Bradford College

West Yorkshire Work-Based Learning Awards – Winners Announced

Bradford College students and staff have been announced as winners of West Yorkshire Work-Based Learning Awards. The prestigious awards recognise learners, employers and tutors from across West Yorkshire for their commitment to higher level skills.

Steve Challenger, Executive Director of the West Yorkshire Lifelong Learning Network, said:  “Every year I am surprised by the calibre of the nominations we receive and this year is no exception, some of the stories are truly inspirational and it is humbling to realise the effort and commitment shown to gain higher level skills.”

The Awards recognise inspirational learners who have gained a positive or life changing experience from progressing onto higher education or have gained new skills which will improve their career prospects and the performance of the company they work for.

Former Bradford College student Bethany Bolton was presented with a “West Yorkshire Work-Based Learning Award during the auspicious ceremony. Bethany studied part-time at Bradford College, whilst holding down a demanding full-time position at Provident Financial.  Bethany’s career has gone from strength to strength following the successful completion of the ‘Chartered Institute of Marketing Professional Diploma at the College.

Bethany attracted the attention of top bosses when a project she was working on as part of her College coursework developed into a new and innovative product for the financial market. She has now been promoted to the position of Senior Marketing Executive within the company.

Other award winning students include James Greenwood.  James was recognised for his outstanding supportive and conscientious attitude towards his work, which has also helped to create a positive working atmosphere – inspiring others to succeed.

Mother of four, Shabana Kauser also scooped an award for the Health, Social Care and Early Years category. Dedicated Shabana is working towards an NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care at Bradford College, whilst working at Sharing Voices. Shabana is the main carer for both her mother and husband who suffer from mental health problems. Shabana has shown great commitment to her course, often completing coursework in the early hours of the morning, which is the only time she has time for herself. She hopes to go on to university to study Psychological Therapies or Psychiatric Nursing to further her career.

Awards were also presented to tutors and employers during the memorable evening for offering encouragement, support or inspiration to work-based learners.  Bradford College Tutor, Angela Readhead, was amongst those to receive an award for her constant encouragement and endless support to her learners – reflected in her 100% success, retention and achievement rates.