Meet Sophia: Staying sharp, confident and connected through cyber security
At 58, Sophia refuses to stand still. Recently retired for medical reasons, she found herself wanting more than the routine of home life. Curious about the rapid changes in technology, and determined not to be left behind, she enrolled on the Cyber Security course at New City College.
“Cyber security is everywhere now. I didn’t want to keep asking people what things meant — I wanted to understand it for myself.”
“Cyber security is everywhere now. I didn’t want to keep asking people what things meant — I wanted to understand it for myself.”
Having taken several computing courses over the years, Sophia sees lifelong learning as a way to stay mentally active, build new skills and keep pace with a digital world that’s moving fast.
Finding joy in learning
Sophia admits she felt uncertain at first. Cyber security felt more complex than general computing — but the course quickly brought everything into focus.
“I was sceptical because cyber security is deeper than normal computing, but the teacher explained everything clearly. I wouldn’t call myself an expert, but now I understand what it’s about — and I enjoy it.”
She particularly loves the mix of technical skills, internet research and data analysis.
“I’ve learned more than I expected. It’s eye-opening, interesting, and it keeps my brain working.”
“I’ve learned more than I expected. It’s eye-opening, interesting, and it keeps my brain working.”
Staying connected — and closing the digital gap
One of the most rewarding outcomes for Sophia has been being able to talk to her 26-year-old daughter about topics she never thought she’d understand.
“Now when we talk about tech, I actually know what she’s on about. She’s proud — and I’m proud too.”
“Now when I talk about tech with my daughter, I actually know what she’s on about. She’s proud — and I’m proud too.”
Why adult education matters
For Sophia, adult learning isn’t just about qualifications. It’s about independence, stimulation and staying involved in the world.
“Learning keeps my brain going. You can’t always Google everything — sometimes you need someone to explain it properly. That makes a big difference.”
She is honest about the impact funding cuts would have.
“If funding was cut, I wouldn’t be able to study. I don’t have spare money for courses. The funding gives me the chance to learn instead of sitting at home watching daytime TV.”
“The funding gives me the chance to learn instead of sitting at home watching daytime TV.”
A message to decision-makers
If she could speak to the government, Sophia’s message would be simple:
“We 100% need this funding. People can’t learn if they can’t afford it. Adult education helps in daily life, not just work — it helps us stay informed, confident and independent.”
And to any adult considering coming back to education:
“Go for it. You won’t regret it. You learn, you make friends, and it keeps you happy.”
“We 100% need this funding. People can’t learn if they can’t afford it. Adult education helps in daily life, not just work — it helps us stay informed, confident and independent.”
Find out more
Discover flexible, part-time and funded courses for adults at New City College and join the campaign to protect lifelong learning.
