Aiden Tsen

Judges praised Aiden’s determination, resilience and impressive progress. After five years out of education, employment and training because of long-term health challenges and disrupted education, Aiden joined The King’s Trust’s Health and Social Care Programme ‘Step into Work’, delivered with the North London NHS Foundation Trust. The programme supports young people who have long-term health conditions or are neurodivergent to build their skills, confidence and experience.

Aiden flourished during a placement with the Oliver McGowan team at the North London NHS Foundation Trust, where he also supported other learners. Since completing the programme, he has gained a job in the NHS, finished three further education qualifications and is currently taking an Access to Higher Education Diploma with plans to return to university. His achievements show how the right support can help young people build on their strengths and find a path into learning and work.

The Get the Nation Learning Awards are part of Get the Nation Learning Week, running from 2–6 November. Led by Learning and Work Institute and backed by more than 220 organisations, the Get the Nation Learning campaign celebrates the power of lifelong learning to change lives, strengthen communities and support better work.

Aiden Tsen said:
“It’s odd knowing this time last year, my placement with the NHS team I’m now part of had yet to start! In seriousness, thank you to The King’s Trust and my placement-turned-line manager: by taking a chance on me, you helped me learn that I’m allowed to have been NEET for most of my 18-24 years and have hopes for myself. Reentering employment hasn’t been easy, nor has navigating further higher education as a working mature student. I’m confident my efforts will remain more than worthwhile. I’m honoured to win this award. I hope to help others learn and act on the idea that people who’ve been out of education, employment and training deserve someone who’ll take a chance on them too.”

Alex Khanyaghma, Senior Head of Delivery for Health and Social Care at The King’s Trust said:
“Aiden is a powerful example of what young people can achieve when they are given the right support and access to opportunity. Seeing him overcome what he has, progress into employment with the NHS, continue his studies and support others along the way has been something we are incredibly proud to see. At The King’s Trust, we believe every young person should have the chance to fulfil their potential, regardless of the barriers they face. Aiden’s achievements demonstrate the life-changing impact that tailored support, confidence-building and access to opportunities can have. We are delighted to see him receive this well-deserved recognition. Congratulations Aiden!”

Stephen Evans, Chief Executive of Learning and Work Institute, said:
“We are thrilled that Aiden is the winner of the New Directions Award this year. He is an inspiration, showing what can be achieved with perseverance, the right support and the opportunity to develop talents. It is fantastic to see that he is flourishing in his NHS role and continuing his learning, and it is an honour to celebrate his achievements at the Get the Nation Learning Awards.”

Mark Malcomson, Principal of City Lit, said:
“Aiden is the type of learner who is an inspiration to my colleagues at City Lit. He perfectly captures why we’re so passionate about sponsoring the New Directions Award and supporting the Get the Nation Learning campaign. Huge congratulations to him and wishing him continued success on his journey in work and life.”