A YOUNG apprentice who started her career with Wychavon District Council after joining straight from school has won a prestigious award.
Katie-Alice Hellaby received the Commerce Personal Development Award at the recent Hereford and Worcestershire Group Training Association (HWGTA) Awards.
The 18-year-old began her career with Wychavon in September 2021, as a HR apprentice. She completed her apprenticeship with a Distinction, the highest grade achievable, and has now secured a permanent position within Wychavon’s elections team. Judges praised Katie-Alice for the outstanding dedication, commitment and effort she put into her apprenticeship.
Katie-Alice said: “I am extremely proud of my achievement. It has been a challenge and one that I do not think I could have accomplished without the support of my college, HWGTA and some of my extraordinary colleagues at Wychavon.
“My confidence has grown massively, and I have gained so many skills which I will carry with me throughout my career.
“To anyone who is hesitating about becoming an apprentice, I would say do it! You would be well supported and learn such a great deal. So again, thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”
Coun Bradley Thomas, leader of Wychavon District Council, said: “I would like to congratulate Katie-Alice for her achievement at this year’s Worcestershire Group Training Association Awards. Since starting her employment with us as an apprentice in September 2021 she has flourished and is a true asset to the council.
“Apprenticeships have an important role to play in helping businesses train their future workforce and they give organisations access to dedicated, high-quality employees as Katie-Alice proves.”
Funding of up to £2,000 is available to help companies with the cost of recruiting apprentices and help is also available to apprentices with the cost of travel and other expenses. Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/business for more information.
