Janet Kennedy

Catering Assistant, University of Ulster

This was a chance to go back to learning, but with other adults who were like me

I completed the Return to Learn around 6 years ago, when they ran it here. I had never done any course before and it had been a very long time since I was in school. I liked the idea of meeting people and just getting my brain working again. This was a chance to go back to learning, but with other adults who were like me. The course looked at English and Maths, but it was very different to school. All of our own life experience such as communicating with customers was relevant and valued. I actually learned more than I thought I would and it really helped my confidence because we had to discuss things and speak in a group. There were also two residentials, which were a lot of fun. We met up with groups from other branches who were also doing this course which added an additional dynamic.

Since completing the course I undertook a computer course in my local community centre. Even though I had an RSA qualification, I learned on a typewriter and was a bit nervous of computers, but again this was a great learning experience. I’m interested in doing some more of the UNISON courses, particularly the stress course and Building Confidence for Women, but it’s difficult here to get time off. Perhaps we’ll be able to organise something for the future.