As the countdown begins to this year's GCSE and A-Level results day, a celebration event has been held at Lys Kernow to recognise the achievements of people studying with Cornwall Adult Education.  Over 5000 learners a year study with the service, which is run by Cornwall Council, across a range of qualifications and leisure courses.

The annual awards ceremony celebrates the learners who have stood out for the quality and extent of their achievements, the notable obstacles they have overcome to succeed, or both.  Adult Education governors in addition make a specific award for persistence.

Head of Cornwall Adult Education, Rob Sweetzer- Sturt, said: "This is all about celebrating the achievements of our learners.  People come to learn with Cornwall Adult Education for a variety of reasons; perhaps they didn't get on at school or they didn't achieve the grades they wanted to, but we give them an opportunity to develop new skills, change career or build their own self confidence."

Students from across Cornwall were invited to the event and a number of learners were presented with certificates recognising their hard work, in front of a gathered audience of Cornwall Councillors, tutors, friends and family. 

Skills for Life Tutor Tamzine Middleton said: "This evening celebrated those that have achieved more than they expected or those that went above and beyond, overcoming diversity to go on and succeed and I'm really proud of all my students."

Cornwall Adult Education has 18 centres across Cornwall, to include Falmouth, Newquay, Helston, Liskeard and Bude.  With a massive range of courses for learners to choose from, there is something for everyone. 

Whether you want to improve your maths and English qualifications, learn new computer skills, start a university access course or you want to just try something like painting with acrylics, just for fun, there is something for everyone with Cornwall Adult Education.

Tamzine added: "Come along it is a lot of fun and isn't like school, because the learning experience is so different and it's very rewarding.  You don't only gain the qualification, but you learn with a group of like-minded people; you will certainly make new friends and it also helps people to discover their self-confidence and self-esteem." 

Courses vary in length and are open to adults, young people, families, community organisations or businesses; everyone is a welcome.  Enrolment is open now for courses starting in September.

Chair of Governors for Adult Education, Councillor Malcolm Brown, concluded: "People come back into learning for a variety of reasons; whether that is to further their career or to simply try something new and to make new friends.  It was an honour and a pleasure to be involved in the awards ceremony and there were so many stories of courage and determination; it's really quite humbling and I would like to congratulate everyone on achieving this year."