Anne Kent
A JERSEY woman who could not read or write 11 years ago is currently training to be a teacher and has just had her first article published nationally.
Anne Kent has severe dyslexia but turned her life around after she joined Highlands College a decade ago. Last year she completed a degree through the college, however she then decided that she wanted to continue her studies.
Mrs Kent is now working as a classroom assistant at Highlands, supporting students with numeracy, while undertaking the college’s preparing to teach course.
‘It is very hard going, because there are assignments to complete after every session and a week to do them in,’ she said. ‘Nevertheless, I am really enjoying every minute of this course.’
Meanwhile, Mrs Kent has just achieved another first, by having an article published nationally. A piece she wrote, called Why Employers should be Knowledgeable, has been included in the British Dyslexia Association’s Dyslexia and Employers Handbook.
She said that she was delighted when she heard that her piece had been chosen. ‘I just could not believe it,’ she said. ‘How could someone who could not read or write 11 years ago and who is profoundly dyslexic have the first article they had ever written published? It was very difficult to grasp.
‘When I heard, I was so excited about it, I cried with the joy of it all and e-mailed everyone I felt had helped me to realise this wonderful accomplishment, because I wanted them to share my pleasure too.’
Mrs Kent, who is also currently writing a book, said that she would now like to raise further awareness of dyslexia in the Island.
‘I truly believe it is needed here in Jersey,’ she said. ‘People seem to think dyslexia is just to do with just reading and spelling, but it is much more than that. I know, I live with it every day of my life and I have experienced what the lack of awareness of dyslexia can do. And believe me, no one should have to suffer it.’
Article posted on 30th June, 2009 - 3.00pm
