Learner of the Year Award 2026

Celebrating Excellence in Learning

Award Overview

This award is for full-time learners who are making a significant contribution in their workplace and have shown a dedication to excel in their professional development and studies.

Congratulations to our shortlisted finalists: 

Abdul

Abdul Khaksar, Bridgwater and Taunton College

Abdul Zamir Khaksar is an automotive engineering student at Bridgwater College whose journey reflects resilience, dedication, and leadership. A former mechanic with the British Forces under a Ministry of Defence contract, he also holds a degree in Political Science. Resettled in the UK in August 2024 through the ARAP scheme, Abdul has overcome language, cultural, and personal challenges while balancing full-time work and family life. He demonstrates exceptional professionalism, mentors peers, and inspires others through his perseverance and commitment to learning.

Hollie

Hollie King, Bridgwater and Taunton College

Hollie King is a Level 2 Light Vehicle Maintenance student at Bridgwater College whose academic excellence is matched by remarkable motorsport achievement. A multiple national and European junior drag bike champion, Hollie combines elite-level racing with exemplary college performance, maintaining high attendance, top IMI exam results, and a professional work ethic. Respected for her maturity and teamwork, she actively supports peers, bridges theory with real-world practice, and inspires others through her dedication, resilience, and passion for automotive engineering. 

Oleh

Oleh Kuzma, North Hertfordshire College

Oleh is a Level 1 Automotive Maintenance student at North Hertfordshire College whose journey is defined by resilience, compassion, and determination. Having fled the war in Ukraine with his family, he retrained from law to automotive engineering, overcoming language barriers, mental health challenges, and financial pressures. Despite these obstacles, he became a trusted peer mentor and the most motivated student on his course.  

 

Events

Learner of the Year 2025 Winner

Take a look at our Learner of the Year Award 2025 winner, Becky Pearce from Jacob Fish from Bridgwater and Taunton College.

Read Jacob's story

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