The age range of students in British further education colleges has always been wide, but there is little research evidence on the effects of age mixing on educational outcomes. Although potential benefits and disadvantages can be identified, data on the different learning styles, needs, and expectations of recent high school completers and…

Analysis of narratives constructed in 61 group and individual interviews with mature, working-class adults returning to education showed that, although access programs targeted disaffected learners, many still felt alienated or marginalized or received minimal support and encouragement. They believed that education had to be perceived as…