Meet the learner

From learner to tutor! Jackie Lewis is a previous learner at Newport Community Learning (NCL), and now works as one of our tutors. We asked Jackie some questions to find out more about her learning journey and what it’s meant to her.

Jackie Lewis

NCL: Please can you tell us about the courses you have done with us?

Jackie: Since 1991 I have completed RSA typing and Word Processing up to and including RSA Stage III, IBT II, IBT III, ECDL 1, 2 and 3. DTP 1, 2, 3, Spanish Level 1, Pre GCSE Maths.

NCL: Can you tell us what made you decide to do your first course and why you chose to do it through Newport Community Learning?

Jackie: In 1991 I decided that it was time to update my skills in readiness to return to work after having 2 children. I had previously worked in an Office in a clerical role and as things had moved on I needed to update my Office Skills. I decided to return to Newport Community Learning because I didn’t have the confidence to attend Nash College as I was now a mature student. The classes were easily accessed because I was able to catch a bus because at the time I was unable to drive. The Centre had a very good reputation and on my first session I found the Tutors and other staff approachable and understanding of how someone felt returning to learn after a period away from learning because of family life.

NCL: What sort of difference has your learning made to you and your life?

Jackie: The differences it has made to my life are many. After attending classes I was lucky enough to be taken on as a Receptionist in the Centre where I was attending courses and because of my Computer Skills I was given the opportunity to become Network Manager of a small network of computers. As time progressed I decided that as I was advising other members of staff about the computer system I would gain my teaching qualifications and apply to become a part time IT Tutor. I have now been teaching for approximately 20 years and in 2001 I achieved a Tutor Award from NIACE when 21 of my students nominated me. It has been an incredible journey and career which I would never have achieved without that first step back into learning following the gap after my school qualifications. I have met many interesting people throughout my career and it has enriched my life completely.

Following the passing of my Son in 2011 at the age of 31 through Stomach Cancer, I decided to fundraise for St David’s Hospice Care. Again my computer skills have stood me in good stead. Without being able to use Social Media Sites to advertise the fundraising and Microsoft Software to create posters and tickets etc I would not have been able to enlist the help of others and raise over £27,000 to date. Fundraising these days is impossible like many things to achieve without any IT skills.

I would like to add that I have continued to enrol on courses since working for Community Learning to enhance my subject area and other areas of my life.

NCL: Finally, what advice would you give to someone considering a course?

Jackie: I would advise that person to go into one of the Centres or telephone Reception via the Contact Centre if it is easier and chat with the staff. The staff can advise you on courses that are suitable for the level you are at or refer you to someone that can. The Centres are friendly and welcoming and what I like is that the environment is not as you would expect, you are treated like adults and you will not feel that you are in a school environment. Each person is treated as an individual with different needs and expectations. I would definitely consider attending a course as it is never too early or too late to return to learning following your experiences at school.

Want to know more about our other learners? Some of our 2014 GCSE learners have shared their thoughts on their learning experiences and what gaining their qualification means to them.