Learning at any age – Walter’s story

Walter Gorman knows from personal experience the benefits that re-engaging with learning can have.

He left school with no qualifications and worked in a low-skilled factory environment before meeting a local community youth worker who helped set him on a new career path.

Walter went back to school and achieved Maths and English O Grades, and the confidence to apply to university, gaining a Diploma in Community & Youth Work.

Walter is now the Adult Learning & Community Development Team Leader encouraging others to fulfil their learning potential.

“To be honest, the thought of going back into a learning environment terrified me, as I hadn’t particularly enjoyed the experience. But, with ongoing support I did it!”

After gaining the diploma, Walter had a new-found confidence and self-belief to undertake a further year’s learning which resulted in a B.A. Hons in Youth & Community Work.

“Many years later, I find myself as Team Leader of a small effective learning service manned by fantastic enthusiastic staff, and volunteers who can do for others what a community worker once did for me.

“I’m delighted to find myself in a position where, with a little help from these marvellous people, I’ll be able to help at the coal face too, give something back and support people to return to learning and improve their lives for the better.”

Following their refurbishment, the Orkney Library & Archive is hosting an open day on Wednesday 17 May coinciding with National Numeracy Day and providing a golden opportunity for the library to work with The Learning Link to launch Multiply, a new programme aimed at transforming the lives of adults by improving numeracy skills.