A SOUTHAMPTON student has been awarded for his work after returning to learning as an adult

Alan Shaw has been "highly commended" by a national organisation.

The 54 year old from Woolston left school with no qualifications and for many years was “too embarrassed” to admit his lack of English and maths skills to others.

Instead, he avoided situations requiring communication, reading, IT or maths, and relied heavily on his family to get by.

Now he has spent the last four years completing courses in English, maths and IT at City College - and says learning new skills in the subjects has transformed his life.

He said: “In the ‘80s and ‘90s I was fortunate enough to get work without any qualifications but this changed when I was made redundant several years ago and employers began to ask for English and maths qualifications. I didn't even have the skills to turn a computer on, write a letter or complete a job application. It was embarrassing.

“Going back to college at the age of 50 to learn English, maths and IT has totally changed my life in a way I could never believe. Before I started every day was a challenge. I had zero confidence and avoided anything that meant reading, counting or writing."

Now he wants to do a retail skills course to help him getting back into work - and says his own progress has inspired others, including his dad and a friend to improve their English and maths as well.

He added: "After a lifetime of embarrassment, I have a new lease of life. I love that I can now pick up a paper and read it with confidence. My family is so proud.”

Oonagh Potter, English tutor at City College, said: “We are really proud of Alan’s achievements. His outlook on life has completely changed and he has inspired others to follow in his footsteps.”

Stephen Evans, Chief Executive at Learning and Work Institute who gave Alan his award said: "An estimated nine million adults in the UK have low literacy and numeracy skills, reducing their opportunities to thrive at work and in wider life. Alan’s story demonstrates the importance of access to basic skills courses, whatever a person’s age and circumstances, in helping them to achieve their full potential in life and work, and he is inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.”