Conway Mill Trust

Five Conway Education Centre adult learners were recently awarded Mary Mannion Merit Grants to help them with the cost of achieving their General Course Secondary Education (GCSE) certification, the equivalent of a General Education Diploma (GED) in the U.S. These five students are the first to receive grants under the program and will attain their certificates in May, the first anniversary of the establishment of the grant program.

Margaret is a senior citizen. She introduced herself by way of a letter to Conway Mill Trust. In her letter, Margaret writes,”I am age 59 years and recently retired because of ill health. So, coming to Conway Mill has done me the world of good and learning a subject which I love from a great teacher. I have always loved History but didn’t have much chance at school. I left at 15 years to go to work. Conway Mill has given me an opportunity which I never would have had, and getting the bursary was just great. I am very thankful to the people who made this possible for me and others.”

Brendan writes, “I am 21 years old and am the eldest of six children. I currently work at a nursing home as a care assistant, providing care for the elderly, terminally ill and disabled. I have my NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care, and I wish to pursue a career in nursing. I would like to attend Queens University Belfast. I heard from a few friends at work that Conway Education Centre offered great opportunities such as Math classes, which suited me, as I was able to balance my work and education. I am currently in the middle of my Math course and enjoying it. I find it a good, friendly learning environment and feel like I do not struggle with the subject as I would have in the past, thanks to the support I have been given. I would really like to thank Conway Mill Trust for the support of the bursary. It has been a big help to me, and I really appreciate it.”

Niall is a home-schooled 17-year old who is taking his first steps in formal education. His mother learned of the course, and encouraged Niall to enroll. Niall’s father also had taken classes at Conway Education Centre. Because of his age, Niall was eligible for an Education Maintenance Allowance which when combined with the Mary Mannion Merit Grant bursary enabled him to take the History course. Niall says, “I am doing well. I have a great teacher, and I want to continue my education.”

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Deborah, now 19 years old, first took the GCSE English course during her regular secondary schooling about five years ago but failed because of, from her perspective, a poor teacher. She never had a chance to take the course again until she heard about Conway Education Centre and was advised she could take the course there. She also learned she might be able to get help with the cost through a merit grant program from Conway Mill Trust. Deborah enthusiastically said to Conway Mill Trust representatives, “You have given me a second chance! I applied and was accepted plus I received financial help through your program. I have a wonderful teacher and definitely would recommend the Conway Education Centre to anyone. I am doing well in the class and expect to get my certificate in May.” Deborah currently works part-time and wants to become an accountant.

Anne Marie is a single mom whose goal is to improve her skills in order to pursue better employment opportunities.  Anne writes, “Thank you so much for helping me with the cost of the two bursaries. It has been a great help to me as I would not have been able to commit to obtain my GCSE certificates without your much-appreciated help.”

 

Tags: Education, merit grants