A TRAINEE account engineer was among several people honoured at the North-East National Apprenticeship Awards.

Emma Beauchamp was crowned with The Nuclear Decommissioning Site Licence Companies Award for Higher or Degree Apprentice of the Year at a ceremony held at the Hilton, in Gateshead.

The National Apprenticeship Awards showcase the diverse and growing range of sectors engaged with apprenticeships, whilst celebrating the achievements of outstanding apprentices, apprentice employers and individuals to inspire others to follow in their footsteps and champion apprenticeships across England.

Emma works in the commercial department at Gestamp, an international group dedicated to the design, development and manufacture of metal automotive components.

Through her apprenticeship, she has mentored students at a local college and supported apprentice recruitment days for two years.

Emma now goes through to the national final in London on November 27.

She said: “I really wasn’t expecting to win so I am over the moon. Without a doubt, the biggest benefit I have seen from doing an apprenticeship is my boosted confidence.

"From going into schools and speaking to leavers considering their career options to presenting my ideas to colleagues, I have been given the opportunity to develop my interpersonal skills – all thanks to my apprenticeship and my employer."

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Congratulations to all of the regional winners. Apprenticeships change lives, improve businesses and support local communities, so it’s great to see such a diverse range of employers and apprentices being recognised for their great work. I wish them all the best of luck in the finals."