Higgins Partnerships has scooped two prestigious awards at the East of England regional finals for the National Apprenticeship Awards 2021.

The company was awarded SME Employer of the Year and Recruitment Excellence Award recognising its commitment to providing apprenticeship and training opportunities for those looking to have a career in the construction industry.

The awards, which are in their 18th year, highlight the benefits apprenticeships bring to individuals, businesses and local communities and celebrates the success of those that have gone above and beyond to make a difference.

Steve Leakey, Managing Director of Higgins Partnerships commented: "We are thrilled to be awarded these two prestigious awards which recognise the commitment and value we place on our apprenticeship programmes.

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"From the appointment of our first apprentice in 1974, who stayed with us until his retirement last year, we have been committed to providing career opportunities for all, with many of us, including myself, have undertaken an apprenticeship throughout our career progression.

"We ensure they are supported from day one, with ongoing mentoring programmes and we offer a range of apprenticeships from level 2 to level 7, including our annual Management Trainee Programme, for both direct entrants to the business and for existing employers to support their ongoing development."

Nine regional awards have taken place across England and the final overall winner will be announced on Wednesday 1st December at a virtual ceremony.

Alex Burghart, Minister for Skills said: "As the new Minister for Skills, I’m a major believer in what apprenticeships can do for employers, the economy and the apprentices themselves, so a huge congratulations to everyone taking part in these regional finals.

"These awards recognise those employers who continue to invest in skills through apprenticeships, and those who have achieved great success. Just as importantly, they also showcase those fantastic apprentices who are already having a significant impact in their chosen field."