Student Comments
Mary Fuggles started studying Beginners IT with West Suffolk College in 2004 and has now progressed to OCR Cliat. 'I use email to keep in touch with relatives and friends, and I check by investments on the internet,' said Mary. She first enrolled on an IT course because, as Chairman of the Parish Council, she felt she needed to be able to use a computer. It is also useful for her other hobbies.
Carla Richardson, 31, from Haverhill is a busy working mother but she finds time for creative classes. 'I always loved drawing and colouring as a little girl, and when I saw the watercolour class advertised, I thought I would have a go,' she said. Carla's paintings have improved tremendously over half a dozen courses, and she has had two exhibtions at the town's Art Centre. Carla has also completed the Level 1 Flower Arranging and is going on to Level 2 next year. 'It's relaxing because they are things I like doing - it's time for me,' she said.
Tori Allaway has been studying Spanish for three years. She started from scratch, knowing nothing of the language, and is now able to carry on a conversation, which is useful because Tori's partner, Juan, is Spanish and her parents also live in Spain. She has also gained two ITQ qualifications, intending to work with computers once her four children are older. However, Toni is now expecting another baby, so her career plans have been put on hold for the time being. 'No matter how many children you have, you can still carry on with these courses,' she said.
Keith Dunney is sampling an assortment of courses run by the Newmarket Centre. Already enrolled on IT, Literacy and Numeracy classes, he saw details of a Yoga session. 'I have always been interested in spirituality, and yoga has a strong spiritual side, so I jumped at the chance,' he said. Keith has also completed an Introduction to Access course this year, and is going on to the Access to Higher Education Health & Social Care course. Eventually, he hopes to study for a degree in Psychology, exploring personality disorders, self-awareness and the power of positive thinking.
Alan Moore joined the Skills for Life workshop at Stowmarket after suffering a stroke. Successfully completing Maths and English courses has built up his self-confidence and renewed his faith in his intellectual ability. 'I had to give up work, but I felt I was too young to retire,' he said. 'Now I have a part-time voluntary job. There must be lots of other people whose confidence has been shaken by illness who could benefit from these courses. I am so grateful to everyone who has helped me.'