COUNCIL trainees have been recognised for their achievements at a recent awards ceremony.

Each year, a number of apprentices are recruited to work across the council and those who have successfully completed or working towards their apprenticeships were congratulated in a ceremony at Deeside sixth.

Currently there are 52 trainees in placements across the organisation, with 27 due to complete their training this year. The aim is to support them on their journey of learning and gaining employment.

The apprentices usually attend Coleg Cambria on a day release basis over two to three years whilst receiving training and assessment in the workplace.

Colin Everett, said: "We are very proud of our Flintshire apprentice scheme which is recognised by neighbouring authorities and further education providers as best practice with our partnership with Coleg Cambria.

"We have an excellent success rate with 98 per cent of trainees gaining employment either within the Council or externally and some moving onto University to continue their studies."

There were four finalists in each category.

Rhys Jones was awarded Flintshire Foundation Trainee of the Year with runners up Ashley Luff, Catalina Slater and Gareth Allen.

Iwan Rogers was awarded Flintshire Trainee of the Year, with runners up Jordan Tobbell, Vicky Thomas and Patrick Marsh

They received their trophies from Flintshire County Council Chief Executive Colin Everett, Coleg Cambria’s Chief Executive David Jones OBE and Vice-Chair of the Council, Councillor Marion Bateman.

David Jones said: "We were delighted to host this prestigious event. The college work closely with the Council to provide an apprentice programme that allows people of all ages to gain qualifications whilst building practical skills and experience in the workplace.

"It is so good to see that the Council has such a positive approach to training and has succeeded in appointing and developing such talented and impressive trainees."

Iwan, who works in finance, has passed all his exams and is only a year away from completing his Association of Accounting Technicians qualification.

Presenting the award to him, Councillor Bateman said: "Iwan’s presentation skills have developed enormously and has become a very valuable member of the team. He is polite and courteous and has a great personality, however he is astute and aware of the benefit of his learning which is very important.

"He knows the value of the hard work he is putting in now and how it will help him move forward. He is a true credit to the Council."

Rhys, who is working in IT, has made progress in his first year and has never missed a deadline, showing a great attitude and willingness to learn.

Councillor Bateman said: "Rhys has excellent communication skills and always keeps the customer up to date on matters. He also works well as a team and communicates to all staff in the different sections within IT.

"You really can’t ask anymore from an apprentice and he is a valuable member to the team – many congratulations."