Help students thrive: free online course in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties
Posted on behalf of: Learning and Development
Last updated: Tuesday, 3 November 2026

Help students thrive: free online course in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties
Would you like to better understand the learning differences students may experience and feel more confident supporting them?
East Sussex College Group is offering a fully funded online Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties, available to eligible staff. This is an opportunity to develop your knowledge and reflect on how you can help create a more inclusive learning environment.
Why take part?
Whether you teach, tutor, supervise or support students, understanding specific learning difficulties can help you approach everyday interactions with greater awareness and empathy.
The course explores learning difficulties such as dyslexia and dyscalculia, how they can affect individuals, and ways to support them. It could also be valuable for anyone wanting to better understand the experiences of colleagues, family or friends.
What will you learn?
The qualification covers five key areas:
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Understanding different specific learning difficulties
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How specific learning difficulties can affect individuals
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How specific learning difficulties are diagnosed
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Ways to support individuals with specific learning difficulties
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The wider context of specific learning difficulties.
For staff working with students, this offers a useful foundation for reflecting on barriers to learning, recognising individual needs and considering how your approach could make a positive difference.
Flexible learning that fits around you
Study online, with written assignments submitted through the College’s learning platform and feedback from qualified tutors.
On successful completion, you’ll achieve the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties qualification.
Free for eligible learners
There are no tuition or exam fees for learners who meet the College’s funding criteria. Eligibility includes age, residency and right-to-study requirements; please check these with the College when applying.
How to apply
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Visit the Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties course page.
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Select Apply and complete the online application.
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Please register using your @sussex.ac.uk email address.
Develop your understanding, gain a recognised qualification and explore how you can help students feel better understood and supported.