Norfolk County Council Adult Learning was named Higher/Further Education Provider of the Year at the EDP Norfolk Education Awards 2024. 

Norfolk Adult Learning is the largest provider of further education learning to adults in Norfolk. Delivering to nearly 7,000 adults across Norfolk each year, Norfolk Adult Learning reaches out to residents who most need its support. Courses are given in community centres, libraries and at new training centres, as well as online. 

Of all learners on qualification programmes, 40pc live in the 30pc most disadvantaged wards. 

The judges said: “The support of the Ukrainian refugees in their training courses, alongside those from Syria and Afghanistan, is hugely important to both the students and to the communities they are living and working within.”  

They were also impressed by how many learners remained in employment after their course. 

Carl Fiander, assistant head of service at Norfolk County Council, said the win was “fantastic”. He added: “It’s such a rural county and we’re just so proud of the fact that we can reach every single pocket of it and make a difference to so many lives.” 

Finalist: East Norfolk Sixth Form College  

East Norfolk Sixth Form College, in Gorleston, has a commitment to being inclusive and ensuring that all young people aged 16-19, regardless of background or learning disability, can progress to the highest level in their chosen careers. 

Finalist: Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form   

Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form provides an exceptional experience for young adults. The sixth form in Norwich fulfils the academic aspirations of students thanks to dedicated staff who thrive on the satisfaction of seeing others succeed. 

For more information on all the winners, please click here. 

To find out more about the EDP Norfolk Education Awards, please visit norfolkeduawards.co.uk