Shannon Dryden – Australian Capital Territory

Shannon undertook the Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) assessment and Digital Skills assessment prior to enrolling in a plumbing course at Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT).

As a mature aged learner, Shannon was older than most of the other students but he did not let this deter him and embarked on his journey into adult education.

Shannon’s consistency in arriving early and always being ready to learn has made him stand out as an excellent adult learner. Shannon has impressed with his willingness to ask questions, showing true engagement and desire to understand what is being taught. Shannon has had to learn how to use computers to study, how to engage in online learning tasks and submit assignments, as well as how to be a student, how to learn, and how to put things into practice.

Previously working in sales, Shannon and his family moved from Newcastle to Canberra when an opportunity arose for him to do a plumbing apprenticeship. The move involved significant financial cost, but Shannon says they couldn’t be happier.

“My children are excited when I come home. They want to know what I have been learning. I am making them proud, I am setting an example for them. We are all part of this and I am inspiring my children for their future. My partner and I have no regrets in pursuing this journey.”