Skills and Education Group is proud to sponsor the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards, a prestigious event that celebrates the achievements of apprentices from diverse backgrounds. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion drives our support for this important initiative and we are thrilled to be sponsoring the Intermediate Apprentice of the Year Award.

 

Nicola Johnson, one of our relationship managers with a focus on End-Point Assessment, will be representing the Skills and Education Group along with colleagues at the awards ceremony. Nicola has also participated in the recent judging process. So, we sat down with her to find out what makes her get out of bed in the morning and what she is most looking forward to about the upcoming awards.

Hi Nicola, tell us a little bit about yourself so that people can get to know you ahead of the Multi-Cultural Apprentice Awards.

 

Sure, I have a keen interest in travel and learning new languages and I enjoy exploring new places and cuisines.  When I am not exploring, you’ll likely find me shopping online and on the high street.

 

What is your role at Skills and Education Group?

 

As a Relationship Manager, I support education providers in promoting Skills and Education Group products and services to existing and potential customers. I focus on retaining customers and identifying growth opportunities within the West Midlands region, while also advocating our involvement in End-Point Assessment Services.

 

What led you to working here?

 

Having worked in the education and skills sector for many years I am passionate about helping people achieve qualifications to enable their employment and career progression.

 

What are you most passionate about with end-point assessment?

 

I love that I can support and be part of lifelong learning, promoting the importance of continuous professional development.  I play a key role in providing opportunities for individuals to gain new skills and knowledge and am passionate about making a positive impact on future generations. In my role I can help shape the educational landscape, ensuring that qualifications are relevant, respected, and beneficial for students’ future careers and lives.

 

 

What advice would you give to your 16–18-year-old self?

 

Take advantage of all available skills development and training opportunities, as everyone learns and advances in their own unique way. Have the confidence to pursue your personal goals and career path.  I am a huge advocate for apprenticeships, and I wish I had known more about apprenticeships before going to university.

 

If you could choose any Apprenticeship to study which one, would it be and why?

 

I would choose one related to my professional development such as the Level 4 Sales Executive or a culinary one, as I enjoy cooking and baking, so perhaps the Level 3 Pastry Chef.

 

Which Awards were you involved in judging at this year’s Multi-Cultural Apprentice Awards?

 

I am incredibly honoured to have been involved in the judging of three awards categories on behalf of Skills and Education Group and these were:

• Charity, Voluntary & Public Services

• Health, Medical & Social Care

• Intermediate Apprentice Of The Year (Level 2 & 3)

As predicted, it involved some difficult decisions as so many talented apprentices were on the shortlist.

 

Why is Skills and Education Group a sponsor at these awards?

 

At Skills and Education Group, we’re all about learning and growing. We believe education can change lives and make a real difference in the world. Apprenticeships are a great way to do that, and they’re important for the economy too.

We are also passionate about celebrating diversity and recognising the achievements of individuals from all backgrounds. The Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards provide a platform to highlight the outstanding work of apprentices, employers, and learning providers, fostering a more inclusive society

Well said, Nicola and we couldn’t agree more. Our involvement in the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards aligns perfectly with our mission to empower individuals and communities through lifelong learning.

 

We also spoke to our CEO, Paul Eeles to get his insights on why Skills and Education Group are involved in the awards.

 

We look forward to celebrating the success of the finalists and winners and inspiring others to pursue their dreams. Stay tuned for more news from the Awards, which take place on 1 November and if you are attending be sure to say hello to Nicola.