Winners of the East Kent Apprenticeship Awards revealed at gala dinner at The Yarrow Hotel in Broadstairs

The inaugural East Kent Apprenticeship Awards took place to recognise the individuals, businesses and organisations that are championing apprenticeships in the East of Kent.

Over 80 people gathered for a gala dinner on Thursday evening at The Yarrow Hotel in Broadstairs. Owned and operated by the EKC Group, the hotel aptly gives opportunities to apprentices, a number of whom were part of the catering and hospitality staff on the night of the event.

The awards showcased what is being achieved across the numerous sectors engaged in apprenticeships. The evening was hosted by Kent Online’s Chris Price, and the winners were announced across 12 categories, including the coveted East Kent Apprenticeship Champion of the Year award.

Creative and digital agency, Pillory Barn, organised the awards in association with EKC Group.

Managing Director of Pillory Barn, Miranda Chapman explains why the agency was proud to stage the awards:

“We were delighted to be asked to organise and stage this amazing event. It was great to see so many people gathered together to celebrate apprenticeships. From the achievements of young people to the businesses championing this valuable route into employment, it was a wonderful evening.”

Paul Sayers, Executive Director of Strategy and Partnerships at EKC Group said:

“EKC Group is proud to have hosted the first ever East Kent Apprenticeship Awards ceremony. It was a delight to see the apprentices and employers being recognised and celebrated, and fantastic that it was held in our Broadstairs hotel, The Yarrow. We’d like to thank every employer and provider who put forward nominations and congratulate all of those who won.”

Discovery Park, Pfizer, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and the KM Media Group all pledged their support for the awards.

Mayer Schreiber, CEO of Discovery Park, said:

“The East Kent Apprenticeship Awards celebrate outstanding apprentices, employers and those who go above and beyond to raise the profile of apprentices in this dynamic part of the county. Well done to everyone involved.”

Rob Crook, Senior Director of Pfizer Medicinal Sciences, outlines how important apprenticeships are for business:

“Pfizer is delighted and proud to be a sponsor of the East Kent Apprenticeship Award programme in its inaugural year. Apprenticeships offer amazing opportunities for young people to experience industry and gain key skills while at the same time furthering their academic studies and qualifications. They are key to growing a talented pool of employees for the next generation.”