Progression Post July 2014
Young Learner Becomes a Learning Support Assistant Liam Skee is eighteen years old and was born and raised in Gateshead. At school, Liam juggled his study while caring for his disabled parents. Liam’s dedication paid off when he succeeded in achieving good GCSE results.
progress from learner to support worker has been inspirational; his genuine care and interest for the learners he works with is welcomed and Liam quickly builds sound, solid, working relationships with some of the hardest to reach learners. Liam openly shares his experiences with them, demonstrating that with a positive attitude and hard work it is possible to achieve qualifications and employment. Liam has made the tutors at learningSkills very proud.”
Liam readily admits that, despite his GCSE achievements, he lacked confidence and was unsure which route to take after school. Liam therefore decided to enrol on our Ready to Work Programme in February 2013. Maria Tyson was Liam’s Lead Tutor. Maria recognised Liam’s potential and the challenges he faced. Remembering Liam at the beginning of his journey, Maria said; “It soon became apparent that Liam was a smart young man who was juggling other commitments. Even though he was meeting his family and learning demands, Liam was always the first to offer help to his peers when they needed his support. Throughout Liam’s course we ensured he received wrap around care from our team. We engaged Liam in exercise activities to help him to overcome his reliance upon energy drinks which had contributed to Liam experiencing panic attacks and insomnia. The group learning activities and individual support helped Liam to develop his confidence and self-esteem.” “It soon became apparent that Liam was a smart young man who was juggling his commitments” Liam was a model learner throughout the Ready for Work programme. His attendance record was excellent and he always made valuable contributions to class discussions. Maths tutor Sarah Richardson said of Liam; “Liam attended my maths course. He flourished in class and his peers welcomed his support; I could see then that he had the necessary qualities which would enable him to make a difference to the lives of others.” A Natural Progression Every tutor that worked with Liam felt that he had potential to be a very good support worker. Liam welcomed the possibility of supporting tutors and
Liam Pictured left receiving his Award from Lesley Monaghan, Head of Employability
helping young learners to overcome some of the challenges he had faced himself. In 2014, Liam applied for a job as a Support Worker with learningSkills. Liam performed extremely well during the interview and impressed the interviewers with his enthusiasm and maturity. learningSkills were thrilled to offer Liam a Support Worker position. Supporting Young Learners Liam initially supported tutors delivering maths and English classes. His role has since extended to include; ICT, Alternative Education, Construction and Employability. Liam can identify with young people and is able to settle their worries and anxieties while building a good rapport with them and the tutor. “Liam rises to challenges within his personal and work life, his enthusiasm fuels his successes” Yildan Husnu is one of the tutors who benefits from Liam’s support. Yildan said; ‘It is a pleasure working with Liam, he is organised, professional, dedicated and committed to helping and supporting others. In addition to this he is committed to achieving his own goals and fulfilling his own aspirations. Liam rises to challenges within his personal and work life, his enthusiasm fuels his successes and he is a prime role model for both learners and colleagues. Observing Liam 1
These sentiments were echoed by Maria who said; “Liam is the very reason why I wanted to become a teacher, to make a difference in someone’s life, and for them to make a difference in mine.” Liam’s learners appreciate his guidance and support. Toni Sneaton and Jennifer Udale from our Alternative Education Inlearning programme said; “Liam is a great help in class and he is always there to talk to. He is really calm and has a great sense of humour which puts us at ease. We all really respect Liam, we listen to what he has to say and we do our best to work hard and learn in class.” Award Nominations Liam was nominated in three categories for the learningSkills Awards and was runner up in the Skills for Employment category. He received his award from Lesley Monaghan, Head of Employability and Delivery Services at the Skills Funding Agency. When tutor Sarah Richardson congratulated Liam he replied; “I am happy that I won an award. It’s great to be acknowledged, but I’m more pleased for my learners. It’s great to see my learners succeed.” Higher Qualifications Liam will be starting a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification in September whilst continuing to support our learners here in learningSkills. Well done Liam, everyone at learningSkills is incredibly proud to work with you.
Mother becomes a Family Learning champion Beverly Orr first approached Family Learning at Wardley Children’s Centre in 2009. Bev wanted to get involved with learning based around her child. Her son, Tyler, was then 1 year old (using the Family Learning crèche) and Bev attended Family Learning courses throughout the next 2-3 years. She was able to gain skills and abilities to help her son with early number and language development in preparation for nursery school. Bev also achieved qualifications in Level 1&2 English and Maths during her time with Family Learning. She then went on to complete and achieve a qualification in ICT (ECDL) in 2012.
and Bev is taking part in the Family Maths and Family English courses in the school. She is a wonderful role model and example of how you can help and support your children.
Beverly (far left) working hard in class
reading, writing and number skills. Bev attributes this to what she had learnt with Family Learning.
Impact of learning on learners and their children
“Bev is the perfect Family Learning Champion. She is a shining example of how you can help and support your children.”
Bev has gained personal confidence throughout her learning journey. When her son went to nursery in 2012, she was proud to receive positive comments from his teacher who said that Tyler was very advanced in his development, especially with his
This year, Bev has become a Family Learning Champion. She encourages parents to get involved with Family Learning by talking to them about the benefits to themselves and their children. Her son Tyler is now attending Lingey House Primary School
At the moment Bev is working as a volunteer with Citizen’s Advice Bureau. She is receiving training to become a qualified advisor. Bev commented; “Being part of Family Learning has given me a focus and the confidence to go on and learn something new. I am looking forward to my role as Family Learning Champion,” “Bev is a valued learner and a true ambassador for Family Learning” Family Learning Manager Karen Milne voiced the thoughts of the team when she commented upon Bev’s achievement and support. Karen said; “Bev has continued to develop her personal and professional skills. She is a valued learner. We are delighted that Bev has joined us as a Family Learning Champion. She is a true ambassador for Family Learning.”
Learner sells her Jewellery creations! Silversmithing is thriving at Bensham Grove. Tutor Imogen Waitt is delivering courses ranging from complete beginner through to Advanced level. Learners on the course are currently completing a project using the ancient art of chasing and repoussé to create fingerplates and other items in gilding metal. Learner designs have been inspired by the Arts and Craft movement. This work will feature permanently in Bensham Grove House.
Claire Chapman’s story
Imogen provided advice and guidance throughout, responding to emails in the evening and at weekends. This was very much appreciated.
Claire Chapman enrolled on her NCFE L1 Silversmithing course in September 2013. Claire had no previous experience but her technical and design ability increased rapidly. With her husband’s help they created a small workshop at home and invested in some tools and equipment. Selling Jewellery Claire plucked up her courage and approached The North East Art Collective. Claire’s jewellery is now being sold in their Newcastle shop. Here is Claire’s experience in her own words: “The Silversmithing course was something I had been interested in doing for a long time. However work commitments prevented me from being able to follow this up. I was delighted when my situation changed and I was able to access the course. From the beginning I felt that the tutor’s style suited me. We were able to carry out practical exercises right at
“Imogen encouraged me each week to push myself. She provided me with extension activities to allow me to develop my skills” Claire soldering her current project. Sterling Silver and Yellow gold that will house a London Blue Topaz and two Swiss Blue Topaz
the beginning following her tutorials. Within a week or two I was totally hooked and wanted to explore further design and fabrication techniques. Imogen supported this, encouraging me each week to push myself further. Imogen provided me with extension activities to allow me to develop my skills. After a while I set up the workshop at home and started to buy tools and equipment I was able to practice even more. 2
Family and friends began asking me to make pieces for them and this encouraged me to approach the “North East Art Collective”. They agreed to take twelve pieces of jewellery to display and sell in their Gallery in Newcastle. As my learning continues I would like to progress to levels 2 and 3 and perhaps explore more retail opportunities; especially as tools, equipment and materials can be expensive. I would also like to apply for my sponsors mark at one of the Assay offices.” In response to learner requests, Bensham Grove will now be launching a NCFE 3 level Silversmithing course.
Apprenticeships work! – F.A.C.T. Ross McAnelly enjoyed volunteering for F.A.C.T. so much that he never left!
Manager Lesley Shaw is very pleased with Ross, telling us; “As a charity this has been our first experience of taking on an apprentice. We have found the process easy to establish and communication with the assessors excellent. Indeed, we have taken on another apprentice as a result”.
Ross first heard about F.A.C.T. (Fighting All Cancers Together) when the Job Centre organised for him to undertake work experience with the charity. When his week-long work experience ended, Ross decided that he wanted to stay with F.A.C.T. and continued to work as a volunteer for a further 5 months. When a new F.A.C.T. shop opened in Gateshead, Ross was appointed as supervisor. Ross’s hard work was recognised by many; including the shop supervisor. As soon as the opportunity arose, Ross was employed as an Intermediate Customer Service Apprentice. When a brand new F.A.C.T. shop opened in Gateshead, Ross was appointed as supervisor. The role in the new shop has enabled Ross to progress onto a Retail Apprenticeship. Ross believes that his apprenticeship made him more aware of what is expected in a retail role as well as a greater understanding of how to carry out the role successfully. He said; “Since I started working for F.A.C.T, I have progressed not only in the retail world but also within myself. I have gained valuable skills including
Ross (left) with his manager Lesley Shaw
communicating with customers and fellow colleagues. I have become more confident in making decisions and I have gained knowledge of the retail environment I work in. Doing a Customer Service apprenticeship via Gateshead learningSkills was a fantastic experience. I was given regular feedback and support from my assessor and work colleagues. This was a great help as it allowed me to progress further. On completion of the apprenticeship I now manage/ supervise a team of volunteers on a daily basis and I am confident the future has more to offer as a result. I have become more confident in making decisions and I have gained knowledge of the retail environment I work in.”
Tutor Linda Cain is delighted with Ross’s progress, saying; “Ross has progressed from an assistant to trainee manager gaining valuable experience and knowledge of customer service and retail. It has been a pleasure to work with Ross and see him gain skills & knowledge as well as improve his confidence during his apprenticeships. He has used his knowledge and experiences to train volunteers. FACT provides opportunities, training and support to volunteers and apprentices valuing equality and diversity in their organisation.”
Future Exhibition? Art course inspires learners to develop own style using professional methods and techniques.
along with encouragement and advice, have inspired me to develop my own style and work with confidence and independence at home. I hope there will be follow up courses to further develop this skill and achieve more in the future.”
Tutor Steve Lyon-Bowes wanted to create an art course that would give learners the opportunity to learn methods and techniques that professional artists use, but delivered in a way that would make it accessible to every learner. He absolutely achieved his goal now that he is delivering his Portraits course. Within the course, the learners do selfdirected projects, which are negotiated with the tutor, to make the best of their skills. Some learners are beginners, others already have art degrees and are looking to specialise. Confidence is developed throughout the course, to aid improvement of the skills. “I can’t believe how quickly I have achieved pleasing results and acquired new skills.” Steve’s learners are thrilled about their progress. Richard (Rick) Cheadle is currently undertaking his second year
“Rick could certainly hold an exhibition of his work.” Tutor Steve said; “Rick is an outstanding learner, with a confident painting style. His enthusiasm, and willingness to learn, have helped him develop his already considerable skills, to the point where he could certainly hold an exhibition of his work.” Future Opportunities A painting (in progress) of Wilko Johnson by Rick Cheadle
on the Art course. Rick is very happy with his learning and achievements, commenting; “I can’t believe how quickly I have achieved pleasing results and acquired new skills. Tips and techniques learned in just a short time, 3
Rick and his fellow learners will have the opportunity to progress onto future courses with Steve. Bensham Grove are also planning an exhibition where learners can display and sell their work.
Established Walking Group gets on the right track In January 2014 learningSkills received a request from a group of enthusiastic walkers who wanted to improve their map reading and navigation skills. The group leader had seen our Map Reading and Countryside Walking course advertised and asked if they could join. After liaising with the group, Tutor Pete Hutchinson designed a bespoke course that exactly fitted their needs. The group of learners were delighted with the results of their learning and thanked learningSkills and their tutor for the new knowledge and skills. LearningSkills was delighted to receive the following feedback from three group members: “At last I am free to roam alone and I can explore some of wonderful countryside the UK has to offer.” “I can finally read a map and compassI no longer have to rely on my friend to do it for me.” “I feel really confident about going out on my own without the worry of getting lost.” The learners are now putting their new found skills to the test. We haven’t found any of them wandering around
the countryside so Pete’s hard work must have paid off! Delighted tutor Tutor Pete Hutchinson was really pleased with the progress of the group, he said; “Members of the ‘Civic Walking Club’ really excelled in their learning with commitment and enthusiasm
ensuring the class was a pleasure to teach. Individual progress was made from beginner to advanced level making the course an outstanding learning experience. Well done to all!”
A thank you from a placement student Graham Pude originally came to us over two years ago for a teaching placement. He has now become a tutor with learningSkills as part of our ‘Grow your own’ initiative. Here is Graham’s story in his own words. “In conjunction with my DTLLS Literacy course at Newcastle College, I was thrilled to achieve a two-year teaching placement working with the Skills for Life team. I had the pleasure of working with five SfL tutors who mentored me over this period – Lisa, Elizabeth, Sarah, John and Yildan. All of them were very generous in the time and effort they put in to helping me develop as a tutor. They gave me invaluable advice, guidance and feedback relating to everything from my teaching techniques and design of resources to admin matters, but more than anything they enabled me to grow in confidence in the classroom. I also really appreciate the trust they placed in me when I progressed from
simply observing the tutors, to “team teaching” with them, to my teaching their classes unassisted.
academic assignments. Mel Crosby and Karen Milne also kindly helped in this latter regard.
Given all of the demands the tutors are already under in the classroom, managing a trainee teacher is another burden but each tutor was extremely welcoming and accommodating of me throughout. I was very impressed by the professionalism they always showed, which was a great example for me to follow. They also readily assisted with any queries I had.
I know from conversations with fellow students on the DTLLS course that not all of them received such support from their mentors and managers on their placements, so I appreciate all the more the efforts that Gateshead’s SfL team have gone to in providing me with such a positive and developmental experience and shaping my competence as a tutor. Thank you!”
“More than anything they enabled me to grow in confidence in the classroom.” I’m very grateful also to Ashley who managed me during my placement, which was less than straightforward because the short-term nature of the courses dictated a new placement being organised each term. I appreciate also the time that Ashley gave in order to explain the curriculum design and quality assurance processes in great detail which I was required to research for 4
Skills for Life Manager Ashley Davies is extremely proud of Graham and her whole team. Ashley said; “Graham worked extremely hard in the time he was with us. It was a pleasure to support him with his placement and observe how he progressed over this period with the SFL Team. My tutors were extremely professional and generous with their time which was a challenge in today’s teaching climate.”
inLearning - Alternative Education in Gateshead Gateshead Council’s Alternative Education project, inLearning, is having a big impact on the lives of young people. Since the new team was formed in April 2013 30 young people aged 14-16 have participated in the programme.
the effectiveness of our team and also shows how committed and hard working our learners are. The Future The InLearning team are currently working with 20 young people on programme. These learners are from; Heworth Grange, Thomas Hepburn, Cardinal Hume, Charles Thorpe, Whickham, Joseph Swan and St Thomas More schools. The team also work closely with the Behaviour Support Team and RELAC to support some of the most challenging and disengaged young people in Gateshead.
The InLearning team have had many achievements over the past year. We are proud to report that all of our year 11 leavers have continued in learning. Three of our learners have gone into apprenticeships with two more signing up for apprenticeships at the end of the academic year. Two learners have moved onto vocational learning programmes with LearningSkills and two more are about to sign up for vocational programmes when they leave us in July. Connor Townsend was in our 3rd cohort of learners who came to us from Heworth Grange School. Connor completed our Return to School programme and returned to school after just one term with us. Since his time at InLearning he has made significant changes to his lifestyle and behaviour. He has completed his GCSE’s and has now secured a lucrative apprenticeship with Rolls Royce. Connor feels that his term with us helped him to make positive changes in his life. He said; “With the support and encouragement at InLearning, I have gained qualifications and turned my life around”. Connor will commence his apprenticeship in September and will receive his GCSE results in August. The staff at InLearning are extremely proud of Connor’s achievements. “With the support and encouragement at InLearning, I have gained qualifications and turned my life around.” Coordinator Victoria Tipling said; “Connor is a well-mannered, hardworking young man who always tried his best. With some support he now has the opportunity to have a great career with a large business in the North East.”
InLearning Coordinator Victoria Tipling is looking forward to the team’s second year. She said; “We are moving into our second complete academic year and are looking forward to many achievements and seeing the young people who come through the project develop and grow throughout their time with us.” Our young people make a difference in their community In December 2013 the learners planned, prepared and cooked a 3 course Christmas Lunch for 20 homeless young people from “Changing Lives”. This project increased our learners’ awareness of issues affecting other people when they saw first-hand how so many young people have little support and can become homeless. Our young learners showed great understanding and empathy for others. They were very proud that they had made a difference in the lives of young people who may not have otherwise had the opportunity to be part of a Christmas celebration. In June 2014, three of our young people helped out at a Big Lunch celebration at the Teams Community Centre. This lunch was attended by a range of people from the community. Everyone had a lovely meal and fun day together, talking about themselves and finding out about each other. Learner Achievement recognised and celebrated In May 2014, 10 out of the 13 young people on programme attended a presentation and received a certificate and a gift voucher from Margaret Whellans (Strategic Director for Learning and Children) to congratulate them on their 100% attendance. At school, all of our learners had poor attendance, many of whom refused to attend. Therefore 100% attendance on our programme is an incredible achievement which demonstrates 5
From the learner’s mouth ALD Hairdressing supports learners into work Maelene Narsi was out of work, a single mother and desperate to get a break. Her life changed when she enrolled on a course with one of our partners, ALD Hair and Beauty. Here is Maelene’s story in her own words: I got a job thanks to all the studying I have done and the support of ALD. I owe it all to the amazing tutor Gillian and all the staff! Before I started training with ALD I had no qualifications at all; I was a single mother with nothing behind me. I had tried to find work but no one wanted to employ someone without any skills. “I was a single mother with nothing behind me.” By chance, I received a leaflet in the post advertising the courses at ALD. After I overcame my nerves, I picked up the phone and called them. I came in and spoke to Julia who told me all about the course. I knew straight away that it was the course for me! I met the amazing staff who helped me with all the paper work, funding for the course and with the practical and written parts of the course.
Throughout the course the tutor Gillian always took her time to explain everything and if I was stuck she was there to make sure I understood it all. I learned so much! I started at ALD with nothing but left with my NVQ Level 1 and 2 in Beauty Therapy. In addition I did courses in Hot Stone Therapy and acrylic nails. I worked hard and to top it all off I won an amazing ‘student of the year’ prize! “I won an amazing ‘student of the year’ prize.” ALD gave me an opportunity to better my life and because of them I have now got employed at Hollywood Nails and I am loving my work. Who would of thought a leaflet through the post would have led to me meeting such lovely people, learning new skills and getting my dream job. I will always be grateful to Tracey, Gillian and Julia. ALD have been more than just a training company; they have been a blessing in my life! I have grown in confidence because they have shown me no matter what happens
Maelene Narsi looking professional in her Therapist uniform
in life I can become whoever I want to be all it takes is studying and a tutor who makes you never give up. I left proud to say I started with nothing but left more proud at what I have achieved since. Delighted Tutors ALD are delighted by Maelene’s progress and said; “We are proud to have helped Maelene on her learning journey and delighted she is doing so well. She was a joy to teach and an inspiration to many other learners”.
The professional hair and beauty facilities and resources at ALD Hair & Beauty Training Academy
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2014 Learner Awards the Best Yet! learningSkills hosted their ninth annual awards ceremony on 22nd May. The evening, hosted by Steve Walls was attended by over 250 of the nominated learners, employers and staff. All the winners and runners up had inspirational stories to tell on how they had taken part in learning whilst trying to overcome challenges in their lives. Winners included Michael Dale (Skills for Life Award) who, despite never having used a computer before had embraced technology to help her achieve qualifications in English. The Family Learning Award was won by Deckham Children’s Centre who has provided consistent and
continuous support to families, often with difficult lives and encouraged them to take up learning. learningSkills staff were also recognised on the night. Elizabeth Welburn who won the Recognition Award and Major Barron the Tutor Award, both demonstrating dedication, professionalism and making the lives of our learners significantly better. As always it was a very special evening and wouldn’t be possible if we did not have the support of the people we work with and of course our learners.
Elizabeth Welburn (pictured right) receiving her Recognition Award
Michael Dale (pictured left with his son) receiving his Skills for Life Award
Major Barron (pictured left) receiving his Tutor Award
Message from Kevin Pearson, Principal learningSkills Manager Learning is a journey, the more learning you ‘do’ the greater the opportunity. However the full value of learning is only ever realised when it is put to use. Whether to further your career, or to better support the people and community that surrounds you. Excellent learning will develop your personal skills, confidence and the knowledge to be the best you can be. Our third edition of the Progression Post is full of inspirational stories of our learners using the skills they have gained to progress. Each individual story is special but not unusual. Is yours the next story?
Shout about Success! Do you have a heart warming, motivational story of learner progression and advancement? Why not share your stories, give recognition to your learners and inspire others to learn and achieve? Please contact Claire Ritson if you have any suggestions or ideas for our next edition 0191 433 8793 or email: claireritson@gateshead.gov.uk 7
Produced by Gateshead Council. © July 2014