A COLCHESTER woman whose dyslexia meant she couldn't write her own name as a child has completed her English GCSE aged 60.
ACL Essex turned the spotlight on its Colchester-based learners' achievements at a recent annual awards ceremony.
Recognising their contributions and progress throughout the academic year, more than 40 awards were handed out at the ceremony at the Central Baptist Church in Chelmsford.
The event, which took place on July 3, saw categories such as ‘Lifelong Learning’, and ‘Outstanding Achievement' commended with notable recipients.
Helen Amstel, also a student from Colchester, won the award for being a ‘Team Player’.
Ms Amstel said: "It’s just amazing to win this award.
"I work as a private tutor with children with dyslexia and I help them with their English.
"When I was 11, I couldn't write my own name, and now I’m 60 and I’ve just completed my first GCSE English course.
"Now, I feel much more confident and can do my job better than ever before. I’m truly grateful I went to ACL."
Antony Fobister went home with the Volunteer award
On receiving the honour, Mr Fobister said: "I help other learners, I love seeing their smiles and being happy learning.
"I’ve been a student at ACL for five years.
"I’ve done quite a few courses: English, Maths, Construction, Cooking, Gardening.
"Being on the other side as a staff member volunteer is really rewarding."
Another Colchester resident, Coral Jones, walked away with the Wellbeing and Inclusivity award and said: "Being at the awards made me feel really special, honoured and unique.
"I worked full time and I was struggling with written communication.
"Since attending my GCSE English course, it has benefitted me in my everyday work.
"Once I receive my qualification, I’ll be applying for different jobs because the course has given me more confidence to put things in writing.
"It’s overwhelming and I’m really shocked that I was nominated for an award – let alone won."
Presenting the awards, Lisa Jarentowski, ACL Essex Principal, said: "It’s a pleasure to hand out these awards.
"It's amazing to see all the incredible accomplishments they've achieved this year, it's truly rewarding to acknowledge their hard work and success.
"Well done to everyone who received an award this year."
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