Áras visit caps off inspirational story
A KILLARNEY woman met President Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin last week where she represented Kerry people who have returned to learning to address the literacy skills they missed out on first time round at school.
The event coincided with National Literacy Week and NALAs take the First Step Campaign. NALA is the National Adult Literacy Agency.
Margaret Scully from Killarney is an adult learner who has been taking classes in reading, writing, math and technology with Kerry Education and Training Board (ETB) over the last seven years.
Her learning journey started when her young boys went to school and needed help with their homework.
“I would make every excuse not to help them because I had nothing to draw from. I got six years of education. I started at six and finished at 12. That was my education” said Margaret.
Since starting literacy and adult basic education classes with Kerry ETB, not only has her literacy developed, but she has taken up several community roles, including coordinating the Team Hope Project in south Kerry and as a NALA Literacy Ambassador.
“I was terrified. But I thought I have to do something. In the long run you have to take that first step and do it for yourself ”, she says.
“This has opened up so many avenues for me and that is what I want for others. If I can do it anyone can. So take that first step and get your foot in the door. It is a free and confidential service”, says Margaret.
“My motto is to encourage others. It is not like going back to school. There are no teachers. No one will talk down to you. When you go back as an adult, it is your choice and your decision. You work with a tutor not a teacher alongside you. You are equals. They make you feel so welcome,” Margaret said.