The campaign

From learning Pilates to gaining a PhD, Adult Learners' Week celebrates learning and learners in all their diversity, inspiring thousands of people each year to try something new. The campaign promotes the benefits of all kinds of learning, whether it is for fun or leading to a qualification.

Held each May, Adult Learners' Week recognises the achievements of outstanding individuals, groups, families and projects through national and regional awards. During this week-long festival of learning, events take place in workplaces, libraries, cafes, prisons, museums and colleges across the country, inspiring adults to take up new activities.

During Adult Learners Week 2009, 53% of the people who attended an event and 70% of people who called the Careers Advice helpline took up some kind of learning activity because of the campaign.

Now in its 19th year, Adult Learners' Week is the largest learning campaign of its kind and is celebrated in over 50 countries across the world. Founded and co-ordinated by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE), Adult Learners' Week in England is backed by thousands of supporters.

Frank Harris
“My learning has empowered me and given me the belief that my future is in my hands.”
Frank Harris, 2009 Award Winner