News release: Gillian gets the learning bug

Abstract

Hard work has paid off for mature student Gillian Alty, who was presented with the
Tim Curtis Award at a recent ceremony at the University of Central Lancashire.
Gillian, 45, from Ingol has two children and currently works as a full-time nursing tutor
at Preston College, where she is also studying on a two-year Certificate in Education
course. She received the award for the outstanding progress she has made during her
first year of study. After working as a care assistant for 24 years, Gillian, a qualified
nurse, originally came back to Preston College as an NVQ student in the mid-1990s.
Bitten by the learning bug she carried on, eventually becoming a teacher herself.
The Awards are given in the name of the late Tim Curtis, a former Deputy Director of
the University and a firm believer in bringing education to those who may have missed
out first time around. They are presented to students from the University's partner
colleges, many of whom are mature students taking advantage of being able to study
closer to home on courses franchised by the University. Students receive a certificate
and a cheque for £150.
Gillian is now looking forward to taking a degree course in September, as well as
continuing with her work at Preston College.
8 May 2003
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Note to editors: Please find attached digital image of Gillian Alty (far right) with fellow
award winner Karen Beesley and Stuart Ingleson, Principal, Preston College.