Oldham teacher wins national award for ‘life-changing’ courses for refugees and asylum seekers

An inspirational Oldham College ESOL teacher has won a top accolade.

Nerissa Roberts has scooped the ‘Excellence in Teaching’ Award - sponsored by the Education and Training Foundation at the Get the Nation Learning Awards this year.  

She has been recognised for her dedication in supporting her learners, many of whom are refugees, asylum seekers, and adults with little or no English.  

The prestigious award was given to Nerissa for going above and beyond in her role as the Curriculum Lead for Adult ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) at Oldham College.  

Nerissa provides learners with more than just ESOL courses but also help in accessing jobs and volunteering roles and even participating in theatre performances.  

She has embedded employability support into her work, delivering CV and interview workshops in partnership with Get Oldham Working, and has connected over 100 learners to volunteering roles through Action Together.  

Nerissa’s impact has gone beyond the walls of Oldham College too, as she’s shared her approach with Greater Manchester Colleges, contributed to academic research, and championed inclusive practice across the sector.  

Nerissa received her award at a stylish ceremony at the Barbican in London this week, the venue for the Get the Nation Learning Awards ceremony.

The awards sit within Get the Nation Learning Week, the highpoint of the Get the Nation Learning campaign, led by Learning and Work Institute and supported by the likes of Channel 4, BFI and Make UK.  

The campaign shines a light on people and organisations getting the nation learning and recognising examples of adult learning that support healthier futures, stronger communities, more opportunities, regional growth, and richer lives.  

The awards seek to spotlight individuals and organisations that can be an example to others in promoting the benefits of learning throughout life. Many of Nerissa’s learners face complex barriers including trauma, housing insecurity, and social isolation. The impact of Nerissa’s trauma-informed, inclusive and innovative approach to teaching demonstrates how far-reaching the effect of good learning opportunities can be.  

Nerissa Roberts, Curriculum Lead for Adult ESOL at Oldham College, said: “I am honoured to have won this award. I truly believe that adult ESOL changes lives - it is incredibly rewarding to see our learners grow and become empowered members of society.  

“No matter what a learner’s background or starting point may be, I’m passionate about helping them to build language skills that unlock confidence and a sense of belonging. It is a privilege to receive this award, which recognises the power of ESOL.”  

Katerina Kolyva, Chief Executive of the Education and Training Foundation, sponsors of the award, said: “We’re delighted to congratulate Nerissa Roberts on receiving this year’s Excellence in Teaching Award.  

“Nerissa’s work shows how exceptional teaching can change lives and strengthen communities by helping adults to overcome barriers, build confidence and enter the workforce.   

Simon Jordan, Principal and Chief Executive at Oldham College, added: “Nerissa has created a programme that is both educational and transformational.  

“Her curriculum not only teaches a language, but restores confidence, dignity, and hope. Her trauma-informed, inclusive approach has shaped a culture of compassion.  

“Many of our ESOL learners progress into further education, employment and community leadership each year. Nerissa’s work has made a lasting impact within Oldham College and beyond, and I believe she is incredibly deserving of this award.”