Rosa recently celebrated a proud achievement after receiving her Entry Level 1 Maths certificate at a special presentation event at The Exchange in Birmingham.

She attended the ceremony with her mum and was one of several learners recognised for their hard work and progress. As part of the event, Rosa also stood up and delivered a 50-second presentation about her course and her plans for the future — something she says she would never have imagined doing a few years ago.

“Five years ago, I wouldn’t have done a presentation yesterday, would I?” Rosa said proudly afterwards.

During her maths course, Rosa learned a range of practical skills including directions, map reading and organising information. Speaking about the lessons, she explained: “I had to do directions like left and right and whatever.”

She also spoke about learning to put things in order, adding with a smile: “There are lots of meanings of the word order.”

Rosa said she revised hard for the exams, but there were words in there that she didn’t understand, but she is grateful to her teaching assistant, Lisa, for helping: “She explained the exam questions to me, and we did some role play.”

Rosa attends college on Thursdays and Fridays and says learning has become an important part of her routine and confidence. She has attended different colleges for many years and has completed a wide variety of courses, including music, movement and pottery.

“I like a routine and structure,” she explained.

Looking ahead, Rosa is already thinking about her next challenge and is considering courses in video editing or performing arts later this year.

The presentation ceremony was especially meaningful because it gave Rosa the opportunity to speak publicly about her achievements and future ambitions in front of a large audience, alongside fellow learners, staff and family members.

Asked what message she would give to other people thinking about learning something new, Rosa had some thoughtful advice.

“You’re never too old to learn,” she said. “Build your confidence to learn. It helps with your brain.”

Everyone at Lisieux Trust is delighted for Rosa and proud of the confidence she continues to show. Her achievement is a brilliant example of how learning new skills can open doors, build independence and help people grow in confidence.

Congratulations, Rosa, on a fantastic achievement.