Adult & Community Learning Awards 2019

Bolton College celebrated its inspiring learners at 2019's Adult and Community Learning Awards.

25 winners were announced during the ceremony, attended by the Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Hilary Fairclough.

The annual event celebrates adult and community learners who have excelled in learning and had success, or progressed as a direct result of gaining a qualification.

Winners were recognised across five categories, included ‘Outstanding Achievement in Learning’ and ‘Emerging Talent’, as well as two special awards, the Dr A G Peace Prize for Service to Students and the Karin Eckersley Prize for Endeavour, named after a former student who overcame barriers to study.

The Council’s adult and community learning provision is sub-contracted to be delivered by Bolton College and guests included representatives from Bolton Council and Bolton at Home, as well as College Governors. The College’s catering and hospitality students prepared and served a hot buffet and each winner received a voucher and certificate, presented by the Mayor of Bolton.

Adult winner Ashleigh Emmason was nominated as an outstanding learner, after excelling on an Access course whilst still working full-time. She passed all units with distinctions and said: “I was so proud to be recognised at these awards. I didn’t think I’d done anything out of the ordinary, but my tutors obviously thought differently. I’ve now progressed to a Business Management Degree Apprenticeship, and I’m so grateful for all of the support I’ve received from Bolton College.”

Other inspiring winners included Kajwan Jabary, a barbering student who earlier this year beat competitors from across the UK in a national competition. Community learner Gillian Brown was recognised for enhancing her employment opportunities; after studying Adult Social Care at New Bury Community Learning Centre, Gillian secured a job as a Health Care Assistant at Royal Bolton Hospital.

Karen Westsmith, Director of Curriculum for Adults & Higher Education at Bolton College, said: “This is one of my favourite events of the year. I was inspired by the stories and outstanding achievements of our winners, with so many of them going on to higher learning, employment or contributing positively within their communities. It was a privilege to share the evening with them and our partner organisations.”

The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Hilary Fairclough, said: “It was an honour to attend the Adult and Community Learning Awards and recognise the outstanding achievements of everyone involved. Adult learning plays a valuable role in our community, helping people to acquire new skills and reach their full potential. Congratulations to Bolton College and all the worthy winners.”

Adult and Community Learning courses are available in different venues across Bolton, helping to change lives. Call 01204 482000 to learn more.

To view all photos from the event, please click here.