Learners and training providers paid tribute to the outstanding achievements of one of Lowestoft’s most exceptional learners at the prestigious national Lion Awards, dubbed the ‘education Oscars.’

The City & Guilds event, presented by the host of BBC’s Formula One and Sports Personality of the Year, Jake Humphrey, took place at The Lancaster hotel in London. It celebrated the country’s top achievers who have gone on to attain phenomenal success in their chosen careers. The ceremony is the culmination of the coveted Medals for Excellence regional awards programme run every year since 1879. Named Further Education Sector Learner of the Year, Lowestoft winner 44-year-old Laura Morgan was one of just ten lucky recipients at this year’s Lion Awards, chosen from 118 Medals for Excellence regional winners for their exceptional accomplishments.

Chris Jones, Director General and CEO, City & Guilds said: “The Lion Awards celebrate the cream of the crop of the nation’s students and trainers. It is humbling to hear our winners’ inspirational stories, some of whom have achieved extraordinary results against all odds. At a time when the country is preparing for an upturn, it is talented and motivated people like Laura Morgan who will contribute to future economic growth and prosperity.”

Jake Humphrey added: “As a sports presenter, I am used to being around some of the world’s most driven and successful sportsmen and women. For me, the Lion Awards winners have just as much ambition and determination. Although they come from different walks of life and parts of the country, they all share a remarkable passion to be the best they can possibly be.”

Laura, a Customer Service Assistant at Waveney District Council, proves it’s never too late to start again. After her A Levels, Laura started working in the family fish and chip shop business, but when her daughter was born with a serious form of diabetes she had to give up her job to become a full time carer.

When Laura wanted to return to employment, she was unable to find work as she lacked the relevant experience for the travel and tourism roles she was applying for. Instead of settling for a job that she would find unfulfilling, Laura decided to bite the bullet and return to learning almost 20 years later joining the college’s Advanced National Diploma in Travel and Tourism.

Laura said: “Like most mature students, I was nervous at the thought of returning to college after being away for so long, but within weeks I had caught the learning bug and my confidence soared. I am so excited to have won the title of FE Sector Learner of the Year at this year’s Lion Awards.”

Gwen Parsons, Principal of Lowestoft College, said: “We are really proud that Laura has won this award as it recognises her hard work and commitment. Returning to college as a mature student can be a daunting experience but Laura really did embrace the opportunity and even took on extra responsibilities including the role of student governor and mentor. Laura’s positive attitude also meant that she was a finalist at the College’s Celebration of Achievement Awards last year and won an Adult Learner Award at The Big Skill Awards for Suffolk.

“Although this is the first time a student has won a Lion Award, previous Travel and Tourism students have won Medals for Excellence and these successes all reflect the high standards of teaching by the lecturers within the department.”

The Travel and Tourism department from Lowestoft College said: "Quite simply, Laura embodies all the characteristics of the 'perfect' F.E. student. Her contribution to College life was second to none and she certainly deserves acknowledgement for her all-round exceptional achievements."