Modern Apprentice Of The Year Named

A young ICT apprentice from West Belfast has been unveiled as the Modern Apprentice of the Year 2006.

Gerard O Hara, an apprentice ICT manager at St Colm’s High School in the city, collected the award at a ceremony at Belfast’s Waterfront Hall. He was recognised for his natural ability and flair which has led to him taking full management responsibility for the entire ICT network within the school. Not only is his work critical to the running of the school but he has also proved to be a strong role model for the pupils themselves.

Presenting Gerard with his award, Catherine Bell, Deputy Secretary at the Department for Employment and Learning, said: “Gerard is a fine example of the rewards that can come from choosing the Modern Apprenticeship route into employment. The recently launched Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland highlights the benefits for the economy and the individual of investing time and effort in developing the right skills.

“I congratulate Gerard in his achievement and trust that his example will show others the tangible rewards that can come from a Modern Apprenticeship.”

Referring to the recent announcement that London would host the 2011 WorldSkills competition, Mrs Bell said: “The news that London will host this prestigious event provides the whole of the UK with the opportunity to raise the status of skills and vocational education.

"Encouraging more young people to take this route will ensure the Skills Strategy is successful in its aim of delivering a competitive economy through raising the skills levels of the workforce.”

Gerard’s training is managed by Springvale Learning in Belfast, who were also recognised for their support of Gerard throughout his apprenticeship.

Also honoured at the ceremony was Catriona Russell, an apprentice hairdresser from Ballycastle, who picked up the Personal Achievement Award.

Catriona, who is trained and employed by BCW Training Ltd, had moved back into training following the birth of her son. She has flourished in her chosen discipline and hopes one day to train to become an assessor herself.

(SP)