Archway Court Nursery in Newport is in the running for a top award

Archway Court Nursery, established in 1993, employs 37 full and part-time staff and cares for around 60 to 70 children daily.

Since starting to offer apprenticeships in 2014, the nursery has enrolled 17 members of staff on Welsh Government’s apprenticeship programme.

Courses - delivered by Itec Skills and Employment - range from a foundation apprenticeship in playwork to a level five in childrens’ care, learning and development.

Now, the nursery has been shortlisted for Small Employer of the Year at this year’s Apprenticeship Awards Cymru at the Celtic Manor Resort on October 20.

The event- jointly organised by the Welsh Government and the National Training Federation for Wales- aims to showcase learners, employers, tutors and assessors who have excelled in contributing to the development of the Welsh Government’s Traineeships and Apprenticeship programmes.

People over the age of 25 who wish to change career or may not have excelled in school are given a chance to learn and shine at the nursery

Head of apprenticeships at Itec Skills and Employment, David Clissitt, said: “Archway Court utilises the Apprenticeship Programme to bring out the best in every learner and, as a business, they’re always looking for ways to improve.”

Skills and science minister, Julie James added: “This year’s shortlisted entrants include exceptional individuals who have excelled in their workplace and learning providers and employers that have gone the extra mile to support the apprentices they are working with. Their stories never cease to amaze and inspire”.

“Apprenticeships and vocational skills training are essential ingredients of economic success and vital tools in building a stronger, fairer and more equal Wales.

“These awards provide a perfect platform to celebrate success and reward the hard work and dedication of learners, employers and training providers across Wales. I wish everyone the very best of luck for the night.”