Supporting Armed Forces Personnel into Civilian Careers

At our Staffordshire training centre, we proudly support serving and former Armed Forces personnel looking to transition into rewarding civilian careers within the gas, plumbing, and renewable energy industries.

Through Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service funding, you can gain industry-recognised qualifications while using the valuable skills and experience developed during military service.

Whether you are preparing for resettlement or looking to retrain after leaving the Armed Forces, our training programmes are designed to help you build a long-term career in a growing industry.

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Explore our courses

Whether you’re looking to develop existing expertise or begin a brand-new career, we’ve got the course to suit you.

What is ELCAS?

The Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS) is an initiative provided by the Ministry of Defence to support current and former Armed Forces personnel in gaining recognised qualifications.

ELCAS funding is designed to help you transition into civilian careers by contributing towards the cost of approved training courses—such as becoming apart of the trades industry.

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How Does ELCAS Funding Work?

ELCAS provides financial support for approved courses at Level 3 and above. The funding is structured as a contribution rather than full payment, meaning learners typically pay a portion themselves.

  • Lower Tier: Up to 80% of course fees (maximum £1,000 per claim)
  • Higher Tier: Up to 80% of course fees (maximum £2,000 per claim)
  • You can make up to three separate claims throughout your entitlement period
  • Funding is paid directly to the training provider via Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service

To use ELCAS, you must:

  • 1
    Choose an ELCAS-approved training provider
  • 2
    Submit a claim through the ELCAS online portal
  • 3
    Receive a claim authorisation note (CAN)
  • 4
    Enrol on your chosen course and pay your contribution
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ELCAS Funding Structure at a Glance

Element Details
Funding Type Partial grant (you contribute)
Course Level Level 3–6
Max Claims  3
Payment Method Paid directly to provider
Eligibility Serving or ex-military personnel

Our Courses Available with ELCAS

We offer a range of industry-recognised courses that align perfectly with ELCAS funding and provide clear pathways into the heating, plumbing, and renewables sectors:

A career in the Armed Forces builds a strong foundation for transitioning into the trades industry. Many of the skills developed during service align closely with those required to become part of the trades industry.

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Key Transferable Skills:

  • Technical aptitude – Experience with mechanical, electrical, or engineering systems
  • Problem-solving – Diagnosing faults under pressure
  • Health & Safety awareness – Critical in gas work and compliance
  • Discipline & reliability – Essential for working in regulated environments
  • Teamwork & communication – Working effectively with colleagues and customers

These skills can significantly reduce your learning curve and make you highly employable within the trades sector.

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Why Choose the trades industry?

People in the trades industry are in high demand across the UK, offering:

  • Strong earning potential
  • Opportunities for self-employment
  • A clear, structured qualification pathway
  • Job security in a skilled trade

Our Staffordshire-based training programmes are designed to take you from beginner to industry-ready, with full support throughout your journey.

Can You Combine ELCAS with Other Funding?

In most cases, you cannot use ELCAS alongside publicly funded FE/HE funding for the same course. Training providers will require you to choose your funding route before enrolment.

However, additional support (such as resettlement funding or personal contributions) may still be used alongside ELCAS where applicable.

Additional Information

  • Courses must be completed within your claim period
  • You must have sufficient ELC entitlement remaining
  • Industry recognised qualification
  • Some courses may require prior experience or assessment

Start Your Journey Today

If you’re leaving the Armed Forces or have already transitioned to civilian life, ELCAS funding can be your pathway into a rewarding new career.

Contact our team today to discuss your eligibility, course options, and how we can support your journey into the trades industry.