To mark this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, we’re celebrating some of the success stories of our apprentices.
Overall winners Charlotte Goode, Ben Stanford and Jake Howard were all recognised at this year’s Sandwell College Star Awards, which celebrated the outstanding achievements of our apprentices.
The Star Awards saw an array of organisations and businesses nominate students, with more than 40 learners in the running for nine awards this year.
Find out more about our awardees and their apprenticeship experience:
Charlotte Goode – Level 3 Early Years Educator Apprentice at the Darlaston Day Nursery
Charlotte began her apprenticeship at Darlaston Day Nursery and quickly established herself as a vital part of the team. Her dedication to the role and the quality of her work has been highly praised by her employer, Walsall Childcare, and she received the prestigious Overall Star Award at the Sandwell College Star Awards.
Following the successful completion of her apprenticeship, Charlotte has now been employed by the Darlaston Day Nursery. This why they chose to nominate Charlotte for a Star Award:
“Charlotte is the glue in our foundation unit. The children, staff and parents simply adore ‘Charchar’ and she is a superb role model to the children. The quality of her learning journeys for her key children is exemplary – to say she goes above and beyond her role is a total understatement. Charlotte always volunteers to get things done and always puts others first.”
Ben Stanford – Level 2 Customer Service Apprentice at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council
Keen to work in an office environment, Ben began an apprenticeship with the Council’s Income Management team in October 2023, which he completed this January with a Distinction.
Within the Council service, targets are set for the financial year. Ben successfully achieved his targets with a reduction of 65% in arrears and a 42% increase in cash collection for the town portfolios he is responsible for – testament to his ongoing hard work and dedication.
Ben received the Second Star Award at the Sandwell College Star Awards and is now a full-time employee at Sandwell Council.
Reflecting on his success, Ben’s manager says:
“During his time with us, Ben has developed not just within his role, but as a person too. Throughout his apprenticeship, Ben has flourished into a confident young man, who will now suggest ideas and make contributions within team meetings. He has developed a brilliant work ethic and strives to achieve his targets, along with working with customers to find solutions. He has shown how you can progress into a successful apprentice, and now a full-time employee, with hard work and determination.”
Jake Howard – Level 3 Dental Nurse Apprentice at Sedgley Dental Care
Jake began his apprenticeship at Sedgley Dental Care after impressing the team from his first interview. In recognition of his positive contribution to the practice, Jake received the Third Star Award at the Sandwell College Star Awards.
Here, Jake’s employer tells us more about Jake’s excellent work ethic and continued dedication to his studies:
“It was clear Jake would fit in with our team, as he’s such a warm, friendly and caring individual. He has added life to the practice and is like a sponge – he takes note of everything, and is always eager to help and assist all fellow staff members, regardless of what it may be. He has excelled with his college course, and I am sure will pass with flying colours. He is a rare find and will go far in his career if he chooses to stay within this field.”
Interested in an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are jobs which combine work and training. You’ll earn a wage, develop your skills, update your CV and experience, and take your first step on the career ladder. At Sandwell, we offer industry-leading apprenticeships across a range of sectors – from construction and childcare, to business administration and automotive.
To find out more about our apprenticeships, click here.
