Member Article

Bond Dickinson LLP wins National Apprenticeship Award

Bond Dickinson LLP was revealed as the Rolls Royce sponsored Newcomer Large Employer of the Year at the National Apprenticeship Awards at an exclusive ceremony at London’s Grosvenor House on Friday night.

The Awards, now in their thirteenth year, are run by the National Apprenticeship Service and recognise excellence in two areas: businesses that grow their own talent with apprentices and apprentices who have made a significant contribution to their workplaces.

Bond Dickinson LLP is a full service law firm with seven offices across the UK. They offer an innovative and socially inclusive employment pathway which supports their succession planning and colleague retention.

Bond Dickinson LLP offers graduating apprentices permanent roles as paralegals and benefits include mentoring and supervisory opportunities.

On accepting the award, Sam Lee, Head of Recruitment at Bond Dickinson LLP, said:

“We took on apprentices because it was the right thing to do; for social mobility, improved staff retention and for the future of our business. But what’s amazed us most is how well the apprentices have performed, they still surprise us every day.

“Recruiting apprentices as paralegals allows us to attract smart, enthusiastic and engaged people into law – people that never previously would have thought a career in law was for them, or even possible. We’re committed to continuing our apprenticeship scheme and building on it in the years ahead.“

The ceremony also saw Bond Dickinson LLP named in the prestigious Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer list. The list, which is compiled annually by the National Apprenticeship Service, sponsored by Centrica, recognises excellence in businesses that employ apprentices.

Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Robert Halfon said:

“Congratulations to Bond Dickinson LLP Ltd for your success in this year’s National Apprenticeship Awards, which have showcased so much inspiring talent, dedication and ensures that apprenticeships get the prestige they deserve.

“I am always proud to see how many employers and apprentices get involved in apprenticeships across the country, helping to give a ladder of opportunity to people and deliver quality skills for employers. I hope your involvement encourages others to do the same to ensure social justice for all.“

The National Apprenticeship Awards showcase and recognise the many benefits apprenticeships bring to individuals and businesses and inspire others to follow, enabling them to lead successful lives and drive economic growth in England.

David Campbell, Rolls-Royce Learning and Development Manager said:

“Apprentice programmes are an important national resource, helping businesses to create the next generation of successful employees and opening up a wealth of opportunity and training to new recruits. It is very pleasing to see that Bond Dickinson LLP recognises the value that a well-structured and properly supported apprentice scheme can bring and that this has been rewarded with the Apprenticeship Newcomer Large Employer Award at this year’s National Apprenticeship Awards.

“Rolls-Royce has trained apprentices for over a century, so we understand the enormous value they bring. We truly believe apprenticeships provide people with the strong foundation needed for a successful career. The National Apprenticeship Awards play a significant role in promoting and recognising the achievements of companies that are investing in apprenticeships.“

Sue Husband, director, National Apprenticeship Service was host on the night. She concluded:

“The National Apprenticeship Awards have highlighted once again the magnificent range of apprenticeships on offer - with leading employers in exciting industries - and the skills that apprentices gain when taking on these roles.

“Every year this event gets bigger and better, bringing to the forefront of our minds the importance of apprenticeships to local, regional and national economies. Apprenticeships are for everyone and I personally thank each and every employer and apprentice recognised at Friday’s event for their commitment to apprenticeships.“

To view the full list of award winners and finalists or for more information about apprenticeships, search on GOV.UK

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by National Apprenticeship Service .