The cheapest way to learn a new skill

Instead of vowing to lose weight or join a gym, why not learn a skill which could improve your life?

It’s a new year and, along with exercising more, saving money and working harder, many people will be attempting to learn a new skill.

Whether it’s taking up Spanish, mastering mechanics or becoming a yoga instructor, there are a variety of ways to get there.

Learning a new skill is not only enjoyable, it can boost your CV and possibly lead to a career change.

But you don't need to pay a fortune to improve your talents as there are ways to gain new skills without bankrupting yourself.

Online classes

When searching the internet try to seek out free classes, or those with a discount. For languages the BBC is a good place to start. It has free guides for 33 different languages including Portuguese, Chinese, German and French.

Live Mocha is another good resource, where you can have live conversations with native speakers to try to improve your own language skills.

If it’s basic skills you’re after such as maths, English or computer techniques, Learn Direct and the National Careers Service list local classes and fees.

Before settling on a course check you've got the best price and also ask for recommendations from other people.

Teach yourself

Websites such as Video Jug will give you step-by-step instructions when learning how to do something new.

Online blogs are another good tool for learning just about anything from baking and gardening to learning a new instrument.

If you’re not online, try your local library. It will not only have a range of books to help you, but some hold evening classes. If it doesn’t have the book you're looking for you can always request one from another branch.

However, learning on your own takes quite a bit of will power and determination, so if this doesn’t suit you a group class could work better.

Local council workshops

Across the country local councils organise adult learning workshops for a variety of different skills. These are generally cheaper than going to a private tutor but the classes on offer depend on the council.

In Liverpool for example there is a £10 admin fee, but nearly all basic classes are free. You can do anything from flower arranging, cake decoration and pottery to creative writing and counselling.

Learning from people you know

Most people you know, whether they are friends or family, will have some kind of skill. A good way to learn for free is swapping these talents between your friends and dedicating a few hours to teaching them something new.

If you don’t have that many talented friends the website The Amazings is a handy place to connect with likeminded people. It works by offering classes (starting at £15 and courses at £120) which take place anywhere from a pub to a workshop.

The teachers involved are all aged over 50 and the classes are open to anyone. It’s just based in London at the moment, but has plans to spread across the UK.

Right now the classes on offer include guitar lessons, salsa, street photography, philosophy and working with clay.

At work

Another place to gain some new skills is in your work place. This is ultimately decided by your employer and will vary depending on your line of work, but signing up for any relevant courses will improve your skillset.

It may be the case that your employer will contribute a certain amount towards course fees so it’s worth enquiring to see what’s available.

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