Festival of Learning Have a Go Month

History of Festival of Learning Have a Go Month

In 1992, Adult Learners’ Week was created to open doors to more opportunities for adult learners. It aims to improve the quality of education they receive. People were asked to help the stakeholders and decision-makers improve the adult standard of education. Soon, this campaign became a celebration of adult learning and helped attract more attention. As the years passed, the campaign saw greater participation rates.

The Festival of Learning Have a Go Month was created in 2013 as an extension of Adult Learners’ Week to provide more opportunities to learners, policymakers, and stakeholders. The 25th anniversary was celebrated in 2017 with H.R.H. the Princess Royal, patron of the Learning and Work Institute. Since then, the Festival of Learning Have a Go Month has continued expanding and inspiring more adults to learn.

In 2020, another initiative, Lifelong Learning Week, was set in motion to drive home the point that there is no age limit for learning. The Festival of Learning Have a Go Month has many programs, events, awards, and various ways to join the initiative. Educators, sponsors, providers, tutors, and other learners can participate and make a difference, while organizations can sponsor the awards or events. Every November, nominations are opened for the award ceremonies.

Festival of Learning Have a Go Month timeline

1992

ALA is Born

Adult Learners' Week is created in the United Kingdom.

2013

The Festival of Learning

The Festival of Learning campaign is initiated as a part of Adult Learners' week.

2017

The Anniversary is Celebrated

The 25th anniversary of Adult Learners’ Week is celebrated with the H.R.H. the Princess Royal in attendance.

2020

The Month is Established

Festival of Learning Have a Go Month is initiated to encourage more adults to continue learning.

Festival of Learning Have a Go Month FAQs

When is Festival of Learning Have a Go Month?

Festival of Learning Have a Go Month runs throughout September 2026. This annual event encourages adults across the UK to explore new learning opportunities and develop skills.

How many adults participate in learning in the UK?

According to the Learning and Work Institute, around 1 in 3 adults in the UK participate in some form of learning each year. Festival of Learning aims to boost these numbers by making learning more accessible.

What kind of activities are offered during Have a Go Month?

During September 2026, a wide range of ‘Have a Go’ activities will be available, including free taster sessions in subjects like languages, arts, crafts, digital skills, and vocational training. These are often offered by local colleges and community groups.

Who organizes the Festival of Learning Have a Go Month?

The Festival of Learning is primarily coordinated by the Learning and Work Institute in the UK, building on the legacy of the Adult Learners’ Week campaign. They work with a network of partners to deliver the month’s activities.

Festival of Learning Have a Go Month Activities

Start learning

If you are an adult who never got a chance to finish your education, this is your time to do it. It's never too late to start learning. Take the first step today, and see your life change before you.

Spread the word

Encourage other adults to learn with you. Find a partner to learn new things with and keep each others’ motivation flowing.

Contribute to the cause

Help the campaign reach a wider audience and impact the lives of thousands. Contribute to the cause or participate in its events.

5 Facts About Adult Learning That Will Blow Your Mind

Learning capacity increases with age

Studies show that the human ability to learn increases with age because of brain plasticity.

No one’s a master of multitasking

Even younger digital learners can't multitask without impacting other areas of their performance.

Adult learners know themselves well

Unlike children and teenagers who choose courses to mimic their parents or friends, adult learners decide for themselves.

Adult learners are experienced

Adult learners are more experienced and can think independently without being affected by outside influences.

It is the new norm

Today, about 40% of undergraduate students are adult learners.

Why We Love Festival of Learning Have a Go Month

It motivates people to start learning

Many adults shy away from learning, fearing what society might think of them. This month attempts to break negative stereotypes and encourage people to continue learning, regardless of age.

It changes lives

When people start learning, new opportunities open up for them. By completing professional courses, one can completely transform their lifestyle and do better financially. It eliminates the need for them to depend on others for their livelihood.

It is an opportunity to do something for the community

The Festival of National Have a Go Month gives people the chance to do something for their community. By helping and contributing to the events, you are improving educational standards and transforming the lives of thousands of adults.