HRH The Princess Royal awards outstanding North Lancs tutor

Carl Morris, a tutor at North Lancs Training Group, has received a significant award from Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

Carl was awarded the City and Guilds of London Institute’s President’s Award at the annual Prince Philip Medal ceremony, held at St. James’s Palace. It was presented on 14 May by HRH The Princess Royal, who is President of the Institute. It was given to Carl in recognition of his dedication to teaching and improving the lives of those most in need.

The award has been given for more than 50 years, and honours those who, in The Duke of Edinburgh’s own words, have ‘travelled the City & Guilds path’ and made the most of their talents.

Carl teaches IT and work skills at an unemployment centre through the North Lancs Training Group. Most of the individuals that attend Carl’s courses face serious issues, like homelessness and psychological problems. He was nominated for the award because of the innovative way he engages his students.

Colleagues say his extraordinary ability to put his learners at ease helps them to see the classroom as a place of fun and enjoyment. His success is demonstrated by the numbers: he’s helped 300 individuals gain 550 qualifications, with a 97% retention rate. But he’s not content with just helping them pass a course. He also helps them apply for job vacancies and prepare for interviews.

Speaking about his success, Carl said:

‘It is an honour to be recognised, let alone receive the award, for a job that I love. Seeing a student learn, grow and develop is something I believe in passionately and that is what we build into the course. To see a student walk away from the course as a new person makes all the effort worthwhile.’

Also, Chris Jones, Chief Executive of the City & Guilds Group, said:

‘Carl’s dedication to helping people find employment is truly inspiring. He goes above and beyond to make sure that when his students finish their course, they are equipped with the skills they need for real-world success. He is very deserving of the President’s Award, and I’m sure he’ll continue to inspire more people.’