Moray man shortlisted for adult learning award
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A man from Moray who battled against the odds to return to education has been shortlisted for the Adult Learners’ Week awards in Glasgow.
Tony Slater left Portknockie Secondary School aged 16 in 1972 with no qualifications.
That his school days were far from an academic success was something he always regretted.
However a chance conversation with an old school pal suddenly led him back down the learning path.
Tony said: "I was moaning that maths was just an enigma to me and he suggested I join Moray Council’s adult learning classes.
"That first day was scary. I stood outside the building for a long while thinking 'will I go in, will I not go in?'.
"I left school with no qualifications – none at all. Maths was just a jumble of numbers, English was just a jumble of words.
"The classroom environment back in my school days had been difficult for me, so I was really scared to walk in.
"But as soon as I did I saw my tutor coming downstairs with a big smile. From there on I never looked back.
"It’s just been solid encouragement – a boost all the time.
"I just absolutely love it. I could go seven days a week if they'd let me."
Tony’s decision to start training with Moray Council’s Adult & Family Learning team at the age of 54, has since seen his confidence and skillset soar.
Now aged 65, the former offshore steward has a string of qualifications to his name in subjects like maths, English, history, and computing.
He has also developed an interest in historical archives and now passes on many of his findings to Cullen Heritage Centre.
Tony said: "I’m so proud of all that I have achieved. I actually can’t believe it.
"I’ve learned so much and just want to keep learning more and more."
The National Adult Learners’ Awards is being held in Glasgow tomorrow.
Kathleen Robertson, who chairs Moray Council’s education committee, called Tony a great advocate for adult learning.
She added: "Congratulations to him for this wonderful achievement. We wish Tony all the best for the awards ceremony.
"Many people go back to learning later in life because they had a difficult time with formal education when they were younger.
"All the nominees have shown tremendous courage and determination to make positive life changes."
