Adult Learners Graduate in Halifax

Dennis Purcell was never very interested in academics, but as he watched his friends move from school into the workforce, he realized he needed to further his education to reach his employment goals. After doing some research, he decided to complete an adult education program at Flexible Learning and Education Centre.

"I am very happy that I chose this program to further my education," said Mr. Purcell. "I have gained the knowledge necessary to enter the workplace and be successful in all my career endeavours. I believe this program has shown me the many opportunities that exist in today's work environment."

This year, more than 500 adult learners across the province will receive their high school graduation diploma through support from the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning. Today, June 29, Mr. Purcell is one of 73 students graduating from the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning in Halifax.

The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning co-ordinates a range of education programs for adults who want to improve their reading and math skills, or complete their high school diploma. This year marks the school's fifth anniversary and the graduation of about 2,000 adult Nova Scotians with a high school diploma.

"There have been more than 20,000 enrollments in the Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning in five years. It meets a significant need in our province for adults to improve their education, and ultimately, their job skills," said Education Minister Karen Casey. "I congratulate the graduates for taking steps toward a brighter future for themselves and their families."

The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning works in partnership with Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), regional school boards, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations to offer programs at more than 170 sites across the province. The high school graduation diploma for adults was introduced in 2001.

"Having recently met with some of the students from Flexible Learning Education Centre, I am overwhelmed by what these students have overcome, by their commitment to education, and by their desire to ensure that they achieve their dreams," said Carole Olsen, superintendent of Halifax Regional School Board. "I am confident that these students are ready to face the challenges of the future and to accomplish both their personal and academic goals. I wish each of them success in all of their future endeavours."

The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning is part of the provincial government's Skills Nova Scotia initiative that involves job skills training, workplace learning, and basic literacy skills upgrading.