Miss-Delectable
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http://icwales.icnetwork.co.uk/0100...way-of-helping-deaf-passengers-name_page.html
FORMER taxi driver Pete Selley is heading in a completely new direction after taking a fare from a deaf passenger.
Now thanks to five years of dedicated learning Pete has overcome illness and gained a new career working at his local college.
Although not being deaf himself, Pete, aged 39, of Trinity Avenue, Llandudno, enrolled on a sign language course and is now a communication support worker at Coleg Llandrillo.
Pete said, "One day a deaf lady entered my cab. I was saddened by the fact I couldn't communicate with her and inspired to learn sign language for myself".
Pete attended Coleg Llandrillo with a view to improving his communication skills by completing an introductory course in sign language. He progressed to achieve NVQ Level Three Awards in British Sign Language and also gained other skills including counselling and basic teaching practices. With the support of his wife Gail, two stepchildren and three grandchildren, Pete has been committed to learning throughout despite suffering from kidney disease.
He is now a finalist in the Fforwm-sponsored Further Education Award.
He said, "I didn't enjoy learning and I left school an under-achiever. I enjoy this method of practical learning - anyone can do it."
Because of his newly found signing skills, Pete has enabled one deaf student, who otherwise couldn't attend college, to study full-time. He currently supports five young adults in their efforts to use sign language.
David Duller, a lecturer of British Sign Language from Coleg Llandrillo, said, "Pete has become a strong supporter of the deaf community and its individual members".
FORMER taxi driver Pete Selley is heading in a completely new direction after taking a fare from a deaf passenger.
Now thanks to five years of dedicated learning Pete has overcome illness and gained a new career working at his local college.
Although not being deaf himself, Pete, aged 39, of Trinity Avenue, Llandudno, enrolled on a sign language course and is now a communication support worker at Coleg Llandrillo.
Pete said, "One day a deaf lady entered my cab. I was saddened by the fact I couldn't communicate with her and inspired to learn sign language for myself".
Pete attended Coleg Llandrillo with a view to improving his communication skills by completing an introductory course in sign language. He progressed to achieve NVQ Level Three Awards in British Sign Language and also gained other skills including counselling and basic teaching practices. With the support of his wife Gail, two stepchildren and three grandchildren, Pete has been committed to learning throughout despite suffering from kidney disease.
He is now a finalist in the Fforwm-sponsored Further Education Award.
He said, "I didn't enjoy learning and I left school an under-achiever. I enjoy this method of practical learning - anyone can do it."
Because of his newly found signing skills, Pete has enabled one deaf student, who otherwise couldn't attend college, to study full-time. He currently supports five young adults in their efforts to use sign language.
David Duller, a lecturer of British Sign Language from Coleg Llandrillo, said, "Pete has become a strong supporter of the deaf community and its individual members".