Ana Rita is an Assistant Practitioner at a nursing home in Portsmouth who enrolled at The Learning Place (TLP) to improve her English and maths skills and take the next step in her career.
Before starting her learning journey, Ana was working as a carer at a local care home, where she continues to be supported by her employer. After talking to manager about her ambitions, she was encouraged to explore learning opportunities at The Learning Place. Positive feedback from colleagues who had previously attended classes helped confirm her decision.
“I always wished for progress in my career,” Ana explains. “Better numeracy and language skills are essential, so when I read about The Learning Place and its values, I felt it was the right environment for me.”
A welcoming and inclusive place to learn
From her first visit, Ana describes TLP as “a place to learn, to grow, even inside yourself as a person.”
She quickly felt comfortable in the friendly, inclusive and non‑judgemental environment, where learners support one another and teachers are approachable, patient and encouraging.
One message stood out to Ana early in her learning: ” there aren’t any silly questions.” This helped Ana build confidence and take an active role in lessons, learning at a pace that suited her needs.
“Every class starts with respect and dignity for everyone, no matter where you come from.
As a learner from another country, Ana felt this approach helped her feel safe, welcomed and valued.
“No matter your background, you are respected.”
Practical English and maths skills for everyday life at work
Ana particularly enjoyed the practical and collaborative approach to learning, which helped her stay motivated. Sessions combine teamwork with real‑world examples, rather than focusing only on theory. Regular discussions around British Values also play an important role, promoting respect, dignity and equality.
Tutor support extends beyond the classroom, with helpful feedback on homework, email support and time after sessions to help learners fully understand topics.
As Ana explains, “I am from a different country, and at TLP I feel this can be home too.”
The impact of adult learning on confidence and career
Since attending TLP, Ana has seen clear improvements in her confidence, communication, English and numeracy skills. She has successfully achieved Functional Skills Mathematics Level 2 and Functional Skills English Level 1 and is currently working towards Functional Skills English Level 2.
“My skills have really improved. My vocabulary is richer now and I’m more confident at work.”
These skills have had a direct impact on her current role. Ana now leads her team more confidently, communicates more effectively with colleagues and residents, and applies her numeracy skills in the clinical aspects of her work.
“Numeracy helps me work efficiently with nurses and management,” she explains.
Continuing learning and future goals
Beyond qualifications, Ana values the friendships, teamwork and cultural understanding developed through learning. Reflecting on her journey, she says: “The Learning Place helps me every day to get where I want to be.”
Ana remains highly motivated to continue her learning and hopes to progress further in the future as new opportunities become available.
Find out more
If you want to improve your English, maths or confidence for work, explore the range of adult learning and Functional Skills courses available at The Learning Place link to https://learn.portsmouth.gov.uk