Apprentice success and distinguished guests – at HTP Apprenticeship College’s 2022 Graduation Ceremony

HTP Apprenticeship College welcomed graduates and distinguished guests to celebrate the achievements of Higher Level Apprentices at our 2022 Graduation Ceremony on 28 July at Medina Theatre in Newport. Mrs Susie Sheldon JP, HM Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight delivered the keynote speech, while other guests of honour included Isle of Wight High Sheriff Kay Marriott, Isle of Wight Council Leader Lora Peacey-Wilcox and Debbie Andre, Isle of Wight Council Cabinet Member for Children’s Services Education and Skills.

More than 80 former Apprentices donned their caps and gowns to receive their awards from college Founder and Chief Executive Rachael Randall. Their certificates mark the successful completion of their Higher Apprenticeship studies at Levels 4 and 5 which they accomplished with the support of their employers from a wide range of sectors including the IoW NHS Trust, Queen Alexandra Hospital, Isle of Wight Council, Portsmouth City Council, WightFibre, Vestas Wind Systems, Solent LEP, Ryde House, Southern Housing, Imperial London Hotels and GKN Aerospace.

In her address Susie Sheldon congratulated the Apprentices and praised their commitment to learning.

“I’m really pleased to be here today and I am really impressed with what you have all achieved in very difficult times. You have all worked incredibly hard, making your studies fit into your lives and by taking the opportunities on offer. Today we celebrate a chapter of your life. Be proud of your achievements and I would urge you to always continue learning and gaining knowledge. Be your own self and choose the right way for you. I congratulate you all and wish you the best for your future.”

Apprentices had qualified in a wide range of programmes, including Business & Professional Administration, Hospitality Management, Marketing, Learning & Development, Health & Social Care and Operations Departmental Manager.

HTP’s Founder and Chief Executive Rachael Randall said:

“Congratulations to everyone who is graduating here today. You have all shown great resilience in completing your qualifications. Some of you managed to do so whilst on furlough, others whilst working on the front line. You have all achieved great success whilst doing a real job, with busy home lives and families. Some of you have waited a while for this moment and I’m so glad we can all celebrate together today.

“Some of you are at the beginning of your journey. Others here today are continuing to progress, from Level 2 all the way to Level 5. It’s a great thrill to hear your stories and see that your qualifications are driving your career growth, leading to promotions and new jobs. Today really shows the value of Apprenticeships and I’d like to thank all of our employers too – we couldn’t do it without them.”