Returning to learning

If you've been out of the workplace while caring for others, why not make it an opportunity to learn something new before going back to work?

I want to update my general skills

Often it's your IT skills you'll need to update most. If it's general IT skills you need, you could do a broad-based course such as Computer Literacy And Information Technology (CLAIT) or European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL). If you need more specific IT skills you can search for an IT course on our course database or call our Advice Line on 0800 100 900.

Many universities and colleges of higher education offer the Associate Student Scheme. On this scheme you can choose to study a single unit of a higher education course. You can use this to update your knowledge in your field or gain new specialist expertise.

I'm not sure where to start

You could do a "return to learning" course, which can ease you in gently and prepare you for a full course of study. See the I want to learn new skills section below for more details.

Or you could start with a fairly undemanding course, such as a part-time evening leisure course. You could then move up to an academic or vocational course.

If you want help deciding which course would be best for you, you can get free careers advice by calling 0800 100 900 - ask to speak to a learndirect Careers Coach.

I'm very busy and can't spare the time

Consider a distance learning course, which you do from home. With these courses you can study at your own pace and at times convenient to you.

More about open, flexible and distance learning.

I want to go to university so I can get a better job

Access courses are the main route for adults to get into university. They provide you with the skills and understanding you need to study for a degree successfully. They are for people aged 19 or over and there are no formal entry requirements.

You can do Access courses in subjects like humanities, social sciences, business, health studies, science, performing arts, information technology and art and design. They can also be general 'Access to Higher Education' courses, where you can pick and choose the modules you want to do. You can also do Access courses in certain professions, for example Access to Nursing and Access to Teaching. Some Access courses are linked to a degree course, so if you pass the Access course you'll automatically be accepted onto the degree course.

Access courses also include training in English and maths, and study skills. They tend to be one year full-time or two years part-time.

Find out more about Access courses. You can also search for Access courses and find out more about them on the UCAS website.

If you need help with finding an Access course, call us on 0800 100 900.

There are no Access courses running in my area - is there something similar I can do?

If there isn't an Access course running in your area there are alternatives:

• Some universities accept Open University modules for entry
• NVQ Level 3 can get you on to certain vocational courses, such as nursing
• Foundation courses - often for students with the "wrong" A levels (for example, arts A levels to get onto a science course) but can sometimes offer mature students a route onto a degree course
• Some universities have "continuing education" departments that encourage people with no formal qualifications
• Ask about Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) and the Credit Accumulation Transfer Scheme (CATS).

If you need advice on finding and choosing a course, call us on 0800 100 900.

I want to learn new skills but I don't feel very confident

If you've been at home caring for children or elderly relatives it can seem daunting to return to learning. You might also be apprehensive if you didn't have a good experience of education the first time round.

Don't forget that Access and return to learning courses are designed for adults in your situation. Many of them include:

• confidence building
• study skills
• advice and guidance on your next move.

Similar courses include:

• entry level courses
• pre-Access courses
• "taster" courses
• foundation courses.

Many courses are run at times to suit your circumstances. English language support may be available if your first language isn't English.

How do I fund the course?

Funding for courses is complex, and depends on your circumstances and which course you want to do. Here are the main funding sources and schemes for those returning to learning:

• Learner Support Funds
• Career Development Loans (CDL)
• Educational charities and trusts
• Adult Learning Grant
• Childcare Grant
• Adult Dependants Grant
• Parents' Learning Allowance
• Tax Credits

And don't forget that if you're on benefits or a low income you usually don't have to pay course fees and you might qualify for money to live on.

If you need advice on paying for your course, call us on 0800 100 900.

What help can I get with childcare?

Visit our section all about choosing and paying for childcare.

Where can I find out more?

The Women Returners' Network campaigns for increased opportunities for women returners. They produce a range of booklets to help you decide on your next move.

If you want advice on which courses are available, call the learndirect Advice Line on freephone0800 100 900. Advisors can offer impartial, confidential advice on courses, careers, childcare and funding. Lines are open 8am to 10pm seven days a week. You can also email your course enquiry.