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Aspiration Awards 2024: the winners
Firstly, a huge congratulations to everyone who was nominated this year – we loved hearing your inspiring stories! We’re incredibly proud and excited to share our deserving winners with you. You can read and watch their stories below.
Against All Odds winner – Michael Wells, Serco Training
Michael Wells has overcome many cultural, personal, and educational barriers to gain his Level 3 Internet Marketing in Business (awarded by NCFE), going on to complete a 16-week Skills Bootcamp and his highest qualification to date.
“When I first joined this course, I was in a difficult place mentally, emotionally, and physically. I have since gained confidence and motivation, realising my capabilities and potential.”
Hear about Michael’s background and how he overcame the hurdles in his way in this video. You can also read his story.
Michael's story
Apprentice of the Year winner – Ellie Burke, Rochdale Training
Ellie’s learning journey has not come without its hardships, and she’s been faced with tough personal challenges to overcome to get where she is today. After completing a 12-week course with the Prince’s Trust and with guidance from her mentors at the Rochdale Council’s Youth Hub, she successfully secured an apprenticeship, and is now making positive changes for young adults with mental and physical health needs.
“Ellie is one of the best apprentices I’ve ever met. Ellie has been on a tough journey over the previous few years but she’s been determined to progress. She’s stayed focused on the future and her dream of pursuing a career path to help others in the health and social care sector.”
Hear about Ellie’s apprenticeship journey so far and see the emotional moment she won the Apprentice of the Year award in this video. You can also read her story.
Ellie's story
Learner of the Year winner – Matthew McGrotty, North West Regional College
Described as a courteous, thoughtful, and motivational classmate, Matthew is a character right at the heart of the travel and tourism provision at North West Regional College. He actively participates in the Youth Council, giving speeches and advocating for young people across Northern Ireland, and is a dedicated volunteer with Voices Of Young People In Care (VOYPIC), sharing his experiences and supporting others.
“Matthew is very driven, focused and above all, completely selfless. He has touched the lives of others and has been a fantastic ambassador for not only the programme but the college overall.”
Hear about Matthew’s experience of studying NCFE’s Level 3 Extended Diploma in Travel and Tourism, his passion for the railway industry and see the moment he won the Learner of the Year award in this video. You can also read his case study.
Matthew's story
Centre of the Year winner – Hull College
After undergoing a historic transformation over the last year and a half, Hull College has grown from instability and near bankruptcy to becoming one of the UK's top-performing further education institutions. During this time, they’ve embarked on an inspiring journey towards success driven by a re-energised staff team, focusing on student success, improving culture and financial stability, and championing innovation.
“It has always been more than just a job to me, Hull College runs in my blood. The changes brought in have been done with pace, with passion, with logic, and effectiveness.”
Educator of the Year winner – Pauline Strong, Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College
Following a long and successful career in West Mercia Police, where she worked in the intelligence, serious crime, domestic abuse and sexual offences, police training and criminal investigation department fields, Pauline Strong wasn’t looking for a restful retirement away from the sector. Instead, she embarked on a new career in teaching, inspiring the public services workforce of the future and has delivered the uniformed public services courses at Herefordshire, Ludlow and North Shropshire College for the last 11 years.
“Her commitment ensures that all students get an outstanding experience, preparing them thoroughly for the reality of an exciting, challenging and rewarding career within their chosen field.”
Posthumous Special Recognition Award – Barbara Crone, North West Regional College
This year, we’re proud to present a Special Recognition Award posthumously to Barbara Crone, in honour of her 30+ years of dedication to further and higher education, specifically her outstanding work in teaching CACHE qualifications.
“Barbara left a heart print on everyone she interacted with.”
Read Barbara’s inspirational story and tributes from those who she worked with and taught.
Support Staff of the Year winner – Simon Sharratt, The Sheffield College
Simon Sharratt has been recognised for his exceptional contributions and innovation, that has not only transformed the use of technology within The Sheffield College where he works as a Digital and E-Learning Coordinator, but has also significantly enhanced the educational experience for both his colleagues and learners.
“It’s an honour to have won this national award given that the role of technology is becoming increasingly central to teaching and learning. To be working on the cutting edge of a rapidly evolving landscape within education and helping students and staff to develop their skills is extremely rewarding.”
Apprentice of the Year highly commended - Alfred Oki, Professional Training Solutions
Alfred's current role involves working with children who have complex, life-limiting disabilities, and he has been ‘championing men in a sector that has very few’. Alfred started his apprenticeship back in February 2022 and successfully completed NCFE's Children, Young People and Family Practitioner qualification in March this year, earlier than planned and expected, whilst making a significant impact on the children’s home where he works.
“I’ve always believed that what makes me wealthy is not how much I have in my bank account, rather how many people I can see and say yes, I made a positive contribution to their lives when they needed support and care the most.”
Against All Odds highly commended – Isabelle Melville, Exeter College
Izzy worked exceptionally hard to meet the entry requirements for Exeter College, despite having a diagnosis of Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), commonly known as Brittle Bone Disease. Currently, she juggles her part time job, placement, college work, and ongoing medical procedures, which is nothing short of inspirational.
Against All Odds highly commended – Joanne Smith, Oldham Council’s Lifelong Learning Service
Jo, a 59-year-old single parent, faced immense hardship throughout her adult life but has overcome every challenge in her way. After 22 years of working for the Post Office, osteoarthritis forced Jo into early retirement. Undeterred, and with all her children having ‘flown the nest’, Jo decided to pursue a lifelong dream – working with children.
"From the start, Jo embraced her learning experience; a very conscientious learner, a person who always goes above and beyond what is expected. Throughout the course, Jo brought a cheery smile, enthusiasm and a can-do attitude which inspired and supported others in their own journeys. Jo absolutely deserves this award.”
Learner of the Year highly commended (adult) – Andree Iland
Always going above and beyond, Andree wants to make a difference and provide exceptional care within the deaf community. Being deaf herself, Andree has a natural empathy and understanding of her client’s needs.
“I am at the later stage of my career – but it feels great to continue to achieve things. This course has given me the tools and resources to empower me to continue to make a difference in my role as a support worker – however big or small.”
Learner of the Year highly commended (T Level) – Ella Martyn-Brierley
Throughout the Education and Early Years T Level, Ella has consistently impressed her tutors with her receptiveness to learning and her drive to develop her knowledge and skills. Ella's creativity and initiative shine through, and as the student representative for her class, she professionally articulates her classmates’ views to senior college leaders and even represents the college externally.
“Ella is one in a million and we believe that she has exceeded expectations, has made significant progress, and has gone above and beyond to make a difference to everyone who she meets.”
Learner of the Year highly commended (V Cert) – Lily Skidmore, Walker Riverside Academy
Described as a ‘beacon of strength and compassion within the school community’, Lily is a determined and committed pupil. In December 2023, Lily faced the devastating loss of her beloved mum, after a prolonged battle with cancer. Throughout her mum's illness, Lily supported her as a young carer, demonstrating maturity and compassion beyond her years.
“Lily is not just a learner; she is an inspiration to us all.”
