Before joining the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program, Feven often felt stressed when it came to studying. Learning English, especially reading and writing, could feel rushed and overwhelming, and she wasn’t always confident in her abilities.
Feven first heard about the SEE program from her job seeker at Workskills. “When I was studying at TasTAFE, I wanted to study more English, so I asked many people about another place to study English. My job seeker told me about the SEE program, and I was interested to come and study here”.
From her first day in the classroom, Feven noticed a difference. “My first impression was that the classroom was beautiful,” she said. “I enjoyed the study sessions and made new friends. The teacher explained everything calmly and clearly.”
Despite facing some difficulties in the beginning learning new vocabulary and writing structure. With patience, and ongoing support from her teacher, those early challenges became easier to manage – “At the beginning, there were challenges understanding new words and writing correctly,” Feven said. “But over time, and with help from my teacher, I learned many things.”
As the program progressed, Feven saw steady improvements across her reading, writing, listening and vocabulary skills, all of which carried over into her daily conversations in English – “I feel I have improved a lot… now I understand people faster without translating in my head.” A key part to this progress and the comfort Feven experienced throughout the course was due to the personalised approach to learning. Through a placement assessment, her trainers were able to understand her learning level and focus on the areas that would support her most. Her teacher then motivated her in ways that felt both professional and enjoyable, helping learning feel achievable rather than overwhelming.
The confidence Feven gained through the SEE Program opened new doors. With growing belief in her English skills, she felt ready to take the next step and apply for the University Preparation Program (UPP). “The program gave me confidence that my English is good enough to apply for the UPP course,” she said. “Now I am studying UPP and feel more comfortable with reading and understanding course topics.”
Just as importantly, Feven’s relationship with learning has also changed. Reading and writing, once something she didn’t enjoy, have now become activities she feels more confident and positive about. Looking back, Feven says the SEE classroom gave her something she hadn’t experienced previously, a place where she could feel calm, comfortable, and herself. “Before studying here I felt stressed and rushed,” she said. “In the SEE class I felt comfortable, like myself, and was able to enjoy my studies.”
For others considering the SEE Program, Feven believes it can make a meaningful difference in both study and working life. “It helps learners understand their English level, speak confidently, and improve digital and math’s skills.”
Feven’s story highlights the impact of learning that meets people where they are, helping rebuild confidence, open new pathways, and create opportunities for the future.