The outstanding achievements of an adult student at London South East Colleges (LSEC) have been recognised with two prestigious awards.
Sue Sandy (56) from Crystal Palace, was named as runner up in the national Association of Colleges (AoC) Student of the Year Awards 2024 last night – in the category of Adult Student of the Year. This follows her success at last week’s Mayor of London Adult Learning Awards, at which Sue was presented with a highly commended accolade.
These prestigious awards recognise Sue’s remarkable learning journey and her determination to succeed. Currently pursuing a BA degree in Social Work, Sue has shown incredible resilience, determination, and a desire for helping others throughout her life.
Having experienced significant upheaval as a child, including spending time in residential care, Sue left education at the age of 12. However, with an incredible passion for learning, and motivation to prove herself, she embarked on a journey to gain her qualifications, enrolling on an access course at London South East Colleges in September 2021.
Having completed this course, alongside Level 2 English and Maths, Sue progressed onto a degree course in Social Work and is now on track to graduate with first-class honours.
Throughout her studies, Sue has not only excelled academically but has also made significant contributions to her college and community. She serves as both the class representative and a well-being advocate, supporting fellow students. Sue is also a regular member of the BA Social Work interview panel at the University of West London, where she shares her personal experiences to inspire others.
Accepting her national award at the AoC’s Conference in Birmingham last night, Sue said:
“I’m so thrilled and honoured to have been nominated for these awards! I truly feel blessed and want to express my gratitude to my lecturers, especially my tutor Tricia Greene who has encouraged, inspired and challenged me all the way. Thank you LSEC for believing in me.”
Dr Sam Parrett CBE, CEO and Group Principal of London South East Colleges, said:
“It’s incredibly important to celebrate and share student success – especially for people who are as inspiring as Sue. She is a remarkable woman and we are incredibly proud of her achievements.
“Sue reflects the life-changing impact that Further Education can have at all stages of people’s lives. With her resilience, talent and desire to help others, her achievements to date are remarkable and we know there is much more to come. Many congratulations to her on both these extremely well-deserved awards.”
Sue’s tutor at London South East Colleges, Tricia Greene, added:
"It is hard to find the words for Sue that fully reflect her character. She is not only an exceptional student, but also brings a wealth of life experience, compassion, and determination to her studies and to our college.
"What's more, Sue skilfully translates her thirst for knowledge and understanding into skills for working alongside people in her social care work. Her strengths then become other peoples strengths - and the education spreads.
"I know that Sue's love of learning will be an ongoing and exciting journey and I am honoured to have been involved in a bit of her story - congratulations on such well deserved success Sue!".
For more information about the AoC Student of the Year Awards visit: Student of the Year | Association of Colleges
For more information about the Mayor of London Adult Learning Awards, visit: The Mayor of London Adult Learning Awards | London City Hall