Julie, adult learner

Julie's story as an adult learner

"If I had a tutor like Anne back at school it really would have made a difference. What I’d say to others is, don’t feel ashamed. Come in and see someone. I feel better in myself, more confident. I can now go to the supermarket and add things up, read the backs of cans and know what is inside."

Julie's story

My name is Julie and this is my story as an adult learner.

“I was told by a friend about the literacy program and signed up. I met Anne and we have been working together now for over three years.

My goal was to improve my reading, writing and my maths. I sat back and thought it would be a good opportunity for my grandchildren, children and myself. I wanted to be able to sit and read with them. I was really nervous when I started, a bit embarrassed. A week later I felt a bit more confident.

I’ve been able to read with my grandchildren, to do their home readers. I’ve accomplished what I wanted. I really didn’t think when I was younger that I would be able to do this.

Working with Anne is great. Anne is not at me, it is calm, and we have a break when needed. At the moment I’m working on my maths and my spelling. My goal is to do the times table. I wondered at times whether I’d be able to do the maths; it’s been a tricky thing for me to do.

If I had a tutor like Anne back at school it really would have made a difference. What I’d say to others is, don’t feel ashamed. Come in and see someone. I feel better in myself, more confident. I can now go to the supermarket and add things up, read the backs of cans and know what is inside.

Before I couldn’t help my kids with their homework, when notes came home I relied on them to tell me what it was. Now I sit and read a book. I get the newspaper and read my star sign. And I’m learning how to use the computer. I’ve learnt a lot. My kids love it, I can help them.”

Learn more about Julie’s story here.

Colin from Sorell shares the rewards of being an adult literacy tutor volunteer

"It is satisfying to see clients grow in confidence and self-esteem as new skills are learnt and goals achieved, things which they previously may have thought were unobtainable."

The secret is, you've just got to put your hand up and ask for help

"26Ten is a good idea. People out there should know that there's opportunities available for them. All the infrastructure is there. All they have to do is walk in and put their hand up."

Acknowledgement of Country

26Ten recognises the deep histories and cultures of the Aboriginal people of Lutruwita/Tasmania, the land’s first storytellers. We acknowledge Tasmanian Aboriginal people as the traditional and continuing custodians of the land, waters and sky. We pay respect to the Elders, past and present, who hold the memories, traditions, culture and knowledge of Country. We extend our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, whose Countries were never ceded.

Success story: Julie, adult learner