Celebrating excellence: Adult learners applauded at the Council’s annual awards evening
A series of awards were presented throughout the evening recognising outstanding achievement in various categories. Stories highlight the importance of continuous education and the courage it takes for adult learners to return to the classroom, often while juggling multiple responsibilities.
Winners and highly commended learners, residents who have gained new skills, improved their English and maths, or developed a creative passion, were joined by friends and family.
Rafat Alasfour, winner of the Overcoming Barriers Award, joined ESOL classes for Syrian refugees in September 2022. Rafat, has very limited peripheral vision, but despite the challenges that settling into a new country and learning a language brings, he has learnt how to use assistive technology to improve his English. In December 2023, he was among the first visually impaired learners to pass an ESOL Reading exam.
Rupert Dannruether, winner of the Learning for Progression Award, has used the knowledge he has gained to start a micro florist business called “Where Have All the Flowers Gone?” He sells floral arrangements at vintage-style markets and creates displays for weddings and events.
Rupert said:
‘I was stuck in a rut when I first enrolled on floristry courses at Adult Learning Lewisham. The courses have helped me rediscover joy in creativity, build my self-belief and grow in confidence. Learning floristry is fabulous, from tiny buttonhole wearables to huge event designs, I’ve loved every challenge set and really feel like I’ve found home. I plan to keep studying and develop my skills. One day I hope to have a florist shop and maybe even become a TV florist sharing my love of flowers’.
Maritta Ananth, Highly Commended Learner of the Year, joined a Functional Skills Maths course because the qualifications that she achieved in Sri Lanka are not recognised in this country.Maritta juggled various responsibilities while studying including looking after her young child. She works hard on her assignments and always makes time to help and support other learners inside and outside the classroom.
Cllr Kim Powell, Cabinet Member for Business, Jobs, and Skills said:
‘I would like to congratulate everyone who received an award at the event. The evening was a testament to the transformative power of lifelong learning and the impact that it has on individuals and communities. Some learners have returned to education after many years, others have learnt new skills to change careers and support independent living.
It's never too late to learn new skills for personal progression and enjoyment. Gaining new skills can lead to better job opportunities and improved wellbeing. I would like to encourage anyone who wants to learn something new to see what our adult learning service has to offer’.
Adult learning staff were also recognised for their support and contribution to learners’ successes. Winners and highly commended teaching and non-teaching staff also received awards. Carmen Gutierrez, winner of the Teaching Staff Award was recognised for her helpful and supportive approach to teaching Spanish. One nominee said, ‘Learning a new language can be very daunting. Carmen really breaks down the subject to help us learn, introducing us to many aspects of Spanish life and its language. It’s a real pleasure to be in her class and I look forward to it every week’.
She shows kindness and caring ways towards us, offering to help us count money and helping with independence’.