College to showcase transformative adult learning courses

Derby College Group is encouraging people to come forward to learn more about its adult and community education courses.

The college recently hosted an Adult Learning Opportunity event at Sinfin Library, which was attended by members of the local community keen to explore what learning could offer them next.

The event provided an opportunity for visitors to meet tutors, ask questions, and discover how Derby College Group’s adult and community courses can fit around busy lives, whether that means studying alongside work, caring responsibilities, or other commitments.

According to the college, its adult learning is designed with flexibility, affordability and progression in mind.

Courses range from entry-level confidence builders to qualifications that lead directly to employment, apprenticeships, further study or even university.

One such learner is Adel Annaeva, a 45-year-old mum of five, who believes strongly in learning new skills and “training your brain to keep it active.”

Despite holding a degree from her home country of Uzbekistan, Adel never imagined she would return to education in the UK.

Thanks to free adult education funded through the Adult Skills Fund, Adel was able to study ESOL before progressing onto the Level 2 Teaching Assistant course.

She said: “Getting the course for free has made such a difference.

“I don’t think I would have been able to do it without the skills fund.

“Studying has made my life more interesting and helped me plan a job that works around my family.”

Her experience reflects that of many adult learners, gaining confidence, retraining for meaningful work and building a future that fits around real life.

Chloe Manchester, a former adult learner, completed Creative Craft and Upcycling courses at Levels 1 and 2 before progressing to university.

After experiencing personal loss during her studies, Chloe used her creativity as a way to process grief and support emotional wellbeing, demonstrating how adult learning can nurture both resilience and ambition.

She said: “Discussing ideas in class and sharing feedback made such a difference.

“Creativity and wellbeing are closely linked, and learning helped me turn something painful into something meaningful.”

Anyone considering a return to learning is encouraged to attend Derby College Group’s upcoming Adult Course Open Evening at The Roundhouse on Thursday 26 March.

These open evenings offer the chance to explore adult and community courses in detail, speak directly with tutors and support staff and get advice on funding, flexibility and progression routes.

To explore the college’s full range of adult and community courses – and to enrol – click here.