Unemployed to careers professional - Jennifer's journey..

Jennifer Ainsworth, like many of her generation, left school in the late 1970’s without a qualification to her name. She drifted into the service industry, moving between temporary positions in bars and restaurants. Although she eventually settled on a job, her life took a sudden plunge when she was made redundant. Unemployed for 10 years, Jennifer may have been weighed down, but it was at this point that her inspiring story really began.

“Studying at WAES gave me back my confidence. I was given the space I needed to learn at my own pace.”

Jennifer decided to go back and re-learn the basics. Westminster Adult Education Service (WAES) was recommended to her and within two years she achieved high GCSE grades in written and spoken English – qualifications she had thought were beyond her.

“Studying at WAES gave me back my confidence,” she told us. “I was given the space I needed to learn at my own pace. The teacher was kind and patient – we were treated as individuals and I felt comfortable being surrounded by people who, like me, missed the opportunity the first time around.”

“There are people and organisations like WAES out there that can help you change your life.”

Jennifer ignited her passion for learning and went on to complete a Business Administration degree at Westminster Kingsway College, finishing her NVQ Level 3 course in record time. Now Jennifer plays an important role for Westminster City Council, helping people with learning difficulties or disabilities into employment, tackling the challenges that she once overcame.

Jennifer’s advice to those who find themselves in her position? “Make the most of the support and resources around. There are people and organisations like WAES out there that can help you change your life.”

Are you inspired by this story and need help turning your life around? WAES offers basic skills courses in English and Maths across Westminster. Call 020 7297 7297, or visit a WAES centre today.