Employers celebrate apprentices with the Edge

Apprentices and their employers have been recognised for their dedication and commitment in Gateshead College’s annual Apprenticeship Edge Awards.

As part of this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, the college took the awards out on the road, travelling across the region to present the awards to apprentices and employers in their places of work. The annual awards were introduced to celebrate the outstanding work of apprentices, staff and the employers the college works with and employers were delighted to be able to celebrate on site to give kudos to the apprentices making a difference in their business.

Nominations were received from employers and college staff, which were then judged by a panel of local industry experts, including John McCabe, CEO of the North East Chamber of Commerce, Michelle Rainbow, Skills Director at the North East Local Enterprise Partnership as well as college Principal David Alexander.

In total 12 apprentices picked up awards from a wide range of curriculum areas including business, digital tech and early years education as well as construction, automotive and sport.

Paula Fernanda Biajante Soeiro from Bellway scooped the top accolade of Outstanding Apprentice of the Year after wowing the judges with her commitment and determination to succeed. Now in the second year of her carpentry and joinery apprenticeship, Paula’s nomination recognised her as a model student, respected by her peers, both on site and in college, producing work of an exceptional standard and thriving in her role.

Commenting on the accolade Peter Woods, Project Manager of Bellway said: “It’s fantastic for Paula to have been awarded the Apprentice of the Year Award and it’s a real testament to all her hard work and commitment. She’s a very fast learner and has a real can-do, proactive attitude, always giving 100% to everything she does. Huge congratulations to her.”

As part of the awards, the college also recognised two exceptionally committed employers – Nueva Vida and Ramside Spa - for the support they give their apprentices.

Commenting on the awards, Principal of Gateshead College, David Alexander said: “This year’s nominations were of an exceptionally high standard and it was really helpful to have John and Michelle on the judging panel to give their insights in choosing the winners. Everyone who received an award should be proud of their achievements and I congratulate them all. It’s great to see those at the end of their apprenticeship journey, securing employment.”

Gateshead College delivers apprenticeship training with more than 400 companies around the region, including large multi-nationals and SMEs.