Setting Up Your Own Business

<p>Starting your own business can feel exciting but also overwhelming. With so many decisions to make, it’s not always clear where to begin. This practical and supportive course guides you through the early stages of self-employment. You will explore how to develop a realistic business idea, what makes small businesses succeed, how to create a simple business plan, and the basics of budgeting and finances. You’ll also learn about different types of business ownership and begin to build the confidence and entrepreneurial skills needed to take your first steps into self-employment.</p>

<p>This course is ideal for anyone thinking about starting their own business but unsure where to begin, as well as those who have recently started out and want to strengthen their understanding of the basics. No prior business experience is required — just an interest in self-employment and a willingness to explore your ideas.</p>

<p>Learners should have a basic level of spoken and written English to take part in discussions and complete simple written activities.</p>

<p>pen and paper</p>

<p>Assessment is informal and supportive, based on participation in discussions, questions and answers during sessions, and completion of short weekly learner reflection forms to help you track your progress and confidence.</p>

<p>Very little additional study is required. You will complete a simple business plan template, using example or speculative information, to help you apply what you learn without pressure.</p>

<p><span style="font-size:14px">Throughout the course, you will be supported to think about your next steps. This may include progressing to other courses or workshops such as Functional Skills English or Maths to improve literacy or numeracy, or developing your digital confidence through digital skills or social media courses. If eligible, you may wish to progress to the Level 1 Social Media Marketing qualification.</span></p>

<p><span style="font-size:11pt"><span style="font-family:Calibri,sans-serif"><span style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="font-family:&#34;Source Sans Pro&#34;,sans-serif">Please </span></span><a href="https://events.hertfordshire.gov.uk/step2skills?nodeId=2d35542d-138b-41f0-b4b0-2e541ba9446b&entryId=e1f192dd-054b-4d97-90ed-4dcd88611ec1" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="font-family:&#34;Source Sans Pro&#34;,sans-serif">click here</span></span></a><span style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="font-family:&#34;Source Sans Pro&#34;,sans-serif"> to see the full range of courses we offer. </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="font-family:&#34;Source Sans Pro&#34;,sans-serif">We have programmes that can support you with your next steps in skills and employment. For further information </span></span><span style="font-size:11.0pt"><span style="font-family:&#34;Calibri&#34;,sans-serif"><a href="https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/microsites/adult-learning/our-services/information-advice-and-guidance.aspx" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-size:12.0pt"><span style="font-family:&#34;Source Sans Pro&#34;,sans-serif">please see our information, advice and guidance page</span></span></a></span></span></p>