Freemen’s Guild Awards: Apprentice Training Provider of the Year 2023

Two Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training apprentices have been recognised at the Freemen’s Guild Awards for 2023 for overcoming personal adversity to excel in their new careers. The City of Coventry Freemen’s Guild Apprenticeship of the Year Awards 2023 saw Abigail Gumery, 25, named as Small Employer Apprentice of the Year, while Niall Smith, 17, took home the Endeavor award.

The duo are part of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training, which provides a range of apprenticeship opportunities to young people and those that are seeking a career change. Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training was also recognised as Apprenticeship Training Provider of the Year at the awards ceremony, thanks to Abigail and Niall's achievements.

The Freemen’s Guild of Coventry City shortlisted exceptional young individuals to be recognised through its Apprentice of the Year Awards for 2023. Awards were specifically designed to honour the achievements of local young people that are engaged in apprenticeships or training programmes, working towards established career paths. Since 2005, the Freemen’s Guild Awards have celebrated the successes of apprentices in Coventry, showcasing their accomplishments within the community.

Abigail, who works as an apprentice accountant at The Smallpeice Trust charity in Leamington, decided to take on a role as part of a career change in the Accountancy sector. After just four months in the role, Abigail has achieved more than 80 per cent in both her Level 2 AAT exams, has had a positive impact on further strengthening the charity’s cash flow, and has been nominated for three internal company awards for her work.

Niall has autism and has been praised by his peers at Beatle Woods nursery in Balsall Common for overcoming social and educational barriers to become a key member of the team. The part-time scout leader and lifeguard is studying an Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship at the nursery, and despite his own difficult experiences of studying within the education system he is now developing activity plans for play sessions and conducting health and safety site checks.

Sally Lucas, Executive Director at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training, said: "Apprenticeships have the potential to change lives and unlock talent for businesses - as we have seen with Abigail and Niall. "Abigail has shown that it is never too late to make a change, while Niall is a great example that by seeking the right guidance and support, barriers can be removed to pursue the career that you want.

"I'd like to congratulate Abigail and Niall for their award wins. They are clearly both thriving in their roles, and hopefully their stories will inspire other people out there to consider an apprenticeship."

For more information about Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training visit www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk