There was a time when most people expected their studies to finish at 16, 18 or 21 (if you went to university) and any form of employment to stop when they retired.
Fortunately, things are no longer so rigid and there is nothing stopping you working or learning until you are 100 if that’s what you want to do.
If you are a carer providing unpaid care to a family member or friend, remember you have the legal right to return to work (or carry on working) if you want to do so.
Many people long for retirement, only to find they miss the routine and company that full-time employment brings. If this sounds like you, have you thought about working part-time or volunteering?
You may be thinking of returning to learning, perhaps to improve your employment prospects or simply because you’ve always been interested in a subject. Many older people never had the chance to get an education when they were younger – perhaps it’s time to put things right and show the world what you’re capable of!
Whether it’s a watercolour or Italian course, GCSEs and A levels, or a Master of Business Administration qualification you’re after, there is plenty on offer.
There are many ways to learn, including attendance at community education centres and universities, distance learning and internet courses. Contact your local library, Careers Wales or university to find out more.
If you don’t know where to start, you could sign up for free online courses on websites like Future Learn, Alison and Memrise.
Gaining a degree may seem costly, but there are grants and loans available. Visit Student Finance Wales to find out what financial help is available.