Many apprentices use an AAT advanced learner loan to fund their training, such as those at our beauty centre in Wolverhampton. But if any further encouragement was needed, those who live in the area may be inspired by reading about the successes enjoyed by other people taking on apprenticeships in the Black Country.

As the Express and Star reports, the second Ladder for the Black Country Apprenticeship Awards recently took place, hosted by Walsall Council at Walsall Football Club’s Bescot Stadium.

The event highlighted the outstanding achievements of apprentices in the area who had gone on to achieve big things and set themselves up for great careers. In total, there were prizes awarded in 11 different categories.

Sara Fields, the hospitality, retail, leisure and travel apprentice of the year, was also named the overall winner for her work with Subway as a distribution manager. She had impressed judges with her dedication and her bravery in overcoming some serious personal issues.

Some might imagine that only teenagers or those in their early 20s can be apprentices, but Ms Fields is 35 and spends her time between Willenhall and her home in Grimsby.

After winning the award, she said: “It was worth all the hard work. I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone. I have just got two staff starting one and look forward to helping them.” 

Speaking about the importance of apprenticeships to the region, deputy leader of Walsall Council Adrian Andrew said: “Their success is vital for the growth and prosperity of all of our communities.”

It was an apprentice at the council, Emma Hannon, who took home the Apprentice of the Year prize at the inaugural awards ceremony, held in Wolverhampton last year.

Perhaps one of the future winners will be one of the learners who emerges from our beauty centre in Wolverhampton after taking out AAT funding.