News Beat
Adult learning courses for people across North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire Council’s Adult Learning Service offers courses in topics ranging from maths to vocational training, all designed to fit around learners’ lifestyles.
The benefits are being felt across the region, with learners from all walks of life sharing how the courses have helped them progress at work, find new opportunities, and gain valuable skills for day-to-day life.
Among those who have enrolled is 93-year-old Veronica Piercy, who took a digital skills course to build her confidence using technology.
Mrs Piercy, who lives in a village between Pickering and Kirkbymoorside, said: “This course has done me a world of good to get out of the house and meet new people.
“I feel as though I am part of the new digital world now and am enjoying it very much.
“My teacher Marie Nicholson has been so patient and supportive explaining everything nice and slowly.
“I particularly enjoyed gaining an understanding of online safety.
“I would definitely recommend enrolling on a course with the council’s adult learning service.
“If I can do it at 93, so can you.”
The course, held at Malton Library, covers keyboard and mouse skills, creating folders, and identifying symbols and icons.
Marie Nicholson, Mrs Piercy’s tutor, said: “It is always rewarding to work with people on our courses, but supporting someone as inspiring as Veronica, who at 93 has embraced learning with such enthusiasm, is truly special.”
Another learner, Becky Guy from Coxwold, enrolled on a social media marketing course to support her husband’s joinery business.
Mrs Guy, 32, said: “The course was online and ran in the evenings, so I could do it after work without leaving the house.
“My youngest child is autistic and would sometimes be curious about what I was doing on the computer.
“My tutor would always say ‘hi’ to her and completely understood if I needed to step away for a few minutes.
“That support was fantastic.”
She has now set up social media pages, built a website, and updated the business’ Google page daily to keep it at the top of search results.
Mrs Guy said: “If you’re thinking of a new career, would like to move up the career ladder or expand the opportunities open to you, the council’s adult learning service offers a range of courses to support your goals.”
The adult learning programme offers a variety of study options, from full-time courses and day workshops to flexible home learning.
More than 40 new courses will be available at venues across North Yorkshire in January and February.
Courses range from beginner-level digital skills to Level 2 accredited qualifications that improve employability.
There are also practical sessions, such as using the NHS App and getting the most out of a mobile phone for communication and entertainment.
The service was rated good across the board by Ofsted inspectors last year with outstanding elements for behaviour and attitudes and the apprenticeships it offers.
Councillor Annabel Wilkinson, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for education, learning and skills, said: “Inspiring and remarkable stories like those of Becky and Veronica remind us that it is never too late to return to education and develop new skills to stay connected in today’s world.
“We look to provide courses for people of all ages and backgrounds, enabling them to learn, grow, and develop new skills that support their personal and professional progress.”
During the 2024/2025 academic year, the council recorded more than 4,800 enrolments on adult learning courses.
Subjects included maths, English, English for speakers of other languages (ESOL), and a range of vocational areas such as accounting, education and training, and safeguarding.
Courses are delivered at locations throughout North Yorkshire, with many learners opting for online study from home.
More information about available courses is on the North Yorkshire Council website at www.northyorks.gov.uk/explore-adult-learning-courses.
