You’re never too old to learn – carer receives Outstanding Achievement Award

Brian Burns, a 64 year old Care Assistant from Haslingden in Lancashire has been awarded an Outstanding Achievement Award for successfully completing a nine month Adult Advanced Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care in just six months. Brian, who began his working life as an engineer, has now retrained as a full-time Care Assistant at Orchards Haslingden Lodge and completed his NVQ with CTS Training and certificated by EDI (Education Development International) – a recognised Awarding Body and leading international education company.

As part of the qualification Brian also completed an NVQ Level 3 Technical Certificate in Key Skills and Numeracy. Supported by his employers and Care Training assessment centre, Brian studied for the qualification in the workplace, according to him, not only has the qualification boosted his confidence in his work but has also provided him with a deep understanding of the needs of the residents and how to provide them with the best level of care.

Brian has worked at the care home for 15 months and works in the EMD (Elderly Mental Dementia) department caring for more than 30 residents.

Brian commented: "I am delighted to receive this Award. The support I received made is so easy for me to juggle my studies and my job. Completing this qualification means so much to me and has given me a deeper understanding of my role and about dealing with different situations in a way that compliments the residents at the home."

Gareth Phillips, Strategy Director, EDI, commented: "As Brian has so successfully demonstrated, age is no barrier to learning. One of the key benefits of vocational qualifications is that they suit any kind of learner, regardless of age or skill level. All you need is a desire to learn and a willingness to make the most out of every opportunity!"

John Wylie, Home Manager at Orchards Haslingdon Lodge commented: "All our staff, including Brian, has found undertaking this qualification enormously beneficial to their day-to-day working lives. Almost all of our staff have either undertaken or already qualified at NVQ level 2 or above, this helps with residents and families decision making when choosing a home for their loved ones, knowing the home has qualified staff to care for them."

For more information about Education Development International plc (EDI), please contact us at Tel: 08707 202909, email: [email protected], website: www.ediplc.com