Distance Learning student receives Aspiration Awards 2025 accolade

Nescot's Distance Learning student, Theresa Jackson has received a ‘Highly Commended’ recognition in the NCFE Aspiration Awards 2025 Against All Odds category. This award recognises learners who have overcome difficult personal circumstances to achieve success.

Theresa was presented with the Against All Odds Highly Commended award at Nescot by Philip Le Feuvre, NCFE Chief Operating Officer. Presenting the award, Philip commended Theresa for her incredible community work and using her YouTube channel to share her experiences.

Theresa, a disabilities rights champion, uses her lived experience and education to inspire others. She lives with Cerebral Palsy, borderline personality disorder and diabetes. Theresa initially completed a Level 1 distance learning Health and Social Care qualification with Nescot, and has gone to complete the NCFE Cache Level 2 Diploma in Care to further enhance her skills and knowledge.

Theresa said: “I thought I wouldn't get this far it means so much to me. The Distance Learning team at Nescot has been very supportive, especially my course tutor who has been amazing. She has worked with me to ensure the course met my education needs. I’m passionate about becoming a social worker for children with disabilities and plan on doing the Level 3 Health and Social Care course as my next steps. I believe you can do anything if you put your mind to it.”

Speaking at the award presentation, Julie Kapsalis, Principal and CEO at Nescot said: “We’re incredibly proud of Theresa’s achievement, huge congratulations from everyone at the college. To be recognised with this accolade is really special and we’re so thrilled that Theresa is planning on continuing with a Level 3 qualification as her next steps. We wish her all the very best.”

Julie Andrews, Nescot Adult Skills tutor and Theresa’s tutor, commented: “We couldn’t be prouder of Theresa! She is truly a unique person, who despite challenges, continues to seek out new ways to enhance her personal development as well as enhancing the awareness of others on key issues that are important to her. I have learnt a lot from Theresa, not just about her experience of living with Cerebral Palsy but about just how difficult life can be for students with additional needs. She has never once been distracted by anything that is going on with her life despite constant frustrations. She still looks at everything positively and is very goal-orientated and has a very clear picture of how she wants to live, learn, and also give back to others. Well-done Theresa for achieving this well-deserved recognition.”

David Gallagher, Chief Executive of NCFE, said: "NCFE's Aspiration Awards continue to showcase the many forms that success can take - often deeply personal and unique to each individual.

"This year’s winners have overcome significant life challenges, demonstrated courage in changing career paths, and devoted themselves to supporting others. Their inspiring journeys have been made possible through their own personal resilience, the support of those around them, as well as the opportunities provided by the further education sector.

"These awards serve as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of education and the dedication of those striving to better their own lives and the lives of others. Congratulations to all our winners, those highly commended, and to everyone in FE making a difference each day."

Theresa works as a training facilitator for the Oliver McGowan program (via Consensus care) and volunteers with the ‘Fantastic Freddies Foundation’, organising activities for people with disabilities. She has created a community club for people living with disabilities, aiming to make a difference to her local community. She's also a fundraiser for Disability Rights UK and actively seeks to spread positivity in relation to disability in general. She hopes to one day run her own charity and has a YouTube channel with over 3,000 subscribers. The videos show her unique experience of living with disability and focus mainly on promoting independence, with cooking and artwork, two of her passions. Through these informative videos, Theresa seeks to promote awareness on topics such as creativity and art, diabetes, mental health, disability rights and autism. Read more about Theresa’s remarkable story on the NCFE website.

The NCFE Aspiration Awards honour the success of learners, apprentices, educators, support staff and educational organisations from across the UK. Find out more about winners of the Aspiration Awards 2025 here.

Nescot offers a wide range of college courses for school leavers and adults, including Animal Care, Business, Computing and IT, Construction, Performing Arts, Childcare, Health & Social Care and Beauty Therapy. To find out more about studying at Nescot call 020 8394 3038, visit www.nescot.ac.uk or email adviceteam@nescot.ac.uk for Distance Learning courses email: distancelearning@nescot.ac.uk