Return to Education at SERC

If you are thinking about returning to education but don’t quite know how to start, South Eastern Regional College (SERC) is hosting Restart and Access Open Days at the College’s Ballynahinch Campus on Tuesday 14 May, and at Newcastle Campus on Thursday 16 May, from 10.00am to 2.00pm each day.

Heather McKee, Director of Strategic Planning, Quality & Support said, “This is a ‘no pressure’ opportunity to call into SERC and find out how we can help you return to education. “Our part-time Restart Education course requires no formal qualifications and provides a nurturing, supportive and welcoming environment for adults building skills in English, maths, science, IT, social science and well-being and resilience.

She added, “For Adults who have some qualifications, our Level 3 Access Diploma in Foundation Studies - Access course -  is designed for people who would welcome the opportunity to get to university, or who maybe feel they are ready to move forward in their career if only they had a degree.   Or maybe you've lost your job, or had a break from employment and want to change direction?   This could be that first step you need to take you where you want to go.”

Orla Hughes (27, main picture above) from Newcastle, is currently in the first year of the Access Course at Newcastle Campus. She said, “Enrolling in the Level 3 Access Diploma in Foundation Studies (Access) at SERC’s Newcastle Campus meant I didn’t have to be away from my son, Aodhan, all day long as they have dedicated creche facilities - that was one of the big motivators for me coming back into education. Having the creche onsite means I can spend time with him during my days in college during break and lunch time.   It is win-win for both of us. Aodhan is getting all the benefits of socialising and early years learning in the creche and I am getting on with my studies – all under the one roof."

For Dawn Murray, (40, inset) from Ardglass, also completing the first year of Access at Newcastle Campus, returning to education was the first step in a change of direction. Dawn said, “I did my A-Levels at Assumption Grammar School, Ballynahinch, and went on to do a Law Degree at Ulster University.   I wanted a career change which is science based, so the Access course was the perfect option for me.   

“I came along to an Open Day to find out what was involved. I didn’t think I would be capable of getting back into education at this stage of my life, especially being a single parent, but the supportive learning atmosphere at SERC has been great for building my confidence again.”   

Apply now for courses commencing September 2024. Unlock your future #BetterOffAtSERC.