A Redditch woman has scooped a top student award following her outstanding examination success in the field of human resources.

Leah Bugg (27) from Abbeydale attended the North East Worcestershire College as part of her career development with leading fostering agency, Foster Care Associates (FCA). She was awarded the coveted Student of the Year title for her management research report.

Her impressive examination results also earned her three distinctions and two merits including a distinction in employment law - one of only two awarded in the country. Having now gained graduate membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development (CIPD), Leah has her sights firmly set on upgrading to Chartered Member.

"I'm absolutely thrilled to receive such recognition from the College in conjunction with the CIPD. It's been a lot of hard work getting to this point and I'm now looking forward to developing my career path with my existing employer in Bromsgrove," said Leah.

"Fortunately, I work within an organisation where there is plenty of opportunity for career progression so, I'm sure I'll be staying with FCA for many years to come."

CIPD tutor, Allen Crawford-Thomas, commented: "Leah's management research report was a refreshing piece of work. It exhibited enthusiasm and a clear sense of purpose. The report tackled a difficult issue and in doing so displayed excellent business sense and a commitment to promote the knowledge and skills an effective HR practitioner can give to an organisation."

Following Leah's examination success, FCA has appointed her to the post of senior HR advisor at the company's headquarters in Bromsgrove. She is responsible for operational HR support for the southern FCA regional areas as well as creating and implementing HR policies and procedures across the FCA business.

FCA is the UK's leading independent foster care agency with a network of 80 offices. Working with over 125 local authorities, the organisation provides quality foster care for over 2000 looked after children and young people who live with FCA foster families.