Apprentices shine again at business awards

This glittering event showcased the success of local businesses and organisations around the area and congratulated over 50 business finalists in 10 categories including coveted 'Business of the Year Award'.

The college is delighted that three of the five finalists in the Apprentice of the Year Award were West Nottinghamshire College apprentices.

Congratulations go to highly commended nominees Alyssa State, a level 3 junior content creator apprentice with Fresh Start Recruitment, Sydney Burton, a level 3 business administration apprentice, also with Fresh Start, and the overall Apprentice of the Year winner, Charlie Kerry, who is a level 2 wood product manufacturing operative apprentice with Jephson’s Shopfitters.

Eighteen-year-old Alyssa was recognised for bringing her wealth of knowledge and creativity to Fresh Start Recruitment and building up the company’s social media presence with different types of software and increasing their engagement figures. Bosses also commended her hard work with promoting the business and building on business relationships and her willingness to learn more to gain a better understanding of the recruitment sector.

Sydney, 19, a business administration apprentice, also at Fresh Start, was nominated for her dependable and positive work ethic as well as her friendly approach. Sydney has been praised for her initiative and willingness to learn more about latest legislation and her eye for detail. Fresh Start staff also pointed out how she continually exceeds their expectations and has a high level of professionalism, determination and eagerness towards her role.

Meanwhile, overall winner Charlie was praised by Jephson’s Shopfitters for his development within the company during his apprenticeship. His confidence to carry out tasks has grown stronger as well as his desire to learn new things. Charlie was positively acknowledged for completing his forklift licence and his willingness to soon move on to studying a paint-spraying course.

Charlie, 18, has also impressed his employers with his developing professional working relationships with the company’s joiners, who have supported him on his learning and working journey. Since joining the company, Charlie now has the confidence to apply his skills to undertake joinery projects at home.

Principal and chief executive Andrew Cropley said: “It was my absolute pleasure to present the Apprentice of the Year Award at this prestigious event. Every one of the apprentices who were nominated are clearly thriving on their programmes and more importantly gaining those vital skills that you can only get from being immersed in a real workplace setting. They will retain these skills for a lifetime and build upon them to become well-rounded professionals.

“Special congratulations to Alyssa, Sydney and Charlie – you are all clearly enjoying your roles and are making your employers and the college incredibly proud of your hard work and brilliant contributions.”