By KLTV Newsdesk –

New campaign celebrates the life-changing impact of adult education and encourages more people to take the next step in learning

Kirklees College has unveiled its new Adult Course Guide for September 2026 alongside the launch of an inspiring new film celebrating the transformative power of adult education.

The new video, titled Your Next Chapter, showcases the experiences of adult learners and staff, highlighting how education can open doors to new careers, build confidence and strengthen communities across Kirklees.

Produced in partnership with Kirklees-based, award-winning Sam Teale Productions, the film features members of the college’s close-knit community and aims to demonstrate the lasting impact that adult and community education has on people’s lives.

Championing the value of adult education

The launch comes at a time when the future of adult education remains firmly in the spotlight. Earlier this year, the Association of Colleges highlighted concerns about the continued underfunding of adult education across the UK, while also revealing the significant benefits it brings.

Its research found that almost two-thirds of adults who took part in learning or training during 2024 reported work-related benefits, while almost half experienced improvements to their health and wellbeing.

Your Next Chapter brings those statistics to life through the real-life stories of Kirklees College learners, illustrating how adult education can transform careers, improve confidence and create new opportunities.

Real stories of determination and success

The film opens with Sharon Archer, Curriculum Director for Adult Education at Kirklees College, who reflects on the importance of adult and community education and why continued investment is vital.

Viewers then hear from a range of staff and students, including Curriculum Director Steve Plumstead, whose own journey began as a student before progressing to lecturer and eventually becoming part of the college’s senior leadership team.

The video also follows several adult learners whose educational journeys have changed the direction of their lives.

Among them is Brittany O’Sullivan, who overcame significant personal challenges and is now thriving on a Fabrication and Welding apprenticeship.

Benjamin Atkinson shares how he transitioned from a career in hospitality to training as a teacher at the college, while Sanaa Shaqeel explains how her own experience of community education has inspired her ambition to become a teacher herself.

Together, their stories reflect the breadth of opportunities available through adult learning and the positive difference education can make.

Supporting around 6,000 adult learners every year

Kirklees College supports approximately 6,000 adult learners annually through a wide range of courses and qualifications.

Its adult education provision includes apprenticeships, maths and English qualifications, community learning, short and long courses, Access to Higher Education diplomas and flexible learning pathways designed to help people develop new skills, retrain or progress in their careers.

The new campaign celebrates these opportunities while encouraging more adults to consider taking the next step in their own educational journey.

Sharon Archer said: “Kirklees College is more than a place of learning – it is a place where futures are shaped, confidence is built and aspirations become reality.

“Whether you’re looking to gain new skills, change direction, or achieve a long-held goal, we are here to support you every step of the way.

“This video celebrates the heart of our college: our students, our staff and the vibrant communities we serve.”

“Kirklees College Principal and Chief Executive Palvinder Singh added: “We’re pleased to share our new Adult Learner video, which showcases the positive impact of adult education at our college and highlights the opportunities available to learners looking to develop new skills, retrain, or progress in their careers.

“The video features the experiences of our adult learners and demonstrates how further education can help people build confidence, gain qualifications, and achieve their personal and professional goals.”

Wide range of courses available this September

The newly launched Adult Course Guide outlines courses across a broad range of subjects, including Business, Construction, Creative Industries, Engineering, ESOL, Hair and Beauty, Hospitality and Catering, Motor Vehicle, Sport and Teaching.

With enrolment now open for courses beginning this September, the college hopes the guide and Your Next Chapter film will inspire more adults to discover the opportunities available and begin the next stage of their learning journey.