Going back into education is a big step - but one that can boost your confidence as well as your skills and employment prospects.

That's the message from adult learners at the University of Wales, Newport, which offers a number of routes back into education. Access and Foundation courses are a popular option, and are designed for adults who have few or no qualifications but who would like to study for a degree. Access courses lead to a nationally-recognised qualification that is accepted for direct entry to degree courses at universities across the UK.

Many of Newport's students have returned to education after periods of unemployment or of domestic or childcare responsibilities. After taking a degree they have gone on to careers in teaching, local government, the voluntary sector, the law, social work, the trade union movement, the media, business, accountancy and computing.

Typical of the students who have benefited from returning to learning is 32-year-old Jeff Drew from Cwmbran. "I'm on an Access course in humanities which will give me the necessary grounding in English and Maths to go on and do a degree in Global Citizenship," he said. "The degree could be my passport to a career with organisations like Amnesty International, doing a job where I could make a difference."

Despite leaving school with few formal qualifications, Jeff has had a number of successful careers including three years in the navy and supervisory roles at a biscuit factory and a call centre in Holland.

"I'm really enjoying the Access course - it boosts your self confidence and really prepares you for going on to a degree.

"Returning to learning can be challenging but there's a lot of support from the tutors and the other students - and it's a great way to make new friends."

Another Access student who wants to study for the unique Global Citizenship degree is 20-year-old Zehra Bibi from Maindy.

"I can't believe how good the Access course is," she said, "I'm really enjoying it. It was daunting at first, but everyone is so helpful and the teaching methods are great.

"I'm really enthusiastic about going on to a degree now, and hopefully working for a non-governmental organisation."

Unlike Jeff, Zehra enjoyed school and left with nine GCSEs, but personal problems prevented her from pursuing a career. Instead, she worked in telesales, which she says was very boring.

"I started doing voluntary work with children with disabilities, and I realised I needed to get more skills and qualifications. I would advise anyone to come on the Access course.

It's important to keep your mind stimulated, and it's never too late to learn something new."