A winner all the way ...

A former Childcare student from Derwentside College - Almamy Abass has been announced as the Personal Achiever of the Year at the Celebration of Learning and Skills Awards (CoLaS). The regional ceremony, held at The Sage in Gateshead, was hosted by Chris Roberts - Regional Director of the LSC North East and the categories introduced by well-known TV Sports presenter Gabby Logan.

This annual, prestigious event - now in its 3rd year - saw some of the largest educational establishments and regional companies attend and compete for 12 sought-after awards. The award categories attracted fierce competition with hundreds of nominations received. Chris Roberts said 'The high level of entries reflects the passion of the North East for continual learning and development. Each finalist is truly deserving of the recognition they will receive tonight. All have shown commitment and dedication to learning, whilst many have faced and overcome challenges.'

Almamy, from Consett, was delighted to be announced as this year's Personal Achiever. Almamy, originally from Sierra Leone in Africa, fled the violence and civil war of his homeland to start a new life in England. Arriving in the United Kingdom at the age of 15, Almamy had to cope with learning a new language and adapt to a new culture very quickly. Enrolling at Derwentside College, the staff did everything they could to help Almamy achieve his educational qualifications. Passing his courses with flying colours and in recognition of his hard work and commitment to his studies Almamy was also named the College's Student of the Year in November 2007.

Almamy was not the only person to be delighted at his achievement, as he was accompanied by his foster parents, girlfriend and senior members of the College, as well as his childcare tutors and mentors. Albert Croney - Principal and Chief Executive of Derwentside College said, 'It has been a great evening for Almamy, but it has also given us all a chance to be impressed and inspired by the achievements of others. The skills that people are gaining in the region are positively transforming our local economy and that is something that we should all be proud of.'

The event included some great local entertainment throughout the evening, as well as the presentation of the awards. It concluded with Chris Roberts thanking everyone for making the evening a great success and encouraging us all to 'continue to learn and achieve.'

Celebrating success at the CoLas Awards 2008 ( l-r) Gabby Logan, Almamy Abass, Representative from South Tyneside College

For more information contact: Michael Quinlyn-Nixon on (01207) 585900 (ext 809).

27 June 2008