How to ask your employer for extra training and education

Members of the Newcastle College adult learning department gave their advice on what to consider when asking your employer for extra training and education

Following further training and education, people can bring more to their job role. However, it’s possible that many people think that they can’t speak to their employer and ask them for education funding. Perhaps they believe that this is an inappropriate question to ask, or they don’t think that their employer would agree. In reality, employees that have been invested in by their place of work often have a higher well-being and are more productive — bringing more to their company.

Know about all the training options

It’s important that you’ve done your research before approaching your employer and know that the course your asking to go on is the right one for you. With many training and education providers, you’ll find that there are a range of courses and options available. From night courses to part-time degrees, to higher apprenticeships, you can find a course that will fit nicely around your work/life balance.

When it comes to further education and gaining qualifications, there are options other than heading to university. Speak to your local college and visit their website to see what they have to offer — it’s likely that they run a course related to your field or around a topic that you’re interested in.

Let your employer know that training can be flexible

One priority for your employer is that your training will not interfere with your workload, let them know that you can be flexible. Again, this is all about doing your research and demonstrating to your boss that there are flexible courses out there – designed for workers like you!

Many courses are supportive of those who are in a job as you can be assessed on the job. This means that you wouldn’t be sacrificing any working hours for exams and your ability to complete tasks at work shouldn’t be affected.

Take the time to speak to your local college, ask for a detailed list of modules and methods of assessment for the course you’d like to apply for.

Talk about the benefits for everyone!

When you’ve been trained and educated further, you can bring a range of benefits to the business.

You could be educating yourself to fill a knowledge gap in the company. This is knowledge you can share with your colleagues. It’s also possible that after your training, you could be bringing in financial benefits for the business, for example if it means they don’t have to employ somebody else to fill a role or an external company to pick up that area of work. Think about what your new qualification could allow you to do and present this to your employer when asking the question.

Many company bosses value the happiness of their employees. Let your employer know what this training would mean for you. Will it make you feel more confident in your role? Or, more valued and empowered? If so, express these feelings to your boss.

Be as informative as you can

Try and give your boss as much information as you can upfront. This allows them to fully review all the information at a later date and saves them from doing in-depth research themselves.

Tell them about; module overviews, assessment methods, course testimonials and information about websites or open days so that they can find out more if they want to.

When you sign up to further education, you’re committing to give up your personal time to complete the course. Make sure your employer knows the sacrifices you are willing to make to improve your performance at work.

Approach your employer for funding with the tips we’ve offered. Don’t be afraid to ask the question — you and your employer can both enjoy the many benefits.