How can I balance work and study?

How can I balance work and study?. I want to return to college part time. However, the courses I want to do would involve leaving work early or taking an afternoon off one day a week. How can I persuade my employer to let me change my working hours?.

Brendan Barber, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress, replies: A record number of people are taking up new courses and there are tens of thousands to choose from, including many tailored to suit those in full-time work.

However, if you do need to change your working hours you'll need to persuade your employer.

If the course is related to your job you should make a business case to your employer.

Demonstrating that it is in your bosses' interest for you to train should help to persuade them to change your hours.

Some employers provide funding for staff taking up courses so it is worth asking about financial support. Your employer may also be able to access Government subsidies.

Ask the regional Learning and Skills Council for more information.

Even if the course is not related to your job it is still worth asking as many employers recognise that out-of-work learning can improve morale, confidence and job satisfaction.

If you are a union member and need help choosing a course or speaking to your employer about adjusting your hours you should speak to a union learning rep.

There are now 23,000 reps across the country who can offer advice and guidance.

From next year, employees will have a right to request time off for training, similar to the current right to request flexible working.