Friday, 20 Aug 2010
Maidstone residents learning English as a foreign language celebrated the end of their college course with a touching ceremony.
Students completing ESOL courses at MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus organised the event to say goodbye to tutors and friends made over the past academic year. Each member of the student group made up of more than a dozen nationalities was given an opportunity to share their personal story before lecturers handed out awards for effort and achievement.
College lecturer Tina Fairchild said the event was important for celebrating her students’ achievements. “My group, which started off as a class of 16, is now quite small,” she said. “Many have moved successfully into work, some are now working as doctors and others have gained the language skills they needed to progress to university. It has been a particularly successful year for these students, and we’re keen to celebrate that,” she added.
Student Aron Akelom was one of those awarded at the college event. The 18 year old from Eritrea in Africa was forced to leave his troubled homeland last year. He has since been granted indefinite leave to remain in the UK. He said: “I only spoke a little English when I arrived here, but was desperate to improve so I could get a full-time job. I’m glad I was able to start this course. I really enjoy college and have made lots of friends from all over the world. ”
Mr Akelom, who works as a bartender in Maidstone town centre, added: “I love it in this area, it is quiet and peaceful and the people are very friendly. I really appreciate that.”
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