A study undertaken by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills suggests that engaging in continued education can have multiple benefits that impact all different areas of life. Adult learning doesn’t necessarily have to lead to a formal qualification to be beneficial. In some cases, the eradication of the pressure to achieve can amplify the benefits all the more.

Whether you’re revisiting an old hobby, learning something completely new, or improving your professional skills, an adult learning course can provide a range of benefits, such as:

• Improvements in physical and mental well-being
• Increased confidence and positive attitude
• Career progression
• General life satisfaction
• Networking opportunities
• A potential to increase income

But where to start? Below are some examples of areas in which you could take an adult learning course and what specific benefits they could bring to you.

Creative

Subjects like music, art, dance or creative writing could reveal a passion or talent for something that you never knew you had, but they can also have serious health benefits. The American Journal of Public Health reports that stress is associated with numerous chronic diseases like heart disease, depression and Alzheimer’s. Indulging in creative activities has been shown to reduce stress and overall emotional wellbeing. What’s more, it can also have a positive impact on your career. For instance, careertipster.com suggests that engaging in a creative writing course can improve your vocabulary, organisational skills and more.

Find out about creative courses at Derby College here.

Business and Professional

Whether you’re thinking about setting up your own business, or want to increase your skills to get that promotion, a short business course can make a huge difference. You can learn skills such as management, administration, accounting, problem-solving and team work to help you thrive in a professional environment.

You can also take a professional course specific to your career, such as Hairdressing, Beauty, Professional Construction, Food Safety, Project Management, First Aid and Human Resources.

Find out more about business and professional courses at Derby College here.

Languages

Whether you want to improve your language skills for your next holiday, start a new life in the South of France or learn a new language for business reasons, we have a number of courses at Derby College. According to the British Council, three quarters of British adults can’t speak a foreign language competently – so taking a language course is sure to set you apart, particularly in business. The Telegraph also suggests that languages are more than just beneficial for work and travel – they can be good for your brain too. “Speaking a foreign language improves the functionality of your brain by challenging it to recognise, negotiate meaning, and communicate in different language systems.”

Find out more about language courses at Derby College here.

Of course, these are just three ideas – here at Derby College we offer courses for adults in an enormous range of subjects. You’re bound to find something for you.

Start exploring now and reap the rewards.