Niamh Newby, who studied her Commis Chef apprenticeship at NSCG, was recognised with an individual award at the ceremony for her achievements during her apprenticeship at Aston Marina.

Niamh’s skills have gone from strength to strength throughout her studies and she has been a true advocate for apprenticeships and the hospitality sector, featuring as one of the College’s marketing ambassadors and winning NSCG Student of the Month.

NSCG graduate Andrew Brett, who completed his Level 5 Operations and Departmental Manager apprenticeship with his employer Staffordshire County Council, said: “Everyone can do an apprenticeship, you are never too young or too old. After being out of education for many years I can admit I was extremely nervous, I’ve never been a gold star student in academia and I did wonder ‘can I do this?’ Short answer is yes I can and yes I did.

“The support from Nikki at Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group was incredible, guiding me through what was expected and what was needed. Now I’m living the knowledge I learnt and using it every day, leading my team in Flood Risk Management.

“The skills I’ve obtained have given me more confidence, which not only benefits myself, but my wider team and the County Council. I’d like to thank the Council for giving me the opportunity to do this course, as well as Nikki at NSCG for supporting my educational journey.”

This year’s graduation – which took place on 9 July – was sponsored by KMF, NSCG, Staffordshire Providers Network, West Midlands Apprenticeship Ambassador Network and Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce.

To find out more about apprenticeships at NSCG visit their Apprenticeship Hub page: https://nscg.ac.uk/life-at-nscg/the-apprenticeship-hub