Samantha Kemp, 41 from Norfolk, had worked in lots of
temporary jobs. She felt that having no formal qualifications was
stopping her from finding new work and so she came to
learndirect.
After gaining her English and IT qualifications she used her new IT skills to present a business idea on the BBC's Dragons Den.
Learning improves your confidence
"I was living off incapacity benefits and often felt like I couldn't even get out of bed in the morning," says Samantha.
"When I went along to learndirect, I was lacking in self belief. However, the tutors at learndirect were so supportive which helped boost my confidence.
Enjoying your learning
"I enjoyed the courses because you do them on a computer with a head set on, so there's less distraction than in a classroom," says Samantha.
"I have now completed an English and an IT qualification which teaches you how to do word processing and use Excel and Power Point.
"Thanks to my new learndirect qualifications, I could confidently fill in job applications," she says.
Applying for the BBC's Dragon's Den
"My time at learndirect also helped me to build the confidence to apply for Dragon's Den, and I was able to put together a business plan on Excel," says Samantha.
"Although I wasn't successful in getting investment from the Dragons it means that I get more satisfaction from seeing my product grow slowly from my hard work than if I had been given help.
"I've already recommended learndirect to friends because going back to learning has helped to turn my life around," she says.