South Nottingham College student Leigh Ferron picked up the East Midlands Learner of the Year 2009 award as part of VQ (Vocational Qualifications) Day on 24 June.
Leigh was presented with his certificate by celebrity chef, James Martin at an awards ceremony at Hackney Community College. A second College student, Betsy Stirland won the young Learner of the Year category for her outstanding achievements studying sport. South Nottingham College were the only college in the country to have regional winners in both categories.
Leigh was selected by the judges for his dedication to vocational learning and huge success in his chosen field. Leigh started his first part-time course at South Nottingham College in September 2006 studying Swedish Massage and went on to complete courses in reflexology and Thermal Auricular Therapy - he has just finished a Stone Therapy Massage course. Leigh is always keen to improve his own skills, as well as helping fellow students to fine tune their techniques. On 26th April 2009 he attended the UK Skills regional heat at the Birmingham NEC and was awarded first place in the reflexology competition.
On receiving news of the award win, Leigh said:
"It's such an honour to be named as the VQ Hero - Learner of the Year for the East Midlands. My vocational qualification has helped me to achieve so much already, and I'm really proud to be able to highlight the benefits of vocational learning and join in the VQ Day celebrations with the millions of others who gain vocational qualifications every year."
The VQ Hero Awards were part of VQ Day, a national celebration of vocational achievement and the many paths to success taken by learners of all ages. The Awards demonstrate the talent, commitment and rigorous standards involved in gaining a vocational qualification.