THE shortlist has been announced for Worcestershire biggest apprentices competition of the year.

It follows a large of nominations across all 12 categories for the Worcestershire Apprentice Awards 2014, which showcase the hard work of apprentices and commitment from employers who support the county's young talent.

Shortlisted candidates, businesses and guests will now attend the awards ceremony on Thursday , November 27 at the Tree Tops Pavilion, West Midlands Safari Park, Bewdley.

Simon Geraghty, Worcestershire County Council deputy leader and cabinet member for economy, skills and infrastructure said: “Apprenticeships offer young people the opportunity to learn new skills and get a foot on the employment ladder. We look forward to recognising the achievements of Worcestershire’s apprentices and employers at the awards evening.”

Gary Woodman, executive director of Worcestershire LEP added: “There are many exemplary apprenticeship schemes being run throughout the county and the awards are a perfect opportunity to reward apprentices and employers; and emphasise apprenticeships as a valuable and fruitful career option.”

Two special awards will also be handed out on the evening - the apprentice of the year and apprentice employer of the year. These will be awarded to category winners.

Hosted by Nick Hewer of BBC television's The Apprentice, the event is the first of its kind to acknowledge local apprenticeship success. Winners of the 12 awards will each be given a special trophy designed by Evesham school students and created by Worcester-based company Yamazaki Mazak.

Mr Hewer said: "I firmly believe that apprenticeships offer a great start for young people, providing them with the skills, experience and knowledge they need for their future careers. It will be a pleasure to host the Worcestershire Apprenticeship Awards and to celebrate all the great achievements being made by young people, businesses and training providers alike."

Awards Shortlist 2014

High level apprentice of the year: Hannah Astbury Jones, Sanctuary Housing, Worcester and Luke Carrier, The Development Manager, Bewdley.

Advanced level apprentice of the year: Ryan Shemwell, Green Lighting, Worcester and Jade Dorey, Rooftop Housing, Evesham.

Intermediate level apprentice of the year: Charlie Holloway, GMK, Kidderminster, Ceri Solomon, Fire Label, Worcester, and Laura Susana, Casillas, Droitwich. Elim Conference Centre supported by HIT Training

School of the year: The Chase School, Malvern and South Bromsgrove High School

Apprenticeship employer of the year ( large business) Yamazaki Mazak, Worcester and Community Housing Group, Kidderminster

Apprenticeship employer of the year (medium business): Concept Furniture, Kidderminster, and Mainstay, Worcester.

Apprenticeship employer of the year (small business): ISO Quality Services, Worcester and Print Strategy Europe, Droitwich.

Apprenticeship employer of the year (newcomer): Hewett Recruitment, Kidderminster, and Ch2M Hill, Worcester.

Additional Awards:

Pre apprentice of the year will be awarded to an individual who has excelled in their programme of study and work experience.

Lifetime achievement award will be awarded to an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to both their organisation and apprenticeships.

Spaces at the event are limited. To secure one e-mail: awardsbookings@worcestershire.gov.uk or contact Judy Chadwick or Karen Beesley on 01905 768403.