Having left school with few qualifications and becoming a mum at a young age, Janine Price didn’t think she could find a way into a career. With low self-confidence, the 36-year-old believed that the opportunity to fulfil her dreams was passing her by. But it was a conversation with one of her children’s
teachers that encouraged her to explore adult learning opportunities.

Janine is now thriving as an adult learner, determined to be a sparkling role model to her children with her sights firmly fixed on a full-time career in education.

“A teacher at my children’s school introduced me to Cardiff Council’s Adult Learning programme,” said Janine. “I first completed a cooking course with Multiply and then started the Managing Children’s Behaviour course with them.”

Her potential and drive were quickly recognised by her tutors and, after explaining that she wanted to become a learning support assistant, she was signposted to the Teaching Academy, where she has flourished. Janine has completed a range of different courses and is currently in the middle of
studying Child Psychology Level 2 and Helping a Child with Maths. She intends to progress to other courses. “I have also started a maths course to further develop my own basic skills, which I am really proud of,” Janine added. “Since being introduced to the Adult Learning team, my
confidence has grown a lot and I’ve met many new people along the way, which is something I struggled to do beforehand. I’ve found a love
and passion for learning again.”

Rob Peters, Adult Learning Training Officer, said: “I taught Janine on the Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools course and throughout my time with her, she was a model student. “Janine was eager to learn, highly motivated and engaged well with not only myself, but the course and all the other
learners. It was rewarding to see her skills and confidence continue to thrive in each session.”

With a volunteering position already secured at her local school, Janine’s goal of becoming a full-time learning support assistant is very much alive.
“My message to others is that you’re not alone in this journey, so please reach out and use the help that’s available,” she said. “You’re never too old to re-enter education and get to where you want to be.