The achievements of apprentices from across Conservative-led East Sussex have been celebrated at a special graduation ceremony.
The East Sussex Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony recognised the commitment and hard work of East Sussex apprentices from across all industry sectors and of all ages and levels.
The evening also celebrated the contributions of local businesses and educators to the programme and underlined the importance of apprenticeships to the local economy.
Over 50 apprentices registered to graduate at the event held at the Winter Garden’s Floral Hall in Eastbourne, supported by their employers, apprenticeship training providers and family members.
Conservative councillor Bob Standley, lead member for education and inclusion, special educational needs and disability at East Sussex County Council said: “I was delighted to attend the Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony recently and celebrate with those who participated in this year’s apprenticeship programme.
“I offer my congratulations to all the graduating apprentices as well as my thanks to the businesses and training providers who work so hard to make the East Sussex apprenticeship programme such a success.”
During the ceremony, four special awards based on nominations received from employers, colleagues, apprenticeship providers, and apprentices were presented to celebrate the outstanding achievements of all those involved in the apprenticeship journey:
- Molly Parmar from Focus SB was awarded the Best Progression Award in recognition of her exceptional determination and efforts in achieving her apprenticeship through challenging times.
- This year’s Amazing Colleague/Apprenticeship Employer Award was awarded to Kayleigh Anderson, a practice manager in Adult Social Care East Sussex County Council, who said it was an unexpected honour to be nominated.
- Nominated by employers, the Overall Contribution to the Business Award celebrates the outstanding contribution an East Sussex apprentice has made to their workplace during their apprenticeship. This year’s winner was Belinda Coetzee from East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust who was nominated by her manager.
- Those who tutor and train East Sussex apprentices are vital to the success of the apprenticeship programme. Celebrating the tutor or trainer who has gone above and beyond to support an apprentice during their apprenticeship, this year’s Tutor/Trainer of the Year Award was won by Niall Coney from Capella.
Conservative councillor Penny di Cara, lead member for economy, and who presented the award for Best Progression, said: “It was an honour to present an award at the graduation ceremony and to acknowledge and celebrate the hard work and commitment of all our apprentices.
“Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain qualifications and training alongside valuable on-the-job experience. I encourage anyone who may be interested in an apprenticeship to get in touch to find out more.”
Anyone interested in becoming an apprentice can find out more by calling 0800 0150 400 or by visiting the government’s apprenticeship website at www.apprenticeships.gov.uk.
Employers can find out more about accessing apprenticeships and funding through the Transform Service at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/business/support/employment-skills-training/skills-east-sussex/transform.
