Robert Thornton was presented with the Northern Ireland Trade Union Essential Skills Learner of the Year 2011 award at a glittering ceremony in Hillsborough Castle. He also received a highly commended certificate in the County Fermanagh category.
Long distance lorry driver Robert’s reasons for returning to study at South West College in Enniskillen were two fold. He wanted to gain qualifications to change his career and enable him to spend more time with his family, as well as being able to help his children with their homework.
Having achieved his Essential Skills Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy qualifications, Robert is now actively seeking employment in areas of work he could never have considered before and he also plans to undertake a Foundation Degree. Robert is also currently undertaking an Essential Skills Level 2 qualification in ICT.
Having realised the benefits of Essential Skills qualifications, Robert actively encourages other parents, friends and colleagues to try something new for themselves. He said: “My future is no longer a fantasy. I plan to undertake a Foundation Degree and progress to gaining qualifications in order to achieve my dream of becoming a Sports Dietician/Nutritionist.”
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