For many people, schooldays are not the happiest of their life and they leave at 16 - only to regret it later when they want to go on to higher education but do not have the qualifications.

An Access Course at Peter Symonds' College, Winchester, could be the answer.

"The course gives people real opportunities to better themselves in a caring environment," said course leader, Richard Staszynski.

"It is open to anyone over 19, it is flexible and can be taken over one or more years."

He stressed that it was hard work, but also fun. Courses are on offer in the sciences, humanities and social sciences.

"All our students have enjoyed the experience and they have gone on to study subjects as different as drama, psychology, chiropody, midwifery, and many more," said Richard. "Above all, it is extremely fulfilling and rewarding."

Lynn Crichton (39) is in her second year.

"The support is unbelievable, the tutors give you so much help," she said.

"The best thing is being with like-minded people. I have made some fantastic new friends who are in the same boat as me, working hard to make a difference for our families and ourselves."

Lynn studied art and IT and computing in Year 1 and also took GCSEs in maths and English. This year, she is taking chemistry and psychology and has already been offered a place at King Alfred's College on the Primary Education Degree course.

For those who want to know more, there will be an Open Afternoon on Wednesday, May 21st, from 1pm to 4.30pm.

It will be held in the Careers Library on the main Peter Symonds' College site in Owens Road.