The work and dedication of apprentices and their employers across Northern Ireland have been recognised during Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week 2021. The event, which recognises excellence in apprenticeships across the region, culminated in the Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards 2021, which this year was held virtually.
The Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards 2021 winners were:
The SME Employer Award: TBC Conversions in partnership with South West College.
The Apprentice Award: Chantelle McDonagh who works at An Tearmann (STEP) with training provided by Coalisland Training Services.
The Large Employer Award: Kainos Group plc in partnership with Ulster University.
The Higher Level Apprentice Award: James Matchett who works at Kainos Group plc and undertook training by Ulster University.
Speaking at the event the Economy Minister, Diane Dodds said: “I want to commend all those who were shortlisted for this year’s awards and congratulate the winners. With around 9,000 participants across our apprenticeship and higher level apprenticeship programmes, to be nominated for these awards is testament to your hard work and dedication.
“I would also like to pay tribute to the great work being done by training providers and employers, without whose enthusiasm and commitment and dedication we would not be able to run these programmes. The calibre of entries this year has been extremely high and reflects the continued success of apprenticeships during what has been a hugely challenging year for businesses and learners.”
The Minister concluded: “There has never been a better time to consider an apprenticeship as a career option. Now more than ever, apprenticeships provide employers with the skilled workforce they need to be competitive and grow their business. Apprenticeships will also be a key component of the economic recovery as we seek to build the local skills base. That is why I am continuing to invest in making apprenticeships easier for employers to offer, and for people to access.”
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