Nominations open for Adult Learning Awards 2025

Has someone inspired you to get into learning?

Is there an organisation that has been particularly supportive?

Has your employer helped you to achieve your career potential?

Do you know someone who has achieved something amazing by learning as an adult?

With the launch of a third year of the West Midlands Adult Learning Awards, residents across the region are invited to nominate individuals, tutors, learning providers and employers that can inspire or support others to get involved in adult learning.

The Awards, which are supported by the Learning and Work Institute, champion outstanding commitment in adult learning, skills and training activities that are funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

This includes innovative learning providers working in partnerships and engaging with communities, employers supporting residents to upskill and progress in work, and individuals overcoming challenges to transform their lives.

Last year’s awards saw hundreds of nominations from across the West Midlands.

Laura Cox from Bilston, who received the accolade for Inspirational Adult Learner in 2024, said: “The training has been completely life-changing. I have become more motivated, confident and look forward to waking up with a new energy for what the day has in store.

“I’m proud to be a role model for my children, and I’ve discovered I want to make a difference to the lives of other people."

Nominators have until 5 March 2025 to recommend individual learners, tutors, learning providers or employers who most inspire them – with ten awards up for grabs. Winners will be announced at an official awards ceremony at The Grand Hotel, Birmingham on 26 June 2025

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: "I want everyone in the West Midlands to have the opportunity to learn new skills, land a good-quality job and get on in life.

“The economic growth we are bringing to this region, and the jobs that come with it, will only be worth it if they are available to the people who live here. These awards shine a spotlight on those people who are going above and beyond in supporting our residents to get trained up and turn their lives around for the better.

“This event is about celebrating both those that support others to learn later in life, and those, like Laura, who go back to learning to give themselves a step up.”

Stephen Evans, chief executive of earning and Work Institute (L&W), said: “We are delighted to be supporting the Adult Learning Awards for the third year in a row, and look forward to working with the WMCA once again to showcase lifelong learning at the centre of a thriving regional economy. 

“Adult learning is key for improving productivity, for business success, and for individual opportunity. It’s inspiring to see investment in learning transform businesses, communities and individual lives across the region.”

You can find more information about the awards, including how to nominate on the WMCA website.