Derwen College graduate Anna Redding has been named ‘Inspirational Adult Learner of the Year’ at the Shropshire Chamber Business Awards 2025.
Anna, a former student at the specialist further education college in Gobowen, received the accolade at the grand business awards ceremony at Telford International Centre on 20 June. She attended the prestigious 25th anniversary event with mum Kathy Chilton and Derwen College Work Experience and Supported Internships Coordinator Natalie Martin.
Despite facing challenges from a brain injury acquired at birth, which resulted in learning and communication difficulties and short-term memory loss, Anna has shown a determination to live life her way, embracing every learning opportunity available at Derwen College and developing skills to work, volunteer and live independently. All these skills have prepared her for adulthood and have shaped her into the inspirational person she is today.
Anna, now 22, is a mentor and a role model, supporting fellow students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), while continuing to follow her dreams of acting and performing.
Since graduating – and receiving the Derwen College Overall Outstanding Student Cup 2022 – Anna continues to volunteer and mentor at College, supporting Performing Arts students and judging competitions. She also champions inclusive theatre, leading by example at inclusive About Face Theatre Company, helping with musical theatre at Identity School of Dance, and working with children at Fantastic Funhouse in Oswestry, using Makaton signing.
During her time at college, Anna shone as a performer and worked to build industry links through her role as College Development Researcher. She also wrote a screenplay inspired by her own experiences of short-term memory loss, and raised awareness of hidden disabilities through podcast appearances such as Lanyon Bowdler’s Legal Lounge podcast. On top of that, she took part in challenging Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards, going on to gain a Gold Award and being invited to Buckingham Palace for a celebration garden party.
Anna never stops learning, and has completed Level 1 and 2 Makaton qualifications, as well as enjoying singing lessons.
Anna’s message to peers and anyone with SEND is: “Take the chance. You never know what life will bring!”
She says: “For anyone considering further education, I’d say, take the chance. You never know what life will bring. As long as you’re enjoying what you’re doing, keep on learning and don’t let an opportunity go! The biggest thing about Derwen College was seeing my confidence grow. Everyone at College and my family could see it. I learnt to believe in myself and see what was possible.”
Derwen College is incredibly proud of Anna’s achievements, and her continued commitment to breaking down barriers and inspiring others.
Principal and CEO Meryl Green said: “Whilst at College, Anna was a talented singer, dancer and actor, taking on lead roles in our shows, and always there to support and inspire her peers. She reached out to established actors, screenwriters and producers, inviting them to attend College to share their expertise with our students.
“We are very happy that she makes time in her busy schedule to continue volunteering at Derwen College. Anna is a wonderful role model for students and an incredibly deserving winner of the Inspirational Adult Learning Award. We are all very proud of her.”
For more information, visit www.derwen.ac.uk, email Communications Officer Eluned Watson at eluned.watson@derwen.ac.uk, or call 01691 661234 ext. 225.
