Parents Going Back to School: How Academic Upgrading Supports You and Your Kids

Being a parent is already a full-time job.

So when you start thinking about going back to school, it can feel like adding a lot more to your already full plate.

You might be wondering:

  • How would I even fit this in?
  • What about childcare?
  • What if I’m not good at school anymore?
  • Is it worth it if I’m doing this for my family?

We get this all the time from parents going back to school! Lots of adults come back to school because they want a better job, a new career, or they want to qualify for a college program.

Durham College’s Academic Upgrading is built for adults 18+ who need Grade 12 equivalent (C-level) courses to move forward. It’s free, it’s designed to help you build your skills, and to secure a better future for you and your family.

This post will walk you through how our Academic Upgrading program can work for parents, what supports may be available, and how to get started around your busy schedule.

Why going back to school can help your whole family

Going back to school is a great way to lead by example for your family.

It shows your kids that learning matters. Trying again matters. Finishing what you started matters.

Here are a few ways Academic Upgrading can support your family life:

  • Better options for work. Upgrading can help you qualify for college programs and improve job opportunities.
  • More confidence at home. You might feel more comfortable helping with homework, reading, and math.
  • A strong example for your kids. Kids notice effort. When they see you learning, it makes learning feel normal.

What is Academic Upgrading at Durham College?

We’ve got more articles on the site and info about what Academic Upgrading is, but here’s a quick overview:

Academic Upgrading (AU) offers free Grade 12 equivalent C-level courses for adults 18+ who want to qualify for college programs, apprenticeships, and improve literacy and numeracy skills.

Some jobs or college programs may require certain courses to be completed, and academic upgrading is a realistic, free, and supportive way to complete those courses.

Courses you may take include:

  • ACE Communications (Grade 12 equivalent)
  • ACE Apprenticeship Math (Grade 12 equivalent)
  • ACE Core Math (Grade 11 equivalent for DC applicants only)
  • ACE Self Management
  • ACE Computer Foundations
  • ACE Biology (Grade 11 equivalent)
  • ACE Chemistry (Grade 12 equivalent)

You’ll learn in a supportive adult environment with qualified professors and face-to-face instruction.

But I’m a parent. How would this fit into my schedule?

This is the biggest worry for most parents. And it’s a fair question.

Here’s the good news: Academic Upgrading is designed to be flexible and adult-friendly, and you can take one course or a few.

In fact, students enrolled in the AU program are considered part-time, even if they’re doing up to 4 courses per semester.

What a real life routine could look like

Every parent’s schedule is different, but here are a few realistic examples:

Example 1: The drop-off plan

  • Drop the kids off at school
  • Head to the Oshawa campus for class
  • Pick them up after school
  • Do a little study time after dinner

Example 2: The start small plan

  • Take one course first
  • Build your confidence and routine
  • Add another course later if it makes sense for your schedule

Example 3: The shared homework plan

  • Your kids do homework
  • You do your schoolwork at the same table
  • Everyone learns together

We’re here to help you find a schedule that works for your learning and family goals.

Supports that can make school easier for parents

Being a part of our Academic Upgrading program means there are a few supports that many parents ask about right away.

Financial support for childcare and transportation (for qualified learners)

Academic Upgrading students may be able to access Training and Support Allowance (TSA) funds to help reduce costs that get in the way of attending class, like childcare and commuting. Availability is limited, and eligibility matters.

TSA support can include:

  • Childcare/daycare help so parents or guardians can attend classes
  • Transportation or transit help for commuting to the Oshawa campus (this may include bus fare, gas, or parking depending on your situation)

These funds are limited and not guaranteed, so it’s best to apply early and ask about it during your intake.

Extra help with learning and studying

If you’re nervous about school skills, you’re not alone. Many adults feel that way at first.

Durham College points students to supports like:

  • Student Academic Learning Services (SALS) for tutoring and learning strategies
  • The library for study spaces and support

We’re here to help you! You are not expected to figure it all out by yourself.

A community that feels welcoming

Academic Upgrading is specifically an adult learning space, with a supportive environment and a community of other motivated, friendly students you’ll be around on campus.

We constantly hear from students how that community piece matters, especially for parents who have felt alone trying to make big life changes.

Common parent worries

Let’s talk about the stuff parents really think about, but don’t always say out loud.

I don’t have time.

You might not have extra time. That’s real.

The goal is not to do everything at once. The goal is to start. One course can be a strong start.

Try this:

  • Pick a schedule that matches your life right now
  • Build a weekly routine
  • Ask for help early

Childcare is my biggest barrier.

TSA funds may support childcare costs during scheduled class times for qualified learners, and we encourage you to ask about it during intake.

Even if you don’t qualify, the intake conversation can still help you plan a realistic schedule.

I’m worried about money.

Academic Upgrading is a free, government-funded program.

And if you qualify, there may be additional support for daycare and transportation through TSA funds.

It’s been years since I was in school.

Many of our students have been out of school for years, and that’s totally normal.

To get started, you’ll complete a Skills Marker Assessment in reading and/or numeracy.

This assessment is just so we can get a starting point for you and isn’t an exam.

  • not pass or fail
  • not timed

It’s there so we can help you, not judge you.

What if I feel embarrassed?

A lot of adult learners returning to school carry this feeling.

But here’s the truth: being a parent who goes back to school is something to be proud of. Most adult learners are in the same boat. They’re there to improve their future, just like you.

Will this actually lead somewhere?

Yes, it sure can. Academic Upgrading is designed to help you meet college admission requirements, job requirements, and build the skills you need for your next step.

Many learners use courses like ACE Communications and ACE Math to move toward college or apprenticeship paths.

Ready to take the next step?

If you’re a parent thinking about going back to school, this is your sign that it’s possible.

You don’t have to wait for life to calm down. You can start with one step and build from there.

Your kids already know you’re strong. Now it’s time to show yourself that you can do this too.