Southampton’s adult learning sector celebrated
Southampton City Council’s Adult Learning team hosted its much-anticipated annual awards ceremony on Thursday 10 July, celebrating the accomplishments of learners, volunteers and tutors in the Adult Learning sector across the region
Over 150 friends and family members of those nominated, as well as Southampton Itchen MP Darren Paffey, and staff from the council and the nominating organisations came together for the celebration at Southampton College-SHCG, one of the Council’s valued adult learning providers.
The evening was formally opened by Southampton City Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Councillor Sarah Bogle, with award presentations made by the Sheriff of Southampton, Councillor Patricia Evemy.
The awards celebrated exceptional achievements made through courses funded via the Adult Skills Fund programme. These ranged from accountancy to functional skills, from English for speakers of other languages to wellbeing and from art to confidence building, all reflecting the outstanding diversity and impact of adult learning in Southampton.
Nearly 40 nominees were selected by learning providers and honoured not only for academic success, but also for overcoming personal challenges and barriers, demonstrating resilience and their commitment to adult learning.
Many learners shared how their educational experiences had helped them gain new qualifications, secure employment, or advance in their current careers while others spoke about gaining confidence, improving their physical or mental health or becoming more able to support their communities.
Tutors and volunteers were also commended for their commitment to nurturing learning and fostering student confidence. Their work continues to play a vital role in building inclusive, skilled communities.
Sian Dawson, one of the learners celebrated at the event, said:
“Getting funding for my training made a real difference. Before that, I was a stay-at-home mum, mostly at home, nervous about going out on my own, and rarely speaking to anyone outside my family.
“Now, I’ve earned a qualification and travel to the office independently twice a week. I’m more comfortable interacting with people and feel more confident in general. The funding allowed me to get started without the pressure of costs and gave me the space to progress at a pace that worked for me.
“I’m hoping to continue building on this and work toward more qualifications, something that feels a lot more achievable now.”
Councillor Sarah Bogle, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said:
“Seeing the terrific successes of local people in our adult learning sector fills me with pride in Southampton. It was a privilege to meet so many exceptional people nominated for their commitment to learning and development and reinforces how important these services are to help build confidence and aspiration in our city.”
