ACL Awards 2025
The ACL Awards is a celebration of the incredible impact that individuals and teams have made within our community. Across Essex, learners, staff, and partners have sparked change, not just in their own lives, but in the lives of those around them. Whether it’s through sharing knowledge, offering support, or simply showing up with determination and heart, each of you has helped build a stronger, more connected ACL.
All in it Together Award Winners
Recognises individuals and teams who have demonstrated exceptional collaboration and unity, making a significant impact on the learning community.
Julie Day
“Julie has embodied the spirit of unity and collaboration, fostering a warm and supportive learning environment for all. Her kindness, encouragement, and willingness to contribute makes her a truly deserving recipient of this award. She is always welcoming to her peers, happy to chat, offer support, and lend a hand when needed.”
MIS Team
“The MIS team has demonstrated unwavering dedication, resilience, and excellence in the face of demanding challenges and tight deadlines. They have consistently worked together to go above and beyond to deliver accurate, insightful, and timely data solutions that have been critical to the success of ACL. Whether it was supporting strategic decision-making, enabling operational efficiency, or responding to urgent requests, the team has shown remarkable agility and commitment.”
Richard McTighe
“Richard has participated enthusiastically in all aspects of the course, achieving a high standard of work throughout. He has shown dedication and commitment to the class and teamwork, making a significant impact on the learning journey of his peers using sensitivity and encouragement.”
Skills Bootcamp Delivery Team
“The Skills Bootcamp Delivery Team’s positive approach has been evident in every aspect of their work. They have carefully designed and delivered engaging content that resonates with learners, ensuring that each session is both informative and inspiring. They provide each other cover when needed to ensure that each cohort is delivered on time and always respond promptly to requests.”
Sonia Clark
“Sonia took on leading the national and ECC Multiply scheme part way through the project and the impact she has made is outstanding. She has had an incredible impact on individuals, their families and community groups and more than this…. she has created a legacy.”
Community Champions & Valued Volunteers Award Winners
This award honours those who have selflessly given their time to support others and strengthen community connections.
Brian Adams
“Brian has excellent IT skills and as soon as he notices that another learner or the tutor is having problems he is the first to offer help. He can usually solve the problem and gets great pleasure out of doing so. Other learners are always grateful for his help. His input assists me as his tutor, the LSAs in class and other learners.”
Diana Brown
“Diana is the lead volunteer at the Witham Leisure centre community garden. She hosts our SL Horticulture class there and provides activities for them to take part in every other week often funded from her own pocket. She goes in and prepares work for us in her own time. She is a very kind, caring and generous person without which the community would be a lot worse off. “
Emirjona Dautovi
“Emirjona Dautovi joined the ACL Ambassador project in October 2024. Since successfully completing her training she has been a conscientious and enthusiastic volunteer and now regularly attends weekly sessions in her local primary school, supporting the Family Learning team. The sessions attract a wide cross section of parents including those who have come to the UK as refugees and are loved by parents, children and the school, who all think she is wonderful.”
Emma Howe – The Minories
“Their commitment to fostering creativity and professional development is evident in the Life Shop brief they offer to digital marketing students, as well as the free exhibition space they generously provide for art learners on accredited courses. Their genuine interest in community learning, along with their unwavering support for emerging artists and marketers, demonstrates their dedication to enriching both individuals and the wider creative community.”
Julie Bridge
“Julie goes above and beyond to foster good relationships with the families at the setting. She offers a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on for parents with worries about their children or family issues and gives them reassurance and tries to help as best she can. Julie has created a warm and supportive environment for staff and families at little learners and should be really proud of the work she does.”
Creating a Great Place to Learn Award Winners
This award celebrates those who create warm, inclusive and inspiring learning environments where others thrive.
Graham Hudson
“Anyone who is regularly in Colchester will know Graham and the great job he does. He regularly goes over and above expectations, doing over his hours so there is cover and staying on to complete a job. Nothing is a hassle, and he will always look to mend or find the best alternative and ways to save ACL money. He truly is an asset to Colchester and ACL as a whole.”
Hannah Pearce
“Hannah is a very good tutor to me all the time and she helps me a lot. This person is always kind, patient and supportive, making learning enjoyable and comfortable. Her kindness, patience, and unwavering support create a safe and welcoming space where learners feel valued and encouraged. She consistently goes above and beyond to make learning enjoyable and accessible, helping individuals grow in confidence and achieve their goals. Her dedication truly makes ACL a great place to learn.”
Lewis Walsh
“Lewis was teaching us the tecchie part on the digital marketing bootcamp. He was very accommodating to make sure that everyone felt welcome, included and understood. It was a very warm, inclusive course where everyone felt welcome which is quite a task where learners are all at different personal skill levels. He was able to communicate complex technical things into everyday language which was a relief! He’s a star!”
Rebecca Mann
“Rebecca truly takes the time to allow each student in her class to learn in their own individual ways. Since starting level 2 my self-confidence and self-belief have gone through the roof. Having someone that believes in you at college makes you feel like anything is possible. I am now working in the beauty industry. I do believe this wouldn’t be possible without the amazing teaching and understanding from her.”
Cultural and Inclusion Ambassador Award Winners
This award celebrates individuals who foster a welcoming, inclusive environment where diverse cultures, perspectives, and talents are embraced and celebrated.
Anita Higgs
“Anita is a kind, helpful tutor who is encouraging and always fun to be around. When we learn new things, she is so good at explaining the new techniques and her patience is second to none. Each week when we arrive, she always welcomes us and encourages us to try new skills. She encourages you to have confidence in yourself.”
Family Learning Achievement Award Winners
This award celebrates individuals or groups who’ve used learning to strengthen their families, communities, and futures.
Clacton Family Learning Crafts & Fun Group
“This group has shown commitment and dedication to their learning and have created an inclusive learning environment that provides vital peer support to one another as well as becoming great ambassadors for ACL, not forgetting the creation of their amazing pieces of art. As their tutor I am incredibly proud of each and every one of them for their individual achievements and personal growth, the way in which they conduct themselves as a group and continue to develop themselves as the amazing parents that they are.”
Lauren Early and Hannah Ellis
“They work tirelessly to keep the wheels of the FL team turning and have the patience of saints. Nothing is ever too much trouble, they come up with innovative and time saving ideas to help us all and are always willing to answer our questions – however daft those questions may be. They go way above and beyond their job roles and keep us all on track. They even manage to still have a sense of humour at the end of the week too.”
Going the Extra Mile Award Winners
This award recognises individuals who go above and beyond, whether in the classroom, the workplace, or the community, to support and uplift others.
Agnieszka Trawicka-Szymczak
“Agnieszka is extremely helpful in the class, polite, conscientious, organised and hard working at all times. Showing encouragement and moral support to fellow learners. Their dedication, reliability, and respectful attitude not only support their own progress but also uplift those around them – truly embodying what it means to go the extra mile for others.”
Chloe Rodgers
“Chloe really does give all her lesson 110% will do much planning and care going into her lessons. We all learn so much from her! She is amazing and really does go the extra mile to give the learners a wonderful education She never hesitates to help me as an LSA and working in her lessons is a true pleasure.”
Ismail Kanizi
“Ismail has demonstrated exceptional dedication and a remarkable commitment to mastering the FS Maths Level 2 course. His consistent attendance, proactive approach to seeking assistance, and genuine gratitude for support has been instrumental in his outstanding progress. He has fostered a positive learning environment through his respectful and appreciative demeanor.”
Jack Howlett
“Jack has demonstrated competence, hardwork and dedication in his meticulous preparation and superb delivery of English to learners. He makes the classes fun but ensures the vital criteria are covered. He has the ability to adapt to all levels of understanding and really cares about doing his job well. He goes above and beyond the normal acceptable levels of workmanship. He goes the extra mile.”
Kyra Samuels
“Kyra has shown remarkable dedication to her personal and professional growth while undertaking the Level 3 Childminding course. She consistently submits her work on time, and her assignments are always thorough, well-researched, and presented with exceptional quality. She goes above and beyond in her efforts, showcasing her passion and enthusiasm for Early Years. She is an active and enthusiastic participant in class discussions. She contributes valuable insights that inspire her peers, helping to create collaborative and engaging learning environment.”
Maria Johnson
“Maria has impressed management with her continued exemplary behaviours and attitude ensuring there is a strong effective front line team in centres. Importantly she has recognised gaps in provision and been consistent in asking for help from others in the service so that a good level of service is offered. She is always willing to help others, will offer support where needed and is a firm favourite with all learners, especially in Colchester.”
Maryna Hrabovetska
“Maryna joined the ACL ESOL team in July 2022 after arriving in Essex from Ukraine. Since joining ACL, she has consistently proven herself to be an invaluable member of the ESOL team, always striving to provide her learners with the best possible learning opportunities. She is organised, professional, enthusiastic, and humorous at all times. Her dedication to learning and professionalism led to a request from the exam board to use a recording of her exemplary management of a Speaking & Listening exam as training material.”
Ursula Hom
“Ursula is an exceptionally good learner and always happy to help her classmates. Her positive attitude and willingness to support others make her a valued member of ACL. She approaches every session with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to succeed, not just for herself, but for those around her. Her helpful nature and collaborative spirit contribute to a warm, inclusive environment where everyone feels encouraged to do their best.”
Zoe Mallett
“Zoe always has time for you (even when she doesn’t), she listens activity, communicates effectively, encourages, motivates and recognises and acknowledges your contributions. She always goes above and beyond and when you have a line manager that you can rely on it really makes all the difference and her enthusiasm and passion inspire you to become the best teacher that you can.”
Innovation and Digital Development Award Winners
This award celebrates learners or staff who introduced creative and effective uses of digital tools, improving learning or service delivery at ACL.
Faye Miller
“Faye joined ACL just over a year ago, and is a breath of fresh air. After finding out what training staff want and need, she has brought external trainers in to present on dyslexia, and creative thinking around radicalisation, and used her creativity to lead on the staff Awaydays. She works with an enthusiasm and openness that means she is a pleasure to work with. She asks for and accepts feedback and is clear and honest with her own. She is an asset to ACL.”
Ian Mahoney
“Ian has truly embraced innovation and digital development in his learning journey at ACL. From crafting playful plasticine camels to designing digital tigers on holiday, Ian has continually brought fresh, imaginative ideas to his work. His enthusiasm for innovation has not only enhanced his own development but has also enriched the learning experience for his peers.”
Sharron Howard
“Sharron is a pioneer for the Supported Learning provision and has taken on enormous challenges and thrived in the face of huge changes within her area of work, always with a smile and positive outlook. In addition to her outstanding personal qualities, she has embraced an innovative approach to enhance the learning experience for all. Her forward-thinking approach has made learning more accessible, engaging, and inclusive. Through her leadership and creativity, she continues to shape a modern, supportive learning environment that empowers both learners and colleagues alike.”
Learning in the Workplace Award Winners
This award honours learners and employers who embrace professional growth through apprenticeships, bootcamps, or upskilling, and those who support others to do the same.
Becca Baldwin
“Becca has demonstrated exceptional dedication and resilience in their role, overcoming personal challenges with remarkable perseverance. Their openness to feedback and receptiveness to support have been instrumental in their growth, both professionally and personally, leading to increased confidence, independence, and resilience. Their hard work and commitment have significantly improved the administration and processes of the Early Years Skills Bootcamp, extending to the other Skills Bootcamp pathways, ensuring a seamless and positive experience for our learners.”
Joe Castagna – Colas Ltd
“Joe has collaborated with ACL on our Project Management Skills Bootcamps to provide a valuable insight into project management in the construction industry. He has attended a number of guest speaking slots to support the curriculum of the Skills Bootcamp. He delivered very enjoyable and insightful presentations that were truly appreciated by everyone. Learners found the information provided extremely useful and felt it gave them a clearer understanding of what project management within the construction sector entails.”
Jonathan Coulson
“Jonathan has been an exemplary apprentice. In his time on the programme he has reached out to different teams doing presentations on Autism recourses which he developed and shared. Other teams noticed his work and have approached him to work for them researching and presenting facts for them. His project for his apprenticeship was one these examples where he looked into what services libraries do offer for families, especially when living with Dementia. This presentation and links were saved for all future social workers to roll out to families that may need this information.”
Louise Smith
“Louise made exceptional strides in her apprenticeship while sharing knowledge and skills with others. They have worked incredibly hard throughout their apprenticeship and successfully achieved her Level 2 Diploma. Over the course of her learning journey, she has gained tremendous confidence and consistently demonstrated excellence in her work. She is kind, considerate, caring, competent, and courageous – qualities that make her truly stand out. She is phenomenal in her role, especially in the way she works with her clients, and she thoroughly deserves this recognition. As her tutor beautifully put it: ‘Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey.”
Matthew Sims
“Matthew consistently embodied the spirit of unity and collaboration when undertaking his digital marketing course, significantly impacting his peers. His willingness to go above and beyond to help others has made him an invaluable member of the learning community. He ensured that no one was left struggling. His generosity and technical expertise helped learners overcome challenges and also fostered a positive and inclusive learning environment.”
Mitie – Peter Robertson
“They have provided invaluable interview resources and support to bootcamp learners, enhancing their employability. A highlight of their efforts is their successful placement of a learner who had been out of work for some time into a tailored position. They ensured this individual received necessary workplace adjustments, showcasing their commitment to inclusivity. Their positive feedback has supported with the delivery of future Skills Bootcamps.”
Mentorship Award Winners
This award honours those who support and guide others in their learning journeys, whether peer-to-peer or tutor-to-learner, with compassion and wisdom.
Lorretta Wiltshire
“Lorretta has provided me with the confidence to be able to undergo my role, ask questions, and provide feedback. She allows all staff and learners to feel heard and valued and is one of the reasons I feel confident my role at ACL. She always goes the extra mile for her team and the learners and employers she handles as well as being a mentor for myself to go to whatever problem there may be.”
Vicky James
“Vicky is a very supportive manager and goes the extra mile for staff and SL learners. She has enthusiasm; encourages new ideas and projects. She will create a positive environment to get an idea into fruition. She checks in with her staff regularly; with myself she always comes and says ‘hello’ to the learners, of whom enjoy and start to recognise her in the centre. She is always calm and will patiently listen.”
Chrissie Chapman
“Right from the very beginning, Chrissie has been amazing at providing me with support and putting things into place to allow me to truly thrive and flourish in my job role. She has listened, actioned and continued to support me throughout all of the highs and lows. She has been a continuous safe space for me to be honest and open with at any point and I always feel comfortable I can share things because I know it will be dealt with effectively and efficiently. Despite being in two roles as well, she is always available for questions if I need and her continued support has allowed me to develop confidence in contacting other members of staff for different questions.”
Progression and Achievement Award Winners
This award celebrates individuals who have made remarkable personal or academic progress, often overcoming barriers and inspiring those around them.
Angela Alvarez
“Not only has Angela’s work been outstanding, her willingness to learn and progress, but she has been supportive with others needs creating transcription their language helping creating group chats to support them. She has won her class Nail Art award which showed amazing results and techniques more advanced than course requirements. She is conscientious, supportive, friendly and always willing to help others.”
Charlee Rose
“Charlee has shown real commitment to his GCSE English course. He has caught the train every single Friday and not missed even one session. He has been fully committed to his studies, completing homework every week and using Teams to communicate with the class. He has participated fully in the class activities and been a valuable member of the class who is now confident to share his opinions and ideas. He should be very proud of his achievements.”
Comfort Chibogwu
“Comfort has consistently worked hard throughout her Level 2 Health and Social Care Diploma Programme producing high quality thoughtful written assignments and demonstrating excellent homecare delivery to her clients. As I observed recently is loved by her clients and family members. As her tutor I am extremely proud of this person who is very thoughtful, kind, generous and supportive towards others and particularly her class colleagues and generously shares her experiences, while listening and acknowledging others.”
Jenny Rolfe
“Jenny has mastered challenging subjects, advanced her skills, achieved her goals of writing and completing several works of short fiction and embarked on an ambitious writing project of length. She has participated in all activities enthusiastically and has proven herself to be an influential mentor to other students.”
Josh Carter
“Josh has been a great member of the Creative Writing classes at Wilson Marriage for the last few terms, but he has really come into his own this year. He has encouraged and helped new students feel comfortable, and supported digital and group engagement my sharing tips and ideas on teams.“
Markus Gates
“Markus came to me to achieve his English Functional Skills after being home schooled. He worked so hard and achieved his Level 2 qualification in just 4 months. The hard work, dedication and commitment he put into his studies really paid off!.”
Ricky Maunders
“Ricky has progressed so much through classes. He is an incredibly hard-working student who perseveres and never gives up when learning something new. Ricky is very dedicated to his work and particularly enjoys doing practical tasks. Ricky has secured a part time job and is now a School Crossing Patrol Officer at Templars School in Witham.”
Rory Sant
“Rory has shown a lot of progress in his learning. He attends classes regularly and always has a smile on his face. He likes getting involved with gardening and anything practical and is great at weeding and planting seeds.”
Victor Augustine
“Victor has excelled in his Level 3 H&SC programme and I am very proud as his tutor to nominate him. He has consistently completed excellent written work within target dates and models his leadership, knowledge, skills and behaviours within his role as a night team leader at a nursing home care setting. He attends all sessions engaging enthusiastically throughout, supports and mentors care support staff at the home and creates a positive learning experience for all.”
Resilience Award Winners
This award is dedicated to individuals who have faced and overcome challenges, demonstrating strength, determination and growth through adversity.
Elaine Dicks and all Harlow based staff
“In the face of adversity these staff have continued to show up, keep the service running and minimise any disruption to learners and their exams. I am very grateful for all their hard work and can do attitude.”
Maria Watts
“Maria has been amazing over the last 2 years starting at E2 and now doing L2 maths. She was very nervous when she started but she has improved a lot over the time and gained amazing confidence.”
Sustainable Practices Award Winners
This award recognises those who integrate sustainability into their learning, teaching, or leadership, inspiring change for the planet and future generations.
Nora Hadley
“Nora makes the classroom a safe, relaxing and creative place where learners experiment with sustainable ideas. She consistently goes above and beyond to support her students in their creative endeavours.”
Supporting Learning Award Winners
This award recognises the vital contributions of support staff who make learning possible—through care, dedication, and behind-the-scenes brilliance.
Jo Thorp
“Jo is always going the extra mile in her job role, she’s an asset to ACL, she’s a brilliant support who never needs to be asked to do her job, always recognises when learners need help or need a listening ear. She demonstrates dedication to learners personal and professional growth, i don’t know what i would do without her in my classes.”
Wellbeing Warriors Award Winners
This award honours those who promote wellbeing for others, offering kindness, compassion, and unwavering emotional support.
Joanna Hargrave
“Jo is a very supportive and approachable manager who knows her team extremely well both professionally and personally. She always takes time out of her busy work schedule to check-in with us and to answer or advise us about any queries or issues we may have. She certainly does go the extra mile!”
Hayley Baird
“Hayley has continually shown great commitment in her learning journey to develop her knowledge and skills which shines through in her resilience and determination to do the best in everything that she can. she is a huge support to her local community she selflessly gives her time and support though volunteering and fundraising for numerous organisations and charities and is an advocate for so many who without her wouldn’t have a voice.”
Sonya Smith
“Sonya has demonstrated a real commitment to learning alongside working. She fully participated in every aspect of the course and been very proactive in self-study and revision of areas she has needed to work on. She chose to speak about and educate her peers on an important topic that’s not spoken about enough, I admired her bravery and resilience in her presentation which formed part of the GCSE qualification.”
Lifelong Learning Award Winners
This award celebrates individuals who continuously seek new knowledge and push themselves to grow, at any age, stage, or ability level.
Caitlin Clark
“Caitlin is always full of enthusiasm in class, she is willing to experiment with new techniques and learn from her mistakes. She always has a smile on her face and is more than willing to support others. She brings humour to the class, which really helps if someone is having a bad day. Her skills and designs are developing all the time – her design book is a work of art.”
Johnathan Clark
“Johnathan has decided after many years of working as a chef, to give something back to his community and to young people by becoming a tutor. Not only this, he has committed to studying for his GCSE English and L2 Maths while still doing his full-on job! He now wants to return to that place of learning to inspire the next generation to be as passionate about food and catering as he is. He openly says that he wants to offer young people a different route to university and purely academic study as many of them have practical and creative skills to offer. I wish him well and his students will be lucky to be taught by such a passionate tutor.”
Rachel Kiddie
“Rachel has been a joy to have in the classroom. She has a positivity towards learning that is infectious! She encourages new members of the class and feeds back with sensitivity when reading their work. Her own writing is transforming as she continues to learn. Congratulations and thank you!”
Samuel Harvey
“Samuel started his journey with a Level 2 in Beauty Therapy after leaving a retail job he was unhappy in. Lacking confidence and worried about being judged, he has since flourished completing Level 3, securing a role as a skin specialist, and impressing his employer so much they’re funding his Level 4 and advanced training. Passionate, driven, and humble, they are thriving and inspiring others with his success and determination. Samuel has achieved so much in such a small space of time and for someone so young, he has really gone above and beyond. He is phenomenal. His tutor said: “Samuel reminds me why I started teaching.”
Tracey Drake
“Tracey has supported learning needs, she joined the course late and was too scared to undertake her initial assessments and needed huge persuasion to do so, since then she has tried all sorts of new learning experiences with courage and bravery that she didn’t think she would be able to and her self confidence has rocketed. She is now flourishing and takes great pride in her learning and achievements taking her learning home to use in her home environment. It’s been fabulous to see her journey.”