Awards in higher education have gained popularity in recent years, with the notable example of the Times Higher Education Awards.  UALL introduced its own awards for lifelong learning in 2009, with the aim of celebrating innovation in learning programmes even in a tough financial climate. 

From the outset the scheme was a success, attracting a good number of submissions each year, and illustrating the abundant adaptability and creativity of adult educators.  Adjudication is based on a number of criteria: innovation and creativity, sustainability, impact and transferability. The winners and runners-up are difficult to judge, such is the quality of entries.  The Awards are presented in a ceremony at the Annual Conference Dinner.

This year has lived up to this impressive tradition. In the magnificent architecture of the Grand Connaught Rooms the winner and the three runners-up received their awards with much celebration and publicity.

The winner:  University of Sheffield, Institute of Lifelong Learning for The Discover Programme - a highly creative programme which, through visits to museums and galleries, aims to inspire aspirations to university study.

The three runners-up:  

• University of Strathclyde, Centre for Lifelong Learning – Learning in Later Life Students' Association; University of Wales;
• Trinity Saint David – Mentoring our Workforce Project;
• The Western Access Progression Agreement Steering Group – Supporting access to higher education diploma learners in the South West of England.

Later this year we will be inviting applications for the 2015 Awards, and we look forward to receiving more innovative submissions.

Please do visit our website at: www.uall.ac.uk

With best wishes,

Lucy

Lucy Bate MSc
Administrator
Universities Association for Lifelong Learning