SINGER Kate Nash has called for students, learners, teachers and employers in Yorkshire to enter this year’s VQ Awards, which she is supporting as an ambassador.

The awards were set up in 2008 to recognise top vocational talent and celebrates individuals who promote the value of technical, practical and vocational qualifications.

The artist, who holds a vocational diploma in drama, said: “University is not the only option for ambitious teenagers. There are alternatives to suit different career paths, whatever they may be, and I strongly challenge the elitists that think VQs don’t offer the same opportunities as traditional more academic routes.”

There are three categories in the VQ Awards including VQ Learner of the Year, VQ Employer of the Year and VQ Teacher of the Year.

The deadline for submissions for the VQ Awards is May 1. Visit www.vqday.org.uk/vq-awards to enter.