A PERSHORE woman who went back to the classroom at the age of 33 has proved herself to be a top student.

Sharon Dewdney has been named Adult Learner of the Year at Pershore Learndirect, part of the Pershore group of colleges, which offers courses on the internet.

Sharon, who works as a cleaner, wanted to develop her skills and build up confidence with a view to getting a better job.

She had a careers interview which led her to Learndirect and, since signing on at the centre in October, she has completed a number of courses including basic English and computer studies. Sharon has now embarked on the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL).

She said: "I was feeling really low in myself and needed to feel more fulfilled.

"It's been a real eye opener. I have continued with my job and fit in my study in between or in the evening. I feel so much better knowing I won't have to do cleaning for the rest of my life."

The award was launched to coincide with the national Adult Learners' Week which aimed to encourage adults back into a learning environment. Learndirect offers more than 750 courses, which are studied online at times to suit the student.

At the awards ceremony, on Friday, May 23, Sharon was presented with a digital camera and free enrolment for a photographic course by Pershore College principal Dr Heather Barret-Mold.

Sharon described the award as "an extra bonus".

Centre manager Ross Wilson said: "Since the centre opened 12 months ago we have recruited 670 learners and this award is in recognition of the progress they have made." Pershore Learndirect is situated in Bridge Street.