Learning, friendship and a new sense of purpose

For Pines Learning students Malama and Farzana, returning to education has meant far more than improving their English or learning how to use a computer. It has brought confidence, independence, friendship and a renewed sense of purpose.

The pair met at Pines Learning after enrolling in computer and English classes. At first, communication wasn’t always easy. Farzana spoke limited English and both were finding their feet with technology. But as they learned side by side, a friendship began to grow.

Learning for themselves

After years spent focused on work, family and other responsibilities, both Malama and Farzana wanted the chance to invest in themselves.

“First of all, we are here not only here to socialise, but to learn, to educate ourselves,” Malama said.

Technology was unfamiliar at first, but with support and practice, Malama and Farzana built their skills across computer classes, Digital Skills for Work and Study and Excel. What once felt unfamiliar is now part of their everyday lives.

Teachers who make learning possible

Both credit their teachers with helping them keep going.

“They help us every step of the way,” Malama said.

They describe their teachers as patient, encouraging and willing to explain things as many times as needed. For Malama, seeing other adult learners having a go, including students in their 80s, also helped her realise she could learn too.

A friendship they didn’t expect

One of the most meaningful outcomes has been their friendship.

Coming from different cultures and faiths, Malama and Farzana speak warmly about learning from each other and building a friendship based on care and respect.

They encourage one another in class, share what they know and help when the other gets stuck. As their confidence has grown, they have also started helping other students.

That sense of connection extends beyond their friendship. At Pines, they have met people of different ages, nationalities and life experiences, giving them opportunities to learn from each other as well as from their teachers.

Starting life again

For Farzana, returning to education came during an especially difficult time.

Following significant personal loss, she experienced depression. Her son encouraged her to begin studying again. Since returning to learning, she says she feels happier, more positive and more mentally active.

Learning has given her structure, connection, goals and something positive to look forward to.

For both students, their classes have become about much more than gaining new skills.

“We start life again,” Malama said. “It feels like we have rebooted ourselves.”

Learning at any age

Their message to other adults considering study is simple.

“It’s never too late.”

They believe learning is for everyone, whatever their age, circumstances or previous experience.

For Malama and Farzana, education has opened the door to greater independence and confidence, but also to friendship, connection and a stronger sense of what is still possible.

Start. It’s never too late to learn.