Seeking Super Apprentices Across The Highlands And Islands

24th May 2006

HIGHLANDS and Islands apprentices and the people behind their success are being sought by the organisers of the Scottish Modern Apprenticeship Awards 2006. Apprentices, training providers, colleges and employers throughout the region are invited to enter this year's awards in a number of categories.

In Scotland, Modern Apprenticeships are managed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Scottish Enterprise and they offer people over the age of 16 the chance of paid employment linked with the opportunity to train for jobs at craft, technician and management level.

Lorna Lindsay, HIE's skills development manager said: "I would encourage all those eligible to consider entering these awards. They present an opportunity for the region to highlight the excellent contribution that employers, training providers and apprentices make to the workplace.

"I know there are some great stories of achievement in this region. They might not at first appear out-of-the-ordinary to those involved, but actually demonstrate good practice and will reflect well on Highlands and Islands industry to a wider audience through being considered for an award."

The 2006 awards will showcase those who have demonstrated initiative, enterprise and outstanding commitment to the improvement of skills development for the Scottish economy.

The categories are: Employers: fewer than 50 employees, 50 to 250 employees and over 250 employees; employee achievement; training providers; partnership, Apprentice achievement: continued personal development; contribution to others; overcoming the odds; and outstanding achievement.

Closing date for entries is June 16, to find out more and how to enter the awards, visit the website Modern Apprenticships Awards 2006

The awards ceremony will take place at the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Edinburgh on Thursday, October 12.