Kirklees College ESOL student Mamadou Balde has recently been named runner-up in the English Language Learner category at the WYCA Adult Learner Awards.
The West Yorkshire Adult Learner Awards, hosted by Mayor Tracy Brabin and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, celebrates the achievements of adult learners aged 19 and over who transform their lives through education, training, and skills development.
Celebrating Mamadou’s progress and achievements
Mamadou first joined the college in 2024 and has progressed through several different courses thanks to the guidance of his supportive tutors.
Despite challenges along the way, he persevered and used the English skills he developed with us to secure employment. What started as a commitment to learning English has opened up opportunities that once felt out of reach.
Kristina Bedford, Adult Skills Manager at Kirklees College, spoke with great pride about Mamadou, saying: “Mamadou’s story perfectly captures the life-changing impact of adult learning. It shows how new skills, confidence, and determination can change lives, create opportunities, and help people achieve things they never thought possible.”
“One of the most rewarding parts of the evening was seeing just how much the nomination meant to him. While he didn’t take home the top award, his excitement, gratitude and pride in being recognised were truly heartwarming. The joy on his face throughout the event was a powerful reminder that success is about much more than winning, it’s about recognising progress, celebrating achievements and believing in what’s possible. “
ESOL courses at Kirklees College
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses are designed for students who do not speak English as a first language.
From Entry Level upwards, Kirklees College’s ESOL courses focus on improving English listening, speaking, reading, writing and grammar with the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification.
Taught at Huddersfield Centre and Pioneer Higher Skills Centre in Dewsbury, the college will provide a safe, supporting learning environment. Students will leave with the real-world English skills that are expected from employers and the tools needed to communicate successfully with the wider community.