The new year is an ideal opportunity for adults to start learning again and build up their skills, one councillor has said.
Davis Simms, cabinet member for libraries and adult learning at Dudley Council, stated that people should use 2010 as an "opportunity to learn new skills [and] gain a qualification", Halesowen News reports.
People living in the area can currently do courses on topics such as writing, maths, music, sports, computers, arts and crafts.
And those who would rather learn from home may be able to take advantage of e-learning courses offered by firms like learndirect.
Mr Simms was quoted by the newspaper as saying that doing courses helps people "catch up on some of the basic skills they may have missed out on at school".
They can also give them a place to interact with others, which can boost confidence levels.
This could help get them back into work, as employers often look to take on people with a wide range of skills.
One person who has started an adult learning course that will help her become a hairdresser is 19-year-old Ashley Beeston.
Ms Beeston said that the birth of her son gave her the confidence to go back to education and try and develop her skills.
She is taking advantage of the government's Adult Learning Grant, which gives her up to £30 a week to help cover the cost of learning by paying for items such as text books or childcare.
To improve your English and maths skills take a look at the courses available, they cater for all levels of learners.