Just to add a little more information on the courses.

It appears they are free-of-charge 'for some people who are on benefits (see ‘Getting a Concession’), aged 16-18 or those on Family Learning, Skills for Life and some ESOL and IT courses'. (p.18)

http://www.gateshead.gov.uk/DocumentLibr...ectory.pdf

Obviously, this applies to Gateshead only. But I imagine there'll be similar provisions in place if courses are offered by other councils in the region.