Talking Tattoos
In our Functional Skills English classes, we aim to make learning relevant by connecting lessons to real-life scenarios that resonate with our learners' ambitions and interests. We believe that when learners can see the real-world value of their skills, they become more engaged and invested in their learning journey. Our approach includes exploring topics that are meaningful to learners’ lives, such as the impact of tattoos in the workplace.
By debating whether tattoos are unprofessional, learners critically examined different industry standards, from hairdressing and care homes to nurseries and construction sites, allowing them to consider the norms and expectations they might face in their chosen fields. They were also encouraged to weigh up the pros and cons of tattoos e.g. should self-expression come before ambition?
Learners watched an interview featuring an individual who faced discrimination in the education sector because of his tattoos. This sparked a meaningful discussion, prompting learners to write letters to a hypothetical head teacher expressing their stance on whether banning him was fair or unjust. This exercise not only developed their argumentative writing skills but also encouraged them to consider how personal choices, like tattoos, might impact their future career paths.
Jess, the tutor, emphasised that learners should think ahead as to how these decisions might influence their careers not only next year, but five or even ten years down the line.