Introducing…
the Learning Campaigners
by Louise Vennells

Since the Learning Campaign began at the beginning of last April, the 18-strong team of assistants, funded by New Deal, has helped over 400 Burngreave residents kick-start their adult learning. The Messenger called in to see campaigner Steph Briddon for her views on what it all means.

“Of course it’s about adult learning, but also about the Community Learning Assistants learning. It’s a full circle. We’re not just there to encourage the new learners, but also to be in the same shoes as them and get the same benefits. We can relate to our clients because we’re going through the same process.”

So what made you decide to become a Learning Campaigner?
I left school at 16 with no qualifications, and I’ve got through life without needing them. But when my husband and I lost our business two years ago I found myself doing menial jobs. I needed an English GCSE to get out of that hole. I had a brilliant teacher at Loxley College, Chris Mayer, who was really supportive. He helped boost my confidence. He even offered help with the studies I do alongside the job.

How are your studies going now?
Since starting the university access programme I’ve gained four credits at level three in Community Studies and Organisational Skills. I am now back at college studying sociology, community skills, basic counselling and IT.

Has all this had a positive effect on you?
I’ve gained so much confidence. There’s something about actually being out in the community. No two days are the same. I can walk out of Forum House and the chances are I’ll see somebody who will honk their horn or say hello. It’s a really great feeling. We also have a great team who support each other and share information. We’re like a family.

How did you end up in Burngreave?
My family is from here. My grandfather lived on Petre Street. I think in my 49 years I may have spent five years living outside the area.

Burngreave Community Learning Campaign are located in Forum House on Spital Hill and can be contacted on 279 4960.

Visit their new website at http://learning.burngreave.net

Other Learning Capaigner interviews:

Issue 31, May 2003: Sarah Aref-Taha
Issue 32, June 2003: Mick Twigg
Issue 34, September 2003: Brendan
Issue 35, October 2003: Imran Rafiq
Issue 37, December 2003: Glenroy Powel