Adult Learning and Skills Service

Providing enjoyable, successful learning opportunities
for adults, employers and the community

Student Profile

Terence Ferreira - London Regional Senior Learner of the year 2010

Terence received the award of London Senior Regional Learner. It was presented to him by Simon Beer, NIACE Regional Development Officer, during Adult Leaners' Week.

Having Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and many of the symptoms of someone on the autistic spectrum, Terence found it difficult to enter a classroom and interact with other students. However, his participation in 'Dance Dynamics' classes has given Terence a newfound confidence. Just a year of attending dance classes resulted in Terence dancing solo at an open day, with staff said to have been 'blown away' by his performance and the journey he has made. His increase in confidence meant that Terence has also progressed in literacy and numeracy and is currently studying for an NCFE Level 3 Award for Making Progress.

"His whole demeanour changes when he dances - it is as if dancing opens doors for him to discover his own personality" commented his tutor. Terence added "When I dance I get inspiration and confidence. My senior tutor has been largely responsible for encouraging me to try new things and I’m grateful to him for suggesting I try Dance Dynamics. It's my favourite class."