DOZENS of adult learners were awarded with certificates at a college ceremony marking their success in Old Colwyn.

The event highlighted Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s thriving adult learning community partnership with provider Cyswllt Dysgu.

The Conwy and Denbighshire Cyswllt Dysgu Awards is an annual event celebrating the achievements of learners.

Many had excelled on their courses or had progressed on to further learning despite overcoming barriers and difficulties during their return to learning.

Some had had a poor experience at school, or missed periods of their education. They now had a second chance to gain qualifications in small groups where they could learn at their own pace.

All students nominated for awards in a range of categories this year were acknowledged at the TAPE Community Music and Film community centre.

Coleg Llandrillo assistant principal, and chair of the partnership, Lesley Tipping, compered the evening.

Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s adult community courses are delivered in centres and libraries across Conwy and Denbighshire. Courses include several ‘Get Started’ courses along with Maths, English and Computers (Digital Literacy) courses, and many more.

Many were nominated for reclaiming their lives through education. Those who are chosen are often individuals who have shown exceptional passion, commitment, and drive for learning, often in the face of difficult circumstances.

Lesley Tipping gave the opening speech and spoke of the hard work being undertaken by students in their return to education and the benefits this has on their self-esteem and future plans.

She said on the evening: “A huge congratulations to all our community learners. These are not just academic honours but also awards in recognition of improvements in confidence and communication skills.

"Now that you have stepped on to the ladder of learning, keep climbing higher.”