FORTH Ports recently hosted a celebration event in Tilbury – with a similar event at its sister port in Scotland - to recognise the achievements of its talented apprentices, recognising the value they contribute to the business, and acknowledge the skills they have developed throughout their journey.

The events celebrated and awarded 11 apprentices across the group who successfully completed their apprenticeships in the past year and who have now transitioned into permanent positions, adding to the business's 95% apprentice retention record.

Tilbury apprentices and staff.

For the first time this year, two individual apprentices received a prestigious Apprentice of the Year award, an accolade that will now be given each year.

In Tilbury, Rebekah Inniss, 22, a former student of the Ockendon Academy, was awarded Apprentice of the Year.

She began her career on the government's Kickstart initiative working in the port's reception in 2021.

In 2023, she was offered a full-time position as a clerical assistant in Conventional and enrolled in a Business Administration Apprenticeship, which she aims to complete by June this year.

Her hard work has made her an instrumental part of the team, exemplifying how the skills gained through these programmes can significantly advance your career.

In Scotland, Callum Carr, 19, a former Falkirk High student, was named Apprentice of the Year.

Commenting on the apprenticeship programme Natalie Dalgleish, Head of Learning & Development said: "At Forth Ports, we recognise the transformative power of apprenticeships in unlocking potential, developing lifelong skills, and creating opportunities for growth.

"During our recent awards ceremony, we emphasised the crucial role that apprenticeships play in shaping careers and driving innovation within our business.

"Apprenticeships are not exclusively for young people embarking on their careers; they serve as a valuable tool for individuals at any stage of their professional journey to upskill, reskill, and explore new opportunities.

"At Forth Ports, we remain dedicated to nurturing talent through initiatives that equip individuals with the skills necessary not only for career success but also for personal development, contributing to the success of our business and the wider communities we serve."

Forth Ports has also launched its early careers campaign at an exciting time for the business as it continues to grow following a period of significant investment across the UK.

The business needs a talented workforce and has exciting early career roles available.

Details can be found in our latest weekly jobs newsletter.

Details will also be included in the newsletter to be circulated tomorrow (Monday, 24 February).