COMMUNITY learning was celebrated at an awards ceremony to honour outstanding organisations and people. The North Hertfordshire College s community learning awards, held at the Stevenage campus, recognised those who go beyond the call of duty to help oth

COMMUNITY learning was celebrated at an awards ceremony to honour outstanding organisations and people.

The North Hertfordshire College's community learning awards, held at the Stevenage campus, recognised those who go beyond the call of duty to help others.

At the event, hosted by Signe Sutherland, director of curriculum, guests enjoyed a performance by Jus Nach, a local group influenced by Punjabi music.

MBA Cheerleading, a Stevenage project which engages girls in an out-of-school activity with internationally qualified coaches, scooped the Community Initiative Award.

Ryan Jenner, from Stevenage, the only man in a sewing skills group, won the Community Learner Award.

David West, of Stevenage, a community volunteer for 20 years helping organisations like Age Concern, the Bus Users Group, The Haven Hostel and St Peter's Church, landed the Community Volunteer Award.

Jane Dellow, of North Herts People First, whose workshops are described as "empowering and inspirational", was awarded the Community Tutor Award.

The Community School Award for North Herts went to Wilshere Dacre Junior School, Hitchin.

The reasons included the positive way the school engages with the community and the extra mile the school goes to keep parents pleased, including supporting an Asian women's group and a "pick up service" to safely transport children to clubs.

The Community School Award for Stevenage went to Nobel School because of its adult learning and family learning projects, among other successes.

Bedwell Rangers Football Club scored in the Community Organisation Award with successes including their Up-front football social inclusion project and their Kick It Out project about eliminating racism in sport.

Philip Good, from Baldock, won the Against All Odds Award.

After a near fatal accident in 1998 he faced many physical and emotional battles. But he committed to a range of community learning programmes and achieved a Level 3 IT qualification.

Katrina Kozuch, deputy head of academy, skills for life at the college, said: "This year we have been overwhelmed by more than 50 nominations from a host of organisations involved in community learning.

"The North Hertfordshire College Community Learning Awards provide an opportunity to celebrate the success of individuals and organisations.

"NHC recognises the value and commitment of learners, tutors, local residents and organisations and the impact they have on lifelong learning and the college is honoured to be able to celebrate this commitment and success through these awards.