Learners, tutors and supporters of the Rendezvous came together to celebrate their achievements at our annual learner celebration on 17th October.
The event was also an opportunity for our learners to publicly thank the tutors they’ve worked with over many months – and in some cases years! Patience, humour and care are all sentiments repeated again and again in the citations from learners to tutors which is always heart-warming to hear.
We were again delighted that Paul Byrne, CEO of CABWI was able to join us and make the presentation of the annual CABWI Award for Learner Transformation – and the recipient Aimee certainly is transformed! After struggling in eight learning establishments, Aimee came to the Rendezvous aged 20 and began to thrive. Learning has been the catalyst for her personal transformation from a timid, hesitant and isolated young person to an outgoing, friendly young woman who is excited about her future.
Our alumni slot this year was filled by Kai. He had a bumpy ride at the end of school and was introduced to us by his worried mum. He started working with us on his English and Maths but struggled with his mental health and just wasn’t ready or able to learn. So he took a break for a while – and then came back to us (our door is always open). He has now passed his exams and, with support and encouragement from our team, has taken up an apprenticeship as a mechanic. He is now thriving and confident in himself whilst being open about his struggles in order to help others who may be in the same situation. He is reliable and happy and an absolute credit to himself.
Already this term we have 73 young people actively learning with us and a waiting list too, so we’re already planning for next year!
CAN YOU HELP?
We’re extremely proud of our project, and all our learners, but with 96 active sessions and more than 40 volunteer tutors it is an intensive and expensive project to manage. Funding is challenging and we encourage anyone in a position to help to make a donation and support us changing lives – together!
