Free social media training courses for the partners of UK military personnel, veterans and their partners, and bereaved forces families. 

Why choose us

Our courses will get you immersed in the world of everything social media. Whether you want to understand how the algorithms work, plan and evaluate a campaign, or learn how to create engaging social media content, we have something for everyone.

Learn from anywhere

Our courses can be completed from anywhere in the world at a time that suits you best. We use a combination of online learning tools, social media, and mentoring to provide first-class course content.

It is 100% free. There is no catch. 

You also don't need fancy equipment. Just a smartphone, an iPad or a laptop, and a speedy internet connection.

All our courses are CPD accredited.

They're THAT good!

Let the numbers do the talking

Since launching our first course, Social Media Spouses, in 2019 we have trained over 700 students and have grown our online community to over 1,500 members. Impressive, right?

Students trained

Members in our online community

Frequently asked questions

Who are you?


We have provided entertainment to our military personnel around the world since the 1943, through BFBS Radio, BFBS Cinemas, BFBS Live Events, the Forces TV Channel and BFBS TV.


In 2017 we launched the Forces Media Academy (FMA), now BFBS Academy. The Academy offers service leavers, veterans and reservists with the training and qualifications to pursue a career in media. From 2019, the BFBS Academy incorporated Social Media Spouses.

Are the courses really free? What's the catch?

We understand the unique challenges faced by military spouses and partners, and veterans and their partners, when trying to grow their business or find meaningful employment. And by offering free social media marketing and content creation training, we're able to make a real difference in their lives. 

Oh, and by the way... There is no catch. 

Who can complete the free courses?

The courses are all free to the spouses and partners of someone currently serving in the UK Military, as well as veterans, their partners, and the bereaved forces family community.

I'm currently serving, can I sign up to the courses?

Unfortunately not. Our Digital CULTure is for you. You can also use your learning credits towards the cost of the course, and will be entitled to 25% military discount. 

I work for a military charity/an organisation that work alongside the UK Armed Forces. Do I qualify for the free courses?

SMSpecialists is only open to military partners, veterans and their partners, and the bereaved forces families community. You can sign up to our Digital CULTure course, and receive a 25% discount if you prove your connection to the forces. 

Are the courses accredited?

Yes. All of our courses are CPD accredited. 

Do I need expensive equipment?

Nope — All you need is a laptop, a smartphone and a speedy internet connection.

Where are the courses based?

All learning will be completed online through our learning platform, Canvas, and our online community on Facebook. So you can do it from anywhere in the world. 

Join us today

Join us today

Join us today

Join us today

Join us today

Join us today

Join us today

Ready to start learning? Have a look at all our courses on offer. 
The courses have given me the confidence to get back into employment whilst navigating military life. I am finally living my life, and not just surviving.
- Ayesha
It opened my eyes to a whole world of e-opportunities that can fit in around military life and the unique challenges that come with being a Submariner’s wife. The course gave me a renewed sense of confidence in my own abilities, and I am now using the skills I learned to build and facilitate my own future business venture
- Elizabeth
The team were very helpful and professional, and I still reach out to Jackie for support in my work. She remains very responsive and supportive.
— Filomena
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All of our courses are CPD Certified.

Once you successfully complete your course, you will receive a certified from The CPD Certification Service. 

Established in 1996, CPD is the world's leading and largest independent accreditation institution operating across all industry sectors.