Motivating and Empowering Adults Returning to Study.

This is a qualitative study of students in FE who have attended ten cohorts of Return to Study courses over the past five years, using questionnaires and interviews. This involves people who have done a varying amount of prior study, and includes asylum seekers, ESOL students as well as those aiming for HE. It examines the development of their confidence and motivation through their experience of FE. It evaluates the provision they have been given and draws out examples of effective practice from their views. The study examines the obstacles that these students feel that society, relationships and the education service places in their path. The title reflects the degree of disadvantage that many have to overcome. The research should FE institutions develop the culture to support these students effectively in order to underpin widening participation.