A much-loved York institution described by attendees as ‘life-changing’ has announced it will be closing.
The University of York has confirmed that its Centre for Lifelong Learning will shut down, due to the challenging financial climate the higher education sector is currently facing.
For more than 40 years, the centre has offered adult day and evening courses, providing opportunities for individuals to pursue their passions, achieve accreditation or simply learn for pleasure.
A spokesperson for the centre stated that the decision was made with “profound sadness”.
A statement said: “This decision has been an incredibly hard one, made in response to the challenging financial climate currently facing the higher education sector.
“We have tried to protect this provision for as long as we can, having seen many other institutions also having to face similar difficult decisions.”
It will close on from 31 July.
Tutors and students have been contacted directly, with offers of support and guidance to help them explore alternative learning opportunities. However, the news was met with dismay and disappointment online.
Some of the comments included:
- “I’m devastated to hear this sad news, as an anglo saxon enthusiast I loved attending Cristinas classes on this subject and have learned so much from her. Please please rethink this choice and save this amazing educational programme for everyone.”
- “This is dreadful. To re-enter education is enabling and often life-changing. I’m afraid, (speaking as an erstwhile tutor and postgraduate lecturer for CLL), that I’m unconvinced of the absolute necessity for this decision. I’m devastated to hear this news for all concerned but most especially for those who wish to learn through non traditional routes. This is a dark day indeed.”
- “I will miss the classes so much. They were absolutely wonderful. I have gained so much from them.”
- “I’ve gained so much from the CLL courses. I fail to understand the justification for closing this unique department.”
Despite the announcement, teaching for the current term will continue as planned, including June Saturday Schools, and staff have pledged to continue to share regular updates throughout the summer.
A spokesperson said: “The legacy of our learners – with its vibrant community and spirited exchange of ideas – is something we will always cherish and we are truly sorry that we are no longer able to sustain this model of provision.
“We’ll take this opportunity now to thank everyone involved in the Centre and our legacy of learners.”
To read the University’s full statement, click here.
