Why return to study at college?

It's a common mistake to think that college is only for 16-year-olds but that is simply not the truth. Learning never stops and we continue to develop professionally and personally throughout our lives so why should learning stop too? Whatever the motivation, returning to college could be the right choice for you. 

According to a 2022 study conducted by the Learning and Work Institute, 44% of adults have taken part in some form of adult education in the last three years, an increase from previous years' reports. So why is returning to education at the top of many adults' development goals? 

We've compiled 6 reasons why returning to college may be the next step for you.  
 

1. Improve your career prospects

It's not a surprise that many adults turn to education to advance their careers. Gaining a qualification in a specific subject area can significantly enhance a person's employability, especially in competitive job markets. 

With many employers looking for specific qualifications or skills, returning to college is a committed step towards acquiring new knowledge highly valued in the job market.  
 

2. Revisit or start a new subject  

Many people feel that returning to college is a way to fulfil a personal goal. There is a huge range of subjects available to study at college that can help revisit or explore a new subject area that you're interested in. 

You may be considering giving college another chance, wanting to pursue a different subject, or just wanting to tick off a goal you've always wanted to achieve. Whatever the reason, college gives you the best environment to gain a qualification and revisit education with dedicated support and expert lecturers. 
 

3. Get student support 

Support is essential for any student. When studying a college course, you'll be able to benefit from the support available to help you reach your full potential. 

At college, your learning mentors are there to support you alongside academic tutors to ensure your academic success, confidence, and skill development and to help prepare you for your next steps. You'll also be able to receive support from our dedicated employability team to improve skills that employers are looking for, including practicing interview skills and building a strong CV. 

You'll also be able to get financial advice and childcare support information from our team, with several types of loans designed for students to help ease the transition into full-time or part-time education as an adult. Find out more or contact our student support team below. 

4. Skill development 

Gaining a qualification equips individuals with knowledge and skills relevant to the subject they're studying. This leads to increased job opportunities and career advancement and demonstrates a commitment to your professional development. Therefore, you become more sought after by employers. It also provides a strong foundation for continued learning and growth in the field so you can continue learning throughout your career. 

5. Access to Higher Education 

Gaining a Level 3 qualification is many individuals’ educational avenue to open the door to university. This can either be achieved through a year-long Access course or a Level 3 course, depending on the subject area. Access courses prepare you for studying at university level and upon completion, you’ll be ready to apply and study at university. 

6. Meet like-minded students 

Students studying the same course attract people with shared interests while creating opportunities for collaboration and a welcoming environment. There are many mature students in our full-time and part-time courses at college which provides a unique networking environment. 

This creates an enriching environment where individuals can thrive collectively, encouraging motivation, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.  
 

Full-time and part-time adult courses 

If you are seeking advancement in your current position or exploring new career opportunities, our selection of full-time and part-time courses is designed to support your professional growth. 

Whether you work in business, care, counselling, hair and beauty, hospitality, engineering, professional services, or teaching, we have part-time and full-time courses tailored to your industry. Explore our courses or contact us today.