East Riding College celebrates apprentices at awards evening

WINNER: Aimee Knaggs receiving her award from East Riding College Principal Danny Metters

By Rick Lyon

East Riding College has celebrated the achievements of its apprentices at a special awards evening.

The college held its annual Apprenticeship Awards at Beverley Racecourse to recognise the dedication and hard work of its learners over the last year.

A total of 16 different awards were presented throughout the evening, all of which were nominated by employers from across the region.

Winners celebrated with their guests, employers, workplace assessors, and college staff.

The Mayor of Beverley, Councillor Linda Johnson, and the Mayor of Bridlington, Councillor Mike Heslop-Mullins, also attended.

Danny Metters, Principal of East Riding College, presented two Employer Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Aimee Knaggs and Anya Klavon.

He said: “Apprenticeships have been an instrumental part of East Riding College’s provision for many years.

“We’re proud to be the provider of choice for many people, including those leaving school looking for their first opportunity, and those looking to further develop their existing careers, through our apprenticeship programmes.”

Anya, Winner of the Outstanding Contribution – Small Employer Award, said: “It’s amazing. I’ve learnt so much, met lovely clients and learnt some really good skills.

“It’s much better working on the job - you learn so much more.

“The college has been so supportive through my apprenticeship, which has helped me and taught me new skills.”

Aimee, winner of the Outstanding Contribution – Large Employer Award, said: “My favourite thing about the apprenticeship is putting the theory into practice.

SUCCESS: Danny Metters presenting Anya Klavon with her award

“I love meeting new people; it’s really helped me with my confidence.

“My tutors have been so good and my assessor comes for one-to-one visits and gives me lots of feedback and support with all my assignments.

“I would recommend an apprenticeship because it’s a such a good start to your career.”

The awards evening welcomed over 30 local employers, including Caroline Basham, Managing Director at Farmyard Friends Day Nursery.

She said: “We’ve thoroughly enjoyed having an apprentice.

“I think if you’ve got someone who is committed and has the passion and the drive, then it’s definitely the way forward to have an apprentice working for you.”