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Chesterfield Mature Student Celebrates Award During Adult Learning Week


Monday 14th May 2012


Chesterfield Mature Student Celebrates Award During Adult Learning WeekThirteen years ago a young student arrived in the UK, unable to speak English and lacking the language skills to progress here.

However, in the intervening years, Aku Sharif, aged 30, moved to Chesterfield and has gained so much confidence from learning English, that he has started his own business and now hopes to go to university.

His dedication and commitment to improving his life through learning is being recognised with a Regional Individual Award as part of Adult Learners' Week 12th - 18th May 2012.

Having arrived in April 1999, the following September, Aku attended college to learn the language, eventually gaining a Speaking and Listening qualification in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). This led to a job as an NHS Community Interpreter.

Aku worked by day and attended evening classes to improve his English, but the job was so demanding he moved and started his own business in Chesterfield in April 2006.

In 2009, wishing to develop his business skills, Aku closed his business during lunchtimes to attend Chesterfield College, where he has gained ESOL qualifications at Entry Level 1 (full), Entry Level 3 (Speaking & Listening), and Adult Numeracy Entry Level 2, Entry Level 3 and Level 1. He has just achieved ESOL Level 1 Speaking & Listening and Numeracy Level 2.

Since he started at Chesterfield College, Aku's reading has improved, and whereas before, business letters were a struggle, now he understands them and even reads for pleasure.

Aku said, "Thanks to the learning I have done since I came to the UK, I want to continue my education and in the future, as well as graduating from university, I would dearly love to succeed in drama."

NIACE - promoting adult learning.David Hughes, NIACE Chief Executive, said, "Every one of our award winners, for this year's Adult Learners' Week, illustrates how learning can help people to change their lives, make them feel part of their community and help support them in their future.

"Aku's life has improved because of his commitment, enthusiasm and ambition. I hope that others will be inspired by this story and see the role that learning can play to help them get a better life."


 

 

 

 

 

 

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