Learning for Living - the importance of GCSEs

Devon residents who want to improve their lives and career prospects are encouraged to return to the classroom this autumn.

Learn Devon, Devon County Council’s Adult Education Service, is once again inviting prospective learners to sign onto one of their English or maths courses, many of which are free.*

The courses can help those who want to improve their literacy and numeracy skills but may have previously not had the chance. Learners who sign on will also have the chance to earn a GCSE.

Between 2015 and 2018 over 600 adults have enrolled onto English or maths GCSE courses provided by Learn Devon.

Learners join these courses for a variety of reasons; for some it’s a means to help them better support their child’s education.

For others it brings them a step closer to employment, a promotion, retraining or further education.

After working in low-skilled jobs for many years Exeter mother Lisa Tench, 36, enrolled onto the GCSE English course. Now she is well on the way to realising her dream of becoming a teacher.

Lisa said: “I’ve always worked hard but I’ve always felt I could do more with my life. Learn Devon opened my eyes to what I’d missed out on and the GCSE course helped me gain confidence both academically and socially.”

After passing her exams, Lisa signed up for an Access Course in Humanities at Exeter College before being accepted for an Aspirational Scholarship with Exeter University.

She is now studying for a BA in English Literature.

She added: “The GCSE changed my life, and now I hope to teach after I complete my degree.

“I believe you are never too old to achieve your dreams.  If you decide to take your learning further, Learn Devon’s tutors will support you. They understand everybody has individual needs and they are committed to helping others achieve.

“I started this process to prove to myself that I could achieve the GCSE ‘C’ grade in English.  I left Learn Devon with an A* and I haven’t stopped learning since.  It has changed my life.”

Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, said: “One of our key priorities is improving opportunities for every Devon resident and supporting them to learn the skills they need to improve their lives so they can be independent and economically active.  Learn Devon helps prepare people for the workplace, and supports them with moving on to further training or education,  employment or self-employment.

“Life-long learning has many benefits. It has been shown to increase self-confidence and can help people to better cope with stress. Our specialist tutors are experienced in teaching adult learners. The classes are small and friendly and learners have access to several teaching aids and support structures.”