Bradford College

Adult Learners' Awards

"These three students exemplify the determination of many of our adult learners to achieve against the odds.  We’re very proud of their personal achievements"

Michele Sutton, College Principal

College Trio Scoop a Treble at Adult Learners’ Week Awards

Bradford College students scooped three awards in the UK’s largest national festival of learning - Adult Learners Week.  Organised by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) our learners were recognised for their remarkable achievements at Leeds Town Hall.

Award Winner, Amanda Schofield (35), is a competitive horse rider, who despite being blind and deaf has learned British Sign Language (BSL).  Amanda has also gained a BTEC Diploma in Riding and Stable Management.  Amanda was thrilled to receive her award at the regional ceremony.

Award Winner, Audrey Walkden, also scooped an award for her progress, commitment and good humour.  Despite leaving school two years early with no qualifications, she has now successfully completed an access to HE course!  With a thirst for knowledge she decided to continue her studies and is currently completing a degree in Social Work at University. 

Audrey is a single parent who looks after a son who has both physical and mental disabilities.  She’s completed her studies over three years rather than two as she nursed her mother through lung cancer.  Sadly Audrey mother lost his life after a battling against the disease and Audrey returned to her studies.  Audrey said of her experience of Bradford College: “My pursuit of education and the special people I have met along the way have given me the hope to aspire to better things.”

Patrice Woodhouse, a former student at the College, is now undertaking a teacher training course at Trinity and All Saints College.  She has also been awarded for her achievements.  Patrice came to the UK from Jamaica in 2000 with no recognisable qualifications for teacher training courses.  Beginning her studies at GCSE level, Patrice undertook a two year Humanities and Social Sciences Access course. Although she experienced major personal and financial difficulties, Patrice showed considerable determination and commitment to successfully complete the course.  During the course she became a single parent, coping with money troubles and the loss of her father.  

Course Leader for Humanities and Social Science, Stephen Jones added: “Patrice continued with the course and remained positive and focused against the background of these very testing circumstances.  She’s often be seen positively encouraging other students in their efforts when they experienced difficulties.  Patrice is a model to adult learners in terms of her attitude and stubborn refusal to give up - fulfilling her ambition of becoming a primary school teacher.”

Michele Sutton, College Principal commenting on our award winners said: “These three students exemplify the determination of many of our adult learners to achieve against the odds.  We’re very proud of their personal achievements and look forward to celebrating with adult learners from across Yorkshire and Humberside at the regional ceremony.”