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Who are the panel members for 2008/2009?

Panel members are drawn from across the further education sector, from colleges to work-based learning.

They come from a wide variety of backgrounds, with some having just left school and others returning to learning later in life to open up new opportunities.

Natalie Nolan, 24

"I live in London, where my school experience let me down. I am now studying an Access to Higher Education course at CityLit. I recently attended a residential summer school at Cambridge University for students entering higher education. I am a part-time key worker for the Metropolitan Police, have been a carer for a family member, volunteer extensively and am always studying to improve my qualifications."

Christina Roberts, 40

"I am attending the Helston Open Learning Centre to gain qualifications in computerised bookkeeping. I have lived in four countries and moved 14 times as my husband is in the military. I have young children and no family network, so working and learning has been a lifeline for me. I am looking forward to bringing my experiences of studying in a rural community in Cornwall to a national panel."

Sharon Schulz, 52

"I am studying for O and A levels through the adult education system and have obtained my personal goal of achieving these qualifications. I would very much like to go to university and study German and European business studies. I am a member of the NIACE learner panel in Leicester and a logical, confident and focused person who loves reading and literature."

Anthony Spelman, 65

"I have just started studying a computer course at Failsworth Lifelong Learning Centre in Manchester. Learning has changed my life so much that I want to inspire others to carry on their learning too. I enjoy being part of a team who can make a significant difference. I won the NIACE North West Regional Senior Learners award in May 2008, and the Oldham User Committee overall award for Information and Communication Technology."

Jean Swann, 46

"Diagnosed with hydrocephalus at the age of ten, I lost most of my vision and joined a special school which limited my aspirations and potential achievements. I have always been determined to succeed in education and would like to be more centrally involved in helping to make learning more accessible and inclusive to people with specific needs. I am currently studying for my European Computer Driving Licence at Macclesfield College."

Beth Walker, 21

"I attended Chichester College for three years and was heavily involved with the Students’ Union. In my third year I became the college’s student governor. In March 2007, I was elected Vice-President (FE) for the National Union of Students. Within my remit, I have developed a particular interest in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) provision and faith within further education."

Lynette Wieland, 19

"I am doing an advanced Apprenticeship in business and administration alongside some academic distance learning. I am a founding member, fundraiser and vice-chair of a local youth council. I am a member of a Learning and Skills Council regional council - as a learner representative - and last year I spoke in Parliament on information, advice and guidance for learners. I believe that you don’t know what you can achieve until you try."

Hollie Williams, 19

"Last year I was president of Worcester Technology College Students’ Union. At Worcester Tech, I took A levels. I am on the National Union of Students' part-time executive body."

Oliver Wood, 27 (chair)

"As a disabled person, I understand the key role that further education has in improving the lives of people from minority groups. I think further education should be at the heart of our education system and I am training as an ESOL teacher. I want the experience of further education to be diverse, vibrant and inclusive, providing a high quality education to all. As a member of last year’s panel, I believe I can provide continuity in the future work of the panel."

Sahr Yambusu, 18

"I went to St Joseph’s Academy in Blackheath for my GCSEs and am presently doing my first year in applied science for a BTEC national diploma at Bromley College. I serve as a course representative, a student governor and I am the black student officer. I am dedicated to my college and course, and am good at working on my own and as part of a team. I am secretary-general at my church and always respect the opinions of others."

Find out about the other panel members for 2008/2009

• National Learner Panel: more about the 2008/2009 panel members (A-M)

More useful links

• Qualifications explained

Back to main page on the National Learner Panel

• National Learner Panel: giving learners a voice at national level