You are never too old to learn new skills – that is the message from an East Riding woman who has been developing her expertise in the world of computing thanks to adult learning courses.
Pamela Swaine, 72, of Beverley has a European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) under her belt, and is now building on her knowledge by learning how to use an electronic tablet device on just one of the many courses available at the new adult learning centre in Beverley.
And now, with Older People’s day taking place on 1 October, Pamela is hoping to inspire others to have the confidence to learn new skills regardless of age.
Under the banner ‘Full of Life’ the national awareness campaign aims to celebrate the achievements of older people, highlight the challenges that people face as they get older, and tackle outdated stereotypes and negative attitudes often associated with older people.
Pamela, who has rheumatoid arthritis, said:
“I’m not doing this as an accolade for myself, I’m doing it to try and encourage other people to go for it, to show them that age or disability is no barrier to learn something new.”
“The support you receive is phenomenal, I can’t fault it, and the tutors just build up your confidence and tell you that you can do it.
“It helps your mental well being too, if you get into it you forget about everything else going on in life. It’s made a real difference for me,” she added.
Pamela now attends the newly opened adult learning centre on Burden Road, Beverley which officially opened its doors to learners at the beginning of September.
Based on the site of the old youth centre the new centre provides courses for people aged 19 years and over, who are looking to improve their skills, gain new qualifications for work or entry to higher education, or to those like Pamela who are simply looking for a new hobby.
The new course guides for autumn 2016 are out now, featuring the full range of courses which are available at adult learning venues across the East Riding ranging from one-day workshops to year-long qualifications, available during the day, on evenings or weekends.
There are a wide range of topics available to learn including maths, English, IT, arts and crafts, photography, pottery, and flower arranging.
Councillor Jane Evison, cabinet portfolio holder for economic investment and tourism, said:
“Whether you want to learn new skills or explore a new hobby the courses made available through the council’s adult learning venues offer something for everyone, regardless of age or ability.
“I would encourage anyone who wants to find out more to take a look at the course guides for the autumn term or pop into their nearest adult learning centre to discover the world of learning that awaits them.”
Course guides are available now at any east Riding library, leisure centre, adult learning centre or customer service centre. Copies are also being distributed to local community venues or alternatively you can download a copy online at www.eastriding.gov.uk/learn
To book a place on a course, you can book online, call, pop in or email your local centre. For details of a centre near you visit www.eastriding.gov.uk/learn
