Steve’s new skills help support continuous improvement in the Police Service
Steve Bergiers shortlisted for award
Steve Bergiers, Dyfed-Powys Police Force’s lead for health and safety, is in contention to win a major award because of skills gained during his Higher Apprenticeship.
Steve is one of three finalists shortlisted in the Higher Apprentice of the Year category at the Apprenticeship Awards Cymru 2015. The high profile awards ceremony will be held at the Celtic Manor Resort, Newport on Thursday, October 29.
The coveted awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of those who have exceeded expectations, shown a dynamic approach to training and demonstrated initiative, enterprise, innovation, creativity and commitment to the improvement of skills development for the Welsh economy.
Jointly organised by the Welsh Government and the National Training Federation for Wales (NTfW), the awards are sponsored by Pearson PLC and media partner is Media Wales. The Apprenticeship Programme in Wales is funded by the Welsh Government with support from the European Social Fund.
“Over the two-year Higher Apprenticeship my confidence has grown and I’ve gained new skills,” said Steve. “I’ve shown that I can take on a more senior role and have been promoted to a managerial position.”
Steve, who completed a Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship in Management, supported by Acorn Learning Solutions, provides expert advice and guidance across Dyfed Powys Police. He has already put a new action plan in place, training 100 inspectors, sergeants and staff in health and safety.
“I’ve now become a coach and mentor in the workplace, supporting others with their personal development,” said Steve, who is now considering a Level 7 Higher Apprenticeship or an MBA in Leadership and Management.
“My second child was born part way through the course, so I struggled with study time and sleep deprivation. I had to plan my time carefully and was also given some personal learning time during office hours which really helped.”
He has also established the first Wales branch of the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management, the professional body for risk and safety professionals. “I chair the quarterly meetings held around Wales,” he added. “I really enjoy this and feel it gives me an avenue to platform my leadership potential.”
His manager, Huw Morgans, said: “Steve demonstrates innovation and has an excellent communication style which he uses to maximum effect in engaging staff.”
Deputy Minister for Skills and Technology Julie James congratulated Steve and the other 36 award finalists. “We have some truly exceptional apprentices here in Wales and the Apprenticeship Awards Cymru provide a perfect platform for us to celebrate their hard work and achievements,” she said.
“Equally important are the training providers and employers who go the extra mile to support their apprentices. Developing skilled young people is vital for our economy. The Welsh Government is committed to training programmes such as Apprenticeships but investment must be a shared responsibility with the education sector, businesses and individuals.”
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