Adult Learners’ Week showcases life-changing education

Adult Learners’ Week showcases life-changing education

The Methodist Mission says Adult Learners’ week, which starts today, is an opportunity to recognise the potential of education to transform lives.

Adult Learners’ Week/He Tangata Mātauranga is a time for adult learners, educators and providers to celebrate the benefits and diversity of adult learning, wherever they are undertaking their learning – through private training establishments, schools, polytechnics or universities.

The Mission’s Approach Community Learning site at Lookout Point, Dunedin provides support and challenge for people who want to make better futures.

“Approach helps people to build skills and discover opportunities for greater and more effective participation in learning, in employment and in their communities in general,” says Approach manager John Crawford-Smith. “We provide quality foundation, and ‘stepping stone’ learning opportunities.

“We are committed to action that breaks the cycle of poverty/need, disadvantage and dependence so we work to effect significant and sustainable social change.”

Approach has qualified tutors and an onsite Support and Advocacy person who is a qualified and registered social worker. This adds an important and unique element to its programme as she assists students who are impacted by out-of-course factors.

In 2010, a large number of Approach’s students successfully went on to work or further training. For some students, the positive change in their lives is a big step forward.

“We’re privileged to have students like Luke at Approach,” John Crawford-Smith says.

“Luke came here with the goal of developing his computing skills so he could move into a career with computers. Luke brings enthusiasm and passion to all his study and learning,” John says. “He has a particular passion for computing and this spreads through his work, his learning and his desire to help others with their computing.

“Luke’s unassuming manner is a great asset and he works well and relates to learners, tutors and others. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and skills in a very caring and positive way.

“Like many others, Luke clearly sees education as the way to achieve his goals in computing and to set up positive change in his life. Due to his efforts, and all he has learned at Approach, he has now been accepted for further study in computing at the Southern Institute of Technology.”

ENDS

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