7/09/06
A Como woman's efforts to overcome a lifetime of poor literacy and numeracy has seen her named this year's Outstanding Learner in the WA Adult Learners' Week Awards 2006.
Education and Training Minister Ljiljanna Ravlich today announced Anna Margesson and seven other Western Australians as winners in the Awards.
Ms Ravlich said that regular tutoring sessions in mathematics added up to extra confidence for Ms Margesson.
"Anna took a bold step to overcome lifelong learning difficulties when she sought help from the Read Write Now! tutoring program," the Minister said.
"She now has a good understanding of maths which has given her the confidence to handle her duties including serving customers and pricing stock in her job with the Good Samaritan store in Victoria Park."
"I commend her for her commitment to overcoming barriers to learning and embracing life's opportunities."
Ms Ravlich said the Awards publicly acknowledged people or organisations which had made an outstanding contribution to adult education.
Seven other winners, ranging from a volunteer tutor who had helped more than 90 people, to a Sudanese refugee and poet who mastered English to build community links, were acknowledged at the awards ceremony.
The awards are part of Adult Learners' Week 2006, which runs until Friday September 8.
"It is never too late to learn a new skill and Adult Learners' Week encourages people to continue learning throughout their lives, regardless of age."
Ministers office - 9213 6800
WA Adult Learners' Week Awards 2006 - Winners
Outstanding Learner for 2006
Winner: Anna Margesson of Como
Regular tutoring sessions in mathematics have added up to extra confidence for Anna Margesson. Help from the Read Write Now! Program, following years of living with learning difficulties, gave her new-found numeracy skills and new confidence in her ability to carry out her work as a supported employee with the Good Samaritan store in Victoria Park.
Outstanding Learner (New Migrant)
Winner: Afeif Ismail Abdelrazig of Cloverdale
A published Sudanese poet, Afeif Ismail Abdelrazig arrived in Western Australia from Egypt in December 2004 as a refugee. He began English language classes with the Adult Migrant Education Service, and has used his new language to immerse himself in community activities and build stronger cross-cultural links.
Outstanding Tutor (Volunteer)
Winner: Daphne Jones of Busselton
Eighteen years ago, Daphne Jones began tutoring and has helped a wide range of students, including a young visually impaired mother who had been in a coma. The volunteer tutor with Read Write Now! has helped more than 90 people develop important skills for their lives.
Outstanding Program
Winner: Swan TAFE
Swan TAFE and its partners' unique Supa Golf program teaches people with disabilities how to play a specially modified and wheelchair-friendly version of golf. The program provides participants with a stimulating and fun exercise alternative and encourages social interaction.
Outstanding Provider (Public or Private)
Winner: Swan TAFE
Swan TAFE provides opportunities for its diverse range of clients to undertake lifelong learning, and offers more than 200 short courses for adults each term. Swan TAFE has developed strong partnerships with other agencies to deliver innovative courses, such as the Moving Forward Project.
Outstanding Provider (Community Organisation)
Winner: Milligan Community Learning and Resource Centre, Bunbury
The Milligan Community Learning and Resource Centre delivers programs driven by local community needs. The unique Bunbury Young Mums Project and Learning Through Sailing programs are helping people from all walks of life to learn new skills.
Outstanding Group of Learners
Winner: Pathways to Work Students, Bunbury
The Pathways to Work's Garden FX program provides employment for students with persistent mental health issues. The program fosters an atmosphere of teamwork and support and has been the catalyst for participants to develop a new range of skills and increased confidence.
