The Youth Education Project, a not-for-profit social enterprise, in Leicester has been working with ABC Awards to deliver Motor Vehicle Awards, Certificates and Diplomas, (as well as in Personal and Social Development and Design and Creative Studies) since it was established in 2011.

Speaking of the growing and mutually beneficial relationship, Lee Walker, the organisation’s Director said:

“We are happy to support this very important day, as we are a very inclusive organisation that encourages females as well as males to strive towards any career that they want to carve out for themselves.

“ABC Awards works well for us and our learners. It has good moderators and it is easy to contact staff who are supportive with resources and advice. The accredited outcomes legitimise the time that the learners spend here and help them to progress onto further outcomes.”

There are 30 learners currently studying on the Level 1 ABC Awards qualifications in Motor Vehicle Studies. Of them three are female but are all finding their experiences extremely beneficial as they are acquiring a range of skills and experiences that are passionate about and want to pursue in the future.

17 year old Sophia Chana is one of the learners who is currently studying the Level 1 ABC Awards qualification. The Award involves both practical and theory modules which are specially geared towards helping learners to establish successful mechanical engineering careers.

There are 30 learners on the course which includes a mixture of male and female students. Among other things, people studying for the ABC Awards qualification, are able to learn about brakes, steering & suspension, electrical system, cooling & lubrication, spark ignition, compression ignition, MOT checks and transmission systems.

Speaking of the Award, Sophia said:

“I am so passionate about my course and think that engineering offers many opportunities for females as well as males. Through the Award, I have been able to learn many relevant things that will help me with my future career. I feel that a lot of it is beneficial as mechanics can be very helpful and important in life.”

“Among other things, I now know the difference between spark and compression systems and how to change a tyre – which I couldn’t do before. Once I have obtained the qualifications I need, I feel I will be more likely to get offered work within the mechanics industry.”

You can find out more about the Youth Education Project by visiting their website.