Learning is essential for continued growth – Belinda Grantham’s story

Belinda explains why you should never stop learning

The LTE Group has focused on the Festival of Learning’s ‘Have a Go Month’ throughout June, celebrating adult learning across our Group.

We spoke to Belinda Grantham, Head of Dance and Performance at The Arden School of Theatre, part of UCEN Manchester, about how she sees learning as essential for continued growth.

In a few sentences, tell us about your career and education to date

I have worked in the dance, music and health industries for the past 16 years. During this time, I have been an adult learner on a fairly consistent basis, studying dance, music, research, aerial and yoga, in addition to partaking in numerous short courses

I can't think of a time when I wasn't learning and I am currently a PhD student and also working towards my final practical classical music exams.

What appealed to you about adult learning?

I love learning. The opportunity to know more, and develop new and existing skills is invaluable for continued growth, passion and an evolving interest in the world. 

What benefits have you experienced?

The benefits of learning are vast and wide ranging, and sometimes difficult to capture and quantify.

They include critical thinking and contextual knowledge, skills development, increased confidence, wider employment opportunities, getting to know and work with different people outside of a working environment, and determination to succeed.

What advice would you give to someone considering adult learning?

You should never stop learning. In the words of Nelson Mandela, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. It is what we make out of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another.'