Learner Achievement Awards 2025

Celebrating the success of adult learning

Celebrating the Power of Learning: 2025 West Berkshire Learner Achievement Awards

The West Berkshire Learner Achievement Awards continue to showcase the transformative impact of education and training on people's lives. These annual awards celebrate the achievements of adult learners across the district, from apprenticeships and professional qualifications to family learning and wellbeing programmes.

Each year, the awards shine a light on stories of resilience, determination, and personal growth, demonstrating how learning can help individuals overcome adversity and achieve their goals.

The 2025 ceremony was held at Shaw House on Friday, 7 November, and featured keynote speaker Anthony Bennett,

widely known as The Miracle Man. After surviving three life-threatening infections and being resuscitated 12 times, Anthony rebuilt his life from scratch, relearning how to walk, talk, and breathe. Today, he is a sought-after motivational speaker who shares his story to inspire resilience, self-belief and the power of a fresh start. His message perfectly aligned with the spirit of the awards, reminding us all that setbacks can be the beginning of something extraordinary.

Among this year's winners:

Maria Tatys, recipient of the Determination Award, overcame personal and professional challenges to complete a Level 4 Diploma in Health and Social Care with distinction. Her journey has transformed her confidence and leadership, proving that it's never too late to invest in yourself.
Connor Young, winner of the Adult Apprenticeship Award, sponsored by West Berkshire Training Consortium, completed his Team Leader Apprenticeship despite facing redundancy, and secured a new job through sheer perseverance and focus.
Vinny Hosey, recipient of the Inspiring Others Award, is a Newbury College student whose growth as a photographer and as a confident, collaborative learner has inspired peers and staff alike.
Jim Brindley, honoured with the Return to Learning Award, made a bold career change into regulatory services after decades in food retail. His pursuit of multiple qualifications and his impact on council efficiency highlight the value of lifelong learning. Though Jim couldn't attend the ceremony due to a Food Law exam, his nominator accepted the award on his behalf.
The Teacher, Tutor and Trainer Award was shared by two outstanding educators:
- Lesley Sully, of West Berkshire Training Consortium, was recognised for her exceptional curriculum design, engaging delivery, and commitment to learner success across a wide range of subjects.
- Stephen Smith, of the Furniture Project, was celebrated for his 16 years of compassionate teaching and mentoring, helping learners overcome barriers and achieve qualifications. Now retiring, he continues to volunteer and support others.
The Group Award was presented to the Chatty Café ESOL Group at Educafe, a vibrant and diverse group of women who meet weekly to learn English, share experiences, and build friendships. Their warmth, mutual support, and commitment to one another have created a beacon of inclusivity and community spirit.
The Terry Stares Award was awarded to Dhana Curties, a learner at Read Easy West Berkshire. After a difficult personal period, Dhana chose to rebuild her life through reading. With quiet determination, she worked through the Turning Pages series, achieving every goal she set, from accessing information and helping at work to reading to her grandchildren. Her confidence and mental health have flourished, and she now shares her story to inspire others. Dhana's message is simple but powerful: "It's never too late. Do it."