A Port Talbot man who had been jobless and desperate to change his life was recognised with a top honour at a recent awards ceremony.
David Peake, aged 24, won the title of Neath Port Talbot Adult Learner of the Year Award at an event held to celebrate Adult Learners’ Week.
David had been unemployed and wanted full time employment but there was no work available. So he decided to go back to learning new skills.
Lacking in confidence but determined to get his life back on track, he took up training at the Skills and Training Unit in Neath through the Skillbuild and Prince’s Trust programme.
It was a turning point in his life.
“Going back into training has opened so many doors for me.” said David “I have gained back my self respect, feel more confident and have a goal in life.”
He is now in a full time job doing something he loves – working in landscaping with the Authority.
David’s story of triumph and determination to overcome all odds was one of many which were recognised at the Neath Port Talbot Adult Learner of the Year Awards which is held annually to celebrate the achievements of those who return to learning.
The Awards are organised by the Lifelong Learning Service of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council and sponsored by local employers.
In front of an audience of 200 at the Orangery in Margam, twelve categories of achievement were recognised including awards for Community Learner, Further Education and Vocational Learner.
The youngest finalist was 19 years old in the category of Young Adult Learner and the oldest aged 84 in the Senior Learner category.
The Overall Adult Learner of the Year Award which was sponsored by Corus was awarded to the highest achieving category winner. David had won the Workplace Learner Award having been nominated by Prince’s Trust worker, Louise Hill.
“He is in a state of shock at achieving such an accolade” said Annie Harding, Manager of the Skills and Training Unit “To be chosen from amongst so many worthy finalists has overwhelmed him.”
Adult Learners’ Week is co-ordinated nationally by NIACE Dysgu Cymru who funded the awards ceremony. During the week, events to encourage adults to return to learning are held across Wales.
“It is truly heartening to see the dedication and commitment of those whose achievements are being recognised.” Said the Leader of the Neath Port Talbot Council, Councillor Ali Thomas. ” The Authority is delighted to be leading on such an event.”
