Brian received his award at a special presentationTaking a new direction makes Brian a top learner
"Before I came to Taurus Crafts in 2004 I'd had a nervous breakdown. Camphill has enabled me to rebuild my life. I'm deeply indebted to Taurus.
I worked in the restaurant for four years and then a vacancy became available in the gift shop. I love children, I'm uncle to 10 nieces and nephews, and with the encouragement of my family and Bev and Di, the training and support officers here, I went to the Royal Forest of Dean College to see what childcare courses were available. I hadn't been involved in education since I left school in 1979 so I was quite apprehensive.
In 2007/8 I did a Level 2 Certificate in Pre-School Practice with the support of the team here. Then I was asked if I would like to do the Level 3 Diploma in Pre-School Practice which I did in 2009/10.
I was awarded the Early Years and Child Care Student of the Year Award for 2010 by the Children and Young People's Directorate of Gloucestershire County Council. I didn't know I'd been put in for it so I was very pleased.
While I was doing the course I worked with the Nutkins Nursery, next door to Taurus, and the Lydney Early Learners playgroup. Now I do voluntary work with the playgroup for three days a week, one day at Taurus and I work with the Forest of Dean Railway.
It's a very busy life. I've been pointed in the right direction and given support when I needed it."
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Our picture shows Brian with his Award at the special presentation evening at the Royal Forest of Dean College.