My name is Kajal Dhillon and I am originally from India. I arrived in the UK in 2021, just after the pandemic. Back home I had been a secondary school teacher for many years, but when I came here, I felt completely lost. I didn't understand how the education system worked, how schools operated, or how I could get back into teaching. I found myself totally at sea.

While walking through Wolverhampton, I passed a building that said Adult Education. Being an adult and feeling that I needed support and further education, I walked in. That moment became the start of a new chapter for me.

I was introduced to ESOL and given the idea of teaching English to speakers of other languages. While doing some supply teaching to get myself into work quickly, I continued volunteering in the ESOL classes. AEW remained a constant part of my journey.

The support I received during my time here was incredible. It was one of the most pleasant and enriching experiences I've had.
Although I had taught for decades, coming here felt like starting from scratch. But through my course at AEW, the teaching I observed, and my supply work in schools, I began to understand education from a completely new perspective. For the first time, I looked at learning from the viewpoint of the learner, not just the teacher. I realised that every individual learns differently and that one size doesn't fit all. This new understanding has become one of the most valuable things I have learned.


AEW holds a very special place in my heart. Thanks to the support I received and my experiences at AEW, I went on to start a master's degree at the University of Wolverhampton. I've completed around 75% already, and I will finish in January 2026. Combined with my CELTA, my experience, and my voluntary work, I now feel hopeful about finding a job that suits my skills.
There was a time when I had almost given up. Discovering Adult Education Wolverhampton felt like finding a guiding star, something that gave me direction and helped me believe in myself again.

When I first came to the UK, I expected to continue teaching in the way I always had. I thought the most I could do was perhaps teach primary or secondary again. Now, I realise there is so much more I can do. AEW widened my horizons and made me aware of opportunities I never knew existed. Being a student once more was a lovely experience, it brought back the joy of my school days while also helping me rebuild my career.

A project during my CELTA required me to interview learners, and it opened my eyes further. I realised that many people out there need help too, just like I did. Adult Education Wolverhampton does a wonderful job supporting people; helping them gain qualifications, confidence, employability skills, and even a sense of belonging.

I am grateful for everything AEW has done for me. It gave me hope, direction, and the confidence to build a new future in a new country. AEW reminded me that no matter your age or background, there is always a path forward when you have the right support.