its already popular programme.

This year the department is offering 130 courses, 30 of which are new programmes.

"We are excited by the high number of new courses,'' said director Eugenie Simmons.

Last year the faculty had an enrolment of more than 3,000 students which reflects about ten percent of the Island's workforce, and with this in mind, the department is preparing for another banner year.

Ms Simmons said the preparation comes at a time when more people are taking interest on the advancement of careers.

"The nature of the learner is changing,'' she said.

"There is more flux in their careers. And the College is there to assist with those changes.'' Ms Simmons said the department's programme followed the College's mandate by providing for mature students.

The level of courses offered include Associate Degrees, Certificates, and courses for professional development, technical education, and general interest.

Many of the courses were attended by mature people who were interested in obtaining degrees.

She noted that such students often worked full time and had families, yet they were still eager to improve their education.

And many of the new courses reflected changing interests on the Island.

One example is a new course devoted to electronic commerce or e-commerce. The course will help people understand the nature of the business which has generated much discussion here and abroad.

Ms Simmons noted that a popular course last year was jewellery making and was proving to be a popular draw again this year, with spaces in the class already sold out.

"The craftsmanship was exceptional,'' she added.

The College is also working this year with the National Dance Theatre to offer a course in dance.

With such a range of courses, Ms Simmons said: "This is an excellent opportunity for people to complete courses while working full time.

"It can be done and is done on a daily basis.'' She also pointed out that there is no age limit to learning.

With an active seniors programme at the College, Ms Simmons said the oldest person enrolled at the College was 90 years of age.

"From the cradle to the grave true learning is life learning,'' she said.