Gaining confidence
Jenny Jeffries was inspired to start studying after reading a comment in the course brochure from a member of staff, who said:
"If I can do it, anyone can!"
Jenny's return to learning helped her gain confidence and won her national recognition for her work.
Return to learning
Jenny explained:
"It gave me the push I needed because I had just had brain surgery and I was very depressed afterwards so I wanted to get out socialising."It was very difficult at first and I didn't want to go through the door but the staff were so welcoming and helped me."
So far Jenny has studied courses in Computer Literacy and Information Technology (CLAIT), European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL), as well as Level 2 Adult Certificates in Literacy and Numeracy and specialised word processing courses in the IT suite.
New found confidence and a national award
Jenny has found the socialising and learning have helped her confidence grow. She said:
"I have gained a lot of confidence since I started studying. I have really enjoyed going to Clay Cross and it is an easy way to gain qualifications."In recognition of Jenny's hard work and improvement since she started, she won the regional award as Outstanding Learner in June 2008 at the learndirect Achievement Awards.
She was also runner-up at the national event with a Highly Commended award.
Both awards recognise learners who have progressed personally or professionally after completing a learndirect course.
"I could never have imagined winning the awards when I first started learning at Clay Cross," she said. "It is one of my proudest moments."
Jenny, from North Wingfield, works with adults with learning disabilities for the charity Enable Housing and also volunteers at a charity shop in Clay Cross.
She has already enrolled to do another course and urges others with an interest to do the same.
"I would rather go to an adult community education centre than a big college as it feels more welcoming and friendly."I would recommend it to anyone and I am starting another course soon for pleasure doing sugarcraft."
