A RHYL student living with cerebral palsy has been awarded for his determination to succeed.

Adult Learning Wales recently held their annual meeting at Glyndwr University, Wrexham, where Lesley Griffiths AM was invited to present the Margaret Jones Award, recognising an individual who has overcome barriers to succeed with their learning.

This year’s recipient was Philip Beacall, whose story is one of determination and perseverance, gaining accredited qualifications and creative digital skills while enhancing his well-being.

Mr Beacall joined the photography course to become more independent and to learn how to use his camera. He has cerebral palsy which affects his speech and the movement of the right side of his body. His condition makes it difficult to use the equipment comfortably as cameras are designed for right-handed people. Philip initially learnt some photography through YouTube tutorials but says, “They did not explain techniques as fully as I would have liked.”

The Leader:

Philip Beacall with Lesley Griffiths, National Assembly for Wales Member for Wrexham

Finding other courses unsuitable, he was determined to persevere and joined a course with Addysg Oedolion Cymru/Adult Learning Wales (ALW) that suited him better so he could move forward with his learning.

At first he felt apprehensive due to his previous experiences of courses. But since joining the initial ALW course he has made outstanding progress, moving from the Beginners Photography course through to intermediate level and then on to Digital Image Editing, using Photoshop Elements.

His tutor Mick Scraggs, said: “Phil has approached his learning with enthusiasm and humour.

“He readily embraces new ideas and concepts to help him steady himself and his camera so that he can work on improving his photography and reduce motion blur that is caused by his condition.

“He works well with others and integrates with other members of the class with ease. The other learners enjoy his company and treat him like any other member of the group.

“They appreciate that he has overcome his disability but do not see him as being different as he is now able to work on the tasks like any other member of the group. And he has persevered to overcome problems with completing paperwork by having assistance from a scribe.”

Phil’s determination and hard work have resulted in a number of positive outcomes. Not only has he learnt about the creativity and technical aspects of Digital Photography but he has increased his use and understanding of general technology for everyday practical tasks.

His success on the courses has increased his confidence along with his health and wellbeing, where he now gets out frequently to practise his skills having lost the apprehensions and frustrations he had about using the camera before joining the course.

On receiving the award, Mr Beacall said: “I’m aiming to complete my current course and would love to complete the advanced level course to further my skills.”

Award presenter Lesley Griffiths AM, said “I was delighted to present this deserved award. Congratulations to Philip and all involved.”

Watch Philip’s story at www.adultlearning.wales/en/courses/benefits-of-learning/learner-stories