James Kelly
Posted : 26th November 2011
James Kelly (pictured) is proof that you’re never to old to learn.
James, 82, grew up in Kingstanding in north Birmingham and left school at the age 14 to work on a building site. Apart from a stint in the army during the Second World War, where he took part in the Normandy landings aged just 17, James spent much of his working life in construction. It was only much later in life when he was promoted to foreman that James returned to education, enrolling at a technical college.
Years passed before James first heard about Fircroft College in 1995, enrolling on a short course to brush up on his maths skills. He enjoyed it so much that he returned again and again, completing courses in everything from health and fitness to using email and the Internet.
He says, “I discovered that I really enjoyed learning and, of course, it keeps the mind active. It’s too easy to sit at home watching television all day – mixing with people of all ages from all walks of life keeps me young.”
Last year, James decided to enrol on the 10 week residential Ransackers programme at Fircroft. He says,” I’d developed an interest in history and thought I’d like to do my project on the Glorious Revolution of 1688. I admit that at first it was quite daunting and getting started was the hardest part. I never thought I’d be able to write 1,000 words, never mind the required 5,000 words, but I had so much help from staff and from my fellow Ransackers students. In the end I became so absorbed that I ended up writing 10,000 words and had to edit it down!”
Having successfully the Ransackers programme, Jim is still keen to continue learning and gain new skills and qualifications and intends to enrol on a GCSE History course in the near future. He is also keen to come back to Fircroft again, “I like everything about Fircroft – I’ve never been to a place where everyone is so friendly. The food and accommodation are great and nothing is too much trouble for the staff. I’d recommend it to anyone.”
UPDATE MAY 2010!
James (Jim) Kelly wins National Senior of the Year Award. Read more here.
