Apprentices gather for county's annual graduation ceremony
More than 150 apprentices from ten sectors took to the stage at Stafford’s County Showground to mark the completion of their training.
The event, on Tuesday 15 July, also marked ten years since the ceremonies began. In that time, over 1,000 apprentices have graduated at the events and 74,000 people started an apprenticeship in Staffordshire.
21-year-old Kayleigh Simm, from Newcastle, was one apprentice who took to the stage to receive her award.
The Metal Forming Operative apprentice at KMF Group Limited, based in Newcastle, said: “Doing an apprenticeship has been incredibly valuable for me. It’s given me hands-on experience and exposure across the business, helping me figure out the career path I want to follow.
“It’s great to be able to celebrate with all the other apprentices. I’m also proud to have won the CBM Apprentice of the Year and several in-house awards for my dedication and academic success. As a woman in STEM, I’d encourage anyone thinking about it to take the leap, it’s worth it.”
Jenny Johnston, People & Culture Manager at KMF Group Limited, added: “At KMF, apprenticeships aren’t just part of what we do, they’re at the heart of it. Every year, we proudly welcome a new cohort from our local community, investing in the next generation of engineering talent.
“Many of our current team leaders, sales staff, and members of our senior management began their journey as apprentices - a true testament to the careers that can grow from that first stepping stone. We’re very proud of all our apprentices.”
Guest speakers included Steve Tellwright, People and Quality Director at Capula Ltd, Craig Hodgson, Principal and Chief Executive of NSCG, and Martin Murray, Deputy Leader at Staffordshire County Council.
Councillor Murray, who is also Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council, said: “It was great to meet some of our amazing apprentices at the graduation ceremony and to celebrate their achievements.
“Research has repeatedly demonstrated the value of apprenticeships, for those who complete them, businesses who take on apprentices and for our local economy. We’re working hard to make sure young people are aware of the apprenticeship route and making sure that Staffordshire companies get the support they need to take on an apprentice. Once again I’d like to say a huge well done to all the apprentices, they should be proud of their achievements.”
Employers interested in taking on an apprentice can get support from Ladder for Staffordshire - Creating new Apprenticeships or by calling 03332 409 699. Anyone interested in exploring the apprenticeship option should visit the Staffordshire Jobs and Careers Service.
