We're passionate about lifelong learning. So, we're delighted that a wide selection of our training courses can be taken by past and present armed forces personnel, thanks to the MoD's Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) Scheme. Also known as ELCAS.
As an approved learning provider, you can use your enhanced learning credits to help fund up to 80% of a training course and kick-start your new career!
It's no secret that civvy street can be a big adjustment. Whilst the financial support offered by ELCAS is useful to get started, having people on the ground you can trust is also important to your success.And choosing the right course to spend your enhanced learning credits on can be a tough decision! That's why we provide support and guidance throughout the application process and training courses. From which course is best for you to exactly how the process of claiming your credits works.We'll give you all the tools you need to have a prolific new career. And just like any other student at the centre, the likelihood is we'll be in touch long after you've earned your nationally recognised qualification! That's why we're an approved learning provider.
Enquire NowUse your enhanced learning credits to obtain a Level 3 nationally recognised qualification with us. We offer a mixture of practical training and theory qualifications in the electrical, renewable, gas and heating sectors.The majority of our training courses combine both styles of learning and are held at our purpose-built, Ofsted Outstanding training centre in Wakefield.
Here's a quick overview of what it looks like spending your enhanced learning credits on an ELCAS approved course:
We recommend speaking to your Resettlement Officer if you're unsure of your entitlements under the scheme.
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Submit your name and email below and our ELCAS training expert will be in touch to discuss potential courses and dates.
Submit an online claim to your Education Staff (serving) or Single Service Representative (leaver) as set out on the official website
Upon receiving a Claims Authorisation Note (CAN) we would then apply the credit/s and invoice you for the remaining amount for the course.
As an approved learning provider for the armed forces and service leavers - and knowing that you've got limited ELC funding to spend - ensuring our courses hit the mark is our top priority.
We’re immensely proud of our Ofsted Outstanding grade as a training provider. Over several years, we underwent monitoring visits, inspections, and a final assessment for which we achieved the top grade.
So, choosing to qualify with the Universal Skills Group means you have access to the best standard of course delivery and the most incredible tutors in the UK, who are all time-served engineers themselves!
To discover what our final assessment covered in more detail, read our full report here!
Leave your name and email and our ELCAS expert will be in touch.
In general, individual scheme members must have completed at least six years eligible service to claim the lower tier of financial support, which is up to £1,000 per claim instalment. In some cases, this can be claimed after 4 years qualifying service if you left the Armed Forces before the 1st of April 2017.
The higher tier is available after eight years service and is up to £2,000 per claim instalment.
You're entitled to use one enhanced learning credit per financial year (1st April - 31st March) towards any NVQ Level 3 or higher qualification. However, according to the ELC website, "if you have served between 6 and 8 years you may be eligible to aggregate all three lower tier claims together subject to meeting the qualifying criteria in JSP 822."
There are also stipulations on how long you have to use your credits (last updated July 2023):
The rules around the use of ELCAS credits can change from time to time so we would always advise speaking to your resettlement officer first to check your eligibility.
Our in centre team can advise you on course bookings, availability and commercial training programmes. Fill in the form to get started.
