The founder and Managing Director of ACE, Lou Gardiner, was recognised as one of the ‘Stars of Norfolk and Waveney’ at the EDP awards ceremony held at Open Norwich on Thursday 5th December.

These awards are to celebrate the bravery, dedication and downright brilliance of people across the region. Despite being up against stiff opposition in her category, we are delighted (and mega proud) to announce the Lou was named EDUCATION CHAMPION OF THE YEAR.

Lou is passionate about learning and thinks everyone has the right and the ability to learn and grow, regardless of their personal, cultural or educational disadvantages. Having had a difficult educational background herself, she has made it her mission to make education available to all that want to better themselves – this award is an official recognition of all that she has achieved in this regard. Lou started ACE as a Social Enterprise in 2011, providing vocational training for people that aren’t traditionally ‘classroom shaped’. ACE has realised her vision of helping young people and disadvantaged adults achieve better lives through education and support. Learners at ACE range from teens to adults, but all who pass through the doors are encouraged to follow their dreams and are supported to become their best selves. The students come from diverse backgrounds: children in care, unemployed adults, the disengaged, disadvantaged and undervalued members of society. Lou’s vision has helped hundreds of people change their lives for the better.