On a sunny Birmingham evening, this year’s outstanding learners made their way to our historic Council House.

Entering the Banqueting Suite, eyes were drawn to the grand Victorian architecture: “It’s like being in a President’s house,” said one learner.

After photographs and refreshments, learners took their seats with family and friends. The evening began with introductions from Principal Ilgun Yusuf and Assistant Director Kalvinder Kohli. They set the stage for a night of celebration.

The outstanding learners

One of the first to receive an award was Doris, a SEND learner who is learning to read. She prepared her own speech and, in front of hundreds of people, delivered it with confidence and poise to loud applause.

As the night continued, there were many inspirational stories. Chloe has lived with chronic illness and this year faced bereavement. She joined a watercolours course, and through art she’s found a path to healing. Greg suffered through depression and alcoholism. Now, on a counselling course, he has found his purpose – helping others. Later, Rebecca spoke about her fear and anxiety of writing, but how she’s now found joy and freedom in expressing herself through words.

Then there was Usman. He survived a horrific road traffic accident that left him with life-changing injuries, which meant he had to re-learn everyday tasks. He withdrew from the world for a long time, unable even to speak to his family. But this year, he joined a Level 2 English course – and passed. Usman delivered a speech that brought many to their feet, including his smiling mum.

Several learners on the night shared the impact of learning and how it has changed them. Here’s what they had to say…

A celebration of lifelong learning

Councillor Sharon Thompson, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, closed the evening with a powerful reminder:

“Adult education can be a first step, but it can also be a place for another chance: learning is lifelong.”

Her words reflected the spirit of people like Zafar, learning Word and Excel in his 70s, and Sydney, who at school was told he’d never be able to read. Now, at 58, he is on an English course and every day he reads more confidently.

The lasting impact

The learners’ stories go beyond individual achievements. Their stories reveal the ripple effects of learning on teachers, families, and communities. You could hear it in Kamel’s story, as she’s secured a better job to provide a brighter future for her children. You could see it in the excited chatter of family and friends eager to celebrate together, and Ryan, a BAES teacher, who was lost for words after hearing his learner tell her story.

The evening was a powerful reminder of what adult learners can achieve. Their stories show what is possible.

Written by Stefan Breen