One of our long-standing staff members has been recognised for her contribution and dedication in helping disadvantaged adults improve their skills, qualifications and prospects.

Kate Hunter, who works as a Trainer Assessor in our Skills and Employment Team, has won an Inspirational Tutor of the Year award in the Festival of Learning Awards. She was nominated by colleague Junior Smart who was taught by Kate during his prison sentence in HMP Rochester when she was working in the prison to help young offenders improve their skills.

Kate currently works with our London-based Skills and Employment Team who help people overcome barriers such as long-term unemployment, a criminal record and experience of homelessness to move their lives forward and access opportunities.

Kate said: “Education is a tool that no-one can take away from you. My passion is helping people who have not had the opportunities others have had so that everyone can realise the benefits that learning can bring.”

Junior said of Kate’s teaching abilities, “True she is a tutor; but she delivers more than the IAG she delivers in the prison and in the community, she understands the complexity of the people we work with; she frequently provides extra support, for example for those being released from prison, those who are studying but who may face other issues such as homelessness.”

One of Kate’s learners said, “If it wasn’t for Kate’s hard work and believing in me I don’t know where I would be today. She is a really nice person; she goes out of her way to support paid staff and volunteers, encouraging and motivating them to be the best that they can be.”

Kate joins 28 other regional and national winners being recognised through the part ESF-funded Festival of Learning Awards – now in their 25th year.