Former Kirklees College student Sanaa Shaqeel was named winner of the Learning for Work Award at the recent Kirklees Adult Learner Awards.
Background to Sanaa’s journey at Kirklees College
Before starting the Level 3 Education and Training qualification, Sanaa worked as a part-time receptionist at a local community centre. While in this role and seeing visiting teachers at the centre, Sanaa considered what it would be like to have a career in teaching. She then applied to Kirklees College to take her first steps into her new journey.
She eventually enrolled on a course, studying at Ravensthorpe Community Centre, and quickly impressed her tutors and college staff with hard work and dedication.
It was no surprise then when she was announced a winner after being nominated
Yvonne Oloo, Sanaa’s tutor, said: “Sanaa has demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and compassion while studying on the Level 3 Education and Training course. Throughout the course, Sanaa developed her planning skills and learnt to create resources and lesson plans. She also demonstrated this through her exemplary micro-teaching session where she spoke about burnout and how to identify the signs.”
“Her exemplary attendance, professionalism, and growing passion for teaching. This is reflected in her progressing to further study at the University of Huddersfield.”
Lindy Kelly, Deputy Head of Adult and Community Learning, added: “Sanaa is a very deserving recipient of this award, and her success highlights the positive impact of adult education within our communities.
“At Kirklees College, we support individuals who may not otherwise access education, training, or employment opportunities. Through a range of locally tailored courses, we help adults overcome barriers, build confidence, and take their first steps towards further learning and work.”
Sanaa posted on her LinkedIn profile after the event: “I would like to express the biggest thank you to Yvonne Oloo, my Level 3 Education and Training tutor who not only nominated me for this award, but has continuously been my biggest role model. As you once said, the sky is your limit!”
Hear from Sanaa about her experiences as an adult student at Kirklees College
Back in June, the college launched its “Your Next Chapter” video alongside a new adult course guide. The video was a celebration of the adult learners at Kirklees College, including Sanaa. You can see some of what she had to say in the video below.
More information about the range of adult courses at Kirklees College
The adult curriculum covers a variety of subject areas, including Business, Construction, Creative Industries, Engineering, ESOL, Hair and Beauty, Sport, Hospitality and Catering, Motor Vehicle, Teaching and more.
The courses are delivered across the college’s seven specialist centres and at a range of community centres across Huddersfield and Dewsbury.
Visit the adult learner section of the Kirklees College website to find out more. You can also visit the college’s Adult and Community Education page on Facebook to discover the wide range of community courses.