ONE of the stars of the Apprentice TV series and former Croydon businesswoman, Bianca Miller, will be taking another key role on March 11 when she speaks at the first Croydon Apprenticeship graduation ceremony.
Focusing on advanced and higher apprentices, the ceremony will highlight the quality of apprenticeships as well as the progression opportunities available to former apprentices.
There is still a chance for local apprentices to show that they are the best in Croydon.
To enter the competition, apprentices must upload a five-minute video to YouTube, explaining why their placement and employer offers the best experience.
The video should describe the employer and apprentice experience, include a skills demonstration and explain the benefits both to the apprentice and employers.
Apprentices who wish to participate in the graduation ceremony or enter the competition must be doing a Level 3 or 4 apprenticeship placement; have completed the Level 3 or 4 in 2014, or have done so before 28 February 2015 and live and/or work in the borough.
Entries close on Friday 27 February.
Council leader Tony Newman said: "I'm confident the ceremony will help engage employers and young people who may not have previously considered an apprenticeship, and highlight an apprenticeship's quality and value."
Miss Miller said: "I've learnt from my experience of hiring apprentices what a valuable addition they can be to a business.
"More importantly, the apprentice is able to gain a rewarding experience with an unrivalled on-the-job training opportunity, learning from experienced colleagues who are more than happy to share their knowledge and expertise."
To book a place at the ceremony and/or enter the competition e-mail bestapprenticeship@croydon.gov.uk
