THE successes and achievements of Swindon College’s apprentices have been celebrated at a special awards ceremony.

A total of 18 awards were handed out to those who went above and beyond to secure their apprenticeship qualification at the gathering earlier this month.

The evening was a great success for the college as students were joined by mayor Maureen Penny, North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson and prominent local business figures for the occasion.

Andy Slatter won BMW Apprentice of the Year.

The 42-year-old had worked at BMW for 22 years before starting his apprenticeship which he applied for to further his career and take on a new challenge.

“I really enjoyed the evening and thought it was great to see all the other apprentices also winning an award," Andy said. "Swindon College and BMW have supported me well throughout my apprenticeship.”

After hearing inspiring testimonials of success from students who have worked hard to gain their apprenticeships, everyone continued to enjoy a great evening of celebration.

The awards are an opportunity to recognise the students, their employers and their support network and all the hard work involved in attaining their apprenticeships.

Julia Hoskins, deputy head of Business First said: “The Annual Apprenticeship Awards evening listened to truly amazing and heartfelt speeches given by employers on the incredible contribution an apprentice can make to their business.

“They, and their apprentices, praised the support provided by the Swindon College; the apprenticeship training coordinators, lecturers and assessors who guided them through the programmes, helping the apprentice achieve so much.”