She recalls how she used to set sums and writing tasks for her little brother and sister when they were just toddlers.

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However when her A level grades didn't measure up, Joanne thought that she would never have the chance of a real teaching career.

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Some years later, once her own children were in school, she seized the opportunity to enter higher education and has gained recognition for the dedication and determination she has shown in her studies.

Juggling her full-time job as a Learning Support Assistant at Garforth Community College with studying for a Foundation Degree in Additional (Special) Needs through Leeds Trinity & All Saints has earned Joanne a Highly Commended Learner Award in Health, Social Care and Early Years in the West Yorkshire Work-based Learning Awards.

The awards, run by the West Yorkshire Lifelong Learning Network, recognise work-based learners throughout West Yorkshire who deserve special recognition for their achievements and inspire others to progress onto higher level courses.

The opportunity to enrol on the foundation degree course came at a time when Joanne was at very low ebb, following a family break up, bankruptcy and a period of homelessness with three young boys to care for.

These experiences reinforced her determination to become financially independent and achieve her lifelong ambition of becoming a teacher.

She said: "Initially I was daunted by the prospect of 'going back to school' myself, and I wondered how I would juggle my career, my home and my study. However, the experience has been totally positive, the tutors have been incredibly supportive and encouraging and have made me feel I could achieve anything I put my mind too, even through some very low and difficult times."

"The course has had a dramatic influence on my performance as a Learning Support Assistant, in fact I'm currently working towards my Higher Level Teaching Assistant qualification and training as a Community Sports Leader."

"My experience has been such a positive one that I'm deciding what to do next year in order to 'top up' my foundation degree. My long term goal is to teach in a mainstream high school focussing on students with special educational needs."

Tutor Barbara Rose nominated Joanne for the award. She said, "I am proud to be Joanne's tutor, she is a perfect role model for young parents balancing work, parenting, and studying for a degree. She is positive, enthusiastic and supports all her fellow students. She is a real inspiration to us all."

Joanne received her award at a prestigious Celebration Event and Awards Evening at Leeds Civic Hall, attended by West Yorkshire university and college staff, employers, local authorities, sector skills councils and other key organisations.

The evening was an opportunity to celebrate the successes so far of the West Yorkshire Lifelong Learning Network (WYLLN) which is now entering its third and final year.