A homeless man who returned to education to transform his life has had his hard work recognised.

Stephen Harbour won the national learning lifeskills individual award category at this year’s Adult Learners’ Week Awards.

When an accident ended his career as a labourer, he lost his job and his home.

As a result he took up residency at The Quays in Crown Quay Lane, Sittingbourne, where he was able to study computing thanks to a partnership between the homeless shelter and Canterbury College.

Although he hadn’t enjoyed school and had no other education experience, he began a basic IT, English and maths course which then led to the recent completion of a Cisco Certified Network qualification that will allow him to work in IT.

In January, the 50-year-old also fulfilled a long-standing ambition by moving into his own flat.

Mr Harbour said: “Learning as a mature student has made me realise that teaching would be a wonderful career to follow.

“I am making inquiries about volunteering as an IT teaching assistant and finding out how to train to become a tutor.”

Jan Hughes, who works for the college’s training and recruitment service, nominated him for the award which he received during a ceremony held at The London Canal Museum on Monday.

She said: “Stephen has used his new found confidence and skills to inspire others. He has brought several of his friends to the centre telling them that learning can turn their lives around.”

The college set up the learning centre at the Quays two years ago after teaming up with Riverside Housing Group to engage more disadvantaged adults.

The hostel provided the room and in return Canterbury College donated computers for an IT suite thanks to funding from the European Social Fund (ESF) which aims to improve employment opportunities in the European Union.

It offers IT, literacy, numeracy and work skills courses allowing learners to progress to further courses or go into employment.

Last Thursday, a party of ESF representatives from Poland visited the facility to see how the facility works in an accommodation model.

Also in attendance was The Mayor of Swale Cllr George Bobbin, his wife Brenda Bobbin and the High Sheriff of Kent, Hugo Fenwick.