Edward Roberts has travelled a long way to study Level 1 Bricklaying course at Carshalton College via Sierra Leone and Atlanta USA!
“I was born in Sierra Leone at a time when the country was suffering from a brutal civil war. It was an extremely scary time for my family and me. We moved to Atlanta when I was 5 years old”.
Growing up in Atlanta was not easy for Edward either with numerous challenges to overcome. He was surrounded by bad influences with a neighbourhood that was rife with gang culture. This kind of environment offered few opportunities to lead a normal and safe life.
“I could have easily led a life on the streets or with a gang but I realised that I didn’t want that. I decided that I would focus on my life and studies so that I could be the best person I could be.”
Edward and his family eventually managed to move to the UK when Edward was 16. Again, his start at life in the UK was not an easy one.
“What kept me going was the values and belief my parents had in me. I wanted to work hard so that my parents could be proud of me. I was not always like that, I have had my fair share of trouble. I realised that if I didn’t make the effort to change my circumstances, I would continue down the wrong path. I was eager to escape from that kind of life.
When I finally had the opportunity to come to College I jumped at the chance to do something useful. I chose Carshalton College as it had a number of Construction courses and I lived locally. I enjoy working with my hands so Bricklaying was the obvious choice for me. I am really enjoying the course. I hope to complete all the required levels and qualify as a Bricklayer. Sean my tutor is so patient and goes that extra step to make sure I understand what I am supposed to do. I am learning a number of new skills which I am sure will help me to succeed".
Sean said: “Edward is a model student, eager to learn and progress. He works really hard in class and is always in the library doing that little bit extra. I can see him go all the way and pursue a lucrative career in Bricklaying”.
