Seeking Advice on Starting Education Journey at 39

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for some advice on starting my education journey. I'm 39 years old and have decided to pursue university education. To get on the university path, I plan to start with Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths. Given my full-time job and family commitments, I would like to study at my own pace.

I've begun preparing with Maths, but I'm unsure how to determine when I'll be ready and how to go about booking the exams. Following my Functional Skills, I aim to pursue an Access to Higher Education diploma in Business, preferably starting in September 2025.

Any guidance on managing these steps, as well as tips on balancing study with work and family, would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

Reply 1

Coventry University Student Ambassadors

Official Rep

Hello there!

First of all, congratulations on making the brave and inspiring decision to pursue university education at 39. It takes incredible determination to embark on this journey, especially while balancing a full-time job and family commitments. Your plan to start with Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths, followed by an Access to Higher Education Diploma, is a well-structured and thoughtful approach that sets you up for success.

To prepare for your Functional Skills, start by breaking your study plan into small milestones, such as completing specific topics by certain dates. Practice regularly using free resources like BBC Bitesize and practice papers to gauge your understanding. If possible, work with a tutor or enroll in a local class to get feedback and identify areas that need improvement. When you feel ready, you can book exams through local colleges, online providers, or private exam centers like City & Guilds or Pearson Edexcel. These centers often allow you to book exams at your own pace, making it easier to fit your studies around your schedule.

The Access to Higher Education Diploma is an excellent next step. It will provide you with foundational knowledge in key areas. Be sure to research providers early to secure a place for a September 2025 start. Access programs are designed with adult learners in mind, so you’ll find a supportive environment among peers who share similar goals.

When it comes to choosing a university, Coventry University is an excellent option. Known for its diverse programs, flexibility, and strong support for mature learners, Coventry offers a wide range of courses to suit your interests and career ambitions. In the field of business alone, you’ll find programs covering topics like finance, marketing, international business, and human resources. Beyond business, Coventry offers degrees in fields such as:

- Engineering and Technology: Including mechanical, civil, and software engineering.
- Health and Life Sciences: Focused on nursing, health, and social care.
- Social Sciences and Humanities: Including sociology, criminology, and international relations.
- Creative Arts and Media: Covering design, media, and communications.
- Computing and IT: Including computer science, cyber security, and software development.

What makes Coventry stand out is its flexibility and career-focused approach. Many programs are available in part-time or online formats, making it easier to balance your studies with work and family commitments. Coventry also emphasizes practical learning through placements, real-world projects, and strong industry connections, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your career after graduation. You can explore Coventry’s courses further at their official website: Coventry University - https://www.coventry.ac.uk

Managing your studies alongside work and family requires careful planning. Create a study schedule that fits your routine and communicate this with your family and employer. Focus on essential tasks, delegate non-critical activities when possible, and don’t hesitate to ask for support from family, friends, or childcare services. Remember to be kind to yourself—progress may sometimes feel slow, but consistency is key!

Your decision to return to education is inspiring and demonstrates incredible resilience. By starting with Functional Skills and moving toward an Access to HE Diploma, you’re building a strong foundation for success. With its diverse range of programs and supportive learning environment, Coventry University is a fantastic choice to help you achieve your ambitions.

Best of luck—you’ve got this! 😊

Kind regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador

(edited 1 year ago)