City College Plymouth is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of student Abi Daly, who was named winner of the Inspirational Role of the Year at the second annual Good for Me Good for FE Awards event on 6 December. The ceremony, held at the House of Lords, showcased the exceptional contributions of individuals within the Further Education (FE) sector across the UK.
Abi’s nomination comes off the back of completing her Gold Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award. This achievement required her to excel in volunteering and physical challenges, but also led to her selection as one of only 35 DofE Youth Ambassadors in the UK. In this role, Abi advocates for inclusivity and inspires others by sharing her experiences and promoting the belief that “there is no limitation on what people with disabilities can do”.
At City College, Abi has made a profound impact through her support for students with special educational needs and disabilities. Her work on the Student Council and her willingness to share her experiences has furthered Abi’s advocacy skills, her personal growth and her ability to inspire others through her dedication and achievements.
Successfully progressing from the Skills Development department and a Level 2 qualification in Culinary Skills, Abi is currently studying a Level 3 Patisserie and Confectionery course at the College.
Abi said, “I felt really happy to be nominated, and winning the award made me even happier. It feels like all the hard work I’ve put into educating people about autism has really paid off. When I first started at City College, I wasn’t sure how it would go, but my experience here has been amazing. The College has given me the chance to build on my passion for bakery, and they really listen to students’ voices, which has made a big difference for me. My advice to others is simple: if you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything, no matter what challenges you face.”
City College Plymouth Chief Executive, Jackie Grubb, who attended the ceremony with Abi, said: “We’re so incredibly proud of Abi’s achievements. Her resilience and dedication highlight the transformative power of education and serves as an inspiration to everyone within our community. Well done, Abi!”
The awards, sponsored by the National Awarding Organisation, with prizes provided by FE Associates, highlighted the exceptional impact of the Good for Me Good for FE campaign. Since its launch in 2021, the campaign has united 150 colleges nationwide, generating millions of pounds in social value through volunteering, fundraising and foodbank collections.
The awards ceremony was hosted in the Cholmondeley Room at the House of Lords by The Baroness Barran MBE, who praised the FE sector’s contributions.
She said, “Each finalist is inspiring and extremely deserving of this national recognition. Huge congratulations and thanks to you all.”
Speaking at the event, Dr Sam Parrett CBE, co-founder of Good for Me Good for FE and Group CEO of London South East Colleges, said, “These awards showcase the incredible impact of the FE sector in supporting its communities and generating social value. The contributions of our students and staff are a powerful reminder of the difference we can make together.”
