Hundreds benefit from Wiltshire's adult learning courses
"All the team from admins to tutors have been very supportive and encouraging in achieving my objective," added Ms Barandalla-Fernandez, who works as a kitchen assistant in a local school.After four-and-a-half years as a stay-at-home mum she said she lacked confidence in her ability to find work again.In her new role she is able to use the skills she has gained on her courses while undergoing ongoing training, such as safeguarding."I need to rebuild my confidence as I know I am good at many things and hopefully I will get a chance to show it again," added Ms Barandalla-Fernandez.The FACL courses are aimed at helping people gain new skills, including speaking English, as well as ways to budget, advice for supporting children, ways to boost well-being and preparation for further learning, employment or volunteering.
'Wonderful impact'
Councillor Laura Mayes said the courses "help people gain confidence and realise potential.""Gaining knowledge and new skills can open doors and opportunities and it can also help with health and wellbeing and confidence," she added.A recent annual report showed 605 people were signed up to the FACL courses in 2024. It found a total of 99% of learners "achieved their course learning outcomes and met the success criteria". And 80% of them went on to further study, volunteering, work "or other positive next steps" with the vast majority feeling more confident and making "positive healthy lifestyle changes"."This report shows the wonderful impact of FACL for Wiltshire residents and I look forward to hearing more positive stories," added Ms Mayes.
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