Adult Learning at Leek College
Hundreds of Moorlands’ folk are pursuing new opportunities in life after returning to learn as adults.
Whether it’s opening up new job prospects through a university-linked Foundation Degree or a vocational course, or enjoying a hobby through a recreational class, Leek College has a wide range of courses for adults.
Full details of what’s on offer and how the College can help will be available when Leek College holds its Adult Learners’ Open Evening on Thursday May 20. The event, which lasts from 5.30 to 8pm, coincides with Adult Learners’ Week, a national celebration of the benefits of learning, whatever your age.
Endon mum of two Diane Leopard is a perfect example of how adult learning can prove a life-changing choice.
She has gone from student to part-time lecturer after deciding to delve into family history two years ago, prompted by her husband, retired hospital surgeon Peter Leopard.
Diane joined him on a Leek College course and soon became fascinated by her own ancestors, including William Large, one of North Staffordshire’s first centenarians. She managed to discover old photographs of her ancestor and made him the focus of an Open University study on Writing the History of Families.
Diane’s own life changed after she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis eighteen months ago and could no longer keep up the pace of her old job as a dental nurse and practice administrator in Hanley. But, thanks to her passion for learning, new opportunities have followed the shock diagnosis and, after she enrolled on an IT course, she decided to start her own business in Family History Research. On doctor’s orders, she can only work for eight hours per week but is enjoying the challenge of a new direction.
She revealed: “That phone call to Leek College to enrol on the IT course turned out to be the best I ever made. I’d got skills in IT from my job but nothing was certificated and I feel that Leek College has made such a difference to my career.
“At the age of 46, to be given the chance and support to make a complete change of career has been wonderful and I can’t thank the college enough. I’ve also brushed up on my numeracy and literacy and the highlight for me was winning the Skills for Life Train to Gain Award for Excellence in IT.
“I attended the awards night and felt very proud to be a part of Leek College and glowing with pride at receiving my award. From a student’s perspective, a good organisation needs a good team and Leek College staff are leaders in the Premier League.”
Spurred on by treatments to manage her own MS, Diane has also completed courses in alternative therapies including aromatherapy, Indian Head Massage and Ear Candle Therapy and aims to offer relaxing treatments in clients’ own homes.
For more information on adult learning opportunities at Leek College go along to the Open Evening on May 20 or call the College on 01538 398866.
