Aspiration Awards 2025: Learner of the Year - Isabelle Fazackerley

The Learner of the Year category recognises individuals who are developing themselves through NCFE qualifications and making meaningful, positive changes in their lives. This year’s winner, Isabelle Fazackerley, is currently studying the NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Health and Social Care through an apprenticeship at Shipley College in Bradford and is already making a remarkable impact in her field. 

A commitment to care 

From the very beginning of her course at Shipley College, Isabelle has demonstrated exceptional academic ability, professionalism, and a deep-rooted passion for helping others. Her ambition to become a midwife fuels her dedication, and she consistently produces work that exceeds the expected standard with written assignments often described as near university level. 

She doesn’t just meet the requirements of her qualification – she surpasses them. Isabelle takes a proactive approach to her learning, regularly asking for extension tasks and preparing for future assignments in advance. Her desire to deepen her understanding of the sector and apply it meaningfully is evident in everything she does. 

Supporting others on the journey 

Isabelle’s positive influence reaches far beyond her own progress. When some of her peers at Shipley College struggled to secure placements, she stepped in without hesitation. Using her own contacts in the sector, she helped many of her classmates access valuable real-world experience. She even worked with tutors to offer placement opportunities to learners in other groups, showing leadership, empathy and a deep commitment to the success of others. 

“I just wanted to help. I knew I had access to people who might be able to support my classmates, so I shared what I could.” 

Learning in the real world 

With over 115 placement hours under her belt and counting, Isabelle’s real-world experience is already shaping her into a skilled and reflective practitioner. A standout moment in her learning journey was securing a highly competitive placement at Bradford Teaching Hospitals’ maternity ward. Isabelle made such an impression that she was invited to observe a caesarean section – a rare and privileged opportunity at this stage of study. 

Her reflections on this and other placement experiences show a deep understanding of the realities of healthcare. She draws thoughtful links between theory and practice, and her evaluations demonstrate advanced critical thinking and insight into patient care. 

A future leader in healthcare 

Isabelle embodies the core values essential to working in health and social care: care, compassion, communication, competence, courage and commitment. Whether she’s supporting classmates in lessons, engaging in complex discussions, or advocating for the wellbeing of peers, her maturity and sense of responsibility are clear. 

One tutor at Shipley College commented, “Having worked in the health and social care industry myself, I can confidently say Isabelle would make an outstanding addition to the field. Her drive, passion and unwavering positive attitude make her an ideal candidate for this award.” 

Isabelle has made it clear she’s just getting started. After completing her Level 3 Certificate, she plans to progress to the full Extended Diploma at the college, with her eyes firmly set on a future career in midwifery. 

Reflecting on her journey so far, Isabelle shared: “It’s been amazing. You don’t realise how amazing healthcare is and how much of an amazing job it is to help and comfort people.” 

Looking ahead 

Isabelle’s story is one of passion, purpose and potential. She’s not only laying the foundations for her own future but actively lifting others up along the way. Her contribution to her learning community at Shipley College, her commitment to growth, and her ability to lead with compassion make her a truly deserving winner of the 2025 Learner of the Year award. 

Congratulations, Isabelle! To read more inspiring stories from this year’s winners, visit our Aspiration Awards 2025 page. 

Pictured: Our Learner of the Year, Isabelle Fazackerley, with her tutor, Alisha Overend (L), and Diana Bird, Shipley College Principal and CEO (R)