Meet Magnus: How one short course helped him rebuild belief in himself
For Magnus, returning to education has been a crucial step towards rebuilding his confidence and preparing for a return to work. After time away from employment due to ill health, he wanted to reconnect with the world of technology, the industry he had worked in for years. That led him to enrol on the AI Prompt Engineering course at New City College.
“I’d been out of work for a while, and I wanted to explore what’s new in technology. This course has shown me how work is changing and helped me think about the direction I want to take when I go back.”
Learning that builds confidence
Before joining the course, Magnus wasn’t sure what to expect. After trying to enrol on another oversubscribed course, he found Prompt Engineering — and quickly discovered it was exactly the introduction he needed.
“I was impressed with the syllabus. The best part has been sharing ideas with other people and seeing everyone move forward.”
Studying again has helped him reconnect with his abilities.
“Adult education has rebuilt my confidence. It’s reminded me of the skills I already have and helped me develop new ones.”
“Adult education has rebuilt my confidence. It’s reminded me of the skills I already have and helped me develop new ones.”
A message for anyone considering coming back
Magnus understands the hesitation adults often feel about returning to the classroom — but says the experience has been overwhelmingly positive.
“It’s a great opportunity to learn new things, meet new people and grow your confidence. Studying with like-minded people makes it much easier than you expect.”
“It’s a great opportunity to learn new things, meet new people and grow your confidence.”
Why adult learning matters
For Magnus, the threat of funding cuts feels deeply personal.
“If funding was cut, it would make it much harder for me to access education. It would limit my opportunities to get back to work.”
He believes adult education plays a vital role in supporting individuals and strengthening the workforce.
“Adult learning is important because it helps people gain the skills they need for work and for the country’s future. Without it, people would have fewer ways to progress.”
“Adult learning is important because it helps people gain the skills they need for work and for the country’s future.”
Find out more
Discover flexible, part-time and funded courses for adults at New City College and join the campaign to protect lifelong learning.
