Trainee hairdresser from Whitchurch wins award

Oct 9 2008 by Gill Broad, Whitchurch Herald

A TRAINEE hairdresser from Whitchurch has won an award for making the most progress at a regional ceremony.

Liam Knowles, 16, is on a County Training programme and picked up the accolade at a Learner Achievement awards ceremony in Worcester.

He was presented with his award by former Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies.

Liam, a former pupil of The Lakelands School, Ellesmere, started with County Training in September 2006 through the Schools Increased Flexibility Programme.

He began attending the Oswestry Hair Academy one day a week, working toward an NVQ Level 1 in hairdressing.

Lisa Pugh, who tutored Liam during this time, said: “We’re so proud of Liam and all that he has achieved.

“When he joined us he was having some difficulties at school. At first he was very quiet and reserved, however, during the past two years has really come out of his shell, developing into a new-found confidence to reach his potential.”

The Increased Flexibility scheme is a Government initiative currently being provided throughout Shropshire, with County Training working with 15 schools.

It’s designed for 14- to 16-year-olds who should benefit from vocational learning alongside traditional classroom teaching.

During term time participants under- take one day a week on placement.

Having finished school, Liam has now moved on to the Entry to Employment (e2e) programme to progress his skills.

He said: “I feel like a different person, doing things I never thought possible.”