Nerissa Roberts, our Head of Faculty for ESOL, has won the Excellence in Teaching Award at the Get the Nation Learning Awards 2025!
Sponsored by the Education and Training Foundation, Nerissa’s win acknowledges and celebrates her commitment to supporting our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) learners.
Not only has Nerissa embedded employability and real-world relevance into every aspect of her curriculum, but she has also created powerful platforms for learner voice and inclusion.
This includes connecting more than 100 learners to volunteering roles through Action Together, delivering CV and interview workshops through a partnership with Get Oldham Working and giving learners the opportunity to share their stories at events, including an International Women’s Day event with Debbie Abrahams, Labour MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth. Read more about this here: International Women’s Day and the Power of ESOL
Nerissa was presented with her award at the Get the Nation Learning Awards ceremony, held at the Barbican in London on Tuesday 4th November.
Reflecting on the experience, Nerissa said:
“I felt so honoured to receive this award. Dr Katerina Kolyva, CEO of the Education and Training Foundation, shared that she had been a part of the judging panel and that my nomination stood out to all the judges for exceeding inspirational practice. I was truly touched by her words.
“The awards ceremony at the Barbican was an unforgettable experience, and the support I’ve had from my colleagues at Oldham College means the world to me. They are a big part of why I love what I do and why I’m so proud to work here.”
On her award win, Simon Jordan, Principal and Chief Executive of Oldham College, said:
“Nerissa’s 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.”
Congratulations Nerissa, we are incredibly proud of this achievement and the opportunities and support you have given to members of our community.
