Staff Spotlight: Q&A with Adult Learning Tutor Min Charlesworth

I started my journey at Stafford College around 15 years ago as a Learning Support Assistant, supporting learners with a wide range of needs. Over the years, I have developed my skills and experience which then led me into teaching. I have had many different jobs throughout my career, but becoming a tutor with the Adult Learning Team is by far my favourite role.

I quickly realised that before any meaningful teaching could take place, I first needed to build relationships and confidence. Supporting learners to believe in themselves and to take that first supportive step through the door and recognising their own potential was so inspiring and that is where it started for me.

Empathy has always been one of the most valuable tools in my teaching practice. By understanding learner's feelings, experiences and behaviours, I am better able to support them in overcoming barriers to learning. It is so important to take the time to listen and understand their concerns and look to create a safe and welcoming environment that helps learners to feel valued and fully supported. Afterall, its a massive deal to come back to college and learn something new.

I'm most looking forward to the sense of community that NSCG in Town will bring. With everything and everyone together in one place, we can achieve so much. I can't wait to see both new and returning learners come through the doors and to feel part of something welcoming and inclusive. I'm also excited about teaching topics and qualifications that directly support people into employment and helping them to build practical life skills. Most of all, I'm looking forward to being part of a place that genuinely makes a difference to people's lives, both in their education and in their social development.

My classes are supportive and full of warmth because I understand many of the barriers that learners face. I often share my own educational journey with learners including the fact that I returned to studying as a busy adult. While completing my degree, I was balancing work, family responsibilities and studying and I did not even have access to a laptop. Because of these experiences, I understand how challenging it can be to return to education and juggle learning alongside everyday life. I want learners to know that they are not along in facing challenges and to focus on what they can do, rather than what they can't do.

The biggest barrier is lack of confidence. Many learners come to us believing they are not capable of learning, often because of negative experiences in education or life. Some have been out of education for many years and doubt their own abilities before they event begin. A large part of my role is to help learners to see what they are capable of achieving whilst building their confidence and providing the support they need.

Time can also be a significant challenge and actually getting to class. Balancing family responsibilities, work commitments, caring duties and other pressures alongside their studies can be tricky but our classes run flexibly so we are supportive to help learners to get through their chosen course.

Study skills are something that a lot of learners find tricky. Some learners have never been taught how to revise, take notes, research information or organise their learning effectively. Others may struggle with literacy, numeracy or digital skills which can affect their confidence and engagement.

Digital poverty remains a challenge as not everyone has access to a laptop, reliable internet connection or the digital skills needed to participate fully in modern learning and is something we come across regularly.

By creating a welcoming, inclusive and supportive learning environment, the positives definitely outweigh the barriers to learning and we try our best to help learners to break down these barriers.

I'd say to come and meet the team and have a chat before making any decisions. It's completely normal to feel nervous about starting something new, but adult learning is very welcoming and supportive. Education doesn't have to feel formal or pressurised, and there are lots of flexible, relaxed courses designed to build your confidence and skills at your own pace. 

My top tip would be to maybe start with a confidence course as a gentle introduction and see how you go. The main thing is taking that first step and once you do, it often feels much easier than expected.

Find out more about the BRAND NEW NSCG in Town and the courses available to you this September here.