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When
Jackie Caddock stopped work to start a family some years ago, people
were still using electric typewriters.
"I
can type, but I knew that wouldn’t be enough to get a good job these
days," recalls Jackie, whose eldest daughter Leanne is now 13.
I
think many people have talents that they don’t appreciate and
it takes something like this to make you realise you have something
to offer.
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| Outstanding
Adult Learner award nominee Jackie Caddock. |
"I
knew I would have to learn about computers, but I have a serious
hearing problem which got worse when I was pregnant and I lost all
my confidence. I didn’t know how I would get the skills I needed."
Out
of the blue, a leaflet dropped through the door of her Tewkesbury
home advertising a beginners’ computer course for adults.
She
says: "It came at the right time, and because I was familiar with
the venue, I thought I would give it a go."
The
class of six was held at the Priors Park Neighbourhood Network,
and 36-year-old Jackie, got the one-to-one attention and support
she needed to learn new skills.
She
then volunteered to help at the Priors Park project and has been
amazed at how her life has changed since.
She
now has a part-time job as the project’s assistant admin worker,
helps to produce the community newspaper using a PC and is busy
campaigning for an after school club.
She
says: "In the past, I would never have spoken out for fear of sounding
stupid - now I am involved in committees!
"I
think many people have talents that they don’t appreciate and it
takes something like this to make you realise you have something
to offer.
"I
have made so many friends and got so much more confidence now."
Jane
Hanson from the Project says: "Jackie has overcome her disability
to enable her to achieve her goals. She is an excellent example
to those whose confidence needs boosting and a great role model."
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