Elderly learners in Bearsden celebrate French success
Myra Davidson, 85, Norma Spiers, 83, Joan Lyon, 87, and Wallace Cuthbertson, 95, from Meallmore-run care home, Antonine House, completed a 12-week course with social enterprise, Lingo Flamingo.
This is Myra's second language qualification in less than a year, having previously achieved her National 2 qualification in Italian.
Myra Davidson (Image: Supplied) A special graduation ceremony was held at Antonine House to celebrate their achievement, complete with graduation hats, gowns, fizz, and balloons.
Myra said: "I enjoyed the class as the teacher took her time with us and taught us individual words rather than screeds.
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"It was a great class, the company was even better, and we were always laughing."
The residents' achievement was made possible by Lingo Flamingo's collaboration with the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), offering care home residents the opportunity to gain a formal SQA accredited qualification in a modern language.
Norma Speirs (Image: Supplied) The course involved a tutor-led study, focusing on a variety of topics such as greetings, numbers, geography, hobbies, food, and animals and nature.
There were no formal examinations; assessment was an ongoing process.
Joan said: "I enjoyed the class, although I already knew the language it brought back wonderful memories.
"Margot was great, her enthusiasm was so infectious and all round it was a great class to attend."
Paula Ritchie, care home manager at Antonine House, said: "It makes us so proud to see our residents taking on a new challenge and thriving – and it's fantastic to see them so proud of themselves.
"Activities like this one really highlight the unlimited potential for learning and growth, regardless of age, and the supportive environment we foster here at Meallmore.'
Rosi Mele, development manager at Lingo Flamingo, said: "We're incredibly proud of each and every one of our learners, but especially of those who have achieved a national 2 qualification, often overcoming health and cognitive barriers and proving that it is never too late to learn something news and have fun doing it.'
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