Access to higher education student Esther Egwuatu, 31, is studying at Grantham College, and she has been named as the Open Colleges' Network Access to Higher Education Learner of the Year for East Midlands.

Nigerian-born Esther was nominated by her tutor Fiona Self, who put her forward after she demonstrated her commitment by returning to her studies shortly after having a baby.

Fiona said: "She is an inspiration to us all.

"She was back at college within weeks of giving birth, which demonstrates her commitment to learning, and I am so pleased that she has been recognised in this way."

Esther graduated from Enugu Institute of Management and Technology in Nigeria with a higher national diploma in banking and finance, but found the qualification is not recognised in the UK.

Eager to pursue her career ambitions, she enrolled in biological and social sciences and IT skills courses at Grantham College, with hopes of becoming a nurse.

She said: "I have now finished my first semester and as English is not my native tongue, I feel that I have done extremely well so far.

"I feel that learning is a gradual increase of skills and knowledge channelled towards a purpose.

"As a family, we are looking to improve our standard of living and contributing to community affairs, and my studies to date have given me the confidence to look forward to achieving this."

Esther and Fiona have been invited to attend an award ceremony at West Bridgford County Hall, Nottingham, on Thursday.

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