YOUNG apprentices celebrated their success with families and friends at a Swindon College awards ceremony.

The 21 winners who impressed while on apprenticeships included Sophie Davies who worked at Swindon Borough Council in its housing department.

Sophie said: “Before I started, I was working in the childcare and education sector for over 17 years.

“I chose the apprenticeship programme because I was very keen to change to a new career path. I had struggled to get on to a new career ladder due to all my knowledge and qualifications being centred on childcare.

“I saw the position of a housing apprentice being advertised and thought it sounded like a really good opportunity for me. Making the decision to become an apprentice at 32 was a little daunting but I thought it’s never too late to re-train in a new profession.

“I have a very supportive and understanding manager who gives me valuable advice and I am enjoying getting back into the studying side of the apprenticeship.

“My plan for the future is to stay within the current position I am in once my apprenticeship is complete so I can use all I have learnt in the process to build a successful career within housing.”

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson praised the winners. He said: “I enjoy attending this event every year as it is fantastic to hear each apprentices’ story and how the opportunity has transformed their life. Family and friends are always bursting with pride. Each and every one of the employers can’t offer enough praise to their apprentice, demonstrating the invaluable contribution that they make to the business.

“Here in Swindon we have seen 12,600 new apprenticeships created since 2010 – that’s 12,600 new opportunities for people of all ages to learn a new trade while they earn. It is absolutely crucial we keep providing these opportunities and I will continue to support local providers including Swindon College to ensure this.”

Swindon College apprenticeship team leader Steph Venn said: “It was great to celebrate with everyone involved and we hope more employers will then see the benefits of recruiting apprentices.”