Success story: Alisa, adult learner

My name is Alisa, and this is my story working with 26Ten’s adult literacy program.

“I was born in Tasmania but then I moved to New Zealand when I was five years old. I went to school at Fraser High School in New Zealand where I was in a special class as I was behind on my work. I finished school in year 13 but not with a qualification. I came back to George Town after my Dad passed away. I have been living here for 15 years and have been working at Ainslie House for 11 years.

I came to the Hub and spoke to Sophie because I wanted to learn to read a book at home. I also wanted to improve my reading, spelling, maths and writing skills, so I started lessons here at the Hub with my tutor, Suzanne. 

Some of the things that Suzanne helped me with was times tables, counting, lots of writing and putting sentences together, and spelling tests on words that were tricky. I enjoyed the lessons but I still have to learn my tables. 

It’s not going to happen overnight it will take a long time to get there, but I will get there.

I was wondering about other course as I wanted to do something different. I have now completed Planning and Playing with Kids, Cooking in the Kitchen to make morning teas for different groups, Hospitality taster, Introduction to Community Services, Get Active and Get Cooking, and Hair and Beauty.

I have now completed my Certificate III in Community Services. I plan to work my way up to do a Teacher Aid course. I would like to work with 5 years old kids listening to them read and help with activities.

I want to keep on doing courses to get more experience to give me more options because I am still only young and the courses are free. 

People have noticed a change in me as I used to be shy, but I now have more confidence and I am proud of myself.”