The national awards ceremony showcased apprentices from across the country and in a range of sectors.

Harley, 18, of Greenock, chose a Foundation Apprenticeship which he completed last year at our Paisley campus whilst still at school as he wanted to work in the Engineering sector. The programme gave him the perfect opportunity to gain on-the-job experience, at Aggreko’s Dumbarton base, as well as a recognised qualification. The nature of the FA programme allowed Harley to try different elements of engineering, such as electrical and mechanical, helping him to decide which area he would like to specialise in.

Having now successfully progressed to a Modern Apprenticeship in Multi-skilled Engineering at power supply specialist Aggreko, Harley credits his Foundation Apprenticeship with giving him that extra first step, putting him ahead of the other 300 candidates who were considered for the Modern Apprenticeship programme;

“A Foundation Apprenticeship opened my eyes to the opportunities that are available and helped me develop relevant skills and knowledge. It gives you the opportunity to experience the workplace and get involved in it, which was invaluable.”

Harley credited the Foundation Apprenticeship for boosting his time management, teamwork and communication skills and his success means he is now held up by the college as the ‘gold standard’ learner for the next generation of Foundation Apprentices.

Sharron Rodger, School’s Relationship Manager, commented:

“We’re absolutely delighted Harley has been named as Foundation Apprentice of the Year. Harley is the perfect example of how a Foundation Apprenticeship programme can open doors into your chosen career, we’re thrilled that the skills Harley developed during his FA provided him with the competitive advantage to land a Modern Apprenticeship with Aggreko.”