Wirral Employers Praised by Young People
PRESS RELEASE 08.02.08
Young people honoured Wirral's leading businesses at a glittering awards ceremony at Thornton Hall Hotel on Thursday (Feb 6). The Wirral Star Employer Awards paid tribute to companies who have helped young people across the borough prepare for the world of work. Employers were nominated in five categories, covering work experience, apprenticeships and entry to employment.
More than 150 business and young people attended the event to celebrate the success of the finalists and winners. North West Tonight presenter Gordon Burns hosted the awards ceremony and guests were entertained by Kelly Sykes and young performers from the Oldershaw School in Wallasey who sang and danced through two extracts from the musical Oliver.
Hollyoaks' actress Carley Stenson made a late dash from filming the latest episode of the soap, to join the celebration, which was opened by Steve Maddox Chief Executive of Wirral Council. Greater Merseyside Connexions, the Learning and Skills Council, and Wirral Council brought the event together. Elizabeth Hartley and Vanessa Murdoch of Connexions Greater Merseyside explained that the event was to recognise the talents of young people across the Wirral and make more employers see their potential.
Melanie Campbell, 14-19 Co-ordinator, worked with the 14-19 partnership to organise the evening, described all the finalists as stars.
"Unfortunately we can't make everyone a winner, but in my mind they all are. Creating work positions for young people, taking them on as apprentices or trainees, or simply giving someone valuable work experience can mean so much. It really does change people's lives," she added.
Category winners were:
Post 16 Work Experience, St Hilary's Brow Group Medical Practice, nominated by James Cooper.
Work Related Learning, Setz Hairdressing, nominated by Jade Jones
Entry to Employment, N & P Windows, nominated by Tom Franklin
Work Experience, Wirral Partnership Homes, nominated by Lee Whitburn
Apprenticeship, K Seal Glass, nominated by Matty Walker
