Swansea University's Katie Harris has been named Careers Information Advice and Guidance Apprentice of the Year at Gower College Swansea's Apprenticeship Awards.
Held in the College's Tycoch Campus and hosted by BBC sports presenter Ross Harries, the awards celebrated the achievements of apprentices, employers, and tutors in Wales and England.
Katie, a Targeted Support Project Coordinator for the Swansea University Employability Academy (SEA), was recognised for her hard work and dedication in completing her Level 4 Diploma in Careers Information and Advice.
On her big win, Katie said: "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time undertaking and completing my apprenticeship with Gower College. It allowed me to upskill through my role and develop my knowledge and experience. As a result, I feel much more confident and have greater belief in my ability to take on new challenges and opportunities."
Katie undertook her diploma through the Apprenticeship Programme in Wales, funded by the Welsh Government with support from the European Social Fund.
Katie said: "I'm incredibly proud to have achieved this award and am grateful for the opportunity provided to me by government funding, as I may not have been able to complete the apprenticeship otherwise."
Lucy Griffiths, Head of Swansea University Employability Academy (SEA), said: "We’re so proud of Katie being recognised with this award!
“Apprenticeships are proven to be an effective method for staff to develop their skills and experience in a manageable way alongside their roles. They also naturally encourage reflection, which is integral to what we do within SEA.
“It’s important that we practice what we encourage amongst the students and graduates we support, making continuous professional development essential within the careers sector.
“Many SEA staff have achieved the NVQ Level 4 and Level 6 apprenticeships via Gower College over the years, and it’s fantastic to see Katie excel and be recognised in this way.”
Katie was nominated for the award by Gower College Swansea commercial coordinator Einir-Wyn Hawkins and tutor/assessor Judith Lyle.
On Katie’s work, Judith said: “Katie was an exemplary student, and her writing was indeed equal to what we would expect from someone on a level 6 qualification.
“I hope Katie will be encouraged to complete level 6, as that would be very well deserved.”
To see a full list of awardees, visit the Gower College Swansea website.