Mark Roberts was presented with the County Antrim Essential Skills Learner of the Year 2011 award at a glittering ceremony held at Hillsborough Castle.

Gaining qualifications

Mark undertook Essential Skills courses as part of his work placement training at Springvale Learning in order to gain Maths and English qualifications and to gain employment. Mark’s enthusiasm and attitude to study saw him achieve his Essential Skills Level 1 qualifications in Literacy, Numeracy and ICT. Not only that, he also found a job in sports ground maintenance and now plans to progress with his career whilst continuing with his studies.

Brighter future

Mark says of his achievements: “These classes have helped me achieve employment and have shown my employer that I am willing to learn new skills and gain qualifications. My future is much brighter now and I hope I can show others that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.”