The search is on for Wales's most inspiring adult learners and transformative community projects, as nominations officially open for the 2026 Inspire! Adult Learning Awards.
Celebrating the Power of Lifelong Learning
Co-ordinated by the Learning and Work Institute in partnership with the Welsh Government, these annual awards represent the nation's premier celebration of adult education. They honour exceptional individuals and initiatives that demonstrate how learning strengthens the Welsh economy, improves health and wellbeing, and enriches community and cultural life.
The impact celebrated extends far beyond formal qualifications. Winners are those who have discovered new confidence, found joy in learning, or used education as a springboard to change their lives and the lives of others.
Award Categories and How to Nominate
There are 10 distinct award categories designed to recognise achievement across the breadth of adult learning in Wales:
- Skills for Work
- Young Adult Learner
- Life Change
- Essential Skills for Life
- Learning for Better Health
- Ageing Well
- New Welsh Speaker
- Shared Futures
- Hywel Francis Award for Community Impact
- Learner Voice
Nominations are open to anyone aged 16 or over who lives or works in Wales. The learning recognised can have taken place in a wide variety of settings, including workplaces, colleges, universities, online platforms, or community groups. Crucially, the learning does not need to have been formally accredited.
Nominations can be made by adult education providers, charities, employers, public sector bodies, trade unions, and community organisations. The deadline for submissions is 17 April 2026.
Inspiring Stories from Past Winners
Hamdi Abdalrhman, a winner from the 2025 awards, shared the profound effect of the recognition. "Winning the award strengthened my belief in lifelong learning," he reflected. "It motivates me to keep growing and pursue my dreams with renewed passion. I'm truly grateful for this honour and the support that made it possible."
Kay Smith, Head of Campaigns, Development and Policy at the Learning and Work Institute, emphasised the awards' broader purpose: "The Inspire! Awards demonstrate how education empowers people and strengthens communities across Wales. Nominations will showcase how learners and projects have challenged expectations and created new futures—stories that inspire others to follow."
Vikki Howells, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, added her encouragement: "The Inspire! Adult Learning Awards are a chance to celebrate the fantastic achievements of adult learners, and I have seen first-hand how returning to learning can change lives. Previous finalists have been truly inspirational and I encourage everyone who knows an adult learner or one of the fantastic adult learning projects in Wales to nominate them for an award."
This initiative forms a key part of a national campaign to promote the value of lifelong learning and inspire more adults across Wales to participate. By sharing these powerful success stories, the awards illuminate clear pathways into education and progression towards new opportunities, encouraging others to take their own first steps.
For full award criteria and to submit a nomination, visit the official Inspire! Awards website.
