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CAVA Student Recognised at National Keith Fletcher Awards

CAVA Student Recognised at National Keith Fletcher Awards

The Cambridge Access Validating Agency is delighted to congratulate Amy Bartlett, who has been recognised as a runner-up in the Outstanding Commitment to Study category at the national Keith Fletcher Awards.

Amy, who studied the Access to HE Diploma (Land-Based Studies) at Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst, was nominated for the national award following her success at the CAVA Access to HE Learner Awards.

Amy’s achievement reflects the extraordinary resilience, determination and commitment she has shown throughout her educational journey. Diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia at the age of 12, Amy experienced multiple relapses and underwent two stem cell transplants. Despite ongoing medical appointments and the physical challenges associated with treatment, she excelled during her Access to HE studies.

The Access to HE Diploma helped Amy rebuild her confidence and overcome anxieties around returning to education and engaging with people her own age again. Throughout the course, she embraced every opportunity available to her, actively participating in practical activities including working with horses and reptiles, as well as driving tractors.

Reflecting on her achievement, Amy shared:

“I feel a great sense of achievement that, despite my reduced energy levels and mobility challenges, I still got involved with everything.”

Amy achieved distinctions in all graded modules and was described by her tutor, Bethany Drury, as quietly strong, highly committed, and an inspiration to those around her.

Emily Ross, CEO of CAVA, and Jacky Kelly, Quality and Operations Officer at CAVA, attended the Keith Fletcher Awards ceremony at the Houses of Parliament on 20 May 2026 to celebrate Amy’s success alongside colleagues from across the Access to HE sector.

Emily Ross, CEO of CAVA, said:

“We are incredibly proud to see Amy recognised at a national level through the Keith Fletcher Awards. Her determination, positivity and commitment to her studies are truly inspiring, and this achievement is thoroughly deserved.

It was an honour to attend the Keith Fletcher Awards, celebrate the inspirational achievements of Access to HE learners from across the sector, and receive the award on Amy’s behalf. Events like this highlight the life-changing opportunities that Access to HE creates for adult learners.”

The Keith Fletcher Awards celebrate the achievements of Access to HE students across the country and recognise individuals who have overcome significant barriers to succeed in education.

Congratulations again to Amy on this fantastic achievement.

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