The National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) is looking for organisations that can demonstrate originality, creativity and excellence in encouraging adults to learn.

The Opening Doors to Adult Learners Awards, which take place in May 2006, are open to organisations across the UK that provide clear routes of progression for, and have a positive impact on, their learners. Each winning organisation will receive a certificate and £1,500.

This year's award winner, Catherine Fisher, Co-ordinator of the Sheffield Gypsy and Traveller Driving Theory Project, said: “Winning the award meant a great deal to the students on the project, as it was a recognition of their hard work and allowed positive press coverage around gypsies and travellers which is always well needed. The award money has enabled more people to access the project as laptops are being taken onto site and are providing essential training.”

Rachel Thomson, Senior Campaigns Officer at NIACE, said: “For many adults, - particularly for those whose memories of school make them think learning isn’t for them - returning to learning can be daunting. But up and down the country, a whole range of organisations are providing more and different opportunities for adults to learn – whoever and wherever they are. The Opening Doors to Adult Learners awards celebrate creative schemes of learning that have a track record of success for their adult learners - ones that really ignite a spark of enthusiasm that can lead to whole new lives for learners and benefit whole communities.”

For more information on the awards call NIACE’s Campaigns and Promotions team on 0116 204 4200 or go to www.alw.org.uk.