3 November 2025
This week, we're celebrating Get the Nation Learning Week – a national campaign that champions the power of learning at every stage of life.
Whether you're looking to boost your skills, change careers, or simply try something new, there’s a wealth of opportunities available right here in Devon.
Read on to discover how you can get involved and take the next step in your lifelong learning journey.
Learning keeps us curious, confident, and connected - no matter our age or stage in life. Whether it’s for work, wellbeing, or personal growth, lifelong learning offers real benefits.
Why lifelong learning matters:
- Boosts confidence and self-esteem.
- Opens doors to new careers or promotions.
- Supports mental wellbeing and resilience.
- Builds connections and shared purpose.
- Helps you stay adaptable in a fast-changing world.
In today’s fast-changing job market, learning is one of the best investments you can make. Whether you're changing careers, returning to work, or aiming to progress, staying skilled helps you stay confident and competitive.
Career benefits of lifelong learning:
- Gain practical, job-ready skills.
- Stay relevant in evolving industries.
- Boost your employability and career options.
- Build your network through courses and learning hubs.
Learning isn’t just about qualifications - it’s a powerful way to support your mental health and personal growth. Whether you're building confidence or connecting with others, it can make a real difference.
Did you know?
- Learning new skills boosts self-esteem and reduces stress.
- Group learning helps combat loneliness.
- Creative activities support mental health and resilience.
 Free Skills Bootcamps to boost your career
 Are you unemployed, self-employed, looking to change career or keen to upskill in your current role?
Train4Tomorrow's free* Skills Bootcamps are designed to help adults across Devon gain in-demand skills and fast-track into new careers.
Whether you're looking to retrain, return to work, or progress in your current role, these flexible courses are built around real employer needs.
Over 30 courses are available, funded by Devon County Council, including:
- Project Management (PRINCE2 and Agile)
- AI for Workplace Productivity
- Pathways into Bricklaying, Plumbing and Electrical
- Electric Vehicle Charger Installation
- Early Years and Education
- And many more!
*Employers looking to upskill their staff receive up to 90% towards course costs.
 Adult education that fits around you
Our adult learning service, Learn Devon, offers free, flexible courses designed to help adults gain new skills, build confidence, and improve wellbeing.
Whether you’re looking to boost your English or maths, develop digital skills, gain qualifications for work or improve your options, there’s something for everyone.
Why choose Learn Devon?
- Friendly, supportive tutors.
- Small class sizes and relaxed learning environments.
- Courses available online and in local centres across Devon.
- Designed for all levels, from beginners to those returning to learning.
Our Employment & Youth Hubs offer a welcoming space where you can get one-to-one support with finding work, accessing training, or exploring new career paths. Whether you're unemployed, facing redundancy, or just unsure of your next step, the hubs are here to help.
What you can expect:
- Personalised advice and guidance.
- Help with CVs, job applications, and interview skills.
- Access to training and skills development.
- Connections to local employers and opportunities.
- Support with confidence building and wellbeing.
Supported Internships offer 16-24-year-olds with an EHCP the chance to gain real work experience while learning essential skills like English, maths, and employability. With placements across Devon and support from job coaches and tutors, these internships help build confidence and prepare young people for paid employment.
 Our libraries are more than just books
Libraries are hubs for skills, creativity and connection. Whether you're looking to learn a new skill, explore a hobby, or access free digital resources, your local library is a great place to start.
What you’ll find at your library:
- Free access to computers, Wi-Fi, and online learning tools.
- Digital skills support and tech help sessions.
- Workshops in creative writing, crafts, and wellbeing.
- Reading groups, author events, and talks.
- Friendly staff to help you find the right resources.
Libraries also offer free membership, giving you access to thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, and learning materials from home.
If you're looking for a new job or thinking about retraining, Proud to Care Devon offers a pathway into a rewarding career in health and social care. You don’t need previous experience - just the right values and a desire to help others.
With flexible roles, training support, and real career progression, it’s a great time to explore opportunities in care.
Want to improve your confidence, gain new skills, or take the next step toward employment or independence?
Essential Skills Devon is here to support you - whether you're a young person not in education or work, an adult looking to boost your job prospects, or someone who wants to feel more confident in everyday life.
What’s it all about?
Funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, the programme removes barriers to learning and helps people across Devon build essential skills in:
- English and Maths
- Digital Skills
- English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
It’s not about traditional classrooms - it’s about community-led, flexible, and supportive learning.
Who can join?
If you’re aged 16 or over and live in Exeter, East Devon, Mid Devon, North Devon, South Hams, Teignbridge, Torridge, or West Devon, you can join.
Clare joined the Regenerative Agriculture Skills Bootcamp with an open mind - and it led to a new career. She built connections, gained confidence, and now works as a florist at The Apricot Centre. Her story shows how free Skills Bootcamps in Devon can open doors to exciting opportunities.
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