Linda

Finding confidence and community: How learning helped Linda rediscover her spark 

‘I wanted to do something positive for myself and studying again has helped me in so many ways. Education helps you stay connected. You feel a part of something and it makes you happy. It’s helped me find confidence, community and joy. And I think everyone deserves that same chance.’

Linda was born and raised in Hackney and has lived there all her life. She began her adult education journey in 2021 at New City College, starting on a Level 1 course. Since then, she has progressed all the way to a Level 4. For Linda, studying as an adult has meant more than just gaining qualifications – it’s been about building confidence, finding community and continuing to grow. 

Linda’s choice to specialise in data analysis is perfectly timed. Data analysis is projected to be the fastest-growing digital skills cluster, increasing by an estimated 33% in the next five years. 

What inspired you to return to education? 

I started adult education in 2021 on a Level 1 introduction course, and I’ve just finished the Level 4 Data Analysis. To be honest, I really enjoy attending the adult classes – they’ve been good for me, and my experience of college has been great. I wanted to do something positive for myself and studying again has helped me in so many ways. 

How has studying as an adult changed your life? 

It’s made a big difference. It got me out of the house, socialising and mixing with other people, which has been great for my mental health. I’ve met different people and made a lot of new friends. Before joining the course, I thought studying might help boost my memory and keep me active – and it really has! I’ve learned new skills, gained confidence and it’s even helped in my family life because I can now help my daughter with these skills I’ve learned. Overall, it’s made me happier and more active. 

Why do you think adult education is important? 

Adult education is so important because life keeps changing – and you have to keep up with it. Education helps you stay updated and connected. Without it, people might get stuck and find it hard to move forward in their lives. It’s also good for socialising and for helping people who might feel isolated or vulnerable. It gets you out, meeting others. You feel a part of something, and it makes you happy. Adult education brings less depression, more happiness, more skills and gets more people into work. For me, it hasn’t just been about learning, it’s helped me find confidence, community and joy. And I think everyone deserves that same chance.