Mick, adult learner

Mick's story

Originally from South Australia, Mick began his working life in the abattoirs in Port Pirie. He struggled to complete Year 12, barely able to spell his own name. When he moved to Tasmania to work for Mitchell Plastic Welding, a small family-run business, the manager noticed Mick found reading and writing challenging. The manager asked if Mick wanted to improve his skills and, at 48, Mick happily accepted the challenge.

Supported by 26Ten, Mick started classes at Geeveston Community Centre in 2022. In late 2022, Mick won Employee of the Month. He aims to improve his reading and writing skills further so that one day he can become a supervisor.

This story featured on the Adult Learners Week website – #ALW2024 Learning Ambassador Mick Curtis – Tasmania – Adult Learners Week.

Deb's story

“It’s great to do work that makes a difference and when I hear stories of how people are confident, can problem solve at work and read to their children, it’s very satisfying."

Two people sitting, with one comforting the other by holding their hand

A 60-year-old former literacy student talks about facing fear and life changing decisions

A moving story from a former literacy student who didn't allow fear to hold him back.

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: Mick, adult learner