June 2007

Connect is celebrating multiple successes at this year’s learndirect Achievement Awards North West, scooping not only the Regional Winner for the Staff Award but also receiving two commendations.

Nigel Ashton, Learning Support Manager for Connect’s Birkenhead and Beechwood centres was the Regional Winner of the learndirect Centre Staff Award. As regional finalist, Nigel will represent the North West at the national finals to be held at The Globe Theatre London later in the year to compete against the other 8 regional finalists for the National Award.

The award is particularly meaningful for Nigel as the original nomination was made by a learner studying at Nigel’s centre. Jean Holmes, currently undertaking an IT qualification, recommended Nigel for the high level of encouragement and practical support he has given her.

Connect’s Chris Batey, Business Development Manager, also of our Birkenhead centre, received a "Highly Commended" in the learndirect Centre Staff Award section, whilst in the Company Award category, Connect Internet Solutions also received a "Highly Commended".

The awards were presented by Ranvir Singh of BBC North West at the ceremony held at De Vere Whites Reebok Stadium in Bolton on 13 June 2007.

Peter Labone, learndirect Manager at Connect said

“We are thrilled and proud that Nigel and Chris have been recognized as providing superlative service to our learndirect users, and that Connect itself has been highly commended. We are constantly seeking to improve the services we offer, and these awards acknowledge that commitment”.

Connect’s Nigel Ashton, Regional Winner, being interviewed by Ranvir Singh.

Connect’s Chris Batey with her Certificate

The learndirect Awards have been designed by the University for Industry to recognise and celebrate the achievements of individuals, businesses and learndirect learning centres across the region. Connect is the largest provider of learndirect in the region, operating a network of both learning centres and outreach centres across Greater Merseyside.

Learndirect offer a portfolio of around 500 on-line courses aimed at businesses and the general public alike.; details of our services and where they can be accessed can be found at:

| More on http://www.merseyvlc.com