Adult Learners week is the country’s largest festival of learning and takes place every year at the end of May.
 | | Linda Knight learns to read and write |
The festival highlights that going back to education as an adult learner can be enjoyable. During 19 -25th May thousands of events across the country will take place in town centres, local shopping centres and libraries where people can find out more about going back to training and education. Adult Learners’ Week is also about celebrating the remarkable achievements of learners and providers through the Adult Learners’ Week Awards. Adult learners from Birmingham and the Black Country were among this year’s winners and were recognised at a prestigious awards ceremony in London.
A new education - a new life
 | | Bricklayer Dawn Stokes |
In a short video produced by volunteers on the BBC WM CSV Action Desk hear the stories of people who – through determination, commitment and dedication – have transformed their lives through learning. Dawn Stokes, aged 38, from Birmingham, won an Individual Learner Award as part of this year’s Adult Learners’ Week. The Mother-of-seven is building herself a new career in the construction industry. She had a burning ambition to follow in her father’s footsteps and work as a builder. After his death and the breakdown of her marriage she decided to realise her dream and start training.
 | | National winner Ray Jackson learns art and design |
Ray Jackson, aged 56, from Wolverhampton, won the National Senior Learner of the Year Award. After working as a welder for 30 years and facing “major stress at work”, Ray had a serious nervous breakdown and was in rehabilitation for two years. As part of his treatment Ray had been encouraged to attend Art for Health classes. When Ray was introduced to sculpture it became apparent that he had a real aptitude for the three-dimensional disciplines. Adult learners on film Watch Ray, Dawn and others talk about their experiences of becoming adult learner achievers. NIACE promotes adult learning
 | | Bill Cooper, aged 89 learns cookery |
The annual Adult Learners Week is organised by the registered charity National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) and aims to continually raise the awareness of adult learning in the UK. Rachel Thomson, Senior Campaigns Officer at NIACE, says “What is without question is the remarkable dedication, enthusiasm and energy that every single one of this year’s Adult Learners’ Week Award winners have shown. "The winners have discovered new-found talents and confidence and are now eager to learn more. They will continue to enhance their own lives and those of their families, friends and communities.” Visit the NIACE website for more information.
NIACE website >
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To find out more about adult learning in your local area call learndirect on 0800 100 900 or contact the BBC WM Action Desk for a free information pack 08453 030 030. | 
