The start of the school year reminds those of us long out of formal education that the brain cells could probably do with a bit of extra-curricular stimulation before the Winter sets in. Evening courses are one way of doing this and they can be as practical or as ethereal as one wishes with everything from woodwork to astrology on offer.

A quick way to get an overview of what courses are available for those living in the greater Dublin area is to pick up either the Wolfhound or Oisin guides to evening classes. Both cost £2.99. The Collins Press produces a similar guide for Cork city and county also at £2.99.

In addition to the many private colleges and third-level organisations offering courses, community and comprehensive schools throughout the country also run an extensive programme of evening classes and listings of courses are normally available from individual schools. If you are unsure about which school is closest to your home contact the Association of Community and Comprehensive Schools at 2 Herbert Avenue, Merrion Road, Dublin 4, telephone (01) 269 5375, for help.

AONTAS, the national association of adult learning, is also a good contact point for those interested in lifelong learning opportunities. For example, AONTAS keeps a list of the adult education organisers around the country who will be able to help with specific queries and the organisation also produces a range of useful leaflets covering topics such as distance learning, foundation-access courses and applying for college as a mature student. AONTAS is based at 22 Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2. Telephone (01) 475 4121 or fax (01) 478 0084.

UCD's adult education programme brochure is now available and a copy can be yours by telephoning (01) 706 1573. Trinity College Dublin also offers a range of afternoon, evening and weekend courses and details are available from the College's Admissions Office at (01) 608 1072.