<p>This National Numeracy Day at Weston College we are continuing our commitment to empowering adult learners and employers across the UK with essential numeracy skills!</p><p>National Numeracy Day serves as a reminder of the importance of numerical proficiency in everyday life and career progression. Multiply courses, funded by the government and delivered by local communities, offer a unique learning opportunity for adults aged 19 or over to build their numeracy skills.&nbsp;</p><p>From basic maths taught through fun classes like cooking, gardening and woodwork to more advanced classes, the courses are designed to meet diverse needs and empower learners to navigate numerical challenges confidently. For employers, investing in the numeracy skills of their workforce is key to driving business growth and enhancing productivity.&nbsp;</p><p>From basic numeracy training to advanced financial literacy, the courses are designed to align with business objectives and foster a culture of continuous learning. On National Numeracy Day, adults across the UK are encouraged to invest in their numeracy skills, while employers are urged to prioritise the development of their workforce’s maths competencies.&nbsp;</p><p>By getting involved in the Multiply programme, individuals and businesses alike can unlock new potential and confidence!<br>&nbsp;</p><p><meta charset="utf-8">“Being dyslexic, I always struggled with numbers. Luckily, the Multiply course allowed me to learn essential maths skills through fun classes. For instance I enrolled on a Multiply cooking course where I created new recipes and using maths to weigh out the correct ingredient measurements. Similarly, the joinery course taught me practical maths skills too, and I'm finding that my dyslexic challenges around numbers aren't as daunting anymore. I'm now adding numbers quicker and feeling more confident.”</p><p>Find out more about the Multiply Courses we have on offer below:</p><p><strong>Cost Of Living And IT Skills</strong></p><p>If the Cost-of-Living crisis in the UK is encouraging you to upskill, this course will give you skills in maths and IT required for all types of real-life scenarios. Find out more here - <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/computing-and-… of Living and IT Skills - Multiply&nbsp;</a></p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><strong>Multiply ESOL</strong></p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">If you are currently learning English as a second or other language, this course will help you to further build your knowledge by improving your maths skills. Find out more here <strong>- </strong><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/english-and-ma… (English for Speakers of Other Languages) - Multiply</a>.</p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{49de4cae-fe41-44b2-a745-3ccfb0813a53}{187}" paraid="385857061">Recently our ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) learners took part in an exciting exercise hosted by our LibraryPlus team. The class was given an immersive demonstration of the latest virtual reality (VR) technology, opening a gateway to a new dimension of learning. The students, many of whom had never experienced VR before, eagerly donned headsets to explore innovative tools that could one day revolutionise their educational journey.&nbsp;</p><p paraeid="{49de4cae-fe41-44b2-a745-3ccfb0813a53}{205}" paraid="1882773131">Weston College aims to integrate VR into its curriculum, recognising its potential to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment. The initiative reflects our commitment to preparing students for the challenges of the modern workforce, where technology plays an increasingly vital role. The students enthusiastically embraced this cutting-edge technology.&nbsp;</p><p paraeid="{49de4cae-fe41-44b2-a745-3ccfb0813a53}{233}" paraid="1907290390">The VR experience was a hit with the ESOL learners. Student Mohammed said: “It was amazing! Very different, and a strange feeling but something very new.” Learner Tony particularly enjoyed the experience saying: “I really enjoyed it; it was super fun!”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p paraeid="{49de4cae-fe41-44b2-a745-3ccfb0813a53}{251}" paraid="1139757022">ESOL lecturer John said: “It was an amazing immersive experience. Students were able to explore with focus.”&nbsp;</p><p paraeid="{49de4cae-fe41-44b2-a745-3ccfb0813a53}{251}" paraid="1139757022">&nbsp;</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Learner using VR technology&quot;" data-align="center" data-langcode="en" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6a0ad876-135c-47dc-8c3f-a3e85fd7e9fe" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_750x750&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity>

<p>In a year filled with challenges and triumphs, we are thrilled to announce the outstanding achievements of our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) learners.</p>

<p>These remarkable individuals have not only embraced the English language but have excelled beyond expectations, showcasing their dedication, resilience, and unwavering spirit. As we reflect on the past year, it is evident that their journey has been one of growth, empowerment, and triumph.</p>

<p>Amidst this group of exceptional individuals, a few stories shine particularly brightly:</p>

<p><strong>Muhammad: Rising to the Challenge</strong></p>

<p>Muhammad, who joined our class in February, wasted no time in making his mark. From the beginning, he engaged actively in class discussions and extended a helping hand to his fellow Afghan learners who faced challenges. When it came time for exams, Muhammad's dedication paid off. With a mere 3 points missed across two exams, he achieved a staggering total of 197 out of 200. His success was not only anticipated but celebrated, as he proved himself to be an incredible young man capable of achieving remarkable feats.</p>

<p><strong>Al Hadi: From Shy to Stellar</strong></p>

<p>Al Hadi's journey was one of transformation. Starting the course with trepidation in September, he gradually gained confidence and momentum. By January, he had found his stride, and his progress was nothing short of remarkable. His efforts culminated in the May speaking exam, where he achieved a perfect score—placing him at the pinnacle of the class. Al Hadi's story demonstrates that growth often emerges from stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing challenges with determination.</p>

<p><strong>Enjila: A Trailblazer in Communication</strong></p>

<p>Enjila, one of three sisters on our course, is known for her enthusiastic communication skills. Through unwavering dedication, she not only advanced through different levels but also triumphed in her reading, speaking, and writing exams, exceeding expectations. While her lively presence adds vibrancy to the classroom, her academic achievements underscore her commitment to excellence. Enjila's success serves as a reminder that determination is key to conquering any obstacle.</p>

<p><strong>Andra and Penghui: Mastering Mathematics in a Second Language</strong></p>

<p>A special applause is reserved for Andra and Penghui, who accomplished the remarkable feat of passing their GCSE Maths exams in their second language. Their achievement is a testament to their perseverance, diligence, and intellectual acumen. Their success in a challenging subject illustrates their willingness to go above and beyond and highlights the diverse talents our ESOL learners bring to the table.</p>

<p>In celebrating these accomplishments, we must recognise that the achievements of our ESOL learners extend beyond the classroom. They have not only excelled academically but have also made positive impacts within our community. Their dedication, hard work, and humility inspire all those fortunate enough to interact with them.</p>

<p>We are immensely proud of the ESOL learners achievements, whether in exams, within the classroom, or within the broader community. Here's to our exceptional ESOL learners, whose brilliance knows no bounds!</p>

<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/english-and-ma… out more about our ESOL courses, by clicking here.</a></p>