Mature Students Shine at Wintec’s Adult Learners Award
With over 50 percent of learners aged over 25, Wintec’s adult learner awards are an important date in the calendar.
The annual Adult Learners Awards have become an encouraging goal for mature learners in Wintec. The ceremony, which is held August during Adult Learner’s Week, recognises students aged over 25 years who are doing exceptionally well in their studies, while balancing other responsibilities.
Students are nominated by their tutors and peers across all programmes and levels, from foundation to master’s courses, before finalists are selected from each faculty division. The award winners are then chosen from a pool of up to 25 finalists.
Bachelor of Music and Performing Arts student Chelsea Gotty, was one of this year’s winners and said “Academic excellence is highly rewarded at Wintec”. She applauded her tutors, who have been supportive not only in her school life but also in her family life.
Gotty, a mother, says she reminds herself that she is blessed to be able to do all the things she does. “For me, being a mother and teacher was always a passion.”
“I always wanted to be a teacher and mother, and I was gifted with a passion for music. I am blessed to be able to do all things that I do. I get to spend time learning and creating music and afterwards, go home to my wonderful little girl and amazing partner”
Gotty, who is in the final year of her degree, said that the tutor’s regular one-on-one check-ins with students give them a chance to discuss challenges on creative projects, gain clarification on assessment requirements, or have a casual catch-up about life outside of study
“I feel a strong sense of belonging and acceptance, making me look forward to turning up every day. I feel as though I’m simply trying my best. It is really nice to receive recognition for my hard work, which inspires me to push myself even further.”
Gotty also shares her love of music and knowledge as a peer tutor for students in lower years. She finds this fulfilling as it helps them connect what they already know and what they want to know. She said “putting this knowledge into perspective has made it so much easier to stay committed to my current journey as an adult learner.”
Jo Thomas, Group Director at Wintec, spoke at the event and highlighted the significance of adult learners in the institution’s community.
“This year, 53 per cent of our ākonga here at Wintec are adult learners, many of whom juggle study with work, caregiving and other life commitments. These awards are a celebration of their courage, determination, and the joy they bring to learning. Their stories inspire us all.”
Each winner received a $1000 for the recognition of their achievements. The full list of nominees and winners is here
Mercy Chepkoech, is an International student. She is studying a New Zealand Diploma in Journalism.
