Learner of the Year 2025: Success Stories
At 2aspire, we believe in the transformative power of adult learning, where determination, community support, and accessible opportunities improve lives. Our recent Learner of the Year nominees show this journey. Their stories reflect not only personal achievements (overcoming barriers, building confidence, and gaining qualifications), but also the wider impact of learning: stronger families, fulfilled aspirations, and richer communities. We hope their journeys inspire you to explore what’s possible!
Learner Success Spotlight: Tom Morley
Tom recently completed the Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools, a 12-week online course with First College designed for aspiring teaching assistants. Despite juggling other studies, volunteering, illness, and helping in the family business, Tom showed incredible commitment, attending every session and submitting all coursework on time.
His dedication paid off! Tom is now employed one day a week supporting a student with SEND in a forest school setting, turning his volunteer role into paid work.
“Tom was an exemplary student – curious, supportive, and always engaged.”
Inspired by Tom’s journey into education support?
Discover how adult learning can help you take the next step! Click here to explore a wide range of fully funded courses designed to help you upskill, return to learning, or help you find new employment opportunities.
Learner Success Spotlight: Iryna Movchan
After relocating to Lincolnshire from Ukraine, Iryna joined the ESOL Book Club: Reading and Speaking Skills course at to improve her English and boost her job prospects in the UK.
Her dedication was incredible, studying weekly with TaylorITEX and Louth Learning Centre, using online resources, and supporting fellow learners in class.
Thanks to her hard work, Iryna’s confidence has soared. She’s reading more, keeping up with local news, and even secured a job in catering at a local school! Looking forwards, Iryna aims to grow into a classroom assistant role.
Iryna said: “Real-life English is so different from textbook English, but these classes helped me understand and use it every day.”
Like Iryna, you can build your confidence and career in a new country. Click here to find fully funded adult learning courses that support your goals, whether it’s improving your English, gaining qualifications, or employment.
Learner Success Spotlight: Helen McFarlane
Helen, a resident in a care home, took part in Fun with Garden Shapes, a creative maths-based course delivered by Pelican Trust. Despite facing challenges, Helen showed incredible enthusiasm and initiative, writing a detailed description of the vegetable life cycle completely voluntarily!
Her curiosity and engagement was inspiring. She’s now enrolled in Maths for Everyday Life, continuing her learning journey with pride and purpose.
Helen keeps a folder of all her work and is proud of every achievement. Adult learning has given her confidence, a sense of accomplishment, and something to look forward to.
Helen’s story shows how learning can bring joy and pride at any stage of life. Explore fully funded courses and find something new to look forward to, whether it’s for personal growth, skills development, or employment.
Learner Success Spotlight: Leon McCulla
Leon recently completed the Blended Security SIA Course, a 3-week programme combining classroom and online learning with Teach Vocation. Leon showed incredible courage and determination to overcome a number of challenges to progress with his learning.
With one-to-one support and a welcoming environment, Leon not only passed his qualifications but also grew in confidence and independence.
“Before the course I wasn’t sure I could do it, but I proved to myself I could.”
Now, Leon is confidently volunteering at Trinity Arts Centre, using his new skills to support safety procedures and interact with others more comfortably. His story is a brilliant example of how inclusive adult learning can break down barriers and open new doors.
Leon’s success proves that with the right support, anything is possible. Discover fully funded courses that can help you build confidence, gain qualifications, and open doors to new opportunities.
Learner Success Spotlight: Dorothy McFadyen
At 87 years old, Dorothy joined the Air Frying: Faster Foods while Cutting Costs course with Just Begin at Alford Hub—and she brought lots of enthusiasm with her!
Living alone, Dorothy wanted to cook healthier meals from scratch instead of relying on pre-made options. The course gave her the confidence and tools to do just that!
“I was so thrilled to take my air fryer home and start cooking again.”
Dorothy has since enrolled in a Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Nutrition and Health, and completed most of her units. She’s now eagerly looking for more learning opportunities.
Dorothy proves you’re never too old to learn something new! Find out how you can gain new skills, improve your wellbeing, and stay independent.
Learner Success Spotlight: Nadiia Illarionova
At 65, Nadiia joined the Introduction to English course with Lincolnshire County Council’s Adult Skills and Family Learning Service in Spalding, determined to build her confidence and strengthen her communication skills. Having moved to the UK from Ukraine after a stroke, she faced many challenges, including a 1.5-hour journey each way by bike and bus just to attend classes.
Her dedication was unwavering. Nadiia attended every session, completed her homework, and actively practised her English. Her efforts paid off, she’s now more confident speaking and understanding English, has worked in a local factory, and even visits the library independently.
Her tutor said “Nadiia showed incredible resilience and commitment to learning.”
Nadiia’s determination shows how learning can transform lives at any age.
Learner Spotlight: Clare Allison
Clare began her learning journey with Creating Positive Opportunity two years ago, starting with Entry Level 3 Maths and English. Today, she’s proudly achieved her Level 2 Functional Skills and is thriving – both personally and professionally.
Initially joining to rebuild confidence after a difficult period, Clare has transformed her life through adult learning. From overcoming anxiety to giving public presentations, she’s now volunteering at Citizens Advice and training with ‘With You’ in North East Lincolnshire. She’s also qualified in First Aid and is currently studying British Sign Language!
Clare said: “Going through the menopause shattered my confidence. Adult learning gave it back.”
Clare found her confidence again through adult learning… so can you!
Explore a variety of fully funded courses that can help you return to education, upskill for work, or simply rediscover your potential.