Daryl Smith and Shelby Cawley Rathbone learners of the Year

Daryl Smith

Daryl Smith, 18, and Shelby Cawley, 16, shared the ‘learner of the year’ award at Rathbone Training’s centre in Rochdale.

Daryl is now set for the famous enrolment test at the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre, in Lympstone, in Devon, after completing a Military Preparation course and also gaining English and Maths qualifications.

“Winning the award was totally unexpected because for me the whole course was all about doing something that I really enjoy doing,” said Daryl.

Daryl arrived at Rathbone Training with no qualifications having previously completed a brick laying course at college. He heard about the military preparation course and thought it was a good opportunity to use his love of sport and physical activity to gain a career in the forces.

During his time at Rathbone, Daryl had to balance his study with looking after his younger brother, after his sister, who is also younger, became seriously ill with a heart condition. This has meant his parents have had to spend most of their time with her at Manchester Children’s Hospital.

“Despite all the issues he has faced Daryl has always maintained full attendance, been polite and helpful to learners and staff and shown a real dedication to the course,” said Harrison Greaves, Military Preparation tutor at Rathbone Training in Rochdale.

As an additional reward for his efforts, Rathbone Training has paid for Daryl to have swimming lessons as part of his preparation for the military.

Shelby started with Rathbone in June and is currently studying a health and social care course and Maths and English qualifications to fulfil her ambition of working in a children’s nursery.

“I was shocked to win the award and I’m so grateful to my tutors at Rathbone who have helped me to grow in confidence,” said Shelby.

Shelby had not been in full time education for some time and was very shy and quiet at first but now she plays a keen role in all of her sessions and has particularly excelled in Maths.

“Shelby wants to do well in everything she is involved with and she has been a great role model for other learners in the centre,” said Emma Smith, Tutor at Rathbone Rochdale.

As well as her certificate Shelby was given shopping vouchers as a special prize.

“The best part of Rathbone is the environment in a centre. The classes are small and you feel like the tutors are working with you to help you progress. I don’t think I would have been able to gain the qualifications I have done in a college” Shelby added.