Public vote to determine Apprenticeship Champion of the Year

Three former apprentices are battling it out to be crowned the first ever Apprenticeship Champion of the Year on 14 November.

BAE employee Jenny Westworth was nominated for her achievements after finishing her apprenticeship. The twenty-three year old is now an Education Ambassador for BAE Systems, which means she actively promotes apprenticeships.

Lisa Pettinger completed her apprenticeship in Pharmacy Services at the Leeds and York NHS Trust. The twenty-eight year old is now in charge of the running of dispensary on a daily basis. The former apprentice also mentors students, providing support to those interested in a career in pharmacy.

The managing Director of construction firm Gelder Group, Steve Gelder, left school at the age of 16 without any qualifications. He began his career working for Truelove Builders and completed an apprenticeship in bricklaying. His company currently employs almost 30 apprentices.

David Way, chief executive of the National Apprenticeship Service, believes apprentices are key to creating successful businesses across the country.

Speaking of the three finalists, Way said: “They are already genuine local success stories and a credit to their employers and the industries they work in. I would encourage anyone who hasn’t yet voted to do so.”

The three candidates will be encouraging people in their local area to vote, as well as industry peers. They are also looking for public support to vote up until the deadline on 4 November.

The winner of the award will be announced at the National Apprenticeship Awards at The Skills Show in Birmingham.

Kyle Northern