starting in retail
what's right for me?
Our courses are categorised into four groups, depending on where you are in your career and what you are looking to achieve. See below for what suits you, and what type of courses are available. Clicking your chosen category will take you straight through to the relevant courses.
get ready for retail
Information, advice and guidance
Get some rock-solid advice from people who really know what they are talking about. Everything from retail customer service skills, help with writing your CV and crucial interview tips.
Retail works
Learn the essential skills needed in all retail businesses with the pre-employment programme designed for adults hoping to enter or re-enter the sector.
Skills for life (Literacy, numeracy & ESOL)
Get your numeracy and maths up to scratch as well as
your language skills. If English is not your first language
then ESOL is the one for you as you will learn to read,
write and speak English. courses
working in retail
Retail skills
Retail Skills is similar to Retail Knowledge, but as you are already working in retail, this assesses your competence in in-store operations. Whether you are a fashion stylist or a butcher, this course is for you. Also comes in three levels.
Retail apprenticeship
Designed for any retail worker over 16. Combines Retail Knowledge and Retail Skills with some elements of numeracy and literacy.
Short courses
Some jobs require you to have a specific qualification and courses available at the National Skills Academy for Retail
will help you with achieving a license to sell alcohol, to
handle food and become an approved first aider. courses
managing in retail
Foundation degree in retailing
Unique and valuable, this higher level qualification could
really help you progress your retail management career.
Developed by the industry itself, this degree means
you can learn while you earn and can be completed
in two years. courses
your own retail outlet
Business support and training
In addition to training for store staff, FutureStore work with
local agencies to provide training and advice on a variety of
business and retailing topics to support independent
and small retailers in growing their businesses and
developing their staff. These include marketing, visual
merchandising and buying. courses