I was impressed by what I saw at the Somerset Apprentice Awards 2014.

The Somerset Apprentice Awards are organised by Grow Somerset Talent (consisting of Somerset colleges and learning providers) and aim to showcase the considerable talent and achievements of Apprentices in Somerset. There are various categories of awards for both Apprentices and their employers, and in each it was obvious that Apprentices are a force to be reckoned with in Somerset.

Our own apprentice, Allan Edwards, received a Commendation in the Advanced Apprentice of the Year category and congratulations must go the worthy winner, Alys Welch who also went on to win the Apprentice Champion of the Year award.

The Awards also demonstrated the breadth of business types that operate in Somerset, both in terms of size and sector, and made one realise just what a diverse economy we have here. It was also more than apparent how the Apprentices have helped businesses to thrive in the difficult economic times we have been facing. It was interesting to note that where Apprentices had been given the responsibility and tools to succeed, they had repeatedly excelled.
 

Congratulations also go to Queen Street Garage, Taunton winners in the Micro-employer of the Year category in which MonkeyPuzzle Computers also received a commendation.