A chance to find out more about adult education is available at Leicester College, on Wednesday 18 June 2014 from 4pm to 7.30pm as part of Adult Learners’ Week.

Leicester College is reputed for its adult-focused courses and during the event anyone considering returning to education can discover which opportunities are available.

As part of the Adult Learning Courses and Training Event at the Abbey Park Campus on Painter Street, there will be a focus on 24+ Advanced Learning Loans.

The loans are available to anyone aged 24 and above and offer access to training at levels 3 and 4. These include Access to Higher Education, Diploma, Extended Diplomas, A levels and BTEC courses in a wide-range of subject areas from Accounting and Art and Computing to Hairdressing and Teacher Education.

For the first time, 24+ Advanced Learning Loans will give learners in further education access to financial support for course fees, similar to that which is available in Higher Education.

This means rather than an individual having to pay for their course upfront they have the option of accessing a loan, from the Student Loans Company, that they will only start to repay once they have left the course and are earning over £21,000.

Zara Shan, from Knighton Leicester was unemployed and caring for her young family until she signed up for a Diploma in Accounting (QCF) course after taking out a 24+ Advanced Learning Loan.  She says this course will help her take her first steps in getting back into employment.

Zara said: “I didn’t want to have to borrow from family or friends to pay for the course as I couldn’t afford to pay for it, but at the same time I wanted to follow my dream and continue on with my career in accountancy.

So when I found out about the loan it was a great relief! The terms and conditions were very easy to understand and the staff at Leicester College were all helpful with their support and advice.”

College Principal Verity Hancock said: “At Leicester College we are focused on developing skills which open up new opportunities for learners of any age.

“If you are looking for a change in career, to gain further qualifications or enhance your skills, then this event is highly recommended. Staff will be on hand to answer any questions and give advice especially concerning the 24+ Advanced Learning Loans and any financial queries surrounding those.”

During the week, the annual Adult Learner Awards to celebrate learner success, will be held on Tuesday 17 June 2014.

During the evening 27 exceptional learners will be presented with awards for achieving excellence in their area of study, where a four course meal prepared by our hospitality and catering learners will be served.

The Awards is a high profile ceremony to recognise our exceptional adult learners who have inspired others.

Adult Learners’ Week from 14 to 20 June 2014.