Award winners

Our award winners highlight the vast array of people who gain so much from learning as adults.

Their stories truly inspire all of us

They help us recognise that learning is transformational, exciting, rewarding and possible at any age, for any reason and can be for all of us.

Filter

Clear filter
DSC08188_DXO (1)

2024

Learning for Work Award

Wayne found himself out of work and struggling to provide for his family as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Everything changed with a career switch into rail with National Infrastructure Solutions, and Wayne now looks forward to training other newcomers to the industry.

Wayne Hardman

Learning for Work award | Sponsored by NOCN

Meet the winner
Geoff Carter (5)

2023

Learning for Work Award

After an extended period of unemployment followed by a family tragedy, Geoff was proud to secure a role with the HS2 project. His construction training not only brought him skills and qualifications, it also empowered him to show his children what a good working life looks like.

Geoff Carter

Learning for Work Award | Sponsored by NOCN

Meet the winner
DSC05793

2022

Learning for Work Award

Emma spent a large part of her adult life battling alcohol addiction. She didn’t leave her house for long periods of time and her life lacked direction. After being referred by North Yorkshire Horizons, Emma went on to complete over 10 courses, volunteer with the charity and is now a successful full-time member of their team.

Emma Smith

Learning for Work Award | Sponsored by NOCN

Meet the winner
Individual lady standing in hair salon wearing black t-shirt

2021

Learning for Work Award

Following difficult visits to the barber with her son, Naomi saw a gap in the market to provide barbering services for those children with special educational need and other disabilities. Returning to learning aged 25 to gain the qualifications required, Naomi is now pursuing a career as a qualified barber.

Naomi-Louize

Learning for Work Award

Meet the winner
Male standing with police panda cars in background

2020

Learning for Work Award

A course offered online by North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College stimulated Paul’s interest in learning about mental health issues, learning difficulties and disabilities, as he could see the direct relevance to his work as a police inspector with Warwickshire Police.

Paul Barnsley

Learning for Work Award

Meet the winner
Head shot of female paramedic

2019

Learning for Work Award

Emma wanted to pursue a career as a paramedic, but didn’t have the required qualifications. Her learning journey began when she decided to retake her English, maths and science GCSEs at Petroc College in Devon.

Emma Searle

Learning for Work Award

Meet the winner