Adult learners across Bucks celebrated with huge award ceremony at the waterside theatre as part of the National Festival of Learning in June.

The annual Adult Learning Awards celebrated the achievement of standout learners across Bucks and had more than 130 people in attendance.

Among the winners was Tim Wright from Chesham, who was awarded ‘Tutor of the Year 2019’ for teaching English to speakers of other languages for 13 years, a programme which has “changed many people’s lives.”

ESOL Coordinator Laura Delaney nominated Tim, and said: “Tim truly deserves recognition, not only for his professional knowledge, and commitment and dedication to his learners, but his incredible ability to consistently and positively share his good practice and professionalism throughout his team and the wider service”

Gay Hutchings-Hays, from High Wycombe, has worked for Buckinghamshire Adult Learning for the last two years, helping with English courses and courses for adults with disabilities and was acknowledged as he won the award for ‘Learning Support Assistant of the Year’.

This year was the first time that the awards included a new traineeship scheme offering prestigious work experience and employability workshops to people aged 16 to 24.

Sandra Bacon from Aylesbury, who is a learner in English and Family Learning, was crowned Adult Learner of the Year 2019.

She was nominated by her tutors Iva Abbey and Jill Organ for her commitment and effort, as well as her enthusiasm and diligence in hard times. Sandra said of her journey: “My Buckinghamshire Adult Learning classes have made me feel more confident, more than ‘just a mum’, and have given me the old Sandra back.

“I now realise that I am capable of doing anything I want to. My classes have been wonderful and the teachers are fantastic.”

The final award of ‘Volunteer of the Year’ was handed to Richard Vincent, from Aston Clinton, for his work in classes for adults with learning disabilities.

Bucks County Council cabinet member Anita Cranmer attended presented the awards to the nominees and winners.

She said: “Buckinghamshire Adult Learning programmes have changed many people’s lives by being part of their journeys of self-development and reaching new heights.

“I am delighted to see recognition and reward for everyone’s achievements.

“This year’s ceremony has really shed a spotlight on the amount of dedication within Buckinghamshire Adult Learning, from learners as well as staff.”