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Become an adult learner at Teesside

17 May 2007

 

The University of Teesside has a range of activities to support Adult Learners Week, the national scheme which encourages adults back into education and runs from 19-25 May.

The event, now in its 16th year, provides access to information and guidance about learning opportunities, motivates adults to participate in learning and celebrates the achievements of adult learners.

As part of the weeks’ activities, the University of Teesside is hosting three ‘Find Out More Days’ where people can visit the campus to learn about its facilities and details of courses in Criminology and Law, Computing, and Work-Based Learning.

Everyone's welcome - potential students, parents, those in employment seeking professional development skills, anyone wanting to gain skills and qualifications to take a step into employment, and those who want to study for pleasure.

The Find Out More Days will take place on the following dates, meeting in the reception area of the University’s main tower block building:

22 May – Work-Based Learning – 1.30pm-4pm 23 May – Computing – 1.30pm-4pm 23 May – Two general ‘Find out More’ events at 10am-12pm and 6pm-8pm 24 May – Criminology & Law – 1.30pm-4pm

For more information, or to book a place on any of the Find Out More Days, contact Sandra Johnston, Adult Access Co-ordinator – Advice & Guidance, on 01642 738014 or email findoutmore@tees.ac.uk.

An information session about part-time study has been arranged for Wednesday 23 May from 5pm-7pm in the University Lounge on the second floor of the Clarendon building. Academic staff will be on hand to offer advice to prospective students. For further information, contact Gillian Kazeminia on 01642 384277 or email g.kazeminia@tees.ac.uk

Robert Bridgett, pictured, is a successful example of an adult learner. He started training as a motor mechanic aged 15 and thought his schooldays were over. Over 25 years later, he has achieved a Law degree from the University of Teesside and will soon begin a course to qualify as a Barrister.

Robert, 41, from Shildon, County Durham, said: “I didn’t really like school or have a good time there. I was a quiet kid who kept to myself. Although I got six O levels I started training as a motor mechanic straight away. I did it to please my Dad, who worked hard as a long-distance lorry driver. I just viewed it as a job, not something to enjoy.”

Robert worked as a mechanic for several years, and then switched to selling insurance. He gained a taste for learning when he decided to study part-time for GCSEs in Maths and Law.

This inspired Robert to progress to an Access to Higher Education course at Bishop Auckland College, which led to him enrolling on a Law degree at the University of Teesside.

Despite initial problems with the computing requirements of University study, he found his tutors very supportive. He said: “When I heard the young kids on the course talking about cutting and pasting I thought they were talking about decorating or something! My tutor, Jude Beadle, was very understanding and let me hand write my essays in the first year. Everybody I came into contact with at the University was so supportive.”

This year Robert will begin a one-year Bar Vocational Course in Newcastle, with the aim of qualifying as a Barrister.


 
 
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