Skills for Work & Life
How can you join?
Find out how to join one of our courses. Our courses are very popular, and we cannot guarantee a place for everybody.
Discover the Beauty of Communication with Our British Sign Language (BSL) Taster Course!
Step into the world of British Sign Language with our engaging and accessible taster course — perfect for beginners!
Whether you're looking to build new skills, connect with the Deaf community, or simply try something new, this short course will introduce you to the essentials of BSL. You’ll learn to hold basic conversations, sign numbers and everyday topics like the weather, transport, and directions. Come and experience how rewarding it is to communicate without words!
This is a FREE 3 week course, every Monday at Idea Store Whitechapel, starts 15 September.
ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
Our ESOL classes take place at Idea Stores across the borough in Tower Hamlets from Pre-Entry to Level 1. Courses are normally 10-12 weeks long, with three terms over the year.
English and Maths
Our English and Maths courses will support you to improve your reading, writing, and numeracy skills.
Employability
Idea Store Learning work with partners across the borough, including with WorkPath, to deliver a range of Employability programmes that will support your path to employment.
Digital Skills and ICT
We offer a range of courses to help you get started in ICT and improve your digital skills.
British Sign Language and Interpreting
Learn to communicate using British Sign Language (BSL) on a range of topics using simple everyday language.
Meet the Team
Meet the wonderful Skills for Life and Work team.
Learning resources
Did you know that if you are a member of Idea Store, you can borrow 12 books as well as download for free magazines and books?
Celebrating learning
Learners can take part in many other activities whilst on our adult education courses. Have a look to see what our learners have been doing.