Support worker Sheila has reached an incredible 50 years of dedicated service with our CLD team.

Liz Fergus, CLD Manager, said: “Sheila has dedicated her career to teaching essential sewing and mending skills in our communities. Her classes have done far more than repair garments—they have built confidence, improved mental health and wellbeing, and promoted inclusion.”

Sheila said: “Thank you to everyone for the wonderful day yesterday. I was genuinely touched by the award and by all the kind messages from past and present learners. It meant a great deal to hear how our classes have helped people grow in confidence and discover new skills.

“Working in community learning and development for fifty years has been a major part of my life, and it has been a pleasure every step of the way.

 “Whether teaching sewing, crafts, or being involved in wider community projects, I have always enjoyed seeing people learn, progress, and support one another. I’ve also gained so much myself and have made many friendships through this work.

The occasion also marked Adult Learners Week, which is particularly significant as we celebrate 50 years since the publication of the Alexander Report (1975)—a landmark in shaping adult education in Scotland.

The report championed lifelong learning as a right for all and its key recommendations remain relevant today.

Provost Kenneth Duffy, who attended Sheila's celebration, said: “Adult Learners Week reminds us that learning is lifelong, transformative, and deeply human. Sheila’s incredible contribution to so many learners over so many years is truly inspiring, and I’d like to thank her for her commitment.”

Coinciding with Adult Learners Week, Scotland’s Learning Partnership hosted an event to recognise the learning achievements of groups and individuals across Scotland.

Staff who have been highly commended were invited to a special event at the Strathclyde Hilton Hotel, which celebrated inspirational learning.

North Lanarkshire was represented by Mary McGrath from Airdrie, May Black from Motherwell, Shaleen Boyle, and the ESOL Learners Forum.

They were chosen for their achievements in volunteering, learner voice, employability, and gaining new skills.

In addition, the North Lanarkshire Mod Committee has been selected as a finalist and will attend the Scottish Parliament in January.