities training will help people understand more about the impact that disabilities can have on the day to functioning and future of children and their families. This training typically lasts half a day and can include bespoke elements on request. Key elements within this training will include:

  • The Importance Safeguarding Children with Disabilities.
  • Current Legislation, Guidance and Context.
  • Understanding the Social Model of Disability.
  • Identifying why Disabled Children are More Likely to be Abused.
  • Understanding the Signs and Indicators of Abuse.
  • How to Respond Appropriately to Concern.
  • Working in Partnership with Parents.
  • Understanding the Vulnerability of Children with Disabilities

All learners will receive a certificate on successfully completing the training and will be offered further training annually, to rebuild on their existing knowledge.

There is a cost of £66.00 + VAT per learner, with a minimum number of six learners needed for this course.

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Effective Management

Our accredited Effective Management training is specifically designed to enhance managerial effectiveness within the workplace. Using psychological paradigms and methodologies, the training will identify how small changes relating to business objectives and systems can have a profound impact on results. The training typically lasts half a day and can include bespoke elements on request. Key elements within this training will include:

  • What Constitutes a Manager
  • Internal Locus of Control and Efficacy
  • Managing Expectations
  • Overcoming Issues
  • Initiating Formal Proceedings

All learners will receive a certificate on successfully completing the training and will be offered further training annually, to rebuild on their existing knowledge.

There is a cost of £150.00 + VAT per learner, with a minimum number of four learners needed for this course.

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For more information on any of training programmes, simply contact us on 01752 358641, email support@firstclass-support.co.uk or use the live chat facility during office times, and a member of the team will be happy to help you. Alternatively, if you are wishing to book your training today, you can do so by completing the booking form, which can be accessed by hitting the button under each training course.

Testimonials

I would highly recommend First Class Support. They have been very responsive and supportive, especially when training up a new sighted guide and note taker to better meet my needs as a visually impaired person. Communication has always been excellent, and I particularly want to mention Steph, who regularly calls just to check in, offer support, and provide really valuable information. That personal touch makes a huge difference. I also want to give a special mention to Spencer and Paul, my sighted guide and note takers. Without their support, patience, and understanding, I genuinely would not have been able to manage university life as a visually impaired student. They have helped me navigate campus, stay on top of my studies, and get through many of the everyday struggles that can come with uni life as a VI person. Their support has made such a positive difference to both my confidence and independence. I also appreciate how understanding and accommodating the wider team are overall. It feels clear that they genuinely care about providing the right support and making sure things are working well. Overall, my experience with First Class Support has been very positive, and I truly appreciate the care, communication, and effort they put into supporting me.

Student

I have got a lovely support worker from FCS, she has supported me with my ADHD and possible autism. I have received very personalised support and it has benefited me a lot since coming to university.

Student

The experience of working with FCS as a study skills tutor has been immensely fulfilling. The collaborative and encouraging work atmosphere has aided my professional and personal development in addition to its influence on pupils. My special thanks to Georgia for highlighting my qualifications and giving me the opportunity to work at FCS. It has been a great breakthrough for me as I have gained significant experience and skills by offering direction, inspiration, and specialised support to the students. Seeing them succeed at achieving their holistic potential and develop self-confidence has been really rewarding. I would highly recommend FCS to anyone passionate about education and helping others succeed. It’s a role that challenges you, inspires you, and gives you the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a meaningful contribution

Support Tutor

I want to thank you for providing an amazing support worker who has supported me for the past 4 years during my degree. Rosa has been super helpful and supported me with my work as well as personally when I was struggling. I got first class for my degree! Thank you and please thank Rosa as well for helping me achieve this!

University Student

Having worked with FCS for just over a year as a specialist note-taker, study support and sighted guide I have found the experience both professional and rewarding. The FCS team have been supportive, communicative, and professional form the first day. The support and training provided is excellent and there is always a fast and informative response whenever a question arises. The work life balance and flexibility of hours is fantastic, allowing for a range of hours and roles to suit any lifestyle. The opportunities are always well advertised and communicated whenever available and on top of all that the job satisfaction is outstanding with the support of the FCS team and the amazing and talented students that you work with and encounter in this role. A stellar agency and a joy to work with.

Support Tutor

I have found everyone at FCS to be very friendly and helpful. My case worker Sara has been absolutely perfect with arranging my support and keeping me updated ensuring everything is in place and going well. The company is fantastic and my support workers particularly Kerry and Anne have been amazing and I couldn’t have asked for better.

University Student

I have been working for first- class support as a specialist mentor for over a year now. I can honestly say it has been one of the best experiences of my career. The placement coordinator's are supportive and concise with their matching of students and are always there to solve any issues that I may have. Truly an exceptional agency!

Support Tutor

As a self employed specialist note-taker I highly recommend FCS, from the beginning of employment they provided me with accessible training and a variety of jobs within my area to support students. FCS staff have been a tremendous amount of support, I commend their communication as they are always in touch with myself ensuring all my questions and queries are met. Eve and Keri who are coordinators for several students at FCS have been extremely helpful, supportive, and encouraging for myself to aid the students I work with. I recommend to those who want to work within a supporting capacity with students to work with FCS!

Support Tutor

From the moment I joined the team, I felt welcomed, valued, and supported in every aspect of my role. The coordinators are always readily available to address any queries or concerns, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable work experience. The opportunity to engage with students from different parts of the country pursuing various degrees is an absolute delight. Every student brings a unique set of challenges and barriers they face in their academic journey. As a Specialist Mentor, I have the privilege of assisting these students in overcoming their obstacles and witnessing their growth and success. The feeling of being able to positively influence their student journey is truly rewarding and fulfilling. First Class Support has truly given me the best opportunity to make a difference in the lives of students. I feel fortunate to be part of a team that shares my passion for helping others and values the transformative power of education. Furthermore, First Class Support offers a fantastic work-life balance, which is a rare gem in today's fast-paced world. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences I have gained with First Class Support, and I highly recommend them to anyone seeking a rewarding and meaningful career in student support and mentoring.

Support Tutor

Working for FCS as an Assistive Technology Trainer and Specialist Autism Mentor, I have met some of the most amazing people, both Students and staff. The staff all have the same goals to inspire and help students thrive at their studies. The students are amazing with their creativity and dedication to their projects, The reward of seeing them succeed and overcoming their challenges is awesome.

Support Tutor

My time with my support tutor has been absolutely amazing, she understands me, she takes her time with me if I can't find the right word and understands that I need time to process and speak louder for me to hear. I appreciate your help, time and commitment, I don't know where I would be without you. I want to say a huge thank you to Jake at FCS for being so supportive and absolutely amazing. He has been so understanding and patient with me and helping with any problems I have.

University Student

While working with FCS I have been highly supported and very happy, the team is so friendly and always on hand via call or email if I need to contact them in any situation, making being self-employed whilst studying at university so easy. I have worked with FCS for two years now and have always appreciated the flexibility of the job as well as the great pay! I would recommend working with FCS to anyone as they nurture such a positive environment to work in.

Support Tutor

I really enjoy working with my colleagues and students at First Class Support. The learners really benefit from regular academic support sessions to give them a greater possibility of gaining their degrees for Arts and Science related subjects. They each require particular, tailored support for their studies and I enjoy being able to make their learning experiences positive with my teaching and guidance. My experience and qualifications make this role very enjoyable to perform and I gain great job satisfaction from working with my caseloads of learners. I feel I am a valued member of the team and everyone is a delight to work with.

Support Tutor

I am delighted as always with the support I get from Rebecca.  She has helped me so much again this year.  Even just the act of talking through my work to her helps me to understand it more.  The improvement in my writing is incredible, with Rebecca's help I have developed so much.  She is a fabulous support.  So knowledgeable and kind and understanding with it too.  I would be lost without her. Rebecca really is an asset to FCS!

University Student

Cannot fault the support this company has given me during my degree and with my DSA. The mentoring I have received has been flawless, it feels like that I have progressed so much with their help. they genuinely care. Hillary is amazing as a mentor and as a friend

University Student

First Class have supported me through my first year of university and currently my second year, they are very efficient and very quick with their response to emails, I would highly recommend First Class Support.

University Student

I have been working as a support specialist for FCS for almost two years now and the experience has been amazing. The students that I have been able to support academically have been inspiring and it has been wonderful to see them find fulfilment in their studies. The staff at FCS are friendly, accommodating and a pleasure to work with. I recommend this business highly.

Support Tutor

I received support from FCS throughout the 3 years I was studying at university. I can honestly say that without the regular meetings and communication with my mentor, Celia, I would not have made it to the end of my degree. Her support was invaluable and I would not have my degree without her. I also found FCS very helpful and responsive via email, they contacted me periodically to check everything was going well and were always prompt in their replies.

University Student

Amazing service, they gave me the tools and support I needed to tackle academic writing at masters level. Prior to their support, I would never of even dreamt it possible to achieve a postgraduate certificate in education. Thank you FCS!

University student

I was assigned a mentor from FCS and she was an absolute god send. The whole process from sign up to actually meeting my mentor was so easy and hassle free. I wouldn't hesitate to use them again.

University Student

They support my wife, without there quality, professional support my wife would not be able to do her university course. They have gone out of their way to help and supply information that has help my wife no end, and have supplied a constant and professional support person through out her time. You could not get a better company for your needs anywhere else. Very highly recommended if i could I would give them 10 stars.

University Student

Excellent service received by my mentor. Don't know what I'd do without them. Thank you so much for all your help. Highly recommended. Especially Jill.

University Student

I was given two types of support from First Class as part of my Disabled Student Allowance. The support people are incredibly professional, and the staff at First Class who organised the support are really lovely, they assist me when I have any concerns or issues with the support I am receiving. They continue to contact me to make sure everything is running smoothly and check that I am okay with the support I am getting. I would definitely recommend First Class for those who do need additional support.

University Student

Helping me with my degree now. Very friendly and helpful staff. My support worker is amazing and is always there for me when I need it.

University Student

Like the name implies, in my experience first class support was given. I felt safe and confident in sharing personal details with the staff, and found them to be very professional. Highly recommend!

University Student

I was assigned a mentor for my undergrad study with first class support. I found this incredibly helpful and their approach was excellent. I’ve had only good interactions with my mentor and all communications with first class support.

University Student

An absolutely fabulous company, very supportive and replies very quickly to emails, when I have spoken to them on the phone they have been very polite and reassuring. I currently have support supplied by them and it is very good support. they go above and beyond for their students i would very much recommend their services

University Student

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