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Awards

Senior Learner of the Year

Fred Moor Awards

Senior Learner of the Year Award Winners 2008

These stories are inspiring … showing just how varied the uses learning has in adult lives. But they also represent the challenges addressed and struggles overcome by hundreds of thousands of adults, who carve out time for learning from crowded lives, and as a result find new interests, develop new skills, or revisit and revitalise curiosities developed earlier in life...

One thing is common though to all the winners here. They have recognised the passion learning can unlock – the way it opens doors, transforms your life and the lives of the people around you…

Alan Tuckett
Director, National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE)

View details of all the Adult Learners’ Week winners here:

National Winner

John McAnuff from London.

Musician John McAnuff was only a teenager when his mother died. Until then the enthusiastic student had dreamt of going to university but instead he had to get a job so that he could help to look after his brothers and sisters. A few years later he moved from Jamaica to London, where he was able to earn more to support his family.

Yet neither full-time work nor his financial responsibilities were able to keep him away from studying. “Learning teaches me to know, and to know is the greatest thing, ”John says. “I have tried to learn something everyday, so now that I am 72 years old…I like to think that I have learnt quite a bit!”

He’s studied everything from accounting and industrial electronics to hairdressing; not even the fact that classes for his most recent qualification, Jamaican language and culture, were held in Birmingham could stop him.

John describes the course as “the missing bit of a jigsaw puzzle” that helped him to see the big picture and taught him about the importance of preserving history. This inspired him to document the stories of the elders in his Jamaican village – stories that went right back to the end of slavery. His studies also prompted him to write “The New Jumiekan Langwij Alfabet Song,” which he hopes to release shortly on CD/DVD.

East of England Regional Winner

Norman Mann from Chelmsford

84-year-old Norman Mann first went to Interact because he wanted to take part in activities to ease his depression and help him cope with the death of his wife of 47 years. After taking a confidence-building course, “he began to recognise his abilities, cared more about his appearance and felt more motivated”, Norman’s nominator, Cathy Matthews, explains.“We noticed that his posture improved and he was beginning to smile”.

An exercise class for the over- 60s followed, then Norman started learning yoga. He joined an Expert Patients’ Programme and subsequently became a volunteer, whilst also joining a Triumph Over Phobia group and delivering leaflets about its work to all of the local surgeries.

“Norman has moved from a position where he was paralysed by his grief to one where he is interacting with others and sharing his experience”, Cathy says. “He is a powerful example of the benefits of learning and a role model, Norman makes other people feel good about themselves. He wants to help and I believe that his engagement with learning [has] put some purpose and significance back into his life… His willingness to make the most of opportunities, despite his age, is inspirational”.

East Midlands Regional Winner

Alan Lee from Wellingborough

It wasn’t until Alan Lee ended up in prison that he learnt to read and write properly. Motivated by wanting to stay in touch with family and friends, but lacking in confidence because of his dyslexia, Alan embarked on a transformational journey “beyond his wildest dreams.”

Having progressed from Entry Level 1 through to Level in both literacy and numeracy, Alan has also gained a ‘B’ in GCSE English and taken a number of IT courses. After passing his first exams in literacy and numeracy Alan found – for the first time in his life – that he was able to fill in forms and write letters without help. And the thrill of what he had achieved didn’t stop there, “When I was at school I was never able to pass any tests,” he says, “so passing my English GCSE exam was beyond my wildest dreams.”

“Having begun the process of learning I soon discovered that contrary to my first expectations, education and learning could be fun. Although I found the work hard at times I also enjoyed what I was doing. My new found skills have enabled me to spread my wings, to write and learn about every aspect of life. Learning has given me a whole new outlook on life.”

London Regional Winner

John Johns from London

Former road sweeper John Johns, 60, had left school without being able to read and write. He spent his life caring for his gran, who had senile dementia and then became a road sweeper following her death in 1985. Twenty years on he had a stroke, and decided that now was the time to turn things around for himself.

With the support of his wife, six months later John enrolled onto Pilates classes at the City Lit, where he now attends two to three classes a week. He no longer feels his disability is an obstacle, such has been his progression, and has been inspired to improve his reading and writing as a result of his new-found confidence.

Over the last 18 months John has attended a multitude of classes at the City Lit, including Pilates, T’ai Chi, courses on communications, Skills for Learning (reading and writing), British Sign Language, lipreading and art.

John’s learning journey has truly helped him to turn his life around. He says: “It’s so hard to exercise after a stroke – there’s been such a difference as I can still get about while I could have been in a wheelchair.”

On being able to read and write now he says: “It was an embarrassment to tell people I couldn’t do these things, but now it’s getting better...and I feel over the moon about it.” And his final bit of good news: “The occupational health advisor says I’m fit to go back to work!”

North East Regional Winner

Gwendoline Gribble from West Monkseaton

Frustrated by the fact that her years of experience and wealth of knowledge and ideas were not reflected by her pay; and that her qualifications did not reflect her expertise Gwen found it difficult to make her voice heard. This situation alongside her mother contracting MRSA in hospital was the motivation Gwendoline needed to take a leap back into learning.

Her main concern -as Linen Services Supervisor – was the fact she could see many obvious ways cross infection could be prevented. She wanted a voice to make people listen and take her ideas on – she also wanted to prove to herself that she could study and further her career. Gwen launched into a University Certificate in Professional Practice, despite having left school after her O’ Levels over 40 years ago and had not done any formal learning since.

Through sheer determination and perseverance she has presented her findings to the Executive Trust Management and is implementing , with the help of the Director of Nursing, a work-based project which has identified a change in practice by recommending and designing new fabrics which reduce the spread of infection.
Gwen says, “This learning opportunity has increased my confidence and given me a platform to make changes in the organisation.”

North West Regional Winner

Anthony Spellman from Oldham

“I owe [my tutors] a debt of gratitude I will never be able to repay,” says 64-year-old Anthony Spellman – who has overcome depression and low self-esteem through ICT learning. Having left school at 15 with no qualifications and after a series of beginners’ courses in recent years, he is currently enrolled on an NVQ 2 Level course for computer users.

Anthony believed he has a “non existent ability to learn and lived his life accordingly,” his tutor, Joanne Rosler explains. Suffering from bouts of depression, a nervous episode in his late 40s and 50s culminated in a condition which was eventually diagnosed as Tourettes Syndrome. Facing panic attacks, there were times he would not leave the house or get out of bed.

At 61,however, Anthony turned his life around and he has new-found confidence – gained through his ICT skills which have enabled him to volunteer for Age Concern, where he uses a computer to type up older people’s life stories and create -presentations.

And now there’s no stopping him. Anthony has joined the Forum4Age and has accepted a post as a voluntary board member for First Choice Homes Oldham, having been elected by the tenants. He has given presentations to an MP, the Lord Mayor of Manchester and 200 guests, as well as speaking at Age Concern’s AGM.

“Learning to me means a dramatic change in my life… My social life has increased and my confidence levels [have] reached to a height that I have never experienced in my entire life,” Anthony concludes

South East Regional Winner

Beverley Gull from Oxfordshire

As a young disabled child Beverley Gull’s education was neglected. Then following a car accident in 1981 she turned to swimming as a form of rehabilitation. Who would’ve thought that this would lead to her becoming a Paralympics’ medallist and the confidence to further her learning?

“As a disabled child growing up in the 1950s/60s education was not deemed important, as expectations from disabled children were negligible. From the age of 10-14 I spent most of my life in hospital, where there were no teachers or any form of stimulation. My mother died when I was 14, I was expected to help my father care for my three brothers. In short, there was very little opportunity to study during my childhood”, says Beverley.

Beverley spent many years attending evening classes to make up her limited education. The turning point came when she had a car accident in 1981 after which she took up swimming as part of her rehabilitation. Four years later she was successful in representing Great Britain and is now a retired Paralympic medallist.

Her interest in sports photography grew from this passion, and in 2002 , at the age of 49, Beverley gained the courage -from her former sense of achievement -to take up a BA in Photography.

Beverley describes how“ completing my degree is a wrong put right, nobody should be denied an education and everybody should be encouraged to achieve to the best of their ability”.

South West Regional Winner

Helen Ellis from Bournemouth

Helen has had to learn to live her life in a completely new way. She was a teacher for over 20 years but had to give up due to kidney failure, and six years ago she had a kidney transplant. By this time she’d lost her sight completely and with her
husband, also visually impaired, Helen decided to join the ICT class for Visually Impaired Persons.

In the last two years Helen has learnt Braille, she’s a volunteer at a pottery class for adults with learning and physical difficulties and is a founder member of the PLUS (People Like Us) Group which brings together partially sighted people.

Her first year on the course was difficult, “I was very nervous and unsure as to what I could achieve. However in my second year my computer skills and confidence grew. I realised that I could do much more than I had originally thought possible and that the computer could help change my life.”

West Midlands Regional Winner

Jack Lewis from Redditch

90-year-old Jack Lewis has been attending classes at the Brasshouse Language Centre in Birmingham for approximately 12 years and when the Asset Language Assessments became available in Russian in 2006, he successfully completed the Russian Breakthrough Reading and Listening assessments – the oldest learner to have gained accreditation in this way.

Jack’s interest in Russian began in the 1980s when he visited the country with his wife. Rarely missing a year without visiting, he has usually attended a university summer school and he was one of the organisers of a charity event which involved cycling from St Petersburg to Moscow to raise money for an orphanage in the capital.

Having left school aged 14 with a very basic education, Jack’s nominator, Gail Hughes, explains that Jack “has found learning in later life very rewarding – even though it’s not easy at 90 years of age… Learning Russian has made Jack more satisfied with life [and]… he’s quite proud of what he has achieved”.

Yorkshire and The Humber Regional Winner

Lynn Cross from Grimsby

“My granddaughter was due to start senior school and I was worried about her homework and who would be able to help her”, says Lynn Cross, a retired staff nurse. Having no idea where her learning journey would eventually take her she decided to enrol on a short learndirect course on the Internet. From this she gained a City and Guilds Certificate for IT User.

Lynn then achieved distinctions in further IT modules such as database, PowerPoint and desktop publishing and also began volunteering at a local school offering literacy and numeracy support to the children. And as she enrolled on another IT course Lynn felt that she needed more in her life. Following a meeting with an advisor on what she might do next Lynn was encouraged to think about working again – at first nervous, she realised how much learning had rekindled her motivation and confidence which has allowed her to return to the workplace. She is now the Programme Leader for the Foundation Degree in Hospital and Health Care at Grimsby Institute.

“Learning is invaluable, I believe everyone is capable of learning something new,” says Lynn,“ by learning new skills and knowledge it gives the individual confidence, pride and a feeling of value to others…”

______________________________

Senior Learner of the Year Award Winners 2007

Rachel Thomson, Senior Campaigns Officer at NIACE, said, “Every year our Adult Learners’ Week Awards highlight the creativity, imagination and energy adults – young and old – bring to their learning. Learners have to address many challenges, overcome struggles and carve out time for learning from crowded lives. But one thing is common to all our winners, they have recognised the passion learning can unlock – the way it opens doors, transforms your life and the lives of those around you.”

Ray Jackson, aged 56, from Wolverhampton

After working as a welder for 30 years and facing “major stress at work”, Ray had a serious nervous breakdown and was in rehabilitation for two years. As part of his treatment Ray had been encouraged to attend Art for Health classes. A General Art course followed which led to Ray enrolling on an Access to HE Art and Design course.

Ray was very nervous at first, he found it difficult to express himself and had very low self esteem. Because of the academic side to the Access course it was discovered that Ray had dyslexia which increased his frustration and he became despondent. However, according to his nominator, David Westwood, when Ray was introduced to sculpture it soon became apparent that he had a “real aptitude for the three-dimensional disciplines.”

David continues, “The transformation - once he had discovered that he had these abilities - was fantastic. His self-confidence grew daily, he became passionate about sculpture. He developed a thirst for knowledge…which gave him the desire to tackle his dyslexia. He then went on to become one of the most accomplished students in his year.”

After gaining the Access Certificate Ray has started his own business selling sculptures, silver jewellery and hand-made toys. He also helps others; he volunteers, works with schools and community art projects and helps people with mental health difficulties - working in an Occupational Therapy Unit teaching woodwork to patients.

Ray says, “In my wildest dreams I could never have imagined where I am now! Studying…has been a life changing experience. It has enabled me to change career, to make many new friends and has also changed my outlook on life. I have now come full circle and the skills that I have learned I am now able to instil in others.”

Ray’s passion shows no sign of abating. He is currently studying Ceramic Sculpture, Ceramics and Silver Jewellery Making and intends to take a teaching qualification in the near future. David concludes that Ray is, “an inspiration…and a tremendous encouragement…a perfect example of how life-changing, beneficial and important Adult Learning can be.”

Eastern: Neil Kirsch, aged 58, from Barnet

Five years after his father’s death, taxi driver Neil Kirsch, is about to complete a BA in English. His father had always stressed the importance of reading and learning, but Neil hadn’t picked up a book since he left school. Neil says, “I had always rebelled against [my father]. As a result l left school at 16 with only a couple of GCEs…his death made me think about my life – as well as…the great pleasure he had taken from reading and studying and as a way of paying tribute to my father I decided to pick up one of his books and read it. I loved it.”

Neil embarked upon his learning tribute with a English Language and Literature GCSE Course at Barnet College. This was followed by A’Level English Language/Literature. He supplemented his new found enthusiasm with WEA Literature courses in Barnet. Now in the third year of a part-time English degree at Birkbeck College, Neil is considering the future while appreciating what he’s achieved.

Neil said, “It was only a few years ago that I read one of my father’s books which was the first step on the adult learning ladder. Who knows what the future will hold. My further education means that I can now help make others achieve something that their rebellious youth may have denied them.”

East Midlands: Vaughan Parker, aged 58, from Glossop

An industrial accident at work led to lorry driver Vaughan having to give up painting – something he loved. He then had a tumour removed which led to total deafness in one ear. He became depressed, suffered agoraphobia and anxiety. For four years he was a virtual recluse, sitting in his armchair at home.

After being referred to the Arts Exchange, Vaughan decided to do a photography course. At first the tutor visited Vaughan in his home but soon his confidence increased enough for him to go outside and take photographs. This inspired Vaughan to paint again and he taught himself to paint with his right hand.

Since then Vaughan has flourished. He has painted several large pieces of work for community organisations, a local amateur dramatics group, portraits of actors, Glossop Old Band, a Remembrance Day painting and he is currently working on a large mural for a mental health project. His paintings can be seen in a local theatre and Glossop Town Hall.

Aswell as his obvious talent as a painter, Vaughan has undertaken a wide range of courses, including Basic Literacy Skills, Basic Computer Skills, digital art, textiles and printing, creative writing, illustration, editing and desktop publishing, learning group work, planning and decision-making; and CAMTAD training.

Vaughan Parker is in no doubt about the impact learning has had on his life, he says, “At school I had deafness and dyslexia to contend with, but neither my parents nor school identified these problems and I thought I was just ‘thick’. I left school with no qualifications and no confidence. First through art – my all time passion – and then into computer and literacy lessons I am very proud of my achievements and I feel I can be myself now.”

London: Tony Carter, aged 81, from Bromley

Tony hadn’t done any formal learning – apart from the very occasional evening class - since he left school aged 15 and it was 65 years later that a course designed for older people really appealed to him.

During those 65 years Tony had always read a great deal. His curiosity about learning was aroused when he read about the Ransackers Project - a specially designed residential course for older people who have not previously benefited from further education - and he enrolled on a course at Ruskin College, Oxford. He was completely invigorated by this and this led to him studying and completing an MA in Public History aged 81.

Tony says, “My study has been a great experience. I’m using new skills in work which will I hope will interest others. I’d recommend anyone to try a Ransackers Course.”

His plans for the future include working on a friend’s fathers’ memoirs and continuing his work as a pensioners rights activist – Tony is secretary of the National Pensioners Centre.

Saying that a Confidence Building course…“has saved my life” might seem to be overstating its impact but for Gerry Birch this is exactly what happened. Gerry’s a cancer survivor and after only six weeks of her new life in Hetton after moving from Yorkshire she had to cope with the sudden death of her husband of 40 years.

From this first course she has really showed a huge thirst for learning with Assertiveness Training, Arts and Crafts, Introduction to Psychology, Introduction to Computing and Volunteer Induction Package (Stage 1) all enthusiastically completed.

She is now a member of a community management focus group looking at local regeneration and development issues and her learning is a great incentive to others, most notably her 10-year old granddaughter.

Gerry says, “I have started a new phase in my life. After believing I was at the end…I now feel I am starting afresh. I was practically housebound but with the help of good friends and great tutors I am beginning to really enjoy life again. I am going to keep on learning as long as I can. I am a recycled teenager.”

North West: Michael McGrath, aged 64, from Blackpool

When his health started to deteriorate ten years ago Michael decided to develop his main personal interests. He chose to make use of the facilities on offer at Lancaster University’s Department of Continuing Education. And despite being 40km away Michael has made best use of his pensioners’ bus pass and completed course in languages, Archaeology, History and Politics. He is currently studying Stage 6 Russian and hopes to take an MA in foreign language study, history or politics and depending on how that goes he is even considering an MPhil or PhD.

Michael says, “Following my studies I feel much better and consider that I have regained my independence.” His nominator, Lucy Lloyd, adds, “Learning provides Michael with a way to combat his health issues – he feels that the courses he takes have undoubtedly enhanced his physical as well as his spiritual well-being. His Russian tutor recommended him for this nomination, finding him to be worthy of recognition of being an extraordinary learner.”

South East: Patience Jackson-Dey, aged 56, from Walton-on-Thames

A ten-week Ransackers course – a specially designed residential course for older people who have not previously benefited from further education - at Hillcroft College has provided Patience Jackson-Dey with the impetus to achieve her learning goal.

“I finished school in Nigeria and did not have the opportunity to do any higher study as my parents could not afford the fees,” she says, “I got married young and had children, but all these years I thought about getting more education and knowledge. The research aspect of the course has opened up a whole new world for me. I did not know anything about computers. Now I can do word-processing, writing letters…surf the Internet for information and send and receive emails.”

Her confidence gained through her learning has led Patience to volunteer with a local charity Rentstart helping people with housing difficulties. This new found confidence has also given her the impetus to enrol on an Access Course this September – her aim is to go to University.

South West: Constance Morris, aged 81, from Bristol

Constance decided against continuing her education when she was young because she wanted to contribute her time to the war effort. After the war she got a job but her learning really took off 13 years ago following her husband’s sudden death. Constance says, “It was a terrible shock. But I decided to pick myself because you’ve got to keep going.”

Learning became a huge part of her life. Constance initially studied ceramics and then art, followed by course in French and Spanish and also a creative writing course. She then became interested in computers and got hooked immediately. In just 18 months Constance has achieved a Level 2 in City and Guilds Literacy, and Levels 1, 2 and 3 in Improving Own Learning and Performance Key Skills.

Constance also volunteers for One in Eight - a local charity run education centre where Constance helps students with learning difficulties, where, according to nominator Charles Harris, “her sense of humour brightens everyone’s day.” Constance’s plans for the future include working on a book about the humorous side of her life. She also hopes to do a digital photography course, making the most of the old photos her father took – some taken as far back as the 1920s.

She added, “I feel that the more you learn the more you realise how much you don’t know and how much there is to learn. Learning opens up all sorts of potential. Life’s exciting now. There’s all sorts of things I don’t know that I want to know about and learning will give me the opportunity to discover them.”

Joyce didn’t learn to read or write at school due to illness. She found ways to cope throughout life, mainly by relying on her husband. Once he died however Joyce needed help as she could not even sign her own name. Living in sheltered accommodation she had to rely on wardens and had no privacy in her personal affairs.

Five years ago Joyce turned all that round. She found the courage to overcome her fear and attend a Basic Skills class. Her first major achievement was to sign her own name and things have gradually improved. She has read her first book – a Quick Read, ‘The Book Boy’ – and can now read and understand bills and the local newspaper; and she can travel on public transport. Her life is becoming more private now.

Joyce says, “After my husband [died] I felt alone and helpless. I felt I might be too old to go back to school. I was terrified of not being able to do it. I decided to face the class because to learn to read was something I had to do. I have more freedom now and confidence. I am not a burden to others. I have made new friends in the class. I want to get a certificate in the class to show what I can now do. I have never had a certificate before in my life. I want to carry on and get better at reading and writing.”

Yorkshire & Humber: Frank Watson, aged 90, from Aberford

Married for nearly 70 years Frank Watson’s wife died early last year. The next few months were difficult for Frank but he came to realise the necessity for something to keep him mentally and physically active. He’d often heard his sons talking about their computers and on spotting a beginners’ course in computer learning at his local college he decided to ‘have a go’.

After a rather stuttering start - mainly due to his long absence from the education system - Frank really knows his way round a computer now and has gained confidence. He can stay in touch with his family who are, says Frank, “spread throughout the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.” He adds, “My new skill and the email system have allowed me to get into more frequent and rapid communication with them. I am particularly proud of the fact that my relatives and friends have been surprised and delighted at my progress.”

Frank continues, “I have enjoyed returning to being re-educated. It has encouraged me to continue my computer learning and also to join other courses next school term.”

Frank is contemplating some foreign travel and may also take a course in French. He will search for suitable trips using his newly acquired computer skills.

______________________________

Senior Learner of the Year Award Winners 2006.

Rachel Thomson, Senior Campaigns Officer at NIACE, said, “Every year our Adult Learners’ Week Awards highlight the creativity, imagination and energy adults – young and old – bring to their learning. Learners have to address many challenges, overcome struggles and carve out time for learning from crowded lives. But one thing is common to all our winners, they have recognised the passion learning can unlock – the way it opens doors, transforms your life and the lives of those around you.”

“I’ve gained so much”

“As a child I missed out on learning because I spent quite a lot of time in hospital. I was told by a teacher before I left school the only place I was fit for was to work in a factory, so that’s what I did,” remembered Pam.

Pam then began her learning at Northern College, Barnsley, after retiring from work.
“After retirement Pam achieved her European Computer Driving License in 2003 and has since tutored 144 older people in basic computer skills. Her warm and encouraging relationship with older people resulted in her appointment as a full-time Development Officer for our charity, supporting older people on a city-wide basis,” said nominator, Maggie.

“When I started out on my adult learning journey it was just for me, I had no intention of acquiring a job,” said Pam. “If someone had told me years ago that I would be doing what I am doing today, I would have laughed at them. I’ve gained so much.”

Eastern: Alan Risk, age 78, Littleport, Cambridgeshire

Describing life experiences through art

For Alan, his love of art, painting and modelling has enabled him to describe his life and experiences through his drawing. In a recent stay in hospital, Alan drew pictures for all the nurses, and then on his return, of himself drawing the drawings! Aged 78 and with a learning disability and speech impediment, his passion for art allows him to communicate freely, and he does so with enthusiasm. He has achieved an OCN qualification Pathways to Progression BLE Creative Arts, and he is incredibly helpful to fellow learners, and will draw pictures for less-able learners to colour. He is caring and always looks out for those who share the class with him.

East Midlands: George Wilcockson, age 59, Nottinghamshire

Growing the learning seed

“George has cheerfully overcome difficulties and loss of senses that others take for granted, and has put his success towards community projects to benefit others,” says nominator Caroline.

George achieved his Royal Horticultural Society certificate despite being dual sensory impaired. The qualification has helped secure part-time employment working on a project that helps young adults with learning difficulties to integrate and learn new skills.

George says, “Despite my problems I try to have a positive outlook on life and encourage others to do the same. We can all achieve our goals if we make the effort.”

London: Jacqueline Butcher, age 63, Isleworth, Middlesex

Following a dream

“I had been working for 21 years as an accounts clerk and I hated being in an office. I had no qualifications when I left school at 15. When I saw a poster on the estate saying ‘Would you like to work with children?’ I decided to find out about it,” said Jackie, who subsequently joined a training course in sessional crèche work.

After completing the course, Jackie was offered a job in the Langdale Community Centre crèche and also became an escort on the school buses for children with special needs. When a supervisor post arose, Jackie was interested but the role required an NVQ level 3 qualification which she didn’t have. Jackie started the course but found there was too much written work to manage and gave up. However, she started the course again, and was diagnosed with dyslexia which was a relief to Jackie as it explained all of her problems at school with reading and writing. Jackie is determined she’ll complete the course.

In addition to studying, Jackie says, “I have met loads of new friends and now work as a volunteer Director of the Bridgelink Community Centre. When I finish the NVQ course in July I am going to apply to become a Learning Champion for Adult Education.”

North East: Robert Douglas, age 66, Corbridge, Northumberland

A story worth telling…

“Bob’s life is a triumph for a nice, ordinary bloke who overcame great and daunting obstacles and now communicates with thousands of people,” says nominator Nigel.

His mother died when he was young in a poverty-stricken Glasgow and he had an extremely neglectful father. With very few educational opportunities, Bob learned the language and culture of the streets but personal values deterred him from crime and violence. He then went to onto gaining employment as a minor, soldier and then a prison officer.

Bob’s passion for writing emerged when he attended the Worker’s Educational Association’s creative writing course. Since the course Bob has had articles in newspapers and magazines as well as the first volume of his autobiography published. His autobiography was accorded Book of the Month by both Waterstones and WH Smith.

Bob is now working on two new volumes of his biography and uses his expertise to encourage others on the course.

North West : Gordon Cartlidge, age 57, Crewe

North East: Jacqui Veazey, age 57, Brighton

“Learning is the antidote for self-pity”

As a single mum on benefits Jacqui Veazey spent many years at home looking after her children. One day she realized that by helping herself and improving her skills she could help her family too. “I knew that I eventually wanted a worthwhile job or career and would need qualifications ... so I studied as an adult learner to improve the situation of my family,” she says.

Jacqui’s learning journey started at an adult education college and has now progressed through BA and MA honours degrees to her gaining entry to a DPhil course later this year.

This impressive journey is all the more impressive when you realize that she has been a member of numerous forums and focus groups, a branch secretary for the Civil Service Union and a disability trainer during her learning.

Dr Carlton Wood her nominator compliments a student who “was always cheery and was very willing to help out other less capable students than herself. The excellent dynamics we had in that group were mainly down to her.”

North West: Ian Faulkner, age 61, Blockley, Gloucester

“Learning has become my very life!”

“I returned to learning after a very long illness. Initially, learning provided a type of framework, from which to build a routine. Furthermore, learning gave me a purpose to live for,” recalled Ian.

Ian attends adult numeracy classes at Stratford College and although starting at entry level 3 he is working at level 1 with the hope of continuing to level 2 and beyond. In addition he started a university degree in Asian Music in September 2005.

Ian’s achievements came having suffered a serious miscarriage of justice 12 years ago, for which he had the conviction overturned after representing himself at the European Court of Human Rights. This left Ian with health problems that he was determined to overcome through learning new skills.

“Profound changes have taken place in my life since I returned to the learning process,” said Ian. “Learning has become my very life! I do still nurture the prospect of returning to the workplace. Nevertheless, whatever I learn I always endeavour to pass on to others!”

West Midlands: Alice Whitehouse, age 72, West Bromwich

Alice discovers an active retired life

Alice initially went to the Sandwell drop-in facility to make tea for the younger women, however, she saw what courses were on offer and began taking part. “I enjoyed each course and that gave me the incentive to go on to the next.” Alice continued, “I now have an active life and company through the day and this softened the blow of losing my husband after 50 years of marriage.”

Alice has been awarded certification in Save a Baby’s Life, First Aid, Arts and Crafts, Indian Head Massage, Spanish, Drama, Healthy Caribbean Cookery, Sewing Skills, Health and Beauty and Makaton Sign Language.

According to nominator, Beverley, Alice has, “cascaded her newly acquired skills and knowledge to others.” Alice and a friend have set up a group known as ‘The Spring Chicks’, for mature women of whom many are living alone and isolated. The group provide valuable support for one another.

In addition, Alice has found the time to play Fairy Godmother at the children’s Christmas party, star in a drama performance to raise awareness of mental health issues, teaches safe sex practices to young female group members and entertained others on her 72nd birthday with a pole dancing routine, dressed accordingly!

Yorkshire & Humber: Harry Thompson, age 91, Thurnscoe, South Yorks.

“A remarkable man who always gives 100%”

Two years ago, Harry Thompson’s eyesight rapidly deteriorated and he could no longer continue the adult learning classes he loved so much. Determined to continue and refusing to lose the alertness and enjoyment he got from learning Harry began to learn Braille.

He first enrolled in adult learning after the death of his wife 6 years ago and had success gaining qualifications for several OCN courses and the new CLAIT.

When asked what he has gained from these experiences Harry says, “knowledge and skills I never dreamed I would have.” His nominator, Gill, calls him “inspirational” and praises a man who – despite being 91-years-old - is not only committed to keeping his mind active but still exercises every single day.

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Senior Learner of the Year Award 2005

The winners of the 2005 Senior Learner of the Year Awards are...

National Winner:

Highly Commended:

Regional Winners:

Visit the Adult Learners' Week Awards page to read their stories

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The Fred Moore Institutional Awards

Open Age
Open Age is a pioneering organisation, led by older people and committed to providing learning opportunities through a community-based network of over 90 weekly learning and activity groups which support health, well-being and encourage fun and enjoyment through learning. Open Age works mainly in the boroughs of Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster. The structure and success of Open Age is producing interest from across London with other localities keen to replicate the model. Membership stands at 950 older people. A range of venues is used, which in turn helps reach as many people as possible. These venues include church halls, sheltered housing lounges, community centres, parks and libraries. Two dedicated centres are also used. Open Age is currently the lead agency in a consortium with a local housing association and charity in launching “New Horizons” a groundbreaking new learning and multi-agency centre for people over the age of 50.

Skippko Arts Team
Skippko Arts Team delivers a creative participatory arts project with older people called “Tall Tales”. The project aims to reduce social isolation and loneliness, increase feelings of empowerment and control over life choices and increase self-esteem. Older people are bought together in groups so they may share their life experiences and ‘tell their tales” in a creative and unique manner. These stories are recorded in a number of different ways, for example, one group decided to construct a large quilted fabric book with the theme of childhood and schooldays, another group created a 3D ‘dolls house’ book which tells the story of a typical 1930’s Leeds Terrace. To date the project has reached 171 older people. Some groups have made links and worked with local primary schools, which have raised awareness of each other lives, to break down barriers, listen and share.

Third Age Trust
The project came about partly because of a government sponsored project being run in Australia called “Isolated Bytes”. It has developed, over the last 10 years, a wide variety of Online Courses for U3A members throughout the UK and elsewhere, including Australia. The courses are written and delivered by members. Input is particularly welcomed from those new to U3A and those who cannot attend regular meetings, for whatever reason. In the UK they have produced 13 courses to date and have two more in the pipeline. The courses are scrutinised for their suitability as an online resource by an Online Courses Board, which is in turn made up of older people. The course author is always encouraged to act as an online tutor for at least the first session. Last year 650 people signed up for the courses.

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Beth Johnson Foundation
The Active in Age Project is based in North Staffordshire and works with local groups of older people. Local volunteers are recruited to undertake accredited training to become health mentors to run exercise programmes, reminiscence programmes and falls prevention work. A total of 133 people have been trained to date and the courses are accredited through the Open College Network. The Foundation see this work as essential in providing a cost effective way of achieving long-term health benefits for older people from many different communities.

Essex Adult Community Learning Service
This provision was set up to promote active citizenship with older learners living in sheltered housing, or attending day centres and other community groups, who would not normally access mainstream provision. It provides 3 strands of free and accessible learning: ICT courses for older learners – over 90 learners; Healthy Living – gentle exercise courses, held in sheltered housing complexes. Learners on this course have found it so beneficial they have asked for it to be extended to provide an on-going programme; An exercise course and a pottery course for older learners with special needs – over 60 learners.

Choices at Poynton Community Centre Community
After consultation with older people in Poynton; Macclesfield College and Cheshire County Council Lifelong Learning formed a partnership to provide courses to re skill older people, to enable them to continue in the workplace. Eighteen months later they have approximately 400 local residents on 45 daytime classes covering I.T., the arts, languages, history, health and recreational courses. Choices feel they are providing what the people want, where and when they want it, and the largest proportion of the service is being delivered by local people.

Genesis Community, part of the Genesis Housing Group
Digital Unite is a tailored training project for older people, run by Genesis Community, the charitable arm of Genesis Housing Group in partnership with Springboard Housing Association. The scheme has been developed for older residents in sheltered housing environments to equip the participants with basic computer skills. The training is for seven weeks, after which a computer club is established to sustain interest and offer continued support for learning. Over 120 older people from 15 of Springboard Housing Association supported schemes in East London completed the training in the first year of the project. In addition over 20 scheme staff have been trained alongside the older residents, thus helping to develop a sense of mutual support.

Nightingale
Nightingale is a registered charity providing a residential, nursing and sheltered housing service to 250 older members of the Jewish community. They are committed to the provision of opportunities of learning for older people that embrace people’s life experience and open up the possibilities of discovering new skills in a way that can be enjoyable and stimulative. The current activity programmes are supported by: creative art specialists in pottery, textiles and fine art; I.T. specialists; a designated Activity Co-ordinator in each of the five units; an art therapist; a well-being therapist; a music therapist and a Thai Chi therapist.

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Winners of The Fred Moore Institutional Awards 2005

(In memory of Fred Moore, Oldest Learner in England 2000)

Age Concern Coffee Shop – Chistlehurst, Kent
In April 2002 Age Concern Bromley opened its doors to the “Coffee Shop” in Chistlehurst, the idea being to offer older people in the surrounding community somewhere to meet over a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy a variety of learning activities such as keeping healthy and fit through exercise, computers for beginners, learning to surf, Internet and emailing, first aid and food hygiene. Today, over 70 people visit daily and make use of the space. New courses planned include craft activities, creative writing and the development of a cyber café, which is a direct result of users feedback as to what they would like to see at the Coffee Shop in the future.

Birmingham & Black Country Strategic Health Authority
The ACTIVATE project is a partnership between Birmingham & Black Country Strategic Health Authority and 6 NHS Trusts. The project aims to provide job preparation and work experience for those unemployed and disadvantaged with the outcome being they can compete on an equal footing for jobs within the region. The programme delivers a 6 week course of taster sessions covering job search skills, on completion of this up to 12 months work experience within the NHS Trust or in the Private sector are offered. Over fifty people, over the age of 50 have accessed training with the project, and to date 25 have achieved employment and 6 have moved into Further Education.

Institute of Continuing Education – University of Cambridge
The Residents’ Association project is intended to bring learning opportunities to older people in social housing within the Cambridgeshire area. The Institute, working in partnership with Cambridge Federation of Resident’s Association, received funding from the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation to employ a Project worker, who visited the local housing schemes to gauge interest in the project. This involved speaking to the older people and ascertaining what activities and interests they had both now and in the past and whether they would like to re-kindle them. A community hall in close proximity to the housing association was identified as a suitable venue, two hour session were run in a variety of subjects including local history, creative writing, fun with mathematics, a good read, poetry & rhyme and gardening in small spaces.

Ransackers – Ruskin College, Oxford
Ruskin College working in partnership with the Better Government for Older People (BGOP) administer Ransackers, a unique learning opportunity for those over the age of 50 who have never benefited from Higher Education. Ransackers offers successful applicant a term-long stay at a selection of Residential Colleges across the country, enabling them to undertake a research-based project on a subject of their own choosing. Students have access to a personal tutor and the opportunity to study an extra subject such as creative writing or sociology. All the fees and student expenses are covered.

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96 year old MA student proves you are never too old to learn

Bernard Herzberg, a 96-year-old man from East Finchley, is England’s Oldest Learner. In a major nationwide search by NIACE - as part of its September Sign Up Now Campaign - around 50 learners in their 70s, 80s and 90s - on courses as diverse as IT, digital photography, pottery and higher education degrees - were nominated for England’s Oldest Learner.

Bernard Herzberg recently completed his MA in Refugee Studies at the University of East London (UEL) and this month has started another MA in African Economics and Literature at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS).

Click on the link below for the full press release.

Source: NIACE Press Release: "96 year old MA student proves you are never too old to learn" (PDF file) Released On 18/10/2005

We were sorry to hear that Bernard, England's oldest learner and friend of Niace passed away on May 16, 2007. His son Paul said of Bernard:
"Here was a man who transformed old age into something unique in certain ways, the zenith to his long life. But that's how he was. Always searching for and creating meaning in whatever circumstances he found himself. Always his own man. On a mission to the end."
http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/whereilive/localheadlines/display.var.1438275.0.scholar_and_peace_campaigner_97_dies.php

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