Online short course provider

Individuals paying for their own development, small employers booking staff places, and sometimes people using employer or funding schemes.

Fees per place on a live course, or a price for access to a course with recordings. Group bookings and repeat cohorts add to your income.

• Clear explaining over video
• Planning course content
• Online marketing
• Using video and learning tools

• Accredited qualifications need an approved awarding body, so be clear if your course is not formally accredited
• Data protection: register with the ICO if required and handle learner details properly, so check the current rules
• Make sure you have the right to use any materials, images or software in your courses
• Refund and cancellation terms should be clear on your booking page
• Many people offer online courses, so you need a clear niche to stand out

Startup costs are typically around £200 to £1,000, depending on the video and learning tools you choose, how you produce your course materials and how much you spend on marketing. You do not need to rent premises to run courses online.

Check that you are clear when a course is not formally accredited, as accredited qualifications need an approved awarding body. Check the current data protection rules, including ICO registration if required, and that you have the right to use all materials and software.

Monthly revenue is typically around £400 to £2,000, depending on your course prices, the number of learners and how well you market. The estimate assumes at least about 6 hours a week. Many people offer online courses, so a clear niche matters.