Steve Christopher from Blandford Forum is celebrating his success today after winning a national learndirect Achievement Award.
Steve has been recognised from over 1,750 nominations made nationwide to win the Outstanding Learner Award which recognises learners who have overcome difficulties to succeed and have inspired others to use learndirect.
Having lost his legs as a young man, Steve has battled physical and social boundaries to achieve amazing results. Steve wanted to train to be a forklift truck driver, keen to access the increased employment opportunities the qualification would give him. After coming to TABS Training in Shaftesbury, Steve fitted in his studies around working nights and his on-going pain to attend the centre regularly and progressed quickly in his learning. Steve successfully passed his forklift truck licence as well as achieving numeracy and literacy Level 2 qualifications. He is now looking forward to using these new skills in the workplace.
On receiving his award Steve said:
“I’m shocked at winning this award – I didn’t think my story was anything special. I have overcome a lot of discrimination and ignorance against disabled people. It has been hard but I like to challenge perceptions of what I can do. Just do some learning if you need it and grab every opportunity – Don’t let anyone say you can’t do anything.”
TV presenters Eamonn Holmes and his wife Ruth Langsford, who hosted the Achievement Awards national ceremony at The Science Museum in London, said:
“We are both delighted to support the learndirect Achievement Awards. We have worked with learndirect in the past to highlight the benefits of learning and so have seen the positive impact that learning can have on adults around the country. It is wonderful to join learndirect in celebrating those individuals and businesses who are using e-learning to train and improve their skills.”
Sarah Jones, Chief Executive of Ufi said:
“Learning changes lives and at learndirect we are passionate about helping people to develop their potential. Steve is an inspiration to learners across England and his commitment to developing his skills and qualifications truly deserves celebrating. To each of the winners I offer my congratulations on their success and wish them the best of luck in the future.”