ACCESS to winning the Higher Education Learner of the Year Award, sponsored by King Alfred's College, was partly down to meeting a good friend for 44-year-old Mary Chatburn.

Mary (pictured above), of Manse Lane, Tadley, said: "I was approaching my 40th birthday, and debating whether to stay in my job of special needs assistant in a local school or do something new, when a friend mentioned the Access course at BCOT.

"I decided to sign up for it. It seemed like the ideal time to learn something new, with our children being teenagers and more independent."

She then progressed to the BA Textiles for Fashion course at BCOT, where she demonstrated her ability to work as part of a team. Her energy and enthusiasm was an inspiration to many of the younger students on the course.

In addition to running a home and looking after her family, Mary is planning to set up her own business selling handbags and accessories made from her hand-woven fabrics.

"I have had a fantastic time at BCOT," she said. "It's been extremely hard work, trying out so many different styles and kinds of work. I have gained so much confidence and learned new skills."

BAD news turned to something positive for 45-year-old Neil Duncan, who was made redundant from his job with the AA.

Runner-up Neil, from Sarum Hill, Basingstoke, felt his chances of finding new employment would be enhanced by further qualifications and that acquiring an MA in marketing management would give him an opportunity to update his skills with the latest marketing theories and developments.

Neil said: "I studied full-time at university for the first time and really enjoyed the experience of being a student.

"Apart from the qualification itself, I enjoyed meeting the lecturers and other students from a wide range of backgrounds, nationalities and experience.

"I gained a real sense of personal achievement, which transcended the official marks and outcome."