Shine a light on the heroes of adult learning – celebrate the tutors who inspire, support, and transform lives every day.

Learning and Work Institute announces the launch of the Inspire! Tutor Awards 2026, celebrating the dedication, passion, and impact of adult learning tutors across Wales.

These awards recognise outstanding tutors who go above and beyond to empower adult learners, transform lives, and strengthen communities. The nomination deadline is the 16 January 2026.

Nominations are invited from learners, colleagues, and organisations across Wales to shine a light on exceptional tutors who inspire confidence, foster skills, and open doors to new opportunities. The awards are co-ordinated by Learning and Work Institute in partnership with Welsh Government and are supported by Colegau Cymru, Adult Learning Partnership Wales, Universities Wales, National Training Federation Wales and the National Centre for Learning Welsh.  

The Minister for Further and Higher Education, Vikki Howells said: “Education can change lives at any age, and these awards celebrate the dedicated tutors who help adult learners to reach their education goals every day.

“It is the skill and commitment of tutors that empowers learners not only by inspiring them but by building learner confidence and removing barriers. It is important we recognise the hard work of our adult learning tutors and I thank them for all they do for their communities and lifelong learning in Wales.”

Kay Smith, Head of Campaigns, Development and Policy at Learning and Work Institute, said: “Every year, these awards spotlight the dedicated tutors who become pivotal in reaching into communities, supporting adults to build their confidence as learners and ensuring they thrive and progress.

“We know that inspirational tutors and mentors across Wales are key to driving the tertiary education sector forward, they are removing barriers, innovating and inspiring more people to feel connected in communities, building the skills that can lead to better jobs, tackle poverty and protect health and wellbeing.”

Why nominate?

• Celebrate the vital role tutors play in adult education and lifelong learning.
• Highlight innovative teaching approaches that engage and motivate learners.
• Recognise tutors who create inclusive, supportive, and welcoming learning environments.
• Showcase success stories that demonstrate the transformative power of adult education.

Who can be nominated?

• Tutors working in adult education, further and higher education, community outreach, community focused schools, Welsh for adults and workplace learning.
• Individuals who demonstrate commitment, creativity, and compassion in their teaching.
• Those who have made a measurable difference in learners’ confidence, skills, and progression.

Deadline for Nominations: Nominations are open until 16 January 2026.