Educators Urged To Take Part In VQ Day

Colleges, employers, training providers and awarding organisations have been urged to get involved in Vocational Qualifications (VQ) Day by Employment and Learning Minister, Dr Stephen Farry.

VQ Day is a UK-wide celebration of the achievement of the millions of people who gain a vocational qualification every year, and highlights the many paths to success taken by learners of all ages. It will be held on 20 June 2012 and will be marked locally by an awards ceremony to be held in Stormont, Belfast.

Launching the awards, the Minister said: "VQ Day and these awards celebrate vocational achievement in all its diversity. Developing the Northern Ireland skills base is absolutely vital if we are to meet the current and future economic challenges we face, and vocational qualifications are of fundamental importance to achieving this aim.

"Vocational qualifications provide tangible benefits to individuals and employers as well as creating a firm foundation for future success. We have seen the inspirational effect work-related training has had in previous years’ VQ Day events and I look forward to celebrating once again the achievements of local people."

Ten learners will have their outstanding achievements recognised at the Northern Ireland VQ Learner of the Year awards ceremony at Stormont on 20 June. VQ Day is a UK-wide celebration of the achievement of the millions of people who gain a vocational qualification every year, and highlights the many paths to success taken by learners of all ages.

Northern Ireland Learner of the Year 2011, Clare Jameson, said: "I started my career path through study at Northern Regional College and completed an Apprenticeship in Railway Engineering (Traction and Rolling Stock) in 2009. I’m now undertaking a part-time Honours Degree in Engineering while juggling the challenges of full time employment with Translink. I would encourage everyone to get their achievements recognised by entering the VQ Awards."

This is the fourth year VQ Day has been celebrated in Northern Ireland. Education and training partners are encouraged to take part by submitting nominations for the VQ Learner of the Year awards. Closing date for nominations is 20 May 2012.

(LB)