I had spent five weeks in basic training, until I was no longer mentally fit for the armed forces, and when I came back from that, I felt a bit lost.
At first, I thought I should learn how to be a fisherman, or a sailor, but not with the military. Part of me wanted to be on the ocean, but the journey ahead of me would be vast.
I just needed to start small and simple. I knew I needed to earn my high school equivalency, and I didn’t know where to start. That’s when I discovered the CAEC program and a local study group through the
Western Halifax Community Learning Network. Reaching out to Jeanette, the study group manager, was the first step that set everything in motion.
At first, the process felt overwhelming. I hadn’t been in a classroom setting for years, and the thought of tackling subjects like math and science was intimidating. But Jeanette was always there to guide me,
breaking things down and reminding me that I wasn’t alone.
Joining the in-person study group was nerve-wracking, but the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed. Everyone there was working hard toward their own goals, and that sense of shared purpose kept me going.
Through the PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment Recognition) program, I discovered that some of my past
efforts still counted, earning me credits and lifting a huge weight off my shoulders. The real test,
though, was believing I could finish.
Step by step, I learned, studied, and pushed through the nerves of each exam. Now, having completed my
CAEC, I feel proud—not just of the certificate, but of the journey.
I found confidence, community, and curiosity again.
By Kaidin Munden
What is the cAec?
The Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) has
replaced the General Education Development (GED).
Although the GED is still recognized, it is no longer
offered in Canada. Instead, adult learners can earn high
school equivalency through the CAEC.
Learn more at www.westernhalifaxcln.com.