Jan in line for learning award

Published on Monday 25 August 2008 10:55

A VISUALLY-IMPAIRED Oxgangs woman has been shortlisted for the Young Learner of the Year Award.

Jan Craig, 22, was nominated after taking a computer course at the RNIB Scotland Employment and Learning Centre to improve her prospects.

Despite leaving school in 2002 with a number of qualifications, she found it impossible to go to college as she needs special computer software which can read out text on a computer screen. Many colleges in Edinburgh were not suitably equipped.

The learning centre arranged for Ms Craig to carry out a work placement at a hotel, which she followed with the computer course.

She said: "The centre is a great place. I am given a huge amount of support and it has all of the equipment I need to learn, which has built up my confidence. My social life has also improved, as I have made new friends."

Ms Craig is one of 15 people nominated for the Scotland-wide award, which recognises the achievement of people who have changed their lives through learning.

The awards will be presented on September 4 at The Old Fruitmarket, Glasgow.