Three learners from Wrexham picked up half the six UK excellence awards given out at a glittering ceremony in London.
Two of the people honoured by the Worshipful Company of Tallow Chandlers were from the Pendine Park care organisation while the third was a learner at Deeside College.
The event at Tallow Chandlers’ magnificent hall was organised in conjunction with the City and Guilds examination body.
Pendine Park Care Practitioners Amanda Dexter and James Bowen both gained Level 2 Diplomas in Health and Social Care for which they studied with the organisation’s in-house training arm, Smartcare Training.
Childminder Helen Wynne, who studied with Deeside College, was also judged to be the overall outstanding prize winner for her dedication.
Helen started Blythswood Childminding Services after her son, Dyfan, was born withan extremely rare condition, complex needs, including physical and learning disabilities, hearing and visual impairments.
The trio’s remarkable achievements were recognised at a special celebration at Pendine Park.
Wrexham AM Lesley Griffiths was extremely proud that learners from her town had clinched 50 per cent of the excellence awards up for grabs in the whole of the UK.
She said: “I am not surprised though because the people involved the sector here take upskilling very seriously.
“It’s brilliant that Wrexham is setting the benchmark for the rest of the UK in terms of quality.”
Deeside College Principal David Jones said: “It’s really good news for Wrexham and has highlighted the outstanding achievements of the people involved in social care in the region.
“The fact that we have won such a high percentage of the awards shows ability of the people working in the sector and the level of commitment of employers and the people involved in training.
“I hope we can use the example of these people as role models and that’s why we need to celebrate their success.”
Mario Kreft was equally proud and added: “The professional and personal development of our staff is a key priority for Pendine Park.
“All three of the successful learners deserved huge congratulations. They are a shining example of what you can achieve.”
Since signing up with Deeside College, Helen Wynne has gone from strength to strength and has completed her Level 5 Children’s Care Learning and Development qualification.
She now supports students on placements and ensures that they receive a variety of experiences, guidance and encouragement to complete their qualifications.
Helen said: “I can’t believe that I have won such a prestigious award for doing a qualification in a subject and career that I love.
“It was an honour to be awarded and acknowledged for my hard work. I really hope it encourages other learners to pursue further qualifications in their field of work.”
James Bowen, who works at Pendine Park’s Penybryn care home, is no stranger to winning accolades.
Last year he was named the winner of the organisation’s Smile Award for his happy disposition and the difference it makes to the lives of the residents and their families.
He said: “The presentation in London was brilliant and I really enjoyed it. To be granted an award of excellence was something else and I’m delighted to have been chosen.
“The teaching at Smartcare is superb and I am now putting into practice everything I have learned and hopefully that will make me a better all around Care Practitioner.”
Amanda, who works at the Highfield House care home, was also thrilled.
She said: “It was wonderful to receive the award; it certainly made me feel a bit special.”
