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Apprentice chef scoops top award

26 May 2010

Andrew Simmons (29), an apprentice chef who is studying for his apprenticeship with City College Brighton and Hove, has scooped the prestigious title of Apprentice of the Year in the South East Learning and Skills Awards which were recently held at the Savill Court Hotel in Surrey. Andrew, from Moulsecoomb, is an apprentice chef at Las Iguanas restaurant in Brighton. Before starting as an apprentice, he'd experienced drink and drug problems, had no qualifications and felt he had no hope. He's now on the road to achieving Key Skills and an NVQ in Catering whilst working full time and supporting his family. The Apprenticeship Programme has given Andrew great confidence at work and at home.

The awards, which celebrate excellence in vocational education across the region, acknowledge the outstanding achievements of individuals at every stage in their career, and of organisations, both big and small, whose commitment to learning and skills serve as an example and inspiration to everyone. Andrew will go on to compete against regional winners from across the country at the National Apprenticeship Awards, to be held at Westminster Plaza in London on 15th June. The awards were hosted by Sky News' Sunrise presenter Charlotte Hawkins. Commenting on the award winners, Charlotte said:

Andrew Simmons with his assessors Angie and Mel

Andrew Simmons with his assessors Angie and Mel

'Tonight showcased some truly remarkable steps that both individuals and businesses are taking to make skills and learning accessible to all within the workplace. I am delighted to see that dedication to professional development is being rewarded and was honoured to contribute to this celebration of great professional stories.'

Marinos Paphitis, Regional Director for the Learning Skills Council (LSC) said:

'Andrew is part of a bigger picture of dedicated individuals and businesses who work together to contribute to the regional economy and the local community. They make the South East a better place for all of us to live and work ? and that's something worth celebrating.'

Andrew said:

'My assessors at City College, Angie Griffiths and Mel Fuller, have done so much for me. If it wasn't for their help, I wouldn't be where I am today. They've helped me along every step of the way and I personally think they deserve an award as much as I do for all the effort they've put in.'

Angie Griffiths said:

'When you see the pride that Andy takes in his work and how his self-esteem, confidence and sense of purpose has flourished within the Apprenticeship framework, it is a genuine 'feelgood' story of someone who has beaten their demons and turned their life around. Andy undoubtedly is a worthy winner of this award and his story will be an inspiration to others.'

For media enquiries, please call Brian Bell, Marketing Communications Officer, on 01273 667788 Ext. 488 or email bb1@ccb.ac.uk website www.ccb.ac.uk

About City College Brighton and Hove: Situated in the heart of Brighton, City College Brighton and Hove has become an international centre of vocational excellence. Every year 2,000 full-time, 10,000 part time, over 500 Higher Education and 250 14-16 year old students as well as many international and European students choose City College as their place of further and higher education training. In addition, the College provides training to over 2,000 businesses via its 'City Business Skills' department which focuses on employer training needs. Offering over 700 courses from basic level right through to business and postgraduate training, City College is working with its partners to develop the workforce of the future.