EVESHAM and Pershore have four finalists at this year’s prestigious Worcestershire Apprenticeship Awards.
The annual event, which celebrates the county’s top apprentices, employers, training providers and schools, has seen a record number of entries reach the final.
Among the finalists are Pershore High School in the School of the Year category, Evesham based Ping Marketing in the Newcomer Apprenticeship Employer category, Buzz Electrical LTD in the Small Apprenticeship Employer of the Year category and Warwickshire College Group has been shortlisted in the Training Provider of the Year category.
Judges for the awards have described the finalists as highlighting the positive contribution that apprenticeships have on the local workforce.
The finalists will have to wait until November to find out who has won as the winners will be announced at a glitzy awards ceremony at the Tree Tops Pavilion at West Midlands Safari Park.
The popular event will culminate in the two overall awards of Apprenticeship Employer of the Year, sponsored by Yamazaki Mazak UK Ltd, and Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Worcester Bosch Group, to recognise outstanding achievement.
Steve Owens Managing Director of Buzz Electrical, said: “As a local Evesham company for many years since 1999 we are extremely pleased to be nominated for the final stage of the award.
“We are very proud that we have been able to train so many young people from leaving education, to full time qualified electricians in the Vale, with a very good electrical skill that is in extreme demand and a real shortage of skilled electricians in present times.”
Sarah Lewis, Managing Director of Ping Marketing Ltd, said: “Taking on the commitment of employing an apprentice is a big decision for any company but one I would definitely recommend.
“Our apprentice George made a valuable contribution from day one and continues to exceed expectations.
“To be nominated for an award and reach the top three for our category is fantastic.”
Gary Woodman, Chief Executive of Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “To reach the finals of the awards is an incredible achievement and highlights the outstanding ability and dedication of our local apprentices, employers, schools and training providers.
“I look forward to celebrating these achievements at the awards and I would urge all interested parties to book their place at the event as soon as possible.”
