Adult Learners Celebrated At Inspiring Awards Evening In Ryde

A heart-warming celebration of achievement took place recently at The Learning Centre in Westridge, Ryde, as adult learners from across the Isle of Wight were recognised for their dedication, determination and success.

Hosted by the Isle of Wight Council’s Adult Community Learning Service, the event celebrated 13 individuals who have shown exceptional progress across a wide range of subjects — from functional skills and technology to personal development and family learning.

The evening highlighted inspiring stories of local people who have embraced learning later in life, many overcoming personal challenges to reach their goals.

Among the presentations was the Laura Groves Award for Community and Family Involvement, given in memory of the much-loved Downside Middle School teacher.

This year’s recipient was Sharon Groves, of Blackberry Lane Preschool and Nursery, nominated by manager Debbie Gibson.

“Sharon doesn’t accept thanks or praise easily,” said Debbie.

“She always says she’s ‘just doing her job’, but this award is a wonderful way to recognise the difference she’s made to so many children and families.”

Mark Andre, site manager at St Helens Primary School, was highly commended in the same category.

Headteacher Carl Wake added:

“Mark goes above and beyond in every sense of the word — he truly deserves this recognition.”

Other winners on the night included:

• Waltraud Girle – Learning Through Functional Skills Award, for her commitment and transformation over the past year. Highly commended: Emily Boulter and Jacob Roach.

• Rodney Archer – Learning Through Technology Award, for developing new digital skills and sharing them within his community in Chale. Highly commended: Carrie Lacey.

• Felicity Munoz – Learning for Work Award, after completing a course with Bodster Equine Assisted Learning Centre and going on to work as a midday supervisor at a local school. Highly commended: Jimi Cameron.

• Charlotte Wright – Highly Commended in Learning for Personal Achievement, for overcoming anxiety and dyslexia to achieve her Level 3 teaching qualification. Also commended: Matthew Tricker.

• Kelsey Denness – Learning Within the Family Award, recognised for her resilience and dedication after joining a Relax Kids course to support her son with ADHD and ASD.

• Norman Spence – Special Achievement Award, for his volunteer work supporting functional skills learners and developing exam support software.

The Adult Community Learning team praised all nominees for their outstanding effort and commitment, describing them as “an inspiration to others considering returning to learning.”

To find out more about Adult Community Learning opportunities on the Isle of Wight, visit www.iow.gov.uk/ACLcourses or email acl@iow.gov.uk.