Published at 11:08, Thursday, 23 June 2011

WE are once again looking to celebrate the best that Cumbria offers in the world of education and training.

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The CN Group Education and Learning Awards are returning this year after their successful launch in 2010.

The awards, dubbed the “Golden Apples”, are being run in association with Britain’s Energy Coast Campus and Invest in Cumbria and outstanding individual and team achievements will be recognised in 19 different categories, including three new sections.

So as another academic years draws to a close, we invite YOU to nominate those who you think have made significant contributions in your local community, nursery, school, college, university or work-based learning centre. There are awards for students, staff, and governors as well as employers, schools, work-based learning providers and trainees.

Anyone can submit nominations, not only those directly involved in education and training. All entries to the CN Group Education and Learning Awards will be carefully considered and debated by a panel of judges.

Winners will be revealed on October 6 when a glittering gala evening at Energus, at Lillyhall, is planned.

Neil Hodgkinson, editorial director of CN Group, said: “Last year’s event was a first for the county and a first for us and we were delighted at the positive reaction from all those who took part and from those who attended the evening awards dinner. It is therefore great that we are doing it again.

“The awards are aimed at reflecting all the hard work, skill and talent that goes into moulding the lives of young people that will benefit the county in the future.

“It was an uplifting and heartening experience to hear the stories of success told by a wide variety of schools and colleges from all areas of the county. It was equally inspiring to meet the people involved in one of the most important roles imaginable.”

The Britain’s Energy Coast Campus is a partnership of further and higher education and vocational training providers including the University of Cumbria, Lakes College, Gen II, University of Central Lancashire, University of Manchester and Nuclear Management Partners. It is supported by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.

It is tasked with making sure Cumbria offers the necessary skills and qualifications as the region aims to become one of the leading nuclear and renewable energy locations in the UK.

Rob Rimmer, programme director of Britain’s Energy Coast Campus, said: “There are major opportunities coming to Cumbria in the form of Britain’s Energy Coast and education and learning is so important in making sure that local people can take advantage of all those prospects and jobs which being a key location for nuclear and renewable energy production will bring.

“That’s why we are so keen to continue our partnership with CN Group and together help celebrate once again the county’s great achievements in education, skills, training and learning.”

Invest in Cumbria believes the awards help to raise local aspirations.

John Grainger, managing director of Cumbria’s inward investment agency, said: “Education and training should be at the very heart of all we do in Cumbria because it is the key to the success of any economy. A skilled and relevant workforce is the lifeblood of a business.

“Invest in Cumbria is constantly told this by the Cumbrian companies we help to grow and prosper, and by the inward investors we encourage to settle here; the ready availability of relevant skills typically central to their decision.”

He added: “Crucial as it is, it’s not just about what businesses want; it’s also about raising the aspirations of our young people, making them realise they can achieve career and life goals here in Cumbria. By celebrating those outstanding organisations and individuals we are showing that all of us in Cumbria value the important work they are doing, encouraging them and others to continue the pursuit of excellence.”

Connexions adviser Mike Ridyard was the recipient of the lifetime achievement award at last year’s inaugural event. He has helped thousands of people take their next steps into further studies or work during his 30 years in career guidance and support.

He said: “It was wonderful to be part of such a positive and uplifting event which showed what a strong and caring community we have in Cumbria.

“Personally I was so proud, and my colleagues at Connexions and in schools thought it was wonderful. There are so many people who contribute so much, volunteer, and go the extra mile.”

Nominations are now open. All entries must be received by July 29.

For full details about how to enter, visit www.cneducationawards.co.uk, email educationawards@cnmedia.co.uk or contact Alison Sisson on 01228 612617.

Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk