Adult learner wins learndirect award
N
orthbrook learner, Victoria Wilsdon from Rustington, Littlehampton, is celebrating her success after being Highly Commended in two categories at the South East regional learndirect Achievement Awards Ceremony.
Victoria was Highly Commended in the Outstanding Learner Award category, sponsored by The Learning and Skills Council, which recognises learners who have overcome difficulties to succeed and have inspired others to use learndirect. She was also Highly Commended in the Skills for Work category, sponsored by Jobcentre Plus, which recognises learners who have returned to work as a result of undertaking learndirect learning.
Victoria was working as a successful accounts manager until her life changed dramatically after she was involved in a serious car accident. The accident left her with a brain injury that affected her mobility, short term memory and speech. While in hospital, her medical team recommended she visit The Palmzone learndirect Centre to quicken her recovery. Taking her first course in March 2007, by the end of 2007 Victoria had not only passed IT modules, but having successfully retaken her driving test, started a part-time job fundraising for Impact Initiatives in Brighton, a charity which promotes social inclusion and helps individuals and communities have a better quality of life.
On being Highly Commended, Victoria said:
“I feel very proud. I had 3 goals after the accident – to get a job, drive a car, and gain my independence again – and I’ve managed to achieve all three. I really wanted to achieve these goals and learndirect has helped me to do that.”
Victoria’s nominator, Marion Harrison from The Palmzone Centre added:
“Victoria’s strong determination to succeed is an inspiration to many people in a similar situation to herself.”
Dereth Wood, Director of Ufi Operations, the company behind learndirect, said:
“The South East Regional Highly Commended nominees have demonstrated an inspirational commitment to developing their skills and qualifications. As a great encouragement to millions of learners across England, Victoria truly deserves recognition.”
PHOTOS:
Top: Victoria Wilsdon (centre) with Malcolm Ming, Regional Performance Director, Ufi Ltd (left) and Sue Ormiston, LSC (Learning and Skills Council) sponsor (right)
Above: Northbrook’s Palmzone staff Marion Harrison (left) and Su Pearce (right) with Victoria Wilsdon (centre)