On the evening of November 6, 2024, London’s City Hall became a beacon of inspiration and achievement as Adult Learning providers, tutors, and learners gathered for the annual Mayor of London Learning Awards. Set against the capital’s stunning skyline, this prestigious event recognised the unwavering commitment of educators and celebrated the incredible journeys of learners who have harnessed the power of education to transform their lives.
The awards recognised outstanding achievements across multiple categories, from teaching excellence to program innovation, highlighting the crucial role of #lifelonglearning in empowering Londoners. Deputy Mayor Howard Dawber shared his excitement on social media and posted this message:
“The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan Adult Learning Awards ceremony is tonight! Get ready to hear about the inspirational stories and the transformative impact of adult learning in the capital. We will celebrate our Inspirational Adult Learner of the Year, our Distinguished Provider of Adult Education, our Learning for Good Work Employer of the Year… And all the other fantastic and worthy award winners, who are helping Londoners and businesses get the skills they need to thrive, to create a fairer, safer, greener, and more prosperous city for all.”
The Mayor of London emphasised adult education’s role in building a more inclusive, skilled, and resilient city. Awards were given in categories including Inspirational Adult Learner of the Year, Distinguished Provider of Adult Education and Employer of the Year. Congratulations to everyone who was deservingly recognised.
As the evening drew to a close, attendees—educators, industry leaders, and learners alike—shared insights, celebrated successes, and exchanged ideas on the future of adult education in London. A sense of unity and purpose filled the air, as everyone departed with renewed excitement to continue elevating adult learning across the capital. It was a pleasure to meet Deputy Mayor Howard Dawber who shall be visiting Just It Bootcamps this month. We look forward to welcoming him.
The awards themselves wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of Ascentis, the event’s sponsor. Phil Wilkinson, Group CEO of Ascentis, emphasised the organisation’s commitment to lifelong learning:
“This is the third year we’ve supported the Mayor of London Adult Learning Awards, and we are proud to be a sponsor. Adult learning has a hugely positive impact on so many, and we see this on a daily basis at Ascentis. I’d like to say a huge congratulations to all the winners who collected their awards today.”
Here’s to every Londoner inspired by this night—to every learner, educator, and community leader. In my role at Just IT, I am committed to harnessing the momentum of nights like this. Here’s to everyone working tirelessly to make lifelong learning a force for good in our city!
This event was attended by our Head of Partnerships Candice Fanning and Candice also wrote this article for Just IT.