A pair of foster carers who recently improved their skills by taking NVQ qualifications have praised the courses.
Between them, Max and Patsy Harden already had 16 years of experience fostering children, but they both recognised the value of the formal qualifications.
The 71-year-old and his wife, who is three years his junior, both completed NVQ level three courses in children and young people.
Despite having a wealth of experience looking after children, the couple said they benefited from taking the courses, which added to their existing skills and knowledge.
"It's been enlightening doing an NVQ as it made us delve into the theory behind it and it was especially good to learn about all the legal aspects," said Mrs Harden.
The two foster carers suggested that they would continue with their adult learning efforts now they had finished their NVQ level three courses.
While enrolling on an adult learning course had a very practical purpose for Mr and Mrs Harden, people might want to sign up for courses simply to pursue an interest.
Earlier this year, Kate Fleming, adult learning manager at Kirklees Council, told the Spenborough Guardian that taking courses can be an effective way to improve job prospects or just satisfy the desire to learn more about a subject.
Older people who would like to get involved in adult learning might be encouraged by her assertion that "it's never too late to start learning something new".
She noted that many courses offer flexible learning options and that it is possible to fit education around other commitments, such as family life or jobs.
You too can get qualified with learndirect; from maths and English to NVQs, Degrees and Masters Degrees.