Distance learning: The Distance Option

Juggling family life and an evening job left her with little time to devote to study, but she's now on an Open University foundation degree course that allows her to study in her own time. "I love youth work but wanted to build on my experience gained as a part-time youth worker," explains Hall. "Some people find that they need others around them when they're studying, but I'm quite happy on my own - and I still get to mix with other people at tutorials. It's working out really well."

For youth work students such as Hall, distance learning is a more practical way to learn and colleges and universities are responding by offering diplomas, foundation degrees, BAs and MAs. Students can continue working and learn in their own environment, and at their own pace, while getting support from professional youth workers.