MIKE REBUILDS LIFE AFTER REDUNDANCY
Mike Jones, 36, of Blaenau Gwent, has re-built his life following sudden redundancy - and he gives all the credit to the CUV and its tutors. Today he works for GAVO as a community development assistant with the flagship Communities First programme in Tredegar. It follows a similar role at Aberbeeg where he developed projects including a food co-operative, ramblers and mothers and toddlers groups plus computer, pottery and guitar classes.
“CUV proved an enormous asset in my life and subsequent career” says Mike who’s doing a degree in community regeneration following completion of the Certificate of High Education in Combined Studies. “It’s a great learning environment with excellent tutors and equal opportunities and understanding for all. It enabled me to upskill and improve my capacity so that I can play an active part in my community”.
“I lost all confidence at school, so when I see people hanging about bus stops I know what it’s like….I’ve been there. I also know I was lucky to find free higher education and to be able to pluck up the courage to seize the opportunity.’