Being educated and learning doesn’t stop once you leave school at 18 years old. Many adults find themselves in positions where they want more out of their lives, take a new direction with their career or be able to learn something new which will support them personally or professionally.

Finding the time to study as an adult can be challenging. Our adult students often find themselves juggling family and work commitments alongside their studies. We know, however, that adults who continue to learn throughout their lives experience numerous positive benefits: in their employment prospects, their confidence, and their health and wellbeing.

Whilst we couldn’t host our awards in person this year, we still want to acknowledge the amazing adult learners who’ve gone above and beyond their learning to support themselves, their classmates and others.

Congratulations to our award winners!

Access to Higher Education award

Winner: Megan Gamble, Access to HE Science

Dr Ann Bonell, Programme Lead for Access to HE Science, “there have been times on Access when Megan has encountered difficulties but due to her own determination and support from staff, Megan has grown in confidence, having realised that she does possess the ability to study at this level. I am very pleased to report that Megan is well on target to progress to her chosen course, Plant Sciences, at Nottingham University”

Highly Commended: Nick Fowler, Access to HE Social Sciences

Adult Learner of the Year award

Winner: Anita Paladza, level 3 Enterprise and Entrepreneurship 

Beena Ghattoraya, Programme Lead for Peter Jones Enterprise Academy, “Anita is on a full-time programme, managing work, academic life and raising her young 9-year-old daughter.  Anita has juggled her academic priorities and home schooling as a single mother during lockdown. Anita was out of education for several years, and initially, she was used to the Latvian Education system.  Despite the differences in the two education systems, Anita has committed to learning and improving herself and setting up her own business and is now able to apply for National Entrepreneur of the Year.”

Highly Commended: Dishal Quirticumar, level 3 Enterprise and Entrepreneurship 

Adult Vocational Learner award

Winner: Yonas Tesfay, Professional Cookery (Kitchen and Larder) VRQ Diploma level 3 

Nicky Randall, Programme Area Manager for Hospitality and Catering, “Yonas has a deep-rooted passion for food and his craft which is essential for his success. He shows flair in his presentation and is creative when combining flavours in his dishes. When working in the kitchen he has a professional attitude, demonstrates professional practices and works well with his team even when under pressure when the environment can be very stressful.” 

English, maths and ESOL award

Winner: David Perez, ESOL level 1 in Reading, ESOL level 1 in Speaking and Listening and ESOL Access to GCSE English

Beata Surmacz, Programme Lead for ESOL, “David is a pleasure to teach. He is very enthusiastic and always contributes to class tasks, volunteers to present his work and complete all assignments to the highest standard. He is very humble at the same time, giving other students opportunities to share their ideas and actively supports them in their learning. David has overcome many challenges that lay in his path, yet still, he remains focused on his learning. His motivation and persistence have been reflected in his academic achievements and fantastic progress.”

Highly Commended: Narges Motohamelian, ESOL level 1 in Speaking and Listening

Congratulations to all of our adult students for their hard work and perseverance throughout the year!

If your feeling inspired why not find out more about the FREE adult courses we offer and how you can enrol.