North Wales mechanic shortlisted for award
Benjamin Morgan
A North Wales man has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award that recognises the outstanding achievements of learners, employers and providers involved in the delivery of quality apprenticeships across Wales.
Benjamin Morgan, 23, from Shotton on Deeside is one of 19 finalists in six categories of the Apprenticeship Awards Cymru, organised by the Welsh Government in partnership with the National Training Federation Wales (NTfW). Welsh Government apprenticeship programmes are part funded by the European Social Fund.
The winners will be announced at a high profile presentation ceremony at the Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel, Cardiff, on Wednesday, November 16. The main sponsor of the awards, which aim to showcase excellence in skills development in Wales, is Pearson and the media partner for the event is Media Wales.
Benjamin has completed a Foundation Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship in Motor Vehicle Level 3 (Light Vehicle) working at Humphreys Garage in Bagillt, Flintshire, with training at Deeside College. He now works full time at the garage and has become well-known in the area for his expert knowledge, often being approached by other garages to deal with complex engine diagnostic problems.
“I have always had a love of motor vehicles and strive to be the best,” said Benjamin. “I realised the importance of getting qualifications if I want to progress within the motor industry.”
His tutor at Deeside College, Marshall Clayton, is delighted that Ben has been chosen as a finalist: “I have never experienced a learner who has such a desire to excel. He has had distinctions in every one of his exams.
“Ben has been the main person at home supporting the family unit and I think it is this that has driven him to realise the value of working hard and getting qualifications.”
Benjamin has been shortlisted in the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year category. The other award categories are: Foundation Apprentice of the Year, Young Apprentice of the Year, Medium Employer of the Year, Large Employer of the Year and Apprenticeship Provider of the Year.
Around 250 stakeholders from the vocational education and training sector across Wales are expected to attend the high profile awards ceremony, where guests will dine out with chefs from the Welsh National Culinary Team.
Deputy Minister for Skills, Jeff Cuthbert said: “I have been encouraged by the extremely high standard of this year’s finalists and the variety across all ages and sectors, which shows the strength of apprenticeship delivery in Wales.
“Irrespective of whether or not they collect an award, the 19 finalists are all winners. Each has an inspiring story to tell, making them true ambassadors for apprenticeship programmes in Wales.
“The Welsh Government is committed to creating more apprenticeship opportunities for young people in Wales and continuing to support employers who are willing to offer high quality apprenticeship places.”
The NTfW is a network of 90 quality assured learning providers, which has links to 35,000 employers across Wales.
President Lord Ted Rowlands said: “Apprenticeship Awards Cymru showcases and celebrates the achievements of those who have exceeded expectations, shown a dynamic approach to training, demonstrated initiative and enterprise, innovation and creativity and shown an understanding and commitment to the improvement of skills development for the Welsh economy.”
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