Meet Elizabeth: Building new skills, new confidence and a stronger future
When Elizabeth graduated with a degree in Human Resources in 2017, she never imagined she’d be back in a classroom years later, balancing work, study and family life. But driven by ambition and a desire to stay ahead in a changing job market, she decided to return to education at New City College, studying Data Analytics Level 3.
“I’ve worked in HR and payroll for years, but I wanted to go beyond the operational side and work more closely within the IT area,” Elizabeth explains. “Now I’m gaining the skills to analyse data and combine that with my HR experience so I can take my career to the next level.”
As industries across the UK face growing skills shortages, particularly in data and digital technologies, adult learners like Elizabeth are crucial to bridging that gap. For her, the opportunity to retrain locally, while keeping her job, made all the difference.
“There are people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures. We learn so much from each other.”
“Being able to study one day a week while working has been a huge benefit,” she says. “That flexibility makes it possible for people like me to upskill without having to give up their jobs. I also value the diversity here, there are people of all ages, backgrounds and cultures. We learn so much from each other.”
Investing in herself and in the future
For Elizabeth, returning to education isn’t just about professional growth. It’s about setting an example for her family and showing her young son that learning never stops.
“When I told my son I was going back to school, he said, ‘Mummy, I’m so proud of you.’ That really meant a lot. I want to show him that it’s never too late to learn something new — and to encourage other adults who feel they’re too old or won’t understand, to take the chance. Just try! You won’t know what you can do until you do.”
Why funding for adult education matters
Elizabeth’s story is a powerful reminder of why adult education funding is vital. Despite her determination, she’s clear about the financial barriers that can stand in the way.
“This course is an investment in my future, but because I have to pay for education, there’s a limit to how far I can take it,” she says. “If more adults had access to funded learning, it would make a huge difference. There are so many people who would love to study but simply can’t afford it.”
“If more adults had access to funded learning, it would make a huge difference. There are so many people who would love to study but simply can’t afford it.”
With adult education budgets across the UK facing cuts, Elizabeth’s voice is one of many calling for change.
“If all adult education was funded, we’d have more trained workers and more people with essential skills like teamwork, problem-solving and communication. Those are things you use every day — in work, in life, and in your community. When people have the chance to learn, everyone benefits.”
“If all adult education was funded, we’d have more trained workers and more people with essential skills like teamwork, problem-solving and communication.”
Find out more
Discover flexible, part-time and funded courses for adults at New City College and join the campaign to protect lifelong learning.
