Celebrating the key role of adult learning in the community, the festive evening paid tribute to inspirational stories of learners grappling with their second or third language, those with disabilities or learning struggles, the unemployed, and those with low skills or qualifications.
The awards also shone a spotlight on the exceptional tutors and volunteers aiding their journeys.
Nominations were received from providers like Southampton City College and TWICs (Training for Work in the Community). Each nominee got a certificate from the Lord Mayor.
Cllr Sarah Bogle, cabinet member for economic development, summarises her speech from the event saying: “In the last academic year, this important service has supported over 1200 learners who undertook almost 2500 learning activities, spanning over 280 separate courses, covering more than130 different subjects. All these learners gained a great deal from their courses; from qualifications to new skills for employment to personal development.”
Lord mayor of Southampton, Cllr David Shields added: “The ceremony was so heart warming to meet so many learners who have benefited from adult learning and those learners who spoke at the event have painted a very moving picture of the positive impact these courses have had on their lives. Thank you to everyone, learners, volunteers and tutors alike.”
