Sign Up Now is a national campaign that runs throughout January and September to raise awareness of the benefits of learning as an adult and inspire everyone to try something new.

This January, Sign Up Now is encouraging adults to take up learning as part of the 2010 European Union Year for Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion. Read press release - [PDF]. The campaign is inspiring adults to learn new skills throughout the year, to improve their job prospects, their health and confidence or simply learn for pleasure.

For many adults that have returned to learning, it has changed their whole life; opening up doors to future prospects and helping them achieve their goals. Learners’ stories show how remarkable the benefits can be:

• Since signing up for a coaching course Michael Douglas has now secured housing, employment and enjoys using his new skills to help others. Read Michael’s story
• At the age of 52, former cleaner, Mary Jarvis decided to gain some qualifications that have given her the opportunity to become a nurse. Read Mary’s story
• Gary Peel turned to learning to re – build his self – esteem, helping him to improve his health and return to work. Read Gary’s story
• Caroline Haddock decided to brush up on her English skills to give her more independence, now she’s more confident at work and at home. Read Caroline’s story

If you are thinking of taking up learning, get started with advice from the Learners’ zone on the Adult Learners' Week website.

If you are a learning provider or employer Sign Up Now can support your promotional activity with free customisable resources.

Coordinated by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) , Sign Up Now is the sister campaign to May’s Adult Learners’ Week