New year, new skills

There are hundreds of part-time day and evening courses for residents aged 19 and above. The low-cost sessions are delivered in the community, at the council's adult education centres and online, and most are fully funded by the government.

Learners can join courses that help improve maths, English and digital skills, and gain qualifications to help secure jobs in health and social care, including as a care assistant or support worker, and in childcare. 

This includes a new eight-week course, 'Introduction to Childminding', which starts next year and is ideal if you would like to become an Ofsted registered childminder.

There are also courses that give students the opportunity to learn fun and creative new skills including floristry, languages, cookery sessions, exercise classes, programmes to support mental health and courses to help people live more sustainably.

Others are available for adults with learning difficulties and disabilities which are designed to help learners develop new skills and become more independent.

Lidia Tsegaye, from Hayes, is undertaking a health and social care level one course to pursue a career as a care assistant or support worker.

She said: "It's been life-changing for me because I'm really interested in working in health and social care. I have a passion to help people and have a positive impact on people and their community.

"I've gained essential skills and practical knowledge which I can use in my personal life to help my family and friends, but also for work."

Josh Arends, from Northwood Hills, took part in a cooking course for adults with learning difficulties and disabilities and said it was beneficial for him as he worked towards independence.

He said: "When I live independently, I'll know how to make things for myself."

Cllr Susan O'Brien, Hillingdon Council's Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, said: "The new year is the perfect time to think about retraining, upskilling, or starting a new hobby or activity.

"We're determined to ensure that our residents have opportunities for learning at all stages of life and gain new or improved skills to access job opportunities. Our adult education centres are welcoming places to start or reignite your learning journey with us. Each year we help thousands of residents develop new skills, return or get into work, live more independently or advance in their careers."

For more information about the courses on offer and to enrol, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/adultlearning