Fall in love with learning again at University Centre Rotherham
Roses are red, violets are blue… but the best love story this Valentine’s could be the future that’s waiting for you!
This year, forget the chocolates and flowers. Give yourself the gift that lasts a lifetime by falling in love with learning again.
Whether you want to retrain for a new career, upskill in your current role, or finally pursue that degree you’ve been dreaming of, make it #MyTime to discover what opportunities are waiting for you at University Centre Rotherham.
Why returning to learning is an act of self-love
Going back to education as an adult is a bit like rekindling an old flame. You ask yourself “Is this a good idea at my age?” or “Should I give learning another chance?”
It can feel as daunting as a first date. You once dreamed of going to university but life took you in another direction and now you’re conscious that you’re not as carefree as you were at 18. Maybe you’ve built a career, raised a family or spent years putting others first but forgotten what it means to do something for you.
These concerns are natural. But choosing to invest in yourself is one of the most empowering decisions you can make and the ultimate act of self-love. It’s about prioritising you – your growth, your potential and your future.
And just like the best relationships, learning grows richer over time. You begin to feel more confident. You rediscover your strengths. You surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.
At University Centre Rotherham, we believe it’s never too late to reignite that connection with learning. And by studying with us, you’ll never be stepping into it alone as we’ll be by your side throughout.
Why adult learners love University Centre Rotherham
A campus that welcomes you like an old friend
Mature learners consistently describe our campus as warm, supportive and down-to-earth. We’re more personable than your traditional larger unis and learners love that the building is not overwhelming or class sizes intimidating.
It’s a place where you can settle in, find your feet and feel like you belong. It’s also centrally located in Rotherham town centre so you don’t have to move away or have a long commute to lessons.
“As an older student re-entering education, it was daunting, but I knew it was my time. Given that my own children had completed their schooling and were progressing to their next stages, the timing had never felt more right to do a degree.
University Centre Rotherham stood out to me, due to its proximity to my home and its intimate and friendly learning environment compared to larger educational institutions in Sheffield.”
Charlotte, Health and Social Care graduate
Tutors who believe in you
If returning to education feels like taking a brave leap, our tutors are there to catch you. At University Centre Rotherham, we make it our business to get to know each learner by name – and understand their individual circumstances.
Mature learners often tell us they feel genuinely supported, listened to and encouraged. Staff understand that your life experience is a strength, not a barrier.
“My tutors were top tier. The way they delivered the lessons was fantastic. They understood when some of us needed more help and broke it down in a way we could understand it better.
They’d advocate for every one of us and were there every step of the way.
I still talk about them now and would love to go back for just one more lesson.”
Lizzie, health and social care degree graduate
Flexible learning that fits your life
Just like any good relationship, education shouldn’t force you to change who you are. Our Higher Education courses are designed with adult learners in mind, offering flexible approaches that work around jobs, families and real-life responsibilities. Many are delivered on a part-time basis so that you don’t have to give up your life for learning.
Our adult learners also love the balance between practical, career-focused study and opportunities to explore new interests.
“Being a mature student with a husband and a job, I wasn’t in a position to uproot my life and move to another city like I perhaps would have done at 18.
I initially felt I would be too old to do a degree at 26, but I enrolled onto the course with the attitude of “if not now, then when?” Whether I did the course or not, I would still be getting older so why not now.”
Fern, Media Make-up degree graduate
A community you can connect with
Returning to study doesn’t mean starting from scratch socially. Many mature students say it’s the friendships and shared experiences on campus that make returning to education so fulfilling.
You’ll meet people who understand your journey and share your ambitions. In many ways, it’s like finding your people – the ones who cheer you on as you grow.
“The group was small but highly diverse, in both career and societal backgrounds, which put me outside of my comfort zone for which I benefitted.
I worked with and learned much about my fellow students.
Everyone brought something to the course which was co-ordinated and managed very well by the tutor.”
Mark, Education Studies learner
A love letter to your future self
If you’re thinking about returning to education, you don’t need all the answers right now, just the willingness to imagine what could be different for you.
Consider this your chance to write a love letter to the person you could become.
Dear Future Me,
I will give myself permission to dream again.
Whether that’s a new career, a fresh start or finally completing a higher education qualification, your goals are valid — and worth exploring.
I will take one small step forward.
That might mean browsing courses at University Centre Rotherham, attending an open event, or simply reading about what it’s like to study as a mature learner. Progress doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to begin.
I will ask for support when I need it.
At University Centre Rotherham, you can talk to our friendly staff about entry routes, funding and flexible study options. You don’t have to navigate this alone and you certainly don’t have to have everything figured out before you start.
I will picture myself on campus.
Imagine yourself walking into a lecture, sitting in a study space, or chatting with other students over coffee. Many mature learners say this is the moment they realise, “Actually, I can do this.”
Signed,
You – taking your first step toward your future.