Monday 5th February marked the start of National Apprenticeship Week, an annual celebration of apprenticeships across the country. 

This year’s theme of ‘Skills for Life’ reflects on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and employers to develop their future workforce.

To recognise their outstanding contribution, Bury College has been awarding Apprenticeship Star Awards to apprentices, nominated by their Learning and Skills Coach.

Here are the winners: 

•    Lyn Atherton won her award for being committed. She is a Level 2 Customer Service Apprentice currently working Oxford Grove Primary School 
•    Adam Bailey won his award for being collaborative. He is a Level 2 Customer Service Apprentice at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust 
•    Katie Lockey was celebrated for being confident. She is a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner Apprentice at Mulberry Bush (Whitefield) 
•    Michaela Brady was praised for being resilient. She is a Level 2 Early Years Practitioner at Beeches Day Nursery

In addition, we also celebrated the contribution of an employer for helping to develop the skills of our apprentices. Joe Brown and Maria Makin from Smile Transformation & Cosmetic Services Ltd were recognised for providing a supportive environment.

Laura Kirkpatrick, Head of Apprenticeships at Bury College, added: "National Apprenticeship Week is a great chance to shine a spotlight on our wonderful apprentices who are all making great progress in their careers. The four we selected for a Star Award have all stood out over the last few months and have really represented our wider Bury College values of commitment, collaboration, confidence and resilience.

"It's also given us a great opportunity to thank our employers who provide our apprentices with these amazing experiences. The team at Smile Transformation and Cosmetic Services, in particular, have been incredible. It was an honour to present them with the Employer Star Award this year."

Bury College apprenticeships are available in a wide range of dynamic sectors and have been developed by employers to ensure professional training and potential for career progression. Click here for more information