Mary Murphy

My name is Mary Murphy, I came to Adult Education Wolverhampton in September 2017 to study Functional Skills Maths at Level 2.

Prior to starting my Maths qualification I was a disillusioned teacher working in secondary education. I loved teaching but was concerned with the number of children suffering mental health issues and the lack of help that was in place to support them. At the age of 45, in what I call my second phase of life I felt I needed to stop complaining and make a change in my own life to help make a difference to others.

My plan was to re-train and work as a nurse in mental health, but in order to do so I had to conquer one of my biggest fears…Maths. As a child I had a strict upbringing and education was a priority, so when I made mistakes I was scolded, which consequently made me develop a mental block and fear for Maths.

As soon as I came to Adult Education I was made to feel comfortable and the process was easy. From the initial assessment to starting the course nothing was a problem, my introduction to my feared subject was a breeze. The environment was friendly and the teaching was excellent. The teacher helped my break down my barriers, and find a method that worked for me. She taught in a practical way that helped me relate mathematical problems to everyday living, which made understanding much easier. My fears were soon diminished and my understanding and learning began. Being in an environment with adults who were all in the same situation was very comforting; I didn't feel out of place or out of my depth.

In the summer of 2018 I passed my Level 2 qualification and am now waiting to start my Mental Health Nursing degree at the University of Wolverhampton, which begins in January 2019.

I have 2 children and often tell them that they need to persevere to succeed, I can now hold my head up high and say I did.

I often recommend Adult Education to my neighbours, friends and colleagues. If worked for me and my (Russian) Mother, who started by learning English for Speakers of Other Languages. She eventually went on to complete an English degree at university… A fine example of how Adult Education can start ones learning journey.