Brighton dad receives Individual Learner Award

“

A Brighton dad has been presented with an award for overcoming his dyslexia and returning to the world of learning. Declan MacIntyre, who works at cityclean, received the regional Individual Learner Award from the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) in conjunction with this year’s Adult Learner’s Week, running from 19th – 25th May.

Declan decided to return to learning after the birth of his son, and his enthusiasm and dedication saw him gain a variety of qualifications. Working in a predominantly male environment made it more difficult to face up to his problems with reading and writing, but his determination to succeed saw him overcome his dyslexia and also change his workmates” attitudes to learning.

Declan enjoyed learning so much that he became a union learning rep and now encourages others to return to the classroom. He said “I have always had difficulties with reading and writing and I knew it would not be long before this would bar me from helping my son with his development. Adult learning has given me the opportunity to help my son and enjoy his education and development. It has also afforded me skills that help me with everyday situations, such as filling in work sheets and writing Christmas and birthday cards.”

Declan now has the confidence to work his way towards a new goal ““ a change of career. He aims to become a taxi driver and is studying for the “Knowledge” ““ a mental map of Brighton & Hove which will help with his career plans.

The 2007 Adult Learner’s Week Awards are celebrating people like Declan, who have taken the step back into learning and by doing so, have changed their lives for the better. Rachel Thompson, Senior Campaigns Officer at NIACE said “What is without question is the remarkable dedication, enthusiasm and energy that every single one of this year’s Adult Learners” Week Award winners have shown. The winners have discovered new-found talents and confidence and are eager to learn more. They will continue to enhance their own lives and those of their families, friends and communities.”

Michelle Gagan

Read about the national awards here:

Adult Learners Awards Ceremony

“