Staff at University College Isle of Man are on a recruitment drive for students.

They say that the new year the perfect time to consider taking up a new hobby or going on a course.

Cathy Lord, programme manager for adult continuing education, said: ’Learning is so important for all age groups. At UCM, we’re excited to be able to offer a wide range of leisure and recreation courses.

’Learning something new, discovering an interesting hobby or brushing up on skills, helps relieve stress and provides a sense of purpose. Additionally, there’s a fantastic social element - many of our students make new friends on our courses or come along with friends.’

UCM offers more than 200 leisure courses to suit a large variety of interests and abilities, with the recent introduction of sleep hygiene (how to get a better night’s sleep), woodworking for beginners, the history and archaeology of Tynwald Hill, speak with confidence, improve your life, Pilates and digital marketing.

’Our leisure course offering has continued to grow over the years and it has been wonderful to see new and familiar faces trying something completely different.

’We try to run courses all around the Island to make them accessible for everyone, and we’re always pleased to hear from people course suggestions,’ Ms Lord said.

For further details about UCM’s leisure course offering and to enrol online, visit ucm.ac.im