WORKERS at a Ravensthorpe firm celebrated the end of a tough year by picking up special awards.
They were handed over at a presentation congratulating them on completing courses in English and Maths.
Pat Gibbs, Mohammed Adalat and Karen White all work for Ulster Yarns Ltd at Huddersfield Road, Ravensthorpe, and have been studying for the literacy and numeracy qualifications for the past year.
The three colleagues received certificates for their hard work and dedication to the courses, which were held at Dewsbury College through the Skills for Life workplace training.
David Wormald, Human Resources Manager at Ulster Yarns Ltd, said: “Our main priority here was to show our staff that we are investing in them and giving them a chance to improve themselves.
“The biggest obstacle we face is convincing people that they can benefit from this, but these three have certainly proved that is possible.”
The courses are delivered through the Learning and Skills Council’s Train to Gain project. It is the first time Ulster Yarns have undertaken this kind of training.
Pat Gibbs, 56, a textile operative at Ulster Yarns Ltd achieved Level 1 Literacy and Entry Level 2 Numeracy.
She said: “This training has boosted my confidence so much. I have not been in a school situation for so long and learning English and Maths has given me the confidence to speak to management and to read with my grandchildren and not feel inferior.
“I have had a wonderful time learning and I hope others will follow suit.”
Through funding from Train to Gain and The Dewsbury Pathfinder Project, Dewsbury College aims to actively involve employers and apprentices in training by offering the workplace training.
Gina Battye, Dewsbury College’s Workplace Skills for Life coordinator said: “This training is very significant because it shows workers, and particularly employers, what can be achieved.
“We hope more employers will take up the opportunity to up-skill their workforce.”
