A - Z of Courses
Learning can be fun and very useful; there are hundreds of courses to choose from, which will fit your individual interests and needs. Flick through our A – Z of courses and see what a difference taking part in learning can make to your life.
These examples are by no means exhaustive; they just give you an idea of the opportunities that are available.
Call 0800 100 900 for more information about what’s available in your area or visit www.directgov.uk/adultlearning
Jump to: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
Art
There are a variety of different courses available if you want to use your creative side, these include drawing and painting classes as well as many others.
Expressing yourself through art can be very beneficial for your health and well – being. Challenges in life shouldn’t hold you back. For example, Ray Jackson took an Art for Health course as part of his treatment after suffering a nervous breakdown. He then went on to take an Access to Higher Education Art and Design course. Ray’s self confidence grew dramatically and he has now started his own business selling sculptures, jewellery and hand – made toys. PICTURE
Assertiveness Training
If you have problems with shyness or a phobia of expressing your opinion perhaps assertiveness training is what you need to be confident and assured of your abilities.
For Gerry Birch, 65, a confidence building course ‘saved her life’ after surviving cancer. Gerry aims to continue to learn and be an inspiration to others. She says don’t give up, its so worth it if you persevere.
B
Beauty Therapy
Rachel Sims’ story shows that you can have a complete change of career at any time in order to follow your dreams. She returned to college and went from being a butcher to a beauty therapist. A single parent bringing up three children she juggled home, work and college life to complete a qualification in beauty therapy. She has now started her own business and says ‘Adult learning opens up new opportunities like branches on a tree – one path leads to many more options.’ PICTURE
British Sign Language
British Sign Language is a valuable language for anyone to learn,
and an important skill that only a limited number of people have.
Taking up a sign language course can help you and those around you
to improve the communication opportunities for people with hearing
difficulties.
Paul Tuck’s story shows just how important this is. Since moving out
of his family home last year, Paul has been learning to live
independently, managing his own flat and a part time job in a pub.
He is 90% hard of hearing and as a result lip reads and uses a
hearing aid. As a child he had little formal education and was
unable to read and write. Enrolling on a British Sign Language
course at college gave Paul confidence. He says learning means ‘that
I can come out into the world and be with others.’
C
Children’s Care, Learning and Development
Working with children can be an extremely rewarding career, and a course in Children’s Care can be taken up at any time of life. For example, after 14 years working in a factory and raising two sons alone, Diane Wilkinson decided to enroll on a college course for Children’s Care, Learning and Development (CCLD.) She says ‘Learning means I can progress in my chosen career. It’s hard but rewarding work.’
Read more about Diane here - [pdf]
Counselling
Maybe you’ve thought of doing a course on guidance
and counselling?
An understanding personality and an ability to listen and give
advice is an extremely important quality. Having someone there to
talk to provides a lifeline for so many people experiencing a
variety of different issues. Many people draw on their own
experiences in order to help others. Kathleen Boswell left school at
age 15 with no qualifications. Now in her 40s after surviving over
20 years of domestic violence and experiencing counselling herself,
she gained the confidence to return to education and decided she
wanted to become a counsellor.
D
Dance Movement Therapy
If you want to do something different dancing can be fun to do with friends or a partner, to meet new people and release some energy. There are a variety of dance groups to choose from, from classical ballroom to modern street dance, and it’s a great way to keep fit.
Dance has even been used as a way of overcoming a difficult time in life.
‘Andre Triale first discovered dance movement therapy (DMT) as a way to try to recover from a drug addiction – recognizing the impact this experience had on his emotional and physical well being. As a result he gained self confidence and he began to realise what learning could offer. ‘Having left school at an early age, to be able to get an education now is empowering, freeing and affirming.’
E
Electrician
After leaving school Sarah Arden enrolled on an NVQ in Business administration but soon realized the role didn’t suit her. She had always been interested in the building trade so decided to take an electrician course, she did so well that she was accepted for an advanced apprenticeship and has the potential to progress to becoming a contracts manager.
Listen
to the Sarah Arden podcast
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
Kaiwan Mahmud arrived in England as a refugee from Iraq knowing little English. Taking a course in English for Speakers of Other Languages opened doors to opportunity for him. He has now taken IT and maths courses and is taking his Heavy Goods Vehicle test to become a lorry driver.
Rumi Begum, a single mother of two had a very basic knowledge of English, but decided to enroll on a variety of courses to help herself and her family. She has taken ESOL, basic IT and arts and crafts. Improving her English has given her greater confidence, and she has even taken part in family learning sessions with her children.
F
Food and Drink
An NVQ in Food and Drink can allow you to
develop in the workplace, begin a new career or become the head chef
at home.
For example Tina Collings began work in a sandwich company five
years ago and now she’s a production supervisor. ‘I was a shy,
insecure person who had very little awareness of my own abilities
when I started work. The training and support that I have been given
by my managers has given me the confidence I needed to recognize
what I am capable of.’
Listen to the Tina Collings podcast
G
Gardening
Gardening is a popular hobby and you could learn more about the different types of plants, to make the most of your garden, and even how to grow your own food.
For example, ‘The Grow Great Grub Course’ aims to give mothers knowledge and skills to grow and harvest vegetables and teach their children too, this is called the OCN Level 1 in basic food growing. ‘We all enjoy the benefits of this support network and it has undoubtedly strengthened the wider community as a result.’ Encouraging healthier diets and lower living costs, the benefits were numerous.
The Bloomsgrove Gardening Gang proves that gardening can also be an important form of therapy for people with learning difficulties or those who are recovering from an illness. For Bloomsgrove Road, a day centre for adults with learning difficulties, gardening has been used as a way of teaching everyone how to eat healthily, grow their own vegetables and gain new skills.
H
History
After suffering a chronic back ailment Paul Lee could no longer continue his job in manual labour. When he left school he only had one GCSE, but in 2006 he decided to correct this and took five GCSE’s, he gained 5A*s and is now preparing to read History at Cambridge University. He says ‘Learning has given me a chance to rectify those earlier mistakes.’
Holistic Massage
There are huge ranges of alternative therapy courses available whether you want to learn aromatherapy, reflexology or one of the numerous types of complementary medicine.
Returning to learning has given Daniel Gozzer a new career in complementary medicine after he suffered from depression and was diagnosed as chronically ill. Daniel attended a Holistic Massage Diploma Course and gained a qualification to practice as a professional massage therapist. ‘Adult Learning has meant I do not have to give up work, even though my health has been a problem.’
I
Indian Head Massage
Before she started a Choices course at Newbury College, Rainbow had had a very traumatic life and used chemical substances as a coping mechanism. Through the Choices programme Rainbow has taken a number of Indian Head Massage courses. Rainbow now counsels others who have been in a similar situation to herself, ‘I have been able to encourage other students to take a more positive view of their learning experiences and not quit.’ She adds that adult education ‘means the difference between success and failure.’
Interior Design
If you have an eye for colours, fabrics or feng shui and want to learn about how to put these all together then an interior design course could be for you.
In 2004 Andrea Mattinson enrolled on an interior design course. Since finishing her two – year course, Andrea has worked for a prestigious local design company. ‘I learnt about myself, that I can do anything if I put my mind to it…I have a job with a successful company doing something that I love, and have made a better future for my family.’
J
Jewellery Making
Jewellery making is a creative and interesting way of making your own artwork. Learning how to use materials, and produce things to keep or give as gifts.
For example the Thomas Pocklington Trust arranges for visually impaired women to meet and make jewellery as part of a practical craft course, working together to help each other. ‘We wanted to learn a new skill that would challenge us and actually do something without being patronized.’
K
Keep Fit
Keep Fit is an excellent way to lose some weight and feel healthier and can be really fun.
Amreena Hussein Ali decided she wanted to lose some weight, but as a practicing Muslim, she had to find a woman – only class, she soon found one and later became an instructor herself. ‘The fitness industry suits women because they can work part – time or be self – employed, which means they can fit it around their family.’ It also shows that there is the opportunity for people with special requirements to take part in fitness classes.
L
Literacy
Ben Richardson was brought up in a very strict, orthodox Jewish community where he was denied mainstream secular education and only spoke Hebrew and Yiddish languages. As he reached 18 he broke away from the community and became determined to learn English and integrate into society. He joined Adult Literacy, Numeracy and Computing classes and soon found a job. Through this he gained the confidence to study for GCSE’s and A – Levels and has now been offered a place at Cambridge University to study Economics. PICTURE
Languages
When John McAnnuff was a teenager his mother died and as a result he had to get a job to look after his brothers and sisters, rather than going to university which he had dreamed of. Moving to London from Jamaica he had more opportunities to learn. John says, ‘I have tried to learn something every day, so now that I am 72 years old… I like to think that I have learnt quite a bit!’ He’s studied a lot of different subjects but his latest passion is Jamaican language and culture which he describes as ‘the missing bit of a jigsaw puzzle.’
Watch video about John McAnnuff
Take part in our online language poll to see what languages you could learn…. – hyperlink to online poll
M
Mechanic
Day to day experiences can even spark an interest in learning more, you could learn about cars and how to fix them yourself.
When Lisa Jinks’ car broke down she decided to try and fix it herself, and as a result she enrolled on a motor vehicle technician’s course. ‘This new learning has boosted my confidence and given me the kick – start that I need for a better future.’ Even though she is one of only three women in her class, she doesn’t feel different from any of the men taking part.
Mentoring in the Workplace
The workplace can be a stressful and difficult environment for some, training to counsel people through struggles that they experience at work and providing them with advice and practical help can be very rewarding.
Despite previously working as a professor in Chemistry, Anwar Usmani lost a lot of confidence as he began to suffer from severe depression. Anwar said that by taking an NVQ3 in Mentoring in the Workplace, ‘Learning has given me a second chance to give so many others something back.’
N
Numeracy
Emma Keet wanted to improve her reading, writing and maths skills to get a better job. ‘I didn’t do maths at school. I only did times tables and I hated them.’ Now she is able to multiply in her own way and can work on her own. She loves the classes and says it has improved her confidence.
Read more about Emma here - [PDF]
Paul Buswell got back into learning through courses available at his son’s school, he had struggled to learn in his childhood, but joined a numeracy programme at age 32 to help his son with his homework. Learning has improved his confidence and changed his life for the better.
Read more about Paul here - [PDF]
Test your numeracy skills at:
Nursing
There are full and part time courses in health care, where you can develop your knowledge through placements and practical learning, you have the choice of working with particular age groups, with people who are experiencing illness or are recuperating.
Despite various challenges, especially looking after four children, Jennifer Armstrong has successfully completed an Access to Nursing course and is now taking a HE Diploma in Adult Nursing. ‘For me adult learning has opened doors to a much better and more fulfilling life. I feel like a new person.’
O
Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy is an important part of the recovery process for people who have had operations or long term illnesses, this can be a very fulfilling role, as you see the practical results of caring for people in need. At 41, after working in a factory for twelve years, Robert Mallows decided to go to college to do occupational therapy. ‘It has all been worth it. I have a constant smile on my face it’s my dream career.’
P
Performing Arts
Perhaps you want to express your dramatic side? Try something like performing arts, where you can really come out of your shell and be the centre of attention.
‘Learning has given me opportunities to make new friends and gain qualifications.’ The performing arts have given Claudia Jones a chance to overcome her cruel legacy of childhood abuse and homelessness. ‘I’m very passionate about getting involved in my local community. I’ve gained lots of new skills, confidence and knowledge.’ She has studied acting throughout her experiences, and now has a BTEC First Diploma and BTEC National in Performing Arts, as well as qualifications in Theatre Workshops.
Q
Quick Reads
Quick Reads are short, exciting books by bestselling authors and celebrities for adults who are new to reading, have lost the reading habit, or prefer a quick read.
Tina Hewitt says ‘Its amazing how many people said that they don’t have time to read a ‘big book’ so we suggest Quick Reads. They’re easy to read and gave me confidence to start reading again 35 years after finishing school.’
Quick Reads are excellent for people who are learning English as their second language. Mahendar says ‘Using Quick Reads has helped me to learn English, they encouraged me to read more books, now its habit.’
They are also excellent for reading in the workplace, encourage your employer to order Quick Reads for your canteen or staff room, and you could start your own reading group.
R
Russian
One of the lesser-known European languages, Russian courses can be demanding but stimulating.
When his health started to deteriorate ten years ago Michael McGrath decided to develop his main personal interests. Despite living 40 miles away from University and aged 64 with health problems, he is currently studying Stage 6 Russian and hopes to take an MA in foreign language study. ‘Following my studies I feel much better and consider that I have regained my independence.’
90 year old, Jack Lewis who won one of our Senior Learner awards this year has always had an interest in Russia, and when a course became available in Birmingham, he was thrilled that after studying languages for 12 years he had another one to keep him occupied.
Rural Skills
Learning new skills for the workplace can be an excellent way to improve your status and expertise. Edmund Trainor is helping to keep traditional rural skills alive after returning to education and training for the first time in over 40 years.
His new skills have boosted his standing with his employer, as well as his pay – packet. Edmund took an NVQ Level 1 and 2 in Rural Skills ‘At first I thought my age would be against me but this was not the case. I was determined to succeed – I owed it to myself.’
S
Science
At the age of 25, Claire Wright was a single mum with no qualifications. Going back to college and getting a GCSE in maths was just the first step to her degree and PHD in medical science. ‘I did better than I ever could have imagined.’ She is now a vital member of the research team finding new ways to control the spread of superbugs.
Maria Perez Gonzalez says ‘learning has shown me a light at the end of the tunnel.’ Her husband opposed her learning and when she arrived in Britain as an immigrant from Mexico she endured domestic violence and homelessness. Maria began to get her life on track by taking Literacy and Numeracy courses when she won an Adult Learners’ Week Award in 2007 she was studying AS level Maths and Chemistry and hoped to move into medicine as a career.
Watch a video about Claire Wright
Sport
Street Life Soccer was especially formed for local homeless and vulnerable people, the group aims to engage adult learners through combined football and learning. As the students progress, work placements, employment support and further learning are offered as the ‘next step.’ ‘At school I was made to feel a failure. I hated learning. I’m really enjoying this. It’s not like the learning I remember.’
Sports groups come in many different forms and are extremely popular across the country; you could take the example of football, or go for something like netball, basketball, cricket or boules. There are groups to fit every level of skill and interest.
T
Teaching
If you have an interest in teaching you can take courses to become a teaching assistant, or even a qualified teacher. You can also apply to teach specialized courses, which can help people from a variety of backgrounds learn new skills. In any case, these courses can lead to a real sense of achievement, when you know you are helping further the development of others.
Clare Harris began work as a cleaner at a school, she soon became a classroom assistant and has now completed her PGCE to become a teacher. ‘My qualifications enable me to contribute in a positive way to the lives of the children I teach.’
Watch video of Clare Harris (3rd clip in video)
U
Urdu
Wadood and Ammara have proved themselves to be real assets to their community since arriving as refugees. They experienced a very difficult time as they waited for their asylum case to be heard, but even during this time they attended Skill Share’s Management Training courses, and have applied to progress onto further study. They have attended various training courses and day sessions covering a range of subjects, and are now teaching Urdu GCSE in the local community centre.
V
Veterinary Medicine
If you have an interest in animals and their health and welfare you could become involved in courses, which will enable you to become directly involved in saving their lives although this sounds like a difficult task, our adult learners’ week award winners have shown that any of this is possible.
Roy Steggles had been a dog breeder for many years, giving him a wide knowledge of animals, but he lacked the formal education to back it up. As a result at the age of 57, Roy has been studying to become an animal nursing assistant which has allowed him to feel much more fulfilled in his work.
Watch a video about Roy Steggles (2nd clip in movie)
You don’t have to have years of experience though; Laura Hudson has won a place at Cambridge University to study veterinary medicine despite gaining poor A – Level grades. She had a lifelong ambition to become a veterinary surgeon, but her educational background stood in her way. Undeterred Laura enrolled on a Science Access programme. ‘Adult learning provided me with a gateway to my future career. Without the Access course…I would not be in the fantastic position I’m in now.’
Vehicle Repainting
You don’t have to fit the mould, if there’s something you don’t like, don’t see this as defeat. Think about what your interests are and find something new.
For example, Charlene Leigh Smith started a beauty therapist course but knew it wasn’t for her. She realized she wanted to work in the automotive industry. ‘Learning has changed me from being a single mum feeling as if I have no hope or future to a confident woman working in a male – dominated industry and loving every minute of it.’
Watch a video about Charlene Leigh Smith (2nd clip in movie)
W
Women’s Personal Safety
Women’s Personal Safety is a good thing for anyone wanting to find out about self – defence to learn and to gain more confidence.
Julie moved to a refuge with her five children following the breakdown of a relationship marred by domestic violence. Although she has qualifications, they were not recognized in the fields of study she was interested in. She has now assisted at Women’s Personal Safety taster sessions. ‘I am now able to inspire other women in my community to become learners.’
Woodwork
Expanding and developing woodwork skills can be helpful
for DIY but can also for making furniture and gifts. In the case of
the Osmondthorpe Resource Centre, woodwork went from being a common
hobby to become a social enterprise, allowing people with acquired
brain injuries to gain newfound confidence.
X
X – Ray
Balbira thought that her dreams of becoming a nurse would never be realized when she was forced into an arranged marriage and she was unable to pursue the learning she needed. Since divorcing her husband she took on a job as a care assistant at a nursing home and then completed her access course. She did a computer course to give her a head start at University. She now has a new job as a Staff Nurse in an oncology cancer ward. Learning for Balbira has opened up a whole new world. She is now more confident, has fulfilled her dream and is more financially stable.
Y
Youth and Community Development
Life experience can be just what you need in order to help younger people at one of the most impressionable times of their lives, especially in terms of improving integration in the community.
Jane Sheppard missed out on a lot of schooling through childhood illness and having to care for her sick parents. However she thrives to make up for this, and has taken a long list of care – related courses and training, including a Youth and Community Development Certificate. ‘Somewhere deep inside I knew I could use my experiences to help other disadvantaged people.’ She now hopes to complete her Youth Development Degree and to set up her own organization to help disadvantaged children and families.
Z
Zoology
If you have a fascination with animals or experience in working with them, a Zoo Biology qualification can give you the opportunity to develop your knowledge and understanding further.
As the Director of Wildlife at a safari park, Bob Lawrence knows a lot about animals, but going back into education after 35 years was a real challenge. Despite his vast experience he feels he still has a lot to learn. He says ‘It has helped me to see my vocation in an entirely new perspective and opened up new horizons.’
Watch a video about Bob Lawrence