The second Kent and Medway Apprentice Graduation ceremony has been confirmed to take place later this year.

In an announcement to mark National Apprenticeship Week, the event will take place on Friday, October 2 at Rochester Cathedral.

The Minister for Small Businesses, Kelly Tolhurst, MP for Rochester and Strood, has been confirmed as guest speaker.

Deborah Turner, FSB Kent and Medway area leader, said: “Following last year’s wonderful occasion that saw 101 apprentices graduate in front of hundreds of supporters, we are delighted to be able to invite more apprentices to celebrate their success this year.

"Apprentices can be such a positive addition to a business. This special event will highlight the fact that learning on the job is a fantastic way to build a successful career in a thriving company.”

Each apprentice will be able to invite their employer and family to share their special occasion. The afternoon will include a full graduation ceremony including graduate gowning and photography, and a VIP reception for businesses in the cathedral crypt.

Any apprentice who has successfully completed their qualification at any level or discipline between September 1, 2019 and August 31, 2020 and is based in the county or has a Kent or Medway-based provider can be nominated. Applicants can be nominated by their employer, apprenticeship provider or can nominate themselves.

Applications will be verified and places are available on a first come, first served basis.

The event is being organised by the Careers and Enterprise Company, The Education People, The Education and Skills Funding Agency, FSB, Kent Association of Training Organisations, Kent Further Education, Leigh Academies Trust; Medway Council, Wirebelt and CXK.

The organising group is now keen to hear from more firms who may wish to show to their support of apprentices through sponsoring the next event. Contact info@kato_training.com for sponsorship details.

To reserve a place for an apprentice, email alison.parmar@fsb.org.uk. Full booking will be available from May 2020.

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