As part of Adult Learners' Week, Vicky Whitelock was presented with a National Adult Learners Certificate of Achievement on behalf of NIACE by Bob Saynor, Assistant Principal for Lifelong Learning & Higher Education at York College. The award is in recognition of Vicky's commitment to learning and the progression route she has taken over the past three years. Vicky has also been nominated for a National VQ Learner of the Year award (Over 25 category).

Here's Vicky's educational story:

Vicky had a tough time at school, achieving limited formal qualifications. On leaving school she secured a sales job at Nestle and has since completed informal learning and developed her mind through workplace training; currently she is a Call Centre Team Manager. However, Vicky had regrets that she didn’t do better at school and realise her dream of a career in sport.

In 2008, despite being a mother and full time worker, Vicky decided to return to education. She enrolled on a Nutrition course and enjoyed the learning experience. This led her to want to study further and she embarked on a Foundation Degree in Sports Therapy. She soon set herself extremely high standards academically and in the college’s Sports Therapy Clinic. Vicky had transferable skills and developed her academic skills to match the best of the group, making herself an effective therapist in the Sports Therapy Clinic.

Vicky’s passion for sports therapy is evident and what makes her special is her determination to succeed despite all the obstacles that get in her way. She has great enthusiasm for learning, relentless drive and very high standards. She is a perfect example of someone who, through sheer hard work and determination, is realising her dreams; Vicky administered sports massage at the London Marathon this year and will go on to become an excellent Sports Therapist in the future.