Changing Careers

silvershark

First I'll give a bit of background.

I have a degree in Construction Management and have worked in the construction industry since graduating over 10 years ago. I got made redundant at end of 2009.

After been made redundant I was out of work for 6 months on Jobseekers Benefit, then got a job for 6 months so when that finished up I was back on my original claim of JSB. I was then out of work for 4 months till I got another job. This one lasted 7 months so when I went back into Social Welfare to sign back on I got a new claim on JSB (312 days) which was at bit of a surprise.. I know that when JSB runs out I wont be entitled to much on JSA as my wife works full time.

I've had a few interviews for construction jobs since finishing up in Nov but they are all short term - one was 3 months, one was 6 months.. I'm now seriously considering changing career.

I seen a course on Springboard - a Masters in Business Management. I'm not sure if I'd get on the course but its something I'm interested in. Its blended learning - online and weekends over 2 years. It doesn't start till Sept and is free when out of work. What I am thinking of doing is to get an internship in Feb once I'm eligible so it takes over from SW payments then start the course in Sept so I still have some JSB left once the course starts. The way the course is set up it is perfect to try and find work while doing it.

I wonder would I qualify for a maintenance grant also?

Has anyone else here changed career and how did you go about it?