Sponsored Editorial

In today’s rapidly changing world, it’s essential that you continue to invest in yourself and your skills.

Whether you’re looking to change your job, get a promotion, learn a new skill, or gain an essential qualification, returning to education at your local college as an adult learner can offer you so many opportunities to make a change – and it’s never too late to learn!

Here’s five things you can explore at your local college to restart your journey and make a positive change in your life.

1. Access to Higher Education

For a change of career, you may need to think about getting a degree. If you’ve been out of education for some time, or you don’t have the qualifications you need to apply for University, then you can sign-up for a one-year Access to Higher Education course. Access courses will give you a baseline knowledge in the area you are interested in, whilst providing support in key skills you’ll use at University, such as essay writing and referencing.

2. Skills and Hobby Courses

Do you want to pick up a new skill, or spend time on a hobby you enjoy? From sewing to cookery classes, there are a wide range of options to explore. Many of these courses take place at your local college in the evening, meaning that you can dedicate time to your enjoyment.

3. Weekend Courses

If you are currently working full-time, it can be hard to carve out time to get the skills you need to make a change. At EKC Canterbury College, there are courses available to study that run on Saturdays, from Construction Trades to Hairdressing.

4. Essential Qualifications

Did you know that if you do not already have a pass (Grade C / 4 or above) in GCSE English and/or Maths, you may be able to study these qualifications for free? Your local college or training centre will be able to give you flexible learning options and support you to achieve these essential qualifications. You may be able to condense your learning so that you are able to complete your English and Maths qualifications more quickly.

5. Career Advancement Qualifications

In some sectors, you may be required to study additional qualifications to take the next step in your career. If you have a specific training need, you can sign up for flexible courses that are exclusive to adults at your local college or training centre, including AAT Accounting, AM2 Electrical, Assistive Technologies for Health and Care, and specialist Plumbing qualifications to name a few.

Explore your adult learning options:

- EKC Ashford College
- EKC Broadstairs College
- EKC Canterbury College
- EKC Dover College
- EKC Folkestone College
- EKC Training with centres across East Kent