Alexandra scoops apprenticeship prize for hard work at Hays Travel

Anthony Knowles, National Apprenticeship Service; Alexandra Turner-Davis, and Ivan Jepson, Director of Business Development at Gateshead College

Alexandra, who works in the Jarrow branch of Hays Travel, scooped the Rolls Royce Award for Advanced Apprentice of the Year in the regional heat of the National Apprentice Awards.

It was a night of double celebration for the travel firm, which also picked up the Royal Navy Award for Large Employer of the Year.

Anthony Knowles, National Apprenticeship Service; Carole Hodgson, Hays Travel; Gemma Morrell, Hays Travel; and George Ritchie MBE, Chair of the North East Apprenticeships Ambassadors Network.

A delighted Alexandra said: “I am absolutely thrilled to have won this award and I’m so proud of myself.

“My apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and broaden my knowledge as well as work with an amazing time that has made me improve my communication skills, all while gaining qualifications.

“I chose my apprenticeship because I wanted to earn money whilst learning and having a full-time job. I’m due to finish my apprenticeship in November 2018 and I’m hoping to become cabin crew, seasonal out of Newcastle for the start of 2019.

“I feel like my apprenticeship has really pushed me in the right direction towards this as I have great travel knowledge working within the travel and tourism industry.”

Now in their 15th year, the National Apprenticeship Awards showcase the diverse and growing range of sectors engaged with apprenticeships, whilst celebrating outstanding apprentices, employers and individuals who go above and beyond to champion apprenticeships across England.

The awards were open to apprentices, individuals who promote apprenticeships and employers of all sizes from all sectors.

The refreshed categories, including the Rising Star and Recruitment Excellence categories for 2018 gave additional opportunities for entrants to demonstrate the impact apprenticeships have made to individual’s lives and their workplaces.

Celebrating the double win, Hays Travel head of training Beverley Little said: “I’m delighted that we have yet again been recognised for our commitment to apprenticeships.

“The National Apprenticeship Awards are regarded as a benchmark of quality within the apprenticeship service and within training.

“We are tremendously proud to have made the top slot alongside such strong entrants.”