Your Options as an Adult Learner

Whether you’re considering advancing in your current career, switching careers, or simply pursuing a passion, returning to education can offer numerous benefits.  

Here are several reasons why you should consider going back to College and how it can positively impact your life.  

Here’s how studying at College can help you:  

1. Enhance your skills: Gaining new skills or deepening your expertise in a specific area can make you more competitive in the job market.  For example, in Engineering, you will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment. This practical training equips you with the skills and confidence to operate these machines effectively, giving you a competitive edge when seeking employment. 
    

2. Gain access to enhanced career opportunities: Developing your skills can help you qualify for promotions and higher-paying positions within your current field. For example, if you currently hold a Level 2 qualification, enrolling in a Level 3 course will deepen your knowledge and skills in that specialist field, enhancing your prospects for promotions and career advancement.  
    

3. Redo your Maths and English: Most jobs require a GCSE or Functional skills Level 2 qualification. You can study these qualifications at College with like-minded individuals and expert teaching staff.   

Flexible Learning Options 

We can offer flexibility that can accommodate busy lives:  

1. Online and Blended Programmes: We offer online courses, and blended programmes that combine online and in-person classes, providing flexibility to study from anywhere. 

2. Evening classes: Studying in the evening makes it possible to balance education with work and family responsibilities. Check out our Hairdressing or Barbering classes that fit in around your life. 

3. Short courses: These courses are flexible, focused and an accessible way to gain new skills and knowledge in a shorter amount of time. 

Career Changes and New Opportunities 

If you’re looking to switch careers, we have various pathways that can best suit you.  

• Access to Higher Education: This is designed to give you the skills, knowledge, and confidence you need to progress onto a range of degrees at university.  

• Accounting: Get technical training in Accounting and learn the skills needed to succeed in the world of finance.  

• Barbering: Gain the skills needed for a career in Barbering, and the knowledge required to stand out in this area of the Hairdressing industry. 

• Digital Marketing: This short course is designed to introduce you to digital marketing techniques for small businesses or those new to the industry. 

• Engineering: Our Engineering programmes are aimed at people who are already working in the industry, or who have just completed a Level 3 qualification in Engineering, and want to develop their skills and competencies further. We have three HNC qualifications in General, Mechanical, and Electrical and Electronic Engineering.   

• Hairdressing: On this highly practical course, learn the skills and knowledge needed to be a qualified hairdresser, all whilst working in our salon. 

• Supporting, teaching and learning: In this course you will gain the knowledge and skills needed to work with children and young people in a School or College. 

Semiu | Adult Learner 

Semiu is currently studying an Access to Higher Education Nursing and Health course. 

“It’s a great way to get back into education because the lecturers are very good here at taking us through concepts and helping us develop. 

“I’ve noticed a massive improvement in myself since I started, as I now know how to structure my essays, as well as how to successfully reference and research, which will be really important for when I start at University. I have also taken part in lots of presentations to help my skills there.” 

Returning to education as an adult is a valuable investment in your future. Whether for career advancement, personal fulfilment, or adapting to industry changes, the benefits are substantial and far-reaching. With flexible learning options and various financial supports, adult education is more accessible than ever.  

Learn more about our range of adult courses: Adults – Ashford College