We are proud to be working with so many dedicated learners, read below some of their inspiring stories.
Stephen's Story - Functional Maths
Stephen joined the maths course after doing Confidence and New Directions. Having left school at 14, his knowledge of maths had some gaps but this did not deter him. He approached every session with positivity and focus, determined to achieve this qualification. Successfully managing family commitments and a recent diagnosis of Aspergers, he excelled on the course and was successful in his aim gaining a Functional Skills Maths Level 1 qualification. This has helped him take his next steps towards employment by increasing his skills and confidence. He now volunteers regularly at a health food shop, whilst looking for paid work.
What have you enjoyed most about the courses?
Meeting new people, learning new math skills, and gaining confidence.
How has your tutor supported you?
Both my tutors supported me in every way possible. They made me feel at ease and ready to digest all the mathematics I was about to learn. They also made the learning environment very positive and fun to be in.
What have you gained most from attending?
I am currently in a work placement and in time I am going to get back into paid employment. In the mean time I may consider other courses through Wiltshire family learning.
What would you say to other people who are considering attending a Family and Community Learning course?
I would say to definitely go for it. any skill is good.
Helena's Story - Walk and Talk
What have you enjoyed most about the courses?
Learning something new about myself. Meeting new people on a one-to-one basis. Being taken for the person I am today.
How has your tutor supported you?
The support from my tutor has been amazing…patient when I misunderstood, answering questions in a way that I could comprehend the differences. She has also the ability of directing your focus in a positive outlook.
What have you gained most from attending?
- To say ‘no’ occasionally
- To accept myself
- Confidence in smaller group meetings, which has allowed me to comment in areas like the book club rather than just listening.
What would you say to other people who are considering attending a Family and Community Learning course?
Just do it…well worth the effort as everyone can get something new into their lives… have passed on items I learnt to family and friends.
Joanne's Story - Manage Worries Positively
My life turned upside down when I was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2021. I wanted to show my children that I wasn’t giving up, and enrolled on my first course, Manage Worries Positively, to help support them to cope with my diagnosis. Since then, I’ve completed other courses to improve mine and my family’s wellbeing, including courses in reading, phonics and science to help me better support my children’s learning too.
My attitude towards learning has radically transformed since from my school days. As well as making me happier and more confident, it’s helped me to control my stress and given me something to focus on other than my diagnosis. Learning has also helped me think of fun and exciting ways to help my children learn too, bringing us closer as a family. I don’t know where I’d be without it.
Original content from Festival of Learning website.
Hannah’s Story
Original content from Learning and Work Institute You Tube channel.
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Our 2022-2023 Impact Report
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