Learning something new is always challenging, and the thought of sitting in a classroom full of people can be intimidating, especially if you are returning to learning after a long break.

But there are other options available, and distance learning can be a flexible and easy way to get yourself back into education from the comfort of your own home.

If your perception of distance learning involves tedious TV lectures that are shown in the middle of the night, then you're in for a nice surprise.

Organisations such as the Open University still run late night TV programmes, but they are now entertaining as well as informative and help to supplement written course materials.

Many organisations, including Learn Direct, also offer online study which gives access to student forums and huge quantities of study information not previously possible with purely book-based courses.

Distance learning can be a great idea for people who are unable to access more traditional forms of study, and although it takes a bit of time-management, it allows you to study when it suits you.

People with young children, full-time workers, people with mobility problems, and people who live a long way from their nearest college can all benefit from the huge range of courses available. Fees vary, but most offer instalment plans to spread the cost throughout the course. Most include books and materials in their price.

With so many organisations offering distance learning courses, it's a good idea to check that the course you choose is accredited by relevant professional bodies, especially if you want to use the qualification for professional reasons or to gain credits for a higher education qualification, such as a degree.

In most cases, study time is very flexible, allowing you to fit your learning around your life. Depending on the type of course you choose, there may be opportunities to attend seminars or residential summer schools, which is a great chance to get to speak to other students as well as to have some time where you can study without the distractions of your daily routine.

It is possible to use distance learning to study for anything up to PHD level, but there is no pressure to take exam-based courses and many organisations offer everything from horticulture to singing courses that can be taken just for fun.

For more information visit www.learndirect.co.uk