STARTING a new business is always a nerve-wracking experience but for kitchen supplier Peter Brett, a lifelong commitment to gaining new skills will be key to his success.

Peter, 45, decided to set up his own business designing, supplying and fitting kitchens after completing his Level 3 in management and leadership at West Cheshire College.

He said: "I was working for a kitchen supply company at the time but wanted to enhance my own skills. I did the GCSE at the College and then the Level 3 which gave me the confidence to set out on my own.

"Once you’ve proved to yourself you can learn new skills you can do anything. I would not have had the nerve without the training."

Peter, who lives in Ellesmere Port and whose business Salamo Kitchens is based in Christleton, is a joiner by trade after becoming an Apprentice straight from school with a local building firm.

He subsequently went in to marketing and kitchen supply – and even found time to study for a theology degree after taking an access to education course at the College.

He said: "Learning new skills is vital. It gives you the power to do anything you want. While a theology degree isn’t an obvious career route, I was able to prove to myself I was capable of that level of achievement.

"Management and leadership was something I became interested while working for a large organisation and through studying for that I realised that I could set up and run my own business.

"I’ve had a long relationship with the College which has been able to provide all the different training and learning I need and I would recommend anyone looking for a change of direction to think about taking a course.

"Life is constantly changing and constantly challenging. Learning new skills is the best way to prepare for change and meet new challenges head on."

For more information on learning opportunities at West Cheshire College, whatever your age, contact the College Hotline on 01244 670600.