We’re incredibly proud of Oleh, one of NHC’s Motor Vehicle students, for being recognised at the Institute of the Motor Vehicle Industry’s Annual Awards 2026.
Adult learner Oleh enrolled on his Level 1 Diploma in Automotive Maintenance at North Hertfordshire College just four days after escaping the war in Ukraine with his wife and young daughter. He had previously worked as a lawyer but, as his qualifications were non-transferable, he chose to retrain as a mechanic due to his interest in cars and engineering.
Oleh successfully overcame a number of barriers to learning during the application process and throughout his course. During his interview, Oleh’s wife acted as a translator to help him answer questions and find out more about his course, but he has since completed additional English classes outside of his motor vehicle programme.
As an adult learner on a course traditionally for school leavers, Oleh was significantly older than his peers. Despite the language barrier and his own mental health struggles, Oleh has continually supported his classmates to develop their skills whilst he simultaneously improved his own practical abilities and his English.
He took the time to sit with his classmates and listen to their needs and concerns, often telling staff: “I was 16 once, I know what they’re going through.” As a result, he has made many friends in his class and developed excellent bonds with peers and staff.
Despite all he has faced, Oleh has now successfully completed his IMI Level 1 Diploma in Automotive Maintenance and achieved a Pass grade. With confidence in his abilities, Oleh has now built his personal and professional networks and secured a job in a garage.
As a result of his unwavering commitment to college studies in the face of challenges, Oleh was named a finalist in the Learner of the Year category at the prestigious Institute of the Motor Vehicle Industry’s (IMI) Annual Awards 2026. This accolade recognises full-time learners who have made a significant contribution and have shown a dedication to excel in their professional development and studies.
On the 11th of March, Oleh attended the glitzy awards ceremony in London, accompanied by his wife Anna, his tutor Matt Arnold, and Head of Construction and Motor Vehicle at NHC Sam Sharpe.
Oleh’s tutor, Matt Arnold, commented: “Oleh is the most hard-working, motivated student I have ever taught. He is incredibly deserving of this recognition.”
We’re incredibly proud of Oleh’s success, in and out of the classroom. We wish him the very best of luck for the future.
Are you looking to upskill or retrain, like Oleh did? Be the best you. Ever. Explore the wide range of courses for adult learners at North Hertfordshire College.