thank you ironmike - its great to hear from others in a similar situation, and that many mature students do embark on this
i am already in the process of finding out what unis would need me to do and it seems that as my qualifications are over 3 years old i will need to do an access course or open university module - OU is looking best due to being able to continue working and saving money
i am very keen to get work experience so i am looking into those too. lots to do and lots to think about!
hope all is going well for you!