Name: Sarah
Home Country: Afghanistan
Next Steps: Teaching Assistant at Richard Lander School
My Story
When Sarah arrived in the UK from Afghanistan, she faced the challenge of learning English in a new environment. “When I came here, I didn’t know how to talk English and how to have a conversation with people,” she explained.
Sarah joined Truro and Penwith College in 2024, beginning with ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Entry 3. “I started from Entry 3, and then I passed Entry 3, then I went to Level 1 Functional Skills,” she said. Studying at the College gave her the confidence she needed to build her life in Cornwall. “When I came to the College, I got a little confidence, and my teacher is very lovely, and she is very helpful because she always guides me.”
Her hard work and determination quickly paid off. After initially taking on work as a lunchtime supervisor and volunteering in her community, Sarah successfully secured a role as a Teaching Assistant at Richard Lander School. “I applied for a Teaching Assistant role at Richard Lander and then they accepted me. I’m very happy and I will miss college,” she said. In her new role, Sarah is beginning by supporting children in small groups.
Sarah is also passionate about encouraging others who may be nervous about starting their studies. “Today I saw a girl from Afghanistan… she was so nervous, and she told me, ‘I don’t know what to do and how I start my lessons at college.’ I told her you should be very relaxed and confident; you will get everything from this college. It’s very peaceful and friendly and helpful for all students.”
Sarah is grateful for the support she has received at the College and wanted to acknowledge the impact of her tutors: “I really appreciate the College, and they have very nice staff, lovely teachers, especially Syd and Louise… they are very lovely and helpful and kind.”
