New courses are being offered to boost skills and open up career opportunities as an entrepreneur and a 93-year-old pensioner have praised the benefits of North Yorkshire Council’s adult learning service.
Thousands of people across the county are taking advantage of a diverse range of adult learning courses, building new skills, boosting their confidence and opening the door to fresh careers.
From maths to vocational subjects, North Yorkshire Council’s Adult Learning Service offers the flexibility people need to fit learning around their lives, with new courses being offered at the start of 2026.
And the impact is clear with previous participants sharing glowing testimonies about how the courses have not only helped them progress in their careers but also allow them to embrace a host of new skills.
Among those who have signed up is Becky Guy who enrolled on a social media marketing course to help promote her husband Matt’s joinery business and Veronica Piercy who has learnt key digital skills at the age of 93.
Mrs Piercy, a retired social worker who used to be employed with the former Inner London Education Authority, had some basic understanding of using a computer but wanted to expand her knowledge to better engage in the digital world.
“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,” said Mrs Piercy, who lives in a village between Pickering and Kirkbymoorside.
She added: “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, which is held at Malton Library, covers keyboard and mouse skills, creating folders, identifying symbols and icons amongst other basic skills.
Mrs Nicholson 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.”
Meanwhile, with Mrs Guy balancing a full‑time job and family life, flexibility was essential, and she says the online evening classes were “ideal”.
She 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.”
Mrs Guy, 32, who lives in Coxwold near Thirsk, 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. The business is now getting more visibility and attracting new customers.
“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,” she said.
The council’s adult education service has a full range of different study options, from full-time courses, day workshops, taster sessions to flexible learning arrangements.
There are more than 40 courses starting in venues during January and February, offering training for complete beginners to students hoping to gain an accredited qualification. Courses include a step into the digital world, which is perfect for those new to technology, as well as Level 2 accredited courses, which are a valuable qualification for employment.
Learners can also explore practical sessions such as how to use the NHS App and mastering a mobile phone through managing settings and making the most of apps for communication, productivity 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.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for education, learning and skills, Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, 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’s adult learning and skills service recorded more than 4,800 enrolments.
Learners engaged in a broad range of programmes including essential skills in maths, English, English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) and digital. Courses also included accounting, education and training, supporting teaching and learning, safeguarding, information, advice and guidance and a selection of craft-based subjects.
Sessions are held at various venues across North Yorkshire with many learners choosing to engage online from home. Anyone wishing to find out more about the courses on offer is asked to log on at www.northyorks.gov.uk/explore-adult-learning-courses
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