Learners, their tutors and volunteers have been recognised for their achievements and commitment to adult learning in Sandwell.
Sandwell Adult and Family Learning (SAFL) hosted a Festival of Learning celebration at The Bethal Convention Centre, West Bromwich which saw around a dozen awards presented.
The event highlighted the benefits of learning and the achievements of adults who have used learning to transform their lives, and to encourage everyone to embrace lifelong learning.
The awards evening recognised both learners' achievements and the valued contributions made by all those involved in creating and inspiring effective learning across Sandwell.
Each person nominated for an award has either overcome personal challenges to acheive and learn, or made a significant contribution to support learning across Sandwell.
The awards were presented and the winners congratulated by the Deputy Mayor of Sandwell, Councillor Susan Eaves and Councillor Simon Hackett, cabinet member for children's service who also has responsibilities for adult learning in Sandwell.
"It was a great privilege to be invited to attend this amazing event.
"All the winners of these awards have shown outstanding qualities and commitment to adult learning in Sandwell.
"I have also come back to learning as an adult so really appreciate how much dedication and effort goes into both learning and tutoring.
"I want to congratulate everyone who got an award and hope this will encourage others to look at the benefits of adult learning."
The winners were: * Outstanding group award: Coneygre Performing Arts Group who performed a dance routine at the event. * Community learning award: Andrea Treagust * Commitment to learning: Shardaben Patel * Support staff award: Kirit Vadukul * Learning towards employment award: Sandra Blake * Outstanding volunteer award: Lynette Simmonds * Functional skills towards employment award: Pershi Dujja * Tutor award: Parmjit Bedesha * Functional skills progression award: Marie Lodge
Sandwell Adult and Family Learning (SAFL) offers a massive range of courses to suit learners' abilities and needs.
From learning English and maths skills, gaining qualifications or learning a new language, SAFL provides courses in a wide range of subjects.
They also offer courses to help with CV writing and interview skills and even courses to learn a new hobby such as knitting.
