My workmate passed his exam

[Allen]

I've had the great privilege to work with a fellow from northern China for the last 2 years. He couldn't speak a word of English when he showed up in Cairns, and as I was considered the most patient and easy going person in the shop, he was to work along side me, with me keeping an eye on him. He's turned out to be a a real joy to work with, and I'd really miss his great wit, and work ethic if he had to move on.

He made steady progress with his English and decided he'd like to make Australia home, so he tried the English exam that is required for permanent residency about 8 months ago. He score was rather low so he studied more, and tried again a couple of months later. This time a better result, but still not a pass. So I helped him during breaks, and after work, plus he took tutoring from a woman that specializes in English as a second language.

I just got a call from my mate that he's received his marks and he's passed with no worries at all. Great news for him and his family, and he can now commence with his permanent residency application. :serg

[Lillian]

Good for him! And good on you for helping and encouraging him.

[sebastiaan56]

Good one Allen! Its amazing how much determination people have!

I had the great privilege of helping a Vietnamese woman with her english. She also got to proficiency. What I didnt know was that she was working three jobs to save the money to raise the bribe to get her husband out of jail in Vietnam. She escaped, he was jailed. It took her six years to save the money. He finally came over and a nicer guy I am yet to meet.