2026 Learner of the Year Award

The recipient of the Scottish Union Learning Learner of the Year Award 2026 is Sara Hamilton, a member of Bectu (a sector of Prospect). 

Trade union-led learning has the power to change lives in ways that extend far beyond the completion of any single course. At its best, it provides individuals with the confidence, support, and skills they need to unlock new career pathways, transform their working lives, and inspire others. Few journeys illustrate this more clearly than the learning path taken by Sara Hamilton, whose determination, resilience, and commitment to her craft make her an outstanding candidate for this award.

From her early steps trying to break into the highly competitive film and television industry during the height of the pandemic, to her leadership role today shaping sustainability practices for Scotland’s screen sector, Sara’s trajectory shows how trade union-led learning can open doors, build careers, and empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to their industries. 

Like many new film and television entrants, Sara found breaking into paid employment in the screen sector incredibly difficult. Sara connected with the BECTU Vision Team, which led to her participation in ‘Hit the Ground Running’, BECTU Vision’s flagship training course for industry newcomers. This initial training was the spark that turned uncertainty into a tangible, achievable career path. 

Sara is passionate about sustainability within the industry. Following training through BECTU Vision, she began to advocate for greener and cleaner ways of working on productions. Sara became one of the first Sustainability Coordinators in Scotland, a pioneering role. Sara more recently progressed to the secure a role as a Screen Sustainability Consultant. 

Sara now develops training for Sustainability Coordinators. Sara’s journey from trainee to trainer encapsulates the power of union?led learning. 

STUC General Secretary Roz Foyer said, “I am delighted to congratulate Sara Hamilton on being named the Scottish Union Learning Learner of the Year 2026. Sara’s journey is a powerful example of how trade union learning can transform lives, opening opportunities, building confidence and equipping workers with the skills they need to shape the future of their industries. 

“Through the trade union movement, Sara has not only developed her own career but has become a pioneer in Scotland’s screen sector, helping to establish the role of Sustainability Coordinator and championing greener, more sustainable ways of working. Her progression from learner to trainer demonstrates the lasting impact that union-led learning can have - not just for individuals, but for workplaces and entire industries. 

On behalf of Scotland’s trade union movement, I offer Sara my warmest congratulations. We are proud of everything she has achieved, and we look forward to the continued contribution she will make as she inspires others through the power of trade union learning.”

This year, the award was sponsored by The Open University in Scotland. 

Watch Sara’s story in the Scottish Union Learning’s Learner of the Year Award short film here: