National event shows it’s never too late to learn a new skill!

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This week is Adult Learners’ Week, the biggest national celebration of lifelong learning. The event, now in its 24th year, includes national and regional award ceremonies and a Festival of Learning that runs until the end of the month.

The festival, led by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) includes ‘have a go’ taster events across England and Wales - last year more than 3,000 activities were provided by hundreds of organisations.

In a survey to mark the launch of the festival, NIACE found that the UK is a a nation of ‘wannabe’ chefs and musicians, with cooking top of the list of skills that people would most love to learn, (39%) closely followed by playing a musical instrument (23%).

And half of those asked said they would be prepared to take up a course to enable them to improve their skills.

David Hughes, chief executive of NIACE, said: “This shows how much we all want to learn new things, it’s a natural part of who we are but it also shows that people need help to take steps to find where and how to learn.

“That’s why initiatives like the Festival of Learning are so important to encourage people to take the leap and go for it, whatever their age or level of education. All of the top skills people would love to learn most are about people expressing themselves, who they are, what they stand for. The confidence learning those skills brings are crucial for everyone in life and in work. That’s why we will continue to campaign for lifelong learning to be truly accessible for everyone.”

Festival of Learning supporter, Joe Pasquale, comedian, actor and television presenter, said: “I always wanted to learn more but was worried I was too old. However, I have just passed my degree in In Kent the taster sessions include:

Northfleet: A range of computer skills including starting online and internet safety, plus managing money, skills for job applications and staying healthy

Rochester: Drawing, painting, tai chi, yoga, floral jewellery

Gillingham: English literature, creative writing, British Sign Language, introduction to sociology and psychology Chatham: Fine art Tonbridge: Advice on starting a foreign language, watercolour painting, herbs for health

For more details visit www.alw. org.uk/events/find-an-event Natural Sciences with the Open University. I loved it – my only regret is not doing it earlier!

“Don’t waste time thinking about it, get to some Festival of Learning events, find the right course and then see how much you enjoy it too.”

For more information on Adult Learners’ Week and the Festival of Learning visit www.alw.org.uk