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31 May 2005 08:56:26
The University of Luton has played host to the 2005 Adult Learners’ Week Awards for the East of England – part of the largest festival of adult learning in the UK.
Organised by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE), the event officially recognises the dedication, commitment and achievements of adult learners throughout England and Wales.
Project and Recruitment Manager, Sarah Waller, said: “We were honoured to host such an important event for the region and all the winners really enjoyed their day.
“The University of Luton provides many adult learning opportunities via free training courses, seminars and workshops that help adults gain valuable skills for today's work place. It’s important that they are recognised for their achievements because it’s not always easy to go back to learning after long periods away from education.”
Among the winners from Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Suffolk, Norfolk and Essex, was Vauxhall worker Ken Gooding. After Vauxhall stopped making cars, the forty-two-year-old father of five decided to look at ways of gaining new skills, as his role had changed.
Ken, who comes from Bedford, was nominated by staff at the University of Luton where he studied 10 courses, including IT skills, team building, time management, presentation skills, problem solving and internet and web technology.
“Ken is a real inspiration,” said Professor David Barrett, who presented Ken with his award.
“He really did rise to the challenge, despite being tired from his night shifts and juggling family life. Ken should be very proud of his achievements. His commitment to completing so many courses must be commended. I hope his success will inspire other adults to invest in their learning.”
Commenting on his learning experience, Ken said: “As well as gaining valuable skills, my confidence has grown enormously. I am very grateful to have had the chance to take part in these courses, and I hope other adults will be encouraged to do the same.
“The support I received from staff at the University and from my family was fantastic. I really enjoyed the ceremony and I got the chance to meet other winners from around the region.”
Also attending the event was Luton’s new and youngest-ever Mayor, Councillor Haji Abid, Andrew Hitter from the Government Office for the East of England, and Europe’s fastest caricaturist, Jed Pascoe, who drew pictures of the winners and the attendees.
Photo: From left to right; at the back, David Love and Ken Gooding; at the front, Manthura Muhidin, Sharon Dee and Janice Fenn. Click on the image to view a bigger photo.
To find out more about adult learning opportunities at the University of Luton, call 01582 743045 or visit www.luton.ac.uk/businessservices/organisational.
Latest news» 2005» May» University Honours Adult Learners at High-Profile Awards Ceremony
