Rochdale apprentices pick up awards

Winners of apprentice awards with Mayor Peter Rush and Mayoress Monica Rush at Rochdale Town Hall

Rochdale apprentices have been awarded for their hard work as part of the Apprentice and Learners Achievements annual prize giving.

In its 44th year, the prize giving was attended by over 200 people, including Mayor Peter Rush who presented the awards.

Mayor Rush champions apprenticeships as well as engineering and manufacturing skills throughout the borough. He said: “It is great to see this achievement across the Borough. Apprentices form the backbone of our success and continue the skills needed to keep us competitive as a country. These young people will shape the future workforce of the business”.

Adult Apprentice of the Year was awarded to Gary Eastwood of Farrel Ltd. Kevin Beck; Engineering Manager said: “Gary was given an opportunity by Farrel, regardless of his age, as they saw good potential in him. In turn Gary has given 100% whilst learning all of the skills required for his NVQ and has applied them accordingly in the work place.”

Intermediate Administration Apprentice of the Year was awarded to Sophie Etheridge of Bowser Supply Ltd. Whilst carrying out a full time job and undertaking her apprenticeship, Sophie attended training with Greater Manchester Learner Provider Network and became an Apprenticeship Ambassador. Sophie was also a finalist at the National Apprenticeship Awards where she received a 'highly commended' award.

Kerry Louise Bamford of Mitie was awarded Advanced Administration Apprentice of the Year. Kerry’s assessor, Talat Qureshi said: “Kerry started her advanced apprenticeship with flying colours. However, after a bereavement Kerry lost a lot of confidence and took a break in learning. After a few months Kerry picked herself up and tried to continue where she had left off. After working together she got back on track and started working with a new confidence and passed with flying colours.” Kerry has recently secured a business support role within child protection.

Plumbing Apprentice of the Year was awarded to Joel Longmore of Ben Longmore Plumbing. Joel received the award after showing excellent practical skills as well as receiving a 100% pass mark in his exams. He also had excellent attendance at the training centre and displayed a good work ethic.

Sam Greenwood from Holroyd Precision picked up the award for First Year Engineering Apprentice of the Year. “The first year Engineering Apprentice of the Year award is always a very difficult decision and this year was no different,” said Kevin Beck, Engineering Manager. “The winner is selected by the instructors with regards to attitude, ability, timekeeping and quality of workmanship”.

Engineering Advanced Apprentice of the Year 2013 was awarded to Haydn Bamford of Metso Papers. This award is given to the apprentice who has performed to a high standard throughout the four year apprenticeship. Kevin Beck commented: “Every component of the framework was completed to a very good standard by Haydn and he is a worthy winner”.