FOUR Wyre Forest learners have been nominated for achievement awards in recognition of their hard work and determination to succeed.

They have been chosen from nearly 100 entries to go forward to the Learning Achievement Awards organised by the Learning and Skills Council for Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Daniel Higgins, 17, and Christopher Bush, 21, from Stourport, along with Douglas Marshall, 19, and Laura Quinton, 15, from Kidderminster, will join other finalists from around the region at next month's finals, where they will have the chance of a share of £1,500 prize money.

Training supplier, Beacon Employment, nominated Daniel for the Young Learner - Entry to Employment award after he overcame low self-esteem and a lack of focus to land a job at Kidderminster bedroom planners and furnishers, Woodrobes, of Lisle Avenue.

An LSC spokesman said: "Described as an excellent employee, Daniel has worked exceptionally hard to develop team and social skills, which were lacking in his early years."

Christopher, who sustained a brain injury in childhood and had further health complications in his teenage years, left school with no formal qualifications.

He fought back, however, and is now studying NVQ level two in numeracy at Worcester College of Technology, which has earned him a nomination for the Adult Learner - Supported Learner with Skills for Life Need award.

Haybridge High School pupil, Laura Quinton, has been nominated as a finalist in the Young Learner - 14-16 Flexible Curriculum award after overcoming a lack of confidence and poor behaviour.

The spokesman said: "Her tremendous effort and positive outlook have been noticed and applauded by all those who knew both the old Laura and the new one."

Kidderminster College nominated Douglas for the Young Learner - Advanced Apprentice award after he turned his life around and returned to the education system.

He achieved six GCSEs and an NVQ level two in administration and is now working for Kidderminster accountants, Laud Grice.

He has excelled at three levels of his apprenticeship, is studying for level four and has his sights set on studying for accountancy qualifications.

More than 300 people are expected to attend the prestigious gala dinner and awards ceremony at the Malvern Theatres on Thursday, March 31.