ex-Wales fly-half Jonathan Davies
A Blackwood woman who earned her first qualification at the age of 59 has been recognised for her hard work.
Gaynor Pope won the ‘Outstanding Achievement Award’ at learning provider ACT’s annual Apprenticeship Awards after gaining a Level 2 qualification in Health and Social Care.
Having undertaken no formal learning since leaving school aged 16, a nervous Gaynor took her boss’ advice two years ago and signed up for the qualification.
Judges were impressed by her sheer determination to combine her studies with shifts as a support worker for adults and children with learning disabilities and days caring for her elderly mother who has dementia.
Gaynor spent her adult life raising two sons and working in a succession of low-skilled catering and care jobs before her boss at the Care Management Group suggested she gain some new skills and a formal qualification.
Having been away from the classroom for so long, she also had to attend seminars to overcome literacy and numeracy issues.
Gaynor’s assessor at ACT, Annie Knapton, who nominated her for the award said: “Gaynor’s level of commitment was a real inspiration. She never complained and, despite what was going on in her personal life with her mother, was always cheerful and willing.
“She was hugely apprehensive about the course initially, but she really wanted to achieve and it’s that gritty determination which led me to nominate her for the award.
“The route to success wasn’t always smooth. Gaynor had to work hard in areas including application of number, but once she regained her confidence in those areas she really embraced it. This award couldn’t be given to a more deserving learner and we’re all very proud of her.”
Gaynor said: “I was shocked and surprised to learn I’d won this award and my family are really proud.
“I couldn’t have done it without my assessor Annie, who became a great friend as well as a mentor.
“I learned so much about myself, including that the only person stopping yourself from taking on a new challenge is you.
“While my immediate focus is continuing to care for my mother, the experience has given me a whole new outlook on life and given me a thirst for learning I didn’t know existed.”