MORE than 120 people who have successfully completed an apprenticeship in the past 12 months are due to celebrate their achievements at a graduation ceremony this week.
The ceremony – now an established annual event – will take place at De Montfort Hall, on Friday, June 30, to congratulate those who have gained new qualifications and skills.
Each apprentice will be called up onto De Montfort Hall’s stage to be congratulated by Leicester Lord Mayor Cllr Dr Susan Barton, pro-vice chancellor for enterprise at De Montfort University Helen Donnellan, and Ian Wrench, Service Market and Retail Director for Volvo Trucks UK and Ireland.
The event is hosted by Leicester City Council’s employment hub, which works directly with employers and job seekers to offer pathways into apprenticeships, training, work placements and employment.
More than 200 businesses which support apprentices have also been invited to attend, along with family and friends of the graduates.
Awards will include the Intermediate Apprentice of the Year sponsored by Futures, Advanced Apprentice of the Year sponsored by Grounded Kitchen and Higher Apprentice of the Year sponsored by Mattioli Woods along with Employer of the Year (sponsored by Leicester College).
The ceremony itself will be opened and closed by the Leicester Taiko drummers, with two exhilarating performances of Japanese taiko drumming.
Leicester deputy city mayor for climate, economy and culture, Cllr Adam Clarke, said: “Apprenticeships are a key priority in supporting the growth of the city.
“They are an excellent route for individuals to gain the skills and knowledge they need within work. Apprentices’ dedication and skill doesn’t just improve their future prospects, but also the future prospects of the city.
“I’d like to congratulate all of the apprentices who will be graduating at this ceremony on their hard work, as well as thanking the businesses who have done so much to support them.”
Among those being recognised for their efforts are 15 employees of Volvo Trucks who have gained their advanced level apprenticeship qualifications.
Ian Wrench, Service Market and Retail Director for Volvo Trucks UK and Ireland, added: ”I am passionate to support apprenticeships in our industry and delighted to part of the event today.
“It is always a pleasure to see new talent entering our industry and exploring the many opportunities that it can bring.”
Tracey Waterfield, city council employment hub manager, said: “We have held annual graduation ceremonies for apprentices since 2015, where we have been able to demonstrate to employers the value of skills delivered through employing apprentices.”
For more information on Leicester Employment Hub, visit www.leicesteremploymenthub.co.uk
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Media opportunity: You are invited to send a reporter/photographer to the apprentices’ graduation ceremony, which takes place from 3pm-4.30pm on Friday, June 30, at De Montfort Hall, Leicester.