You've earned it! Students showcase city's talent for employers

Caroline Lucas, Green MP for Brighton Pavilion constituency, today met with two vocational students from Brighton's City College at Parliament to congratulate them on their success in winning a prestigious vocational study award.

Caroline (centre) met South East VQ Award winners Julie Bishop (left) and Liz Bedwell (right).

They won the South East Learner of the Year over 25 and under 25 age groups respectively, beating nominations from vocational colleges across the South East.

On the day, it was announced that Liz had beaten entries from across the country to win the national award for South East Learner of the Year in the under 25 age group.

The VQ Awards celebrate the success of those who have achieved vocational qualifications in Further Education.

Liz gained a BTEC National Diploma in Media (Games Development) at City College and worked as a retail manager for a well known video game store.

Julie gained a NVQ Level 2 qualification in Children's Care Learning and Development at City College.

Julie is registered blind and demonstrated to judges how she uses her other senses to support the team and communicate.

Caroline said, "Liz and Julie are two of the most inspiring students I've met.

"I'm proud that Brighton and Hove's vocational training sector produces some of the most talented students in the country.

"Our local service-based economy depends on just the kind of high quality vocational training provided by City College.

"Liz and Julie demonstrate clearly the type of talent and skill base we can offer employers here in the city. Congratulations."

The students received their awards in the Royal Horticulture Halls, Lindley Hall, Elverton Street, London from 12 - 3pm.

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Notes

For more information please contact the Brighton and Hove Green Party office on 01273 766 670.

Biographies of Liz and Julie

Liz Bedwell

South East Learner of the Year, BTEC National Diploma in Media (Games Development)

Liz, a triple Distinction level student, has not pursued further education since 2003 instead working as a retail manager for a well known video game store. Liz's progress has been remarkable and she has proved herself a real asset both to the Games Development course and to the college.

The level of professionalism shown in her work generated enthusiastic attention from key games industry figures, with the possibility of internships within the industry. Meanwhile Liz is continuing her studies at the University of Wales studying for a BA in Computer Games Design at the Newport School of Art Media and Design.

Julie Bishop

25 and over - South East Learner of the Year, NVQ Level 2 Children's Care learning and Development

Julie's journey has been more remarkable than most due to the fact that she's registered blind. At preschool, Julie demonstrated how she uses her other senses to support the team and communicate with the children.

Julie has demonstrated that she can function to any standard through her determination to provide a loving and caring environment for the children while studying for her NVQ and supporting a home and young family of her own.

More about VQ Day
http://www.vqday.org.uk/about-vq-day