We had a total of 25 nominations from Assessors/Tutors across all of our departments, the Management Team then whittled it down to 4 finalists. After a lot of consideration, although a very close call, Shannon Ebsworth was announced as the overall winner at the Awards Ceremony after being nominated by all 3 of her tutors. Congratulations to Shannon and all of the nominees!

Shannon Ebsworth

Shannon has been nominated for working above and beyond to achieve her Level 3 Childcare Apprenticeship as well as her Level 2 Maths, English & ICT Functional Skills. She has been nominated by all 3 of her tutors for the Learner of the Year for being an outstanding student in terms of attitude and sheer persistence in the face of difficulties. With the valued support of her employer, The Cabin, and additional support from her tutors at GHQ, she achieved her full apprenticeship a few months ago. Shannon is a great example of how hard work can pay off; she stayed positive, and motivated, and never stopped smiling throughout her training despite any obstacles that she faced.

Nominated by: Tina – Maths & English Tutor, Lee – ICT Tutor and Jackie – Childcare Assessor

Lewis Burke

Lewis first began training with GHQ whilst he was at school where he undertook his award in Support Work in Schools whilst having a voluntary placement at Horrabridge Primary School. From the beginning, Lewis showed a real interest in all units and has been enthusiastic throughout his time with us. He completed his Certificate as a volunteer in the school, and then continued on to complete a Level 2 and Level 3 Apprenticeship in Support Teaching and Learning and has now gained employment as a qualified TA. It has been fantastic to see Lewis really develop his skills as a TA, going from being a shy student in Sixth Form to being a qualified TA who can support students in his setting in a skilful, confident manner and is able to easily engage with his colleagues. Lewis showed perseverance and determination throughout his training.

Nominated by: Sara – Support Teaching & Learning Assessor

Liz Thompson

Liz joined GHQ just over a year ago with zero experience or skills in the hairdressing industry. She has consistently shown a fantastic attitude to her training; she is a mentor to the Level 2 students who always look to her for advice. Liz has successfully completed the Level 3 Hair Studies course delivering a fantastic presentation where she showcased all the skills that she had learnt throughout the course. Within a week of finishing the course she was signing up for her full Level 3 NVQ in Hairdressing where she is already making great progression. Liz is a working Mum, who is trying to change her career and follow her passion of becoming a hairdresser which her Trainers will continue to support her with.

Nominated by: Dan – Hairdressing Assessor

Amanda Beecroft

Amanda first started her Level 3 Nail Services course back in 2017. During her course she experienced ongoing health problems which meant unfortunately she had to postpone her course. Amanda returned in 2019 to complete her course and worked extremely hard to finish before the end date. Amanda had excellent attendance on the course and she put in extra effort to complete home study, as well as supporting her other class members. Amanda won our 2019 Nail Competition with her creative work which was based around Autism Awareness. Since completing the course, Amanda has gained employment in Faybulous Nails and is progressing well in her Nail career.

Nominated by: Michelle – Nail Services Assessor