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Complete our referral formReturning to education: Your path to success
Returning to education after a period of leave can open doors to new opportunities, develop your knowledge, and enhance your skills. Here are some key steps to help you navigate your return to education.
Reflect on your goals
Take time to reflect on your personal and academic goals. What do you hope to achieve by returning to education? Whether you want to gain qualifications for a chosen career, pursue a passion, or develop your knowledge - making sure you have clear goals will support your decision-making process.
Research education options
Explore the range of educational opportunities available to you, including traditional academic pathways, vocational training programmes, apprenticeships, volunteering and online learning options. It can be useful to consider factors such as the length of a course, the curriculum, the qualification that will be achieved, and the flexibility of the course.
Evaluate support systems
It is a good idea to research the support systems available to you as you return to education. This may include financial assistance in the form of bursaries, grants or loans, academic advice, wellbeing support, mentorship programmes, and disability support services. Understanding the resources and support networks available to you can help ease any concerns and ensure a smooth transition back to education.
Develop a plan
Create a structured plan outlining your academic goals, timeline, and steps for achieving success. Break down larger goals into manageable tasks and set realistic deadlines so you can stay on track. Consider seeking guidance from your learning institution or career coaches to help you develop a personalised plan to support your goals.
Manage your return to education
Returning to education after a period of leave may require adjustments and adaptation. Be patient with yourself as you adjust to the learning environment, establish routines, and balance your studies with other commitments. It can help to adopt time management strategies, seek support when needed, and maintain a positive mind set as you navigate this transitional period.