After a failed application to university, Sam Doody, 23, from Tipton, began to give up hope on her dream of becoming a nurse. Then she walked into a learndirect centre and her career got back on track.
Sam said: "I did my A levels and applied to university to study nursing but when I told them I didn't have a qualification in English and maths they told me I couldn't do the course.
"I started to get depressed and thought that I'd have to give up on my dream until I went to Jobcentre Plus to see if there was another route in. The lady there told me about learndirect, she said they would help me to achieve my English and maths qualifications and I could re-apply to university. I was so relieved.
"I was a bit nervous going to the centre but as soon as I arrived I knew I would be fine. The staff were so welcoming and other learners just got on with what they were doing.
"learndirect worked for me where school didn't because they gave me different ways to learn. At school, there were so many pupils in the class and we were all given the information at once which made me switch off as I didn't understand.
"learndirect breaks it up into little bits and if you don't understand it allows you to do it a different way. I found the way that worked best for me and flew through my course. I loved the hints and tips that the staff gave me too as it all helped me to understand.
"I've seen my friends struggle, having kids young and living on benefits. That's not what I wanted but it's where I would be without learndirect.
"Since I got my qualifications in English and maths, I've re-applied to university and been accepted. I start in September and I can't wait. I also have a job as a support worker, looking after people in their homes.
"Thanks to learndirect my dream job is a real possibility!
"When I was made a Digital Champion I was over the moon. I tell everyone about learndirect. I just want people to know that there are ways to move forward. Everything revolves around the internet and it opens up so many opportunities.
"My friends and family all know I will give them as much time and support as I can to help them get online and achieve their own goals.
"My mum has even been down to the centre and completed a basic IT course. Now she can send emails and do her shopping online, she loves it; I can't get her off the computer!
"Being a Digital Champion has meant that I can give my sister the confidence and opportunities that learndirect gave to me. She's about to do her GCSEs so I've shown her different ways of finding and understanding information to support her learning."
Thanks for your help,
The learndirect team