Gedling Business wins Prestigious Award for its Work With Apprentices

A small Gedling business has won a prestigious European Award for its work with apprentices. Drury Joinery Services Limited picked up the award in the micro companies sector at the closing event of the EU Vocational Skills Week in Brussels, on Friday 24th November. The European Alliance for Apprenticeships, whose award it is, received nominations from all over the European Union. In her remarks, Marianne Thyssen a senior representative of the European Commission noted the excellent practice in developing apprentices in the best traditions of one-to-one training.

Owner Lee Drury said, “I’m delighted to receive the recognition for over 15 years of working with young people, I see it as my contribution to them and the industry.” Lee was the only UK Winner from 12 categories that seek to recognise excellent work in vocational education and training, particularly apprenticeships.

Drury Joinery Services Limited is a small family business based in Gedling, a suburb of Nottingham, it has supported 8 apprentices in the past, all of who went on to work successfully in the industry. Lee is currently employing his ninth Ben Baguley, he hopes to follow the others and become a qualified Joiner. He said, “It’s great to see Lee get his award, I know that I’m going to learn a lot from him.” Those administering the awards noted Lee’s attention to detail in training and that he was also preparing them for self-employment to run their own business.

Lee came to the attention of local business NGi (UK) Limited who nominated him through their work with Gedling Borough Council. The council is working on an innovative international project to encourage small and medium sized businesses to take on an apprentice. Lee attended some specialist training offered by the council and contributed positively to the programme by offering practical suggestions based on his experience. Director Graham Wood said, “Lee brought a wealth of practical knowledge to our training that greatly improved the experience of his peers. We decided to learn more about him and his work, which convinced us we should nominate him for the award.”

Julie Beresford, Economic Growth Officer who manages the international project on behalf of Gedling Borough Council said, “We’re delighted for Lee, he represents why young apprentices can benefit enormously from working with small companies. As part of our strategy we seek to encourage and support where we can a small business to take on an apprentice.”

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