Apprentice leader Ann retires from Middlesbrough Council after 32 years helping 1,500 youngsters

Middlesbrough Council’s apprentice co-ordinator Ann White called time on her own successful career recently following three decades with the authority.

Ms White worked with apprentices for 32 years and managed the service for 20 years.

One of her last days at work involved an event celebrating the achievements of the council's latest groups of young success stories.

The event saw 55 young people receive their certificates for their apprenticeship achievements in Middlesbrough Town Hall’s council chamber from Mayor Dave Budd.

Watched on by their families and employers, the apprentices were celebrated for completing either their Level 2 or Level 3 programme over a 12 or 18-month period, through Middlesbrough Community Learning training centre.

They have done this while working for Middlesbrough Council, Cleveland Police, Kier Group, Middlesbrough primary schools and for other local key organisations.

Ms White said: “I have loved working for Middlesbrough Council and I am especially proud of all of the apprentices who have participated in the Council’s apprenticeship programme and have gone on to great success.”

Some apprentices helped by her in the past are now in management posts within the council.

Mr Budd said: "Apprenticeships play a big part in helping young people into long-term employment by equipping them with the skills that employers are looking for.

“Their work is very much appreciated and I would like to pay tribute to their success and wish them all the very best with their future careers. Ann has made an enormous contribution in preparing apprentices for the world of work for more than 30 years and I also want to thank her and wish her well in her retirement.”

Anyone interested in an apprenticeship with Middlesbrough Community Learning should contact Carole Thorpe on 01642-811414, or businesses wishing to take an apprentice on should contact Kevin Sedgwick on 01642-654553.