Through a series of mostly virtual events, it will highlight how apprenticeships can benefit both the apprentice and the employer: an apprentice will get valuable practical experience and technical skills, backed up with academic qualifications; while for employers, apprenticeships can be an effective and productive way to grow talent with relevant skills to help their business grow to support the wider economy.
One of the highlights of the week will be the Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards 2021. Speaking at the launch of NI Apprenticeship Week, Economy Minister, Diane Dodds said the number and quality of nominations received demonstrated how apprenticeships can change the lives of businesses and apprentices.
Three finalists have been nominated for each of the four award categories: Apprentice Award; Higher Level Apprenticeship; Large Employer; and SME Employer. RYOBI Aluminium Casting (UK) Limited is in the mix for the Large Employer Award for its partnership with Northern Regional College.
The finalists for each award category are:
Apprentice Award 2021 Finalists:
- Chantelle McDonagh - An Tearmann (STEP) - Coalisland Training Services Ltd
- Declan McEleney - Fleming Agri-Products Ltd - North West Regional College
- Jonathan Hawthorne - Greiner Packaging Ltd - South West College
Higher Level Apprentice Award 2021 Finalists:
- Hannah Maneely - Nugent Engineering Ltd - South West College
- James Matchett - Kainos Group plc - Ulster University
- Barry Donnelly – Cundall - South West College
Large Employer Award 2021 Finalists:
- Allen & Overy in partnership with Belfast Metropolitan College
- RYOBI Aluminium Casting (UK) Limited in partnership with Northern Regional College
- Kainos Group plc in partnership with Ulster University
SME Employer Award 2021 Finalists:
- McKay Pharmacy in partnership with South Eastern Regional College
- TBC Conversions in partnership with South West College
- Specialist Joinery Group in partnership with Strabane Training Services