Knowsley Community College Students scoop the North West Learners’ ‘Oscars’

Knowsley Community College was celebrating the success of its students after picking up two of the top awards and a commendation at The North West Learner Awards, held at Aintree Racecourse recently. The Awards are funded by the Learning and Skills Council and highlight the importance of learning to individuals, employers and the wider community.

Fern Rowlands, a pupil of Knowsley Hey High School, who has been studying on the Young Apprenticeship programme in Hospitality and Catering at the College, was awarded the Young Apprentice of the Year title. Fern was nominated for the award by her tutor Susan Brankin because of her excellent attendance, commitment and achievement and also because of how she has grown in confidence since starting on the programme.

James Davies, who studied on the Engineering Apprenticeship programme at the College won the Apprentice of the Year Award. He achieved this through the contribution he has made to the company Eldapoint Ltd, with whom he has served his Apprenticeship. He has been recognised for his valuable contribution to introducing improvements into the company and by helping to maintain their reputation for excellence. He was also selected to become a company designated first-aider.

Finally John Cartwright was Highly Commended at the Awards for all the work and enthusiasm he has put into his BTEC National Diploma in Applied Science at the College. Over his two years at the College as one of the NHS-sponsored Cadets, John has consistently impressed tutors, demonstrating drive and maturity. John has been offered a place to continue his studies at University.

Knowsley Community College also had the most finalists throughout the different categories and a fantastic evening was had by all the tutors, students and family members who attended the ‘Oscars style’ Awards night, which was hosted by broadcaster Fiona Armstrong and had ex-Blue Peter Konnie Huq as a special guest. Frank Gill, Principal of the College, said;

“We are very pleased that these young people have been recognised in such an important way. The Learner Awards are the Oscars of education and training and the recipients and their families should be very proud. The achievement of the awards will also provide a great boost to the confidence and future ambitions of these students.”