This in from the council, in their own words, Ed
The awards are an opportunity to recognise outstanding learning achievements and celebrate success in lifelong learning. In recent years individuals from the Isle of Wight have been recognised via these awards because learning has made a significant difference to their lives.
Previous winners
Soo Scott from Carers Isle of Wight won a national award after returning to university study to become a psychiatric nurse. Elizabeth Martin won a regional award after volunteering for the Partlands Day Centre and the Riverside Centre before returning to college study, and Olivia Faber won a regional award for her achievement of Open College Network qualifications with Bodster Equine Assisted Learning Centre, where she has since gone on to work as a volunteer.
It is hoped more Island learners will be recognised at next year’s regional and national awards. The Isle of Wight Council adult community learning service will be hosting a celebration event in July 2014 to recognise nominees from the Island.
Categories
Next year’s award categories include:
- Individual Award – to recognise the outstanding achievements of adults of all ages who have undertaken learning of all kinds.
- Apprentice Award – to recognise the valuable contribution that apprentices make to the economy, celebrating the training and skills they have developed, and the impact they have had on business.
- Project Award – to recognise projects that have made a positive difference to learners’ development.
- Employer Award – to recognise investment in outstanding staff training and development.
“Learning is incredibly important”
Cabinet member responsible for education, councillor Richard Priest said:
“Learning is incredibly important throughout life, not just in childhood so I am delighted that examples of outstanding adult learning are being recognised nationally.
“The Isle of Wight Council provides a wide range of learning programmes in community settings to support personal development, wellbeing and community spirit and we are aware of many other organisations carrying out fantastic work which enriches peoples’ lives through learning.
“I hope people will take the time to nominate deserving individuals and groups so that the great work being carried out here on the Island can be recognised at a national level and inspire more adults to engage in learning activities.”
For a full list of awards and details of how to nominate an individual or organisation, visit www.alw.org.uk/awards/2014.
To find out more about the range of adult and family learning opportunities provided by the Isle of Wight Council, visit www.iwcommunitylearning.ac.uk/, or contact Chris Groves on 01983 817280.
Image: origamiancy under CC BY 2.0
