Thousands of school pupils and university students are preparing to throw down their books and yell "school's out - forever".

They think it's all over - all the studying, the exams, the learning. They could not be more misguided.

Learning really is a lifelong crusade. Life is one long examination.

Schools and universities are there just to give youngsters a basic start. But after that, every conversation, every scrap of reading, every chance meeting is a learning experience which builds character and equips us through adulthood.

York pensioner Dorothy Shaw is a shining example. At 84, Dorothy is swatting at her home in Haxby for a GCSE examination in accounting. Last year she obtained her IBT II in computing at York College, and next year she plans to take A-levels. In the 1970s she was one of the first students to gain an Open University degree.

Dorothy is hungry to learn and to gain qualifications. They will not help her get a job or increase her income.

But she is wisely taking advantage of a system which permits older people to continue their education for the sheer joy of learning.

Adult Learners' Week starts today, dedicated to encouraging adults to go back to their studies.

Whether it is aiming for a full university degree or just recreational studies such as learning to paint, the opportunities and facilities are available to all adults.

There are many young or middle-aged adults who can re-train and switch occupations thanks to education opportunities for the mature student.

Many people may have missed out on their education because they did not try hard enough or perhaps started a family instead of going off to university.

To the middle-aged, computers can present a terrifying mystery because they arrived after these people had left school.

To anyone willing to try, however, courses are available to help people understand computers and become comfortable in their presence.

Dorothy Shaw is living proof that it's never too late to learn. Adult Learners' Week is here to encourage us to take advantage of the opportunities. Don't miss out.

see NEWS 'It all adds up to a fuller life'

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