Let’s Talk and Learn English project

Let’s Talk and Learn English together project presentation by the Mayor of Rochdale

Learners, tutors, community centre staff and volunteers gathered at Deeplish Community centre to receive their achievement awards and presentation.

Mayor of Rochdale Surinder Biant and Mayoress Cecile Biant presented certificates to all learners to mark their participation on the course.

Mayor Biant revealed that the senior tutor was also one of his students many years ago. He added: "It's great to see learners and participants from both centres coming together and learning at the same time about issues affecting their areas and surroundings.

Mayoress Biant also appreciated the participation of women in the learning programme. She said: “I am pleased to see so many ladies being involved in learning new skills and being part of this project.”

The aim of the Let’s Talk and Learn English project, run from Sparth Community centre and Deeplish community centre under the popular Tutor Jamila Waheed, is to get learners to improve their knowledge and skills in English language and literacy.

Over 50 learners participated in the project at both centres. ‘Let’s talk’ at Deeplish was run through Rochdale Council volunteer teachers whilst the ‘Lets Learn English’ project was funded by Sparth Community Centre in a bid to improve community participation and up skill local people.

Jamila Waheed, senior tutor, was assisted by two students from Bolton University as part of their placement. They were involved as sports scientists and to keep health and well-being activities on board. They delivered sports, physical health, healthy eating and cooking programmes throughout this project.

Ms Waheed said: “It was an excellent partnership and cohesive project which not only raised awareness about local issues but empowered all learners with practical skills.  I am really pleased to make a difference in all participants learning new skills and confidence." 

Manager of Sparth Community Centre, Kenny Farrar said: “I am delighted to see our BME ladies coming to Sparth every week and learning new skills that will enable them to increase their self- esteem and confidence levels and become more active within their community.

"We have worked closely with Deeplish Community Centre in the past and this project has brought us together again to celebrate the success of our learner’s achievements.”

Sohail Ahmad, Manager of Deeplish Community Centre, said: “This is another example of community cohesion, promoting partnership and strengthening our communities whilst working together and bringing people together to learn and improve in a safer environment.

“We are working closely with new emerging communities and promoting health and well-being activities through let’s talk English courses at Deeplish and Sparth Community centres. We look forward to seeing more people participating and benefiting from such courses and activities.”