It was crunch time for Gill Warren when her son and daughter started to ask those embarrassing questions all parents’ dread – “What’s 15% of 237 Mum?” and “mum, what is 2/7 of £3.56?” Yes, they were asking for help with their maths homework and Gill realised that it was time to return to education and improve her maths and English skills.
When Gill left school she went straight into employment working for a famous local cake and pie maker and then worked in a school canteen for several years. Gill has enjoyed the work that she has been involved in but she felt that the time was right to do something for herself and return to education. Gill decided to enrol on a Level 1 Maths and English course at St Helens College and this was the beginning of Gills learning journey.
Gill says “I remember going to St Helens College to enrol on the Maths and English course and found the experience daunting. It was a big step just to walk into a large college with lots of people but once the course started, I quickly realised that I had made the right decision. I have made a lot of new friends and I have more confidence.”
The Maths and English Tutors at St Helens College helped Gill to develop her skills and encouraged her to continue with her studies.
Gill adds “The tutor, Ian Thomson, was very supportive and helped me gain my level two in maths. He encouraged me to continue with English and with the help of English tutors Sonya Reid and Ann Ellis, I have successfully completed GCSE English, achieving a grade C.”
With the confidence and skills gained through the maths and English programmes, Gill decided to continue with her studies and further her career in the catering industry. Gill has successfully completed the level 1 and 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery and has gained a job in catering that has greater responsibilities and challenges. Gill enjoys studying and is currently enrolled on the level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery course.
Gill concludes “My advice to anyone considering going back to college as an adult student is to go for it. I know it’s daunting and it’s a big step into the unknown but it’s worth doing it. It was one of the best decisions of my life and I have enjoyed every minute at college.”