When I reflect on who I am, I really feel everything that has happened in my life has brought me to Hagley Adult Literacy Centre (HALC).

From being a Primary teacher, then residential social worker for the hearing impaired, back to relief teaching and then on to ESOL teaching, l have always felt good helping other people learn things. Alongside these jobs, my biggest achievement has been to bring up my children who are so happy in their professions today. I am resourceful and creative which helps me live happily spending less money by op-shopping and sewing.

Four years ago, I decided to apply for a change in career heading out to the airport to work for Air NZ. What a wonderful experience being the adult learner, which at times was very challenging. Air NZ opened up a whole new world for me and I was lucky to travel to new places (Bali, Thailand, Samoa, Australia and more) taking my elderly Mum. Being able to give her these experiences was so rewarding and wonderful.

When Covid-19 hit us, I just knew my time at Air NZ was over and sure enough I was made redundant along with hundreds of others. Then I relaxed, wondering what my next chapter might be. A friend put me in touch with HALC and I am lucky to now be a tutor for ESOL workplace learners, as well as teaching a class of New Zealanders at McFaddens Centre. It is always a challenge learning new procedures, but I am so excited to be part of such a passionate team of tutors who support and encourage me.

It turns out that you can teach an old dog new tricks!