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An award-winning college in Devon has hailed the county's thousands of apprentices for going the 'extra mile' during lockdown.

said apprentices have shown a huge amount of resilience over the last 12 months, helping many local businesses get through the worldwide pandemic.

Committed to excellence through learning, the college has years of experience in sourcing and placing the right apprentices with the right businesses and currently has over 1,000 apprentices.

So it is surely the perfect sponsor of the Apprentice Of The Year Award at the .

Extreme resilience

Despite these unprecedented times, the college has continued to sign up new apprentices - offering year-round flexible and affordable learning, with multiple entry points and funding options.

Julie Yates, Head of Business Engagement at Petroc, said: "We really can't give enough praise to Devon's apprentices.

"It's been a challenging 12 months but apprentices have shown extreme resilience.

"In fact, the employers and businesses we work with can't speak highly enough about their apprentices and say they've been absolutely invaluable."

Earn while you learn

Petroc offers a wide range of high-quality apprenticeship programmes across Devon to develop industry-specific skills through a combination of training both in the workplace and in the classroom, delivered by qualified tutors and experienced practitioners.

Julie said: "With a huge range of routes available, there will be an apprenticeship to suit your needs as a learner.

"That's the benefit of apprenticeships really - you can be any age and pick from a wide selection of subjects, including Marketing, Health & Social Care, IT, Construction and Engineering, to name just a few.

"Even better, you can earn while you learn, develop life skills and be part of a business from day one. Not everyone has the luxury of being able to step away from paid employment to gain new skills and qualifications."

Workforce development

Petroc also continues to build long-standing relationships with local firms to help create the fully-qualified, well-trained, and highly-skilled workforce of the future.

Julie said: "These companies recognise that apprenticeships provide a gateway to increased productivity, leading to improved performance and a committed, competent and qualified workforce.

"Apprenticeship funding is available for employers from the Government, offering an affordable workforce-development solution, and can introduce diversity, innovative new ideas, and fresh new perspectives to your business."

Employers will receive £3,000 for new apprentices of any age who join their organisation until September 30, 2021.

Grow your own talent

So whether you're hoping to get ahead in your chosen career by becoming an apprentice, or want to know more about how an apprentice could support you and your business, Petroc can help.

Julie said: "Ultimately, apprenticeships are vital for businesses in Devon. Many industries are facing an impending skills gap and struggling to recruit the right young talent.

"So growing your own talent allows you the exciting opportunity to shape the development that your organisation needs for the future."

Find out more?

For more information on how to future-proof your career with an apprenticeship or how to invest in an apprentice, see .

Nominations for the Devon Live Business Awards close on Monday, May 17. The glittering awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, June 23. For more details and to nominate, .