A man who overcame severe shyness and anxiety to attend college and earn qualifications which have helped him change his life has been presented with a trophy at Telford College of Arts and Technology’s awards evening.
The Lifelong Learning Celebration of Success Evening was held on Tuesday to celebrate the accomplishments of students who have exceeded expectations and achieved both personal and academic success.
The final award of the evening was the prestigious Joan Norton Trophy, which is presented to a student who has excelled above everyone else.
This year the trophy was presented to Alan Walford, who was anxious about starting college in 2008. He found it difficult to relate to other people and was uncertain that college was the right place for him.
Mary Gilbert, head of school for lifelong learning, said: “Alan has earned this award by his personal and social development during his time at college. He has developed from an anxious and retiring gentleman to a confident man who is seizing every opportunity to develop his skills and support others who are less able or new to the college environment. He gives of his own time and is industrious and enthusiastic – an excellent role model.”
Over the past two years, Alan has taken courses in managing money, assertiveness, which enabled him to learn more about other people and raised self esteem, and in catering.
Having spent two years at Telford College, Alan has now taken up a position volunteering at Blists Hill, has moved house, joined a residents group and supports the Eat Smart Enterprise in ventures such as Help for Heroes.
Mary said: “Throughout his college life, Alan has made some good friends, and provides support for new or less able students. He has proven to be extremely reliable, a team player and a brilliant role model.”