Read and Write to XML

This may be further than these forums reach (my apologies, if so let me know):

I would like to have a form for users to fill out that is written to an XML file. From that file I would like to display fields in a tabular (excel like) format on my website. Is the best way to do this with XML and PHP, or what should I be learning?

I am new to this and am trying to get a grip as to what I need to learn.

Please let me know if I should clarify anything.

Thank you!