Shelley is an inspiration to fellow learners

A Sutton woman is celebrating after being crowned the winner at a regional ceremony for the learndirect Inspiration Awards.

Shelley Bowler won the star apprentice award in the south region at a ceremony at The Hilton Hotel in Coventry.

After being made redundant from her previous role, Shelley decided to spend some time concentrating on her children whilst working part-time at McDonald’s.

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Her daughter was completing an Apprenticeship at the same branch during that time and feeling inspired, Shelley applied for one herself and was delighted to be successful, having not completed any learning for more than 25 years.

After achieving her Apprenticeship in Hospitality and Catering, Shelley has been promoted to Crew Trainer which means she can now help others achieve their qualifications.

Shelley said: “I’m really shocked to get the award. I never thought the Apprenticeship would get me so far. I’m really glad I did it.”

Iain Salisbury, group director of skills and rmployability at learndirect hosted the ceremony in Coventry, said: “The Inspiration Awards are a great opportunity for us to celebrate inspirational local people from all walks of life.

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“The standard of nominations this year has been extremely high, showing the drive and determination of people in the midlands to improve their skills and make a change to their life.”

Regional winners will now go forward to a national judging panel, where they will compete with others from across England, Scotland and Wales for a national award.

The national winners will be announced at a national ceremony to be held in London on 11th June 2014.