ESOL courses unlock new life opportunities

Jakia is originally from Sylhet in Bangladesh and in September she joined the College’s Intermediate ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) course, which helps learners whose first language is not English to improve their reading, writing, speaking and listening.

After volunteering at Oxfam, she has now started her first job ever with Marks and Spencer in Truro.

Jakia said: “My ESOL course was amazing. I have gained so much confidence. It makes me happy speaking to my classmates and teacher. You have the chance to get to know different people. I’ve met people from Lithuania and Syria. It’s really interesting to share stories and learn about other cultures.

“My ultimate goal is to start my own clothes business. I’d like to import clothes and export make up to Bangladesh.”

Louise Canham, Jakia’s ESOL Tutor, said: “Jakia has been very focussed and is now benefiting from all her hard work and dedication. She will soon receive certificates for three subjects—English, Maths and Employability. I’m absolutely delighted for her.”

Louise also teaches the Employability and ESOL for Maths courses to help learners get into work.

Ghayath Al Nasouh came to the UK via the UN as part of the SVPR scheme to resettle vulnerable Syrians and passed his Functional Skills in English and Maths— a great achievement, as he couldn’t read or write when he arrived.

Maher Dardar is now working in a restaurant in Truro following his ‘Employability with ESOL’ training.

Fernando Dutra Barreto da Silva did the Maths course and said: “Louise as a tutor who is supportive and dedicated. I felt comfortable talking about all my fears. Now I feel more confident about my Maths skills.”

Fellow student Rawda added: “Before I started this course I felt nervous and scared. I learned to love the subject and really enjoyed the lessons. All thanks goes to the best teacher ever, Louise. I feel really grateful and happy.”