Reading's Professional Skills Academy
Centrally Located in Reading, Berkshire
The Curious Academy is based at The Curious Lounge, a creative, tech-enabled space conveniently situated close to Reading train station in the heart of Berkshire. This central location makes our professional skills academy easily accessible for students from across Reading, Berkshire, and the wider Thames Valley region.
Our academy is housed in a modern, purpose-designed space that creates the perfect learning environment:
Tech-Enabled Training Room: Our 16-person space features 75" screens, professional AV equipment, and wireless display options for seamless presentations.
Collaborative Workspaces: Large write-on glass walls provide ample space for brainstorming, while soundproofing ensures focused learning without distractions.
Comfort & Design: Individual climate control, abundant natural light, and ergonomic seating designed for long training sessions create an ideal learning environment.
Stylish Coworking Area: A plant-filled space with mid-century décor offers the perfect area for students to work between sessions or collaborate on projects.
Getting to our Reading location couldn't be easier, with excellent transport links connecting us to the whole of Berkshire and beyond. We're just minutes' walk from Reading train station, with direct services to London, Oxford, Basingstoke, and other key locations. Multiple bus routes serve central Reading, and for those who drive, we're easily accessible from the M4 with public car parks available nearby.
Why Train Locally in Reading
In an age of online courses, choosing in-person training at our Reading academy offers significant advantages that virtual learning simply cannot match. Our twice-weekly, in-person training sessions create structure, accountability and community that are essential for effective skills development.
The power of face-to-face learning creates multiple benefits:
Direct Instructor Access: Immediate feedback and personalised guidance from experienced professionals.
Peer Learning: Collaborate with fellow students, share insights, and learn from diverse perspectives.
Hands-On Experience: Practical, supervised learning with real-time problem-solving support.
Focused Environment: A dedicated learning space free from home distractions and interruptions.
One of the most valuable aspects of training at our Reading academy is the opportunity to build connections within the local business community. Throughout your course, you'll form lasting professional relationships with classmates from various industries, creating a network that often leads to job opportunities and collaborations.
Reading Course Calendar
Our courses run throughout the year, with new cohorts starting regularly. All programmes require a twice-weekly commitment, with classes held at our Reading location.
We typically offer multiple start dates annually for our key programmes:
Available Courses:
Data Analytics
Digital Marketing
Small Business Digital Skills
These staggered start dates allow flexibility for students to choose the timing that best suits their personal and professional circumstances.
To help prospective students learn more about our courses, we regularly host information sessions at The Curious Lounge where you can meet instructors and explore our facilities. Contact us for details about upcoming information sessions and to secure your place.
The application process typically involves:
Initial application submission
Skills assessment and eligibility check
Interview with course tutors
Confirmation of place
We recommend early applications as places are limited and courses tend to fill quickly. Contact us today to learn about upcoming course dates and application deadlines.
Funding Options for Local Residents
Training at The Curious Academy is accessible to all, with government funding making courses fully funded for eligible individuals. We believe that financial constraints should never be a barrier to developing in-demand skills.
Our funding options include:
Fully funded training for individuals (including the unemployed and self-employed)
Fully funded training for small business owners looking to enhance their skills
10-30% cost for employers sending staff for training (depending on company size)
To qualify for fully funded training, you need to meet several criteria:
UK/EU residency status
Age 19+ at the start of the course
Not currently enrolled in another government-funded course
Additional criteria apply – we'll guide you through the full eligibility check
Our dedicated support team will help you through every step of the funding application process, ensuring you understand the options available and how to access them. We're committed to making professional skills training accessible to Reading residents from all backgrounds, removing the stress and confusion often associated with funding applications.
Who is eligible for a free place?
Anyone who is aged 19 or above
Unemployed, economically inactive, self-employed, or working part-time and seeking a new career in Digital Marketing.
Individuals who have the right to work in the UK.
If you do not have access to a digital device for the course don’t worry we have one you can borrow.
If I’m an employee looking to up-skill are there still ways to come on the course? Yes and your employer would only pay a small percentage of the costs, depending on company size. Contact us for details.
Are you an employer looking to upskill your team?
You only pay a nominal percentage of the total expenses, depending on your company size you pay 10% or 30% of the course fees to help make the up-skilling process more affordable for your organisation. Don't miss out on this opportunity to invest in your team's growth.
Contact Us
If you would like to learn more before applying please complete this form and we will be in touch.
FAQs
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Skills Bootcamp is open to adults aged 19+ on the 31st August and have the right to work in the UK. Who are currently employed, self-employed, recently unemployed, or returning to work after a break.
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No, it's completely free to join for unemployed individuals or those seeking a career change.
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You'll need to apply early, meet the eligibility criteria and fill out the application form
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It is 16 weeks long, with 96 hours of learning, including 3 hours in-person and 3 hours online live lessons per week.
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You'll need a laptop/desktop with a camera, microphone, and reliable internet. If you don't have one, you can borrow a laptop for free.
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A passion for a career in digital marketing and a willingness to learn new skills. All backgrounds are welcome but you will need to feel digitally confident and have a basic understanding.
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By joining the Skills Bootcamp, you'll gain industry knowledge, boost your skills, receive a certificate, and enhance your job prospects.
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To attend all the Bootcamp sessions, complete assigned work, and communicate regarding job search and placements
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Yes, but there is a contribution required towards the costs. Large employers contribute 30% and SMEs contribute 10% of the cost.
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Yes, upon successful completion of the Skills Bootcamp, you'll receive a certificate
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Yes, we provide inclusive education and support for all learners, including those with learning difficulties or disabilities.
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We provide support with job interviews, placements, and employability training to help you transition into the workforce.
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No, you can only apply for one Skills Bootcamp per funding year.