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Press Release

CAMDEN RESIDENTS GET HEAD START IN ENGLISH

12/06/06

A group of 16 Camden residents yesterday (8 June 2006) celebrated taking their first step on a career in childcare after completing a new council run English language skills course.

The group completed Skills For Life awards in adult literacy giving them a recognised qualification in English skills so they can access further training or work. The awards are part of Camden Council’s First Steps initiative for people who want to work in childcare but need help because English is not their first language or because they need to improve their written English skills.

Camden Mayor, Cllr Jill Fraser handed out the awards at a ceremony at the Regents Park Marriott Hotel. Mayor Fraser, said: “Children are Camden’s future and we need to promote more people working in childcare in Camden. It’s fantastic to see so many people from across Camden’s diverse community who want to devote their lives to help our young people get the best start in life. I want to congratulate everyone here today who has successfully taken that first step in their chosen career and wish everyone every success in the future.”

The First Steps students were all thrilled by the course and the opportunities it offered them. Mouna Chentite (32) who lives in Swiss Cottage came to the awards ceremony with her youngest child Salma (3). Mouna said: “I’ve always wanted to look after disabled children and this course has helped me in doing just that. My confidence has really grown and I’ve met loads of people from different backgrounds, sharing ideas and experiences as we learnt together. Thanks to the course I’ve now been accepted on a course in childcare that will ultimately mean I can do what I’ve always wanted to. “

Marinna De Silva (30), who lives just off the Finchley Road, said: “The course has really helped me improve my English. I’ve also found out so much more about looking after children and as a result I’m starting a childcare course soon.”

First Steps was launched in September 2005 and provides free training to unemployed people over 25. The next courses are due to start in September 2006. For more information about First Steps or to register for a place, residents should call Natasha Osner at Camden Council's Early Years and Sure Start Service on 020 7974 8225.



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