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27 Feb 2007 09:28:31
Carole Burke may have just reached pensionable age but she’s found a new lease of life thanks to the University of Bedfordshire.
The Luton grandmother of four is about to start a degree in Human Resources after completing the Pathway to Academic Learning (PAL) project. The PAL project offers free part-time study to the over 25s to help them back into employment.
Carole said: “The PAL team was very supportive and always had time for me. The project was flexible enough to allow me to take a break from my studies when my husband became ill, and the tutors helped me catch up.
“There was a great mixture of ages and nationalities on the course, which provided a range of life experience, I have made some really good friends. A lot of us were inspired to stay on and the project really gave me confidence to continue learning.”
The PAL project is held over two semesters. Students study a range of subjects with the aim of increasing their skills and knowledge, leading to a recognised university qualification and increased overall employability.
“PAL has given me new lease of life, and being at University with all the young people is fantastic. I have four children and four grandchildren, they all think it is brilliant and have been really supportive,” she added.
From the 17 students who have passed the course recently six have already started their full-time degrees with the University of Bedfordshire and another 11 like Carol begin degree courses in 2007.
After completing her degree Carole would like to work in the voluntary sector, as she would like to provide support to others.
The PAL project is partly funded by the Higher Education European Social Fund (HE ESF), and is in line with the University of Bedfordshire's 'widening participation' policy, which aims to give more people access to higher education.
Latest news» 2007» Feb» A new lease of life for Carole thanks to PAL
