When Gina Powell volunteered as a teaching assistant in 2004, she didn’t imagine how pivotal Pencaerau Primary School, in Cardiff would become to her life. She took on the voluntary role to be “a familiar, friendly face at the school gates for families to build a bridge between home and school.”

An advocate for adult learning, Gina soon secured a paid job at the school where she’s now a family engagement officer. The “dream role” allows her to support parents and families. She liaises with learning providers, including Cardiff and Vale College (CAVC) and Adult Learning Cardiff, to bring learning opportunities to parents and adults.
Over the past two years, 52 adults have completed family and adult learning courses, with some advancing to university.

“Being a learning ambassador, I show that life doesn’t end with being a parent – they can become whatever they want to be! I’ve walked in the same shoes as many of the families I support,” said Gina, a mother to three and grandmother to five.

“Maybe learning didn’t happen for them when they were younger but that doesn’t mean it’s too late. I’ve come to understand that learning isn’t just about qualifications; it’s about confidence, belonging and opening doors.” What makes her role even more personal is that her daughters now teach at the school, which they previously attended, and her grandchildren are pupils.

“I love what I do, and I love the school. It’s more than my workplace, it’s my home, my history and my heart,” explained Gina. “I’ve seen parents reconnect with learning and gain a renewed sense of self-worth. Whether their goal is university or just the courage to take that first step, I’m here to walk alongside them, because every step forward matters.

“Now, I also get to support other Family Engagement Officers and help open our school up to wider community learning. When we all work together, something amazing happens: our community grows stronger, closer and full of possibilities.”

Emma Mcloughlin from CAVC nominated Gina, she says, “Her journey from mum to learner, employee and an ambassador for adult learning demonstrates that having a
voice for learning can create generational change for her family and community. She’s a pivotal changemaker.”