Meet Marie: Finding independence, confidence and purpose through adult learning
For Marie, returning to education has been about becoming more confident, more independent and more able to support herself. After studying Digital Skills and English last year, she is now focused on Maths at New City College, a course she says has already transformed her daily life.
“I wanted to be independent. I can’t always depend on my children. I need these skills for everyday life.”
Marie has been coming to college for several years, steadily progressing, building confidence and proving that learning at any age is not only possible — it’s powerful.
“I wanted to be independent. I can’t always depend on my children. I need these skills for everyday life.”
Learning that builds confidence
Returning to study has helped Marie rediscover her abilities.
“I’ve become more confident than I used to be. As I learn, I understand things better and I’m able to help myself.”
“I’ve become more confident than I used to be. As I learn, I understand things better and I’m able to help myself.”
That confidence has carried into every part of her life — from work to family to her place in the community.
“It’s helping me with work, family life and my community. The more you are willing to learn, the more the skills come to you.”
Why adult learning matters
For Marie, adult education isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. And she worries deeply about what cuts to funding would mean for people like her.
“If funding is cut, it would affect people like me. Adult education helps us help ourselves. It gives us confidence and strength. Without it, many adults won’t be able to attend anymore.”
“Adult education helps us help ourselves. It gives us confidence and strength.”
She also highlights the impact of previous cuts — such as the loss of evening classes, which used to fit better around her full-time job.
“I work full-time, and coming in on Wednesdays is very difficult. When evening classes existed, it was easier. Cuts make it harder for people who want to learn.”
A message to decision-makers
Marie believes adult education is vital not only for individuals but for the country.
“Adult education helps people get jobs instead of depending on benefits. If we want people to fit into society, we need to give them the chance to learn.”
And if she could speak directly to government?
“Think twice before cutting funding. Many people in this country need this help. Adult education gives people the knowledge they need to stand on their own two feet.”
“Many people in this country need this help. Adult education gives people the knowledge they need to stand on their own two feet.”
Her message to any adult thinking of returning to education is simple:
“It’s the best thing you can do. It is never too late to learn — at any age.”
“It’s the best thing you can do. It is never too late to learn — at any age.”
Find out more
Discover flexible, part-time and funded courses for adults at New City College and join the campaign to protect lifelong learning.
