Marie’s learning journey began when she was referred to Adult Education Wolverhampton’s Like Minds pottery course by her psychologist to help her to overcome severe depression.

As a child I was sexually abused which had an impact on my life at school. I played truant and left school without qualifications. I didn’t want to be around people and I couldn’t leave the house. There were times where my depression stopped me from doing many daily activities – I wouldn’t wash, comb my hair or brush my teeth for weeks on end.

Once I started the Like Minds course I realised I didn’t want to live in my bedroom. I wanted to feel better and overcome the burden of my past. Starting to learn something that I love gave me a reason to get up in the morning and a reason to live.

Learning has transformed every part of my life. I am now studying for a degree in glass and ceramics at Wolverhampton University. I no longer need to take anti-depressants and have learnt many coping strategies in their place. My self-esteem has grown, and learning with others has given me a chance to build close friendships. I am now able to work, I have come off benefits and I can pay my own way through life. My future is bright. I know what I want in life and I know where my journey is taking me. Adult education has given me so much strength and determination. I can actually say education has saved my life.