A Bournemouth and Poole College student has won a national award for supporting children with additional needs.
Nonge Bikishoni was named NCFE Learner of the Year after returning to education in 2024, 9 years after leaving school, and completing a Level 2 Award in Support Work in Schools and Colleges.
His assessor Sara Brown said he stood out through his commitment, curiosity and reflective approach, adding that his empathy and willingness to help others created a “positive and inclusive culture” within the classroom.
Nonge also shared his experiences of ADHD with fellow students, helping improve understanding of neurodiversity, before beginning a placement at a Bournemouth primary school and discovering a strong interest in supporting pupils.
He now volunteers 4 full days each week, including regularly in the school’s Rainbow Room, which supports Year 3 children with complex trauma, global developmental delay and autism spectrum disorder.
Nonge said the course gave him “a different view on education” and encouraged him to continue studying, while the college said his achievement showed how education can help people overcome barriers and build confidence.
