Adult learners have been honoured at the annual Isle of Wight Council adult learning awards ceremony.
Held as part of the National Festival of Learning, the evening was filled with praise for adult learning, with ten awards presented by the Adult Community Learning Service.
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said the occasion was an opportunity to share and showcase inspiring stories of Islanders going the extra mile for their community.
Speaking at the event, held at Westridge, Ryde, she said:
"The winners highlight how learning not only supports the gaining of qualifications, but the impacts on people’s lives, their families and their communities.
“I know your enthusiasm will inspire others to give learning a try and to know the benefits that gaining new skills can bring, at any stage in your life.”
A special accolade recognising community and family involvement — presented in memory of former Downside Middle School teacher Laura Groves — was awarded to Macala Graham (pictured below), of Broadlea Primary School.
Macala provides pastoral support for parents/carers in relation to supporting the diverse range of needs of the families at Broadlea Primary.
Her citation read:
"Macala works tirelessly to support the children and their families; she has a personal connection with each person she works with — as well as knowing all the children and families in the school.
“She understands the need to empower parents and to create independence with dignity and humour. Macala demonstrates empathy and relational skills in ‘real time’ — developing a rapport and trust with both children, adults and professionals.
“She has promoted information and education services to parents both within school and outside and it is a testament to her success that these families go on to act as ‘ambassadors’, encouraging other parents to enrol and benefit from the programmes as well.”
A highly commended award in this category was presented to Deb Jones, of Greenmount Primary, for her outstanding work building relationships with children, parents and staff.
Her citation read:
"Everyone at Greenmount would agree and join together when we say that Deb is an inspiration to us all; she goes the extra mile to nurture, to care, to share and to listen.
"Deb’s commitment to ensuring that our children and families have everything they need both during term-time and throughout the holiday period shows true passion and commitment."
Kay Marriott, the Isle of Wight High Sheriff, presented the awards alongside Councillor Andre.
Kay said:
“It was a pleasure and an honour to be part of a lovely occasion. To hear the stories and citations was truly inspirational and all such worthy recipients. Also to meet the team and see what a difference they make in people’s lives.”
Other winners included:
Sandra Soal — Learning Through Functional Skills Award; John Hughes — the Learning through Technology Award; Adam True and Jayne O’Harrow — Learning for Personal Achievement Award; Laura Byrne and Marcus Evans — Learning for Work Award.
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