Winners all yearn for learning

The Learning Partnership – Bedfordshire and Luton gave certificates to a host of people who have fought against the odds to change their lives or helped people to do just that.

Management consultant Nigel Leach won the learning through partnership award, sponsored by Central Bedfordshire College,

David Meager, of Central Bedfordshire College, nominated Mr Leach for the award and collected it on his behalf at the ceremony in Putteridge Bury on May 17.

Mr Meager said: “Nigel always goes the extra mile and without fail will attend business reviews with decision makers within organisations, all of which he gives of freely.

“His input in identifying the skill gaps and preparing training programmes that are bespoke to organisational needs has proven invaluable.

“Overall he has had a big impact on a number of key local Bedfordshire employers and employees to help them improve the management and sustainability of their businesses in difficult economical times.”

Heather Maggs, who chairs the Learning Partnership – Bedfordshire and Luton, told the awards ceremony that for the last three years Mr Leach has been working with Chiltern Business Training and provided real impact with various local organisations.

She named Marsh Farm Development Trust, Network Automotive, Flitwick Town Council, Pure Prospects, Luton Borough Council and Tour Andersson as people he had helped, to name just a few.

Mr Leach helps organisations solve problems with his strategic thinking and designs new training programmes.

> The adult hairdressing and beauty students at Central Bedfordshire College won the award for being Community Learning Champions, for their overall contribution to the area.

> Busy mum Lindsay Ann Warren won the Tutor of the Year Award. She had been a student at Barnfield College in 2004 but worked hard to start teaching herself and is now recognised as a valuable part of the college’s team teaching Luton’ hairdressers of the future..

> Luton Council apprentice Kirsty Neal, 24, of Copperfields Close, Dunstable, won the workplace award for her career drive and determination and overcoming medical issues.

> Sharfin Khan, 20, of Burnham Road, Luton, won the European Social Fund Achiever of the Year award for Luton.

Since being taken on a six-month placement at NOAH Enterprise, in Luton, he has proved his worth to the charity with his learning abilities.