On the red carpet – awarding Learners

Ystrad Mynach College celebrated the achievements of hundreds of learners at its annual prize-giving at Caerphilly Castle this week, 23rd October. And making the keynote address and awarding more than 60 prizes was Bevan Foundation Director, Victoria Winckler.

Victoria reminded delegates of the vital importance of vocational education and training to a decent quality of life.  Virtually every aspect of our everyday lives depends on people having good vocational skills, whether its plumbers that make sure water flows in our homes and hospitals, care workers looking after children and older people, or office managers keeping a business running smoothly.

Vocational education is also key to social justice she argued. It enables people to acquire new skills at any time of their lives, and can also boost people’s confidence and self-esteem. Yet it’s the Cinderella sector, with its good work too often overlooked.

The picture shows Victoria presenting Ystrad Mynach college student Craig Bannan with his IT practitioners award – Craig has succeeded despite being diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2009 and a subsequent relapse.

Find out more about Ystrad Mynach College and about Craig’s success.