'Inspirational' Boston College learner named Higher Education Student of the Year in national awards scheme

Bernice Bradley received the honour at the Association of Colleges (AoC) Student of the Year Awards 2026/27, held at the AoC Annual Conference and Exhibition in Birmingham earlier this week.

The event celebrates – in the words of the AoC – ‘outstanding achievements, resilience, and contributions from students across the country’.

Boston College said Bernice’s achievement was ‘particularly remarkable given the challenges she has overcome throughout her life’, demonstrating that ‘it is never too late to pursue a passion, discover new opportunities and achieve something extraordinary’.

Having spent much of her life caring for others, including supporting her mother for 30 years, Bernice faced significant personal challenges from a young age, the college said.

After leaving school at 16 to work and study catering, she went on to raise her daughter as a single parent while continuing to care for her mother.

It was not until later in life that Bernice had the opportunity to pursue her lifelong passion for photography, the college said. After starting with an evening class, she would go on to enrol on a foundation degree before progressing to a BA (Hons) in Creative Arts (Photography) at Boston College at the age of 56.

Balancing her studies with work and caring responsibilities, Bernice achieved a First-Class Honours degree – an ‘incredible accomplishment that reflects her determination, commitment and talent’, the college said.

Her impact, however, extends far beyond her academic success, the college continued. Throughout her time at the setting, Bernice has supported college events, local organisations, Lincolnshire Police and student motorsport.

She has also established a successful photography business, organised exhibitions and mentored fellow students and young photographers.

Her photography has received national recognition, featuring in leading publications including Digital Camera Magazine, Amateur Photographer and MotorSport Magazine.

Following the completion of her degree, Bernice joined Boston College as a photography lecturer, ‘bringing her professional experience, creativity and passion for the subject into the classroom to inspire the next generation’, the college said.

Lynette Leith, principal and chief executive officer of Boston College, said: “Sharing this moment with Bernice at the AoC Student Awards was an honour. Bernice is incredibly deserving of this recognition, and we are immensely proud of the impact she has made, first as a student and now as a valued member of the college team.

“She is a fantastic reminder of the power of education in changing lives and creating opportunities. Her journey is a wonderful example of what can be achieved with determination, ambition and the right support.

“She is an inspiration, she is a role model, and we couldn’t be prouder. Congratulations, Bernice. A star!”

Tom Hughes, vice principal: curriculum innovation and impact at Boston College, said: “We are immensely proud of Bernice and all that she has achieved with us at the college.

“Bernice has demonstrated that it’s never too late to learn something new and find your passion, and she is a great ambassador for Higher Education and adult learning.

“Having completed her degree, Bernice went on to join us as a photography lecturer, where she is able to share her knowledge, experiences and skills with future generations of photographers in the region.”

Anyone interested in following in Bernice’s footsteps into higher education, can find out more about our university level courses at Boston College at www.boston.ac.uk.