Adult learning made possible: New skills, new confidence at Derby College Group (12th February)

For many adults, the motivation to return to learning is simple but powerful: to gain confidence, retrain for a new career, support their family, improve wellbeing, or rediscover a sense of purpose. These motivations were front and centre at the recent Adult Learning Opportunity event at Sinfin Library, which was well 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 Adult and Community courses can fit around busy lives, whether that means studying alongside work, caring responsibilities, or other commitments.

Adult learning at Derby College Group 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.

For many adults, returning to education can feel daunting, but the rewards can be life-changing.

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.

“Getting the course for free has made such a difference,” Adel said.

“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.

Visitors at Sinfin Library learned about a wide range of adult learning opportunities, including:

• Teaching Assistant courses, deal for those who enjoy working with children and want school-friendly hours that fit around family life
• ESOL courses, helping learners improve communication, confidence and employability
• Digital skills courses, supporting adults to navigate online services, use technology confidently, and improve job prospects
• Creative and wellbeing courses, including art and craft, which support mental health, self-expression and personal growth

Creative learning can be just as transformative. 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.

“Discussing ideas in class and sharing feedback made such a difference,” Chloe said.

“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 one of Derby College Group’s upcoming Adult Course Open Evenings at The Roundhouse, Derby:

• Wednesday 12th February 2026, The Roundhouse, Derby
• Thursday 26th March 2026, The Roundhouse, Derby

These open evenings offer the chance to:

• explore adult and community courses in detail
• speak directly with tutors and support staff
• get advice on funding, flexibility and progression routes

You can also explore the full range of Adult and Community courses and enrol online now.  Spaces are limited!