Sanam’s learning journey with Bradford College began at a time when she was seeking new direction and confidence.
After leaving her care‑worker role and managing family responsibilities, she enrolled in English, Maths and sewing courses through the College’s community provision. What started as a step to improve her language skills soon unlocked new opportunities, helping her strengthen her confidence and revive her passion for sewing.
Today, she is growing her own tailoring business, demonstrating how adult learning can empower individuals to rebuild skills, independence, and future prospects.
Growing Through Adult Learning
“Before, I was a care worker, but I left because I am not a driver,” Sanam explained. “My friend told me, ‘Do a course.’ In Pakistan I knew a little sewing, but here the teachers showed me everything from making clothes and cutting patterns to designing. After I finished the course, I started my business. I sew only Pakistani clothes.”
Her clothing business has gradually gained traction. What began with sewing garments for family and close friends has now evolved into a wider customer base, supported and encouraged by her local community. Sanam completed her sewing course at Lapage Primary School in Bradford; while also studying English and Maths at Bradford College, skills that helped boost her confidence and expand her business further.
Sanam explained that she has now completed her English course and is continuing with maths alongside growing her sewing business. She achieved Entry Level 3 in English and hopes to progress further when she can. “I’ve finished my English for now, but I’m still doing maths and sewing. I want to keep learning so I can improve more.”
Overcoming Challenges
Despite her progress, starting the courses wasn’t always easy. As a parent balancing family responsibilities and periods of low mood, she often doubted whether she could commit to studying.
“Sometimes I stay home and feel low. But I tell myself, go to class, talk to friends and teachers. Slowly, my health and confidence get better” Sanam said.
Sanam often highlighted that her friend and former colleague was the one who encouraged her to finally take the first step toward studying. Her friend recognised her strong writing skills and gently suggested that improving her spoken English would open new opportunities for her.
“Teacher showed me many new things — dress design, pattern design, Pakistani clothes. Some patterns were new for me, three or four I never try before. I learned a lot.” She even pointed out proudly that the dress she wore during the interview was one she made herself.
A Business Takes Shape
Alongside continuing her maths classes, Sanam is also running her independent sewing business part‑time. As it steadily grows, she hopes to one day take it full‑time. As she explained, “I do my business part‑time, and it’s growing slowly since I started last year. My community helps me; they trust my sewing first. Because of them, I start my business.”
A Life Transformed
Reflecting on how Bradford College has shaped her life, Sanam said the changes have been transformative. “In Pakistan I stay home, less opportunity,” she admitted. “But here, I learn many things. I feel more free, more independent. I can make something for myself. Studying changed my life and gave me confidence.”
Looking towards the future, Sanam’s main focus is to continue growing and developing her sewing business, while still finding opportunities to keep learning. Although she has now completed her English classes, she speaks fondly of her time at Bradford College and the progress she made there. “I want to keep learning,” she said. “My English class is finished now, but I feel sad to leave. I like learning. I want to improve more.”
For Sanam, education has become more than a course, it has become a source of confidence, independence and hope. Her journey shows how accessible community learning can open doors at any stage of life, helping learners discover new strengths, and transform their futures.
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