Walsall College Student Engagement Officer, Helen Griffiths has received the 2016 individual Learner Voice Practitioner of the Year, for her outstanding commitment to empowering learners to use their voice and make a real difference within the college.

The winners were announced at an awards ceremony, which took place in August and hosted by The Learner Voice Practitioners (LVP) Network.

The LVP Network was formed in 2013, the Learner Voice Practitioner Network was set up to provide support, resources and training for staff in further education who work with students to have a more powerful voice in their institutions.

The Learner Voice Practitioner Awards celebrate educational providers and staff who recognise the value of learners’ views in improving the provision and systems in place.

Helen was specifically praised by the judging panel for “going above and beyond in her role and holding a great level of respect from her learners. Helen does an impressive amount and exemplifies excellence and passion in the work she does.”

Gail Houghton, Student Engagement Officer, said: “In her nine years at the college, Helen has always strived to ensure every student achieves their potential and has the best possible experience of college life. Her enthusiasm and love for her role helps inspire everyone that she works with and makes her a very deserving winner of this award.”