THE North York Moors National Park has been announced as a winner in the National Apprenticeship Awards 2018.

Held in Leeds, the ceremony saw 16 winners and highly-commended employers and apprentices from across a range of industries, including healthcare, finance, environment and government, pick up awards.

Among the winners was the North York Moors National Park Authority which won Employer of the Year.

Ian Nicholls, from the authority, said: “We are over the moon to receive this National Apprenticeship Award, as it recognises our fantastic apprentices and our commitment to providing outstanding training for young people and ensuring they have the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their chosen career.

“We have increased the financial resources for apprenticeships and are actively working with schools to promote these opportunities as one of a range of options for those coming to an end of their time in formal education.

“Having apprentices employed in such a wide range of roles has contributed to a more vibrant and innovative working environment. They are as important as any other employee, and make a huge contribution to our ability to protect and conserve the beautiful North York Moors.”

Now in their 15th year, the National Apprenticeship Awards showcase the diverse and growing range of sectors engaged with apprenticeships, while celebrating outstanding apprentices, employers and individuals who go above and beyond to champion apprenticeships across England.

The awards were open to apprentices, individuals who promote apprenticeships and employers.

The refreshed categories, including the Rising Star and Recruitment Excellence categories for 2018 gave opportunities for entrants to demonstrate the impact apprenticeships have made to individuals and their workplaces.