News & views

17 September 2018

Regional winners in the National Apprenticeship Awards 2018 are being announced over the next three weeks.

The regional winners in the National Apprenticeship Awards 2018 are being announced at nine regional ceremonies taking place over the next three weeks. The Leicester Marriott Hotel in the East Midlands was the venue for the third regional ceremony, with 17 winners and highly commended employers and apprentices from across a range of industries – including housing, IT, surveying and banking – picking up awards.

Local award winners included Edward Cooper Young Chartered Surveyors from Mountsorrel which won SME employer of the year and its employee, Shivam Radia, scooped up the Rising Star Award.

Ashley Cooper, Senior Partner – Edward Cooper Young Chartered Surveyors (ECY)  – SME employer of the Year, said: “This is a huge recognition for ECY, with 2018 being our 10 year anniversary the apprentices that have joined the business on our journey have been key in the success, not only towards business growth but also providing a dynamic edge to the team. Our apprentices bring diversity, freshness, enthusiasm and energy to the practice and are very much part of the ECY family. Our ever evolving short, medium and long term goals very much include providing opportunities for the next generation via apprenticeships in a variety of roles. ECY is committed  via our inhouse ‘ECY Talent’ training programme to work alongside organisations to spread the word in schools and colleges increasing awareness of opportunities available.”

Keith Smith, Director, Apprenticeships Group, ESFA said: “I am delighted to see so many regional winners being recognised and representing such a wide variety of sectors and industries.

“We know apprenticeships enable businesses to grow their own talent, and also allow individuals to start or progress their careers. The talent presented by winners and highly commended finalists really does showcase the impact of apprenticeships on individuals and employers alike.

“There really were some outstanding applications and great apprenticeship stories, all highlighting the many benefits apprenticeships bring. I wish all winners the best of luck as we progress to the national stage of the competition and I want to personally thank everyone who took time to enter the awards this year.”

Jane Cowley, Chair of Leicestershire Business Voice added: “We welcome this new as business owners and recognise the talent of our apprentices in our region is paramount for the success of our local economy.”