LEARNERS from the Aspire2work vocational training programme have been recognised for their efforts in the 2018 aspire2work awards.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford welcomed young people to Aspire-igen’s annual awards ceremony, which celebrates the achievements of the learners on its Aspire2work programme at The Opportunity Centre, Bradford.

The Aspire2work awards were presented to 16 finalists selected from over 1,500 learners aged 16 to 19 years or age, from across Yorkshire and Humber.

Many of the learners left school with few or no qualifications and within a year have gained English, maths and vocational qualifications helping them move on to college or in to a job.

Awards were also presented to employers who have supported the programme by offering work experience as well as tutors, support tutors and partner training providers who teach learners on a variety of vocational courses from hair and beauty to motor vehicle maintenance.

The event was hosted by Yorkshire Capital breakfast radio presenter JoJo while keen awards supporter, GB boxer Conor Loftus, who is sponsored by Bradford-based Aspire-igen, also attended and presented certificates to the finalists.

The winners were: Most Dedicated Learner – Bilal Raweel; Most Improved Learner – Joseph Hallas; High Achiever – Jessica Arundell; Learner of the Year – Ellie Thompson Baker; Employer of the Year – LATCH & Leeds City Council Parking Services (joint winners); Tutor of the Year – Sana Saddique; Support & Non-Teaching Staff member of the year – Jude Harrison.

Two of the winners, Joseph Hallas and Jude Harrison were having a double celebration following publication of an e-book they recently co-wrote which aims to raise awareness of autism.

Joe has Asperger’s and has progressed massively since starting the programme. As well as co-writing the book, which is available at http://www.lspace.co.uk/, he has created and delivered a presentation on autism to staff and learners and has started a work placement.

Jude, his one to one support tutor, has been praised for her ability to motivate and inspire, not just Joe but all learners.

Malcolm Wake, operations director for Aspire-igen, said: “We are so pleased to give our learners a real chance to celebrate their achievements and show that their efforts have been recognised.

"Aspire2work is a vocational study programme offering free courses to 16-19 year olds. Some of our learners faced difficulty at school, leaving with no qualifications, overcoming multiple barriers such as language, mental health issues and low self-esteem.

"Many learners also utilise our programme as a pathway to higher level courses and career options. It is so rewarding seeing learners prosper on a course that they may once have thought was beyond their capabilities.

“We are grateful to our partner organisations who help provide training to our learners and employers who have offered such great work experience opportunities and the awards recognise these too."

"We’re looking forward to next year already!”