Learning as a family

from ACL Discover Magazine

by acl-essex

David finds his counselling calling

welcome

From Katherine Burns

Principal, Adult Community Learning Essex

I am delighted to welcome you to the first edition of our ACL magazine.

I hope that the stories and articles in our magazine inspire you to try something new, to get involved, make friends with others with similar interests or gain skills to take a new direction.

At ACL, we take pride in being friendly and welcoming. So, if you have never joined us before, we look forward to meeting you in 2021.

About us

ACL Essex is the largest provider of adult education in the county. Our aim is to provide learners with as many ways to flourish as possible, to be there in communities across Essex, to make a difference to residents and businesses, so they can make a difference for themselves and to the places that they live in.

We have courses to help you get back into work, brush up on your Maths, English and Digital Skills, to gaining a qualification to land that dream job. You can also learn a new language, pursue your passion for crafts, or be inspired to take up a new hobby! There are so many courses to support you on your lifelong learning journey.

IN THIS ISSUE...

Let’s get creative

Arty games to play with family and friends 4 Short Story Competition 2020 winners 5 Short Story ACL Choice winning entry 6 Short Story Competition 2021 8 Illustration Competition winners 2020 9

Photography in Focus

Where could a camera lead you Photography tips and tricks Wild about photography – Essex Wildlife Trust Photography Competition 10

Quick and easy arts and crafts

Creating art deco inspired flower patterns 13 Did someone say ‘doodle time’ 14 Paku-paku secret teller 15 Delicious recipes: Goan Fish curry 16 A life of woodworking – A craftsman and educator’s life, in one object 18

Online learning

Get back into work Community & family learning Five benefits of online learning 20

Success stories

Don’t let a bad school grade define you 24 ACL learner recognised in national award 26 GCSEs learning in lockdown 28 A Levels aren’t the only option 32 David finds his counselling calling 34 Tutor recognition 35 Amazing apprentices 36 ACL Achievement Awards 40

Looking after our wellbeing

10 ways to improve mental health

42 Online wellbeing experiences 44 Benefits of exploring Essex Country Parks 46

Supporting our community

Gifts for the elderly Alzheimer’s Charity Dementia Friendly Status Join us for Virtual Afternoon Tea Learner Forum 48

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