Adult Learning Awards
The Adult Learning Awards shine a light on learners, tutors, employers and providers from across the West Midlands.
Since 2023, individuals and organisations who have gone above and beyond in adult learning, skills and training have been recognised for their achievements.
Adult Learning Awards 2026 Shortlist
We are delighted to announce the shortlist for 2026.
This year’s finalists represent inspiring stories of resilience, innovation, inclusion and skills development, helping residents progress in learning, employment and life.
The winners will be announced at the Adult Learning Awards Ceremony on 8 July at STEAMhouse, Birmingham.
Adult Learning Educator
- Emma Shrimpton - Dudley College of Technology
- Lindrea Isaac - BMet
- Olena Yaholnytska - CECOS College
Community Learning Champion
- Adam Pickett - University College Birmingham (UCB)
- Debra Purcell - Access to Business
- Disability Resource Centre (DRC)
Employer Skills Champion
- Liz Heath - Severn Trent
- Muhammad Sibi - SibiNet
- The Skills Centre
Partnership Award
- BEEAS in partnership with Joseph Chamberlain College
- Birmingham Anchor Neighbourhood Learning Network
- Open Door - Wolverhampton City Council and local employers
Innovation in Adult Learning
- CommCast, in partnership with Learn Play & Dudley ACL
- DATUS Enabling Recovery
- Marc Campbell - Coventry City Council
Inspirational Adult Learner
- Jayne Lawley - Sense / Code Institute
- Meera Rawji - Sandwell Colleges
- Mohammed Azeem - Sandwell Adult and Family Learning
Adult Learner of the Year - Skills for Work
- Chloe Hadland - Release Potential
- Mercedes Green - PTP Training
- Ricky Finlan - Halesowen College
Adult Learner of the Year - Skills for Life
- Franklin Ojeh - Dudley College
- Kathleen Poole - Sandwell College
- Matthew Atkins - Dudley Adult and Community Learning (ACL)
Transforming Lives Through Learning
- Keegan James - Performance Through People
- Malkit Tung - Imeta
- Mandy Williams - DWP
Adult Learning Awards 2025
At the 2025 awards, 9 winners were celebrated for their inspiring stories and outstanding contributions to adult learning across the region. Meet our winners below.
Karl Wilson
Karl gave up everything to care for his Mum. Facing homelessness and depression, through WMCA training—he gained purpose, skills, and a new lease on life.
Sam Hutchings
Sam struggled in school and cared for his ill mum. Joining Path 2 Apprenticeships he found support, rediscovered his strengths, and gained tools to thrive.
Timothy Jackson
At 72, Tim lost his hearing and retired early. But through resilience and learning, he found new ways to connect—and now thrives with renewed purpose.
Alison Grade, Mission Accomplished
Through her TV and Film Fusion and Step Up to HOD programmes, Alison empowers learners of all levels—including neurodiverse talent—to lead and thrive.
Adult Education Service, Coventry City Council
Coventry Adult Education transforms lives. Offering inclusive learning, job support, and wellbeing services that uplift individuals and the whole community.
Railway Support Services Infrastructure
RSS Infrastructure and partners inspired hundreds of students to design future rail stations—boosting skills, confidence, and career aspirations.
Telford College
Telford College’s HGV training helps tackle driver shortages while transforming lives—supporting unemployed, low-income, and homeless adults into work.
BBC Studios Drama Productions
BBC Studios’ West Midlands Juniors opens doors to paid roles on major shows—building lasting careers and diversifying the region’s creative workforce.
Dudley MBC & Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust
ICAN, backed by the Commonwealth Games Legacy Fund, helped 500+ underrepresented locals gain skills, placements, and NHS or council jobs that last.
