The regional finalists for this year’s National Apprenticeship Awards have been announced, with Kent apprentice Charlotte Hughes one of 6 finalists for the East of England Apprentice of the Year Award. Competition to get this far has been tough with just 84 individuals and 91 employers named as finalists across 10 award categories – out of over 800 entries.
“I thoroughly enjoy my apprenticeship and would definitely encourage other young people to consider this route as there are so many opportunities in different business areas.” – Charlotte Hughes, Laboratory Analyst Apprentice
Charlotte’s managers and supervisors have been highly supportive of her award and shared some of the reasons she was nominated for the award.
“Her work has delivered tangible value to the business. She is far exceeding expectations in this regard and is outperforming fully qualified scientists within the department. She is a fantastic role model for all young scientists and apprentices.” – Charlotte’s Manager
Charlotte will be recognised at a regional celebration event on 17 October and if named as the winner at regional level, she will progress to the national finals.National finalists have their applications judged by the national judging panel, with the final awards ceremony taking place at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London in January.
“I am looking forward to the event and am grateful I have got this far in the competition…I’m proud I can be a part of something that shines such a positive light on apprenticeships.” – Charlotte Hughes
Charlotte has already worked hard to promote apprenticeship opportunities to young people and is one of the reasons she was nominated, as GSK’s Early Talent Manager explains:
“Charlotte stands out amongst our 28 R&D Laboratory apprentices. She is extremely hard-working in the laboratory, is significantly ahead in her University of Kent studies and manages a wide range of extracurricular activities to promote and enhance GSK’s apprentice programme.” – Nicci Smith, Early Talent Programme Manager
The National Apprenticeship Awards are now in their 14th year. The awards recognise excellent businesses that grow their own talent with apprenticeship and apprentices, who have made a significant contribution to their workplace.
Charlotte is a Laboratory Science Apprentice working towards a BSc in Applied Bioscience with GSK in Stevenage.