Venture House, which is owned and managed by Stratford-upon-Avon District Council, was created to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and offer support to existing small enterprises. Business Support Apprentice Lauren Preece, whose apprenticeship training is delivered by Stratford-upon-Avon College, won the award at the College’s own Student Awards Ceremony on Thursday 4 May 2017.
The event recognised students of all abilities for their achievements throughout the academic year. The District Council was in attendance and was pleased to sponsor the ‘Rising Star’ Award category.
Lauren, 21 from Bidford-upon-Avon, is thrilled with her win. “Winning the Apprentice of the Year award was a massive shock! To be nominated was amazing, but to actually have that achievement under my belt is brilliant. Having this award will hopefully show any future employer my willingness not only to learn and progress, but also how important it is to me to do well in my career.
“Throughout my apprenticeship I have received wonderful support from the College Apprenticeship Team, and know that, should I struggle with any aspect of my apprenticeship, they are only an email or phone call away!I feel without the help and support of the College team, as well as the team at Venture House, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and so early on in my career.
“It has been a real privilege to be a student at Stratford-upon-Avon College, and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for me!”
Nancy Singleton, Business Enterprise & Tourism Manager, Stratford District Council said: “We are delighted that Lauren has been recognised for her achievement at such an early stage in her apprenticeship. This is testimony to the enthusiasm, approach and commitment she demonstrates in all aspects of her work at Venture House and the success of the centre. We look forward to helping her to develop further into her role. She is a great ambassador for apprenticeships and, through her first-hand experience, she is able to encourage others to consider embarking on a similar route.”
Miv Wright, Business Development Manager at Stratford-upon-Avon College, presented Lauren with her award.“Lauren is a committed, enthusiastic individual who, since day one of her Apprenticeship, has demonstrated a mature and outstanding work ethic. Her willingness and ability to support others and complete tasks to a high standard has meant she is a great asset to her manager Nancy and the team at Venture House Business Centre.”
Jonathan Browning, Chairman of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) said, “Not only is this a great accolade for Lauren, it demonstrates the Council’s commitment to supporting the apprenticeship and skills agenda, and its desire to help inspire a new generation of talent, not only for its staff but for the clients who frequent the great business facility that Venture House provides.”
