Maria Marshall boosted her confidence

Maria Marshall, 47, from Andover in Hampshire has really improved her confidence thanks to her learning.  Before coming to learndirect, she was working at Blockbuster but after difficulties with her husband  she suffered a breakdown and was signed off work. Determined to turn her life around, she took qualifications in maths, English and IT and is now taking a college course to become a trained counsellor.

Maria overcomes her nerves

Maria said: "I was going through a tough time when I first came to learndirect.  Because of my breakdown I was really nervous about walking through the doors.

"I struggled a little bit at first but the tutors at the TABS centre were so supportive I managed to get there eventually. They've helped build up my confidence with plenty of encouragement."

Confidence through learning

"Going back and redoing things I hadn't covered since I was at school has given me the confidence to move forward.  It's helped with my depression and made me feel like I can do something.

"My new qualifications have allowed me to enrol on a college course and I want to become a trained counsellor. I'd like to get work in the care profession.  I think my new qualifications will definitely help with this.  When people see you've updated your skills it shows willing. 

"I would absolutely recommend learndirect to anyone who wants to turn their life around.  It's a really positive organisation for people like me and even for people who are already in work."