Businesses offering strong apprenticeship opportunities, we want to hear from you

The inaugural awards aim to bring together the best of businesses in the DT postcode sector and recognise their achievements and are sponsored by Skyline, Weymouth College, HIX and Langham Wines.

The Best Apprenticeship Employer award is also being sponsored by Weymouth College.

Andrew Johnson, head of Dorset Training Academy at Weymouth College said: “A really good apprentice employer will open doors to learning and training for their apprentice through a well-structured and supported training programme.

“They will develop clear progression opportunities and work as a team with their training provider to produce a bespoke skills specific apprenticeship offering.

“Weymouth College is pleased to sponsor this award - recognising the vital role our local employers play in helping local people of all ages to benefit from the opportunities offered by apprenticeships."

Finalists will be invited to the Industry Awards ceremony at Weymouth College on June 16, where the winners will be announced.

The Industry Awards include the following categories:

Best Overall Retailer (sponsored by Fleetline)

Best Customer Service Provider (sponsored by the Dorset Echo)

Best Social Media Marketing (sponsored by Sherrens)

Best Business Development or Innovative Idea (sponsored by WPCC)

Best New Business (opened in the last two years, sponsored by Woods)

Best Contribution to Local Tourism (sponsored by Pengillys)

Best Product or Service (sponsored by Atlas)

Best Community Engagement Business (sponsored by Active Mobility)

Best Apprenticeship Employer (sponsored by Weymouth College)

Best Dining Provider (sponsored by Brewery Square)

Best Woman in Business (sponsored by Permanent Makeup by Claire Louise)

Businesses from the DT postcode sector can be nominated by sending 100 to 250 words by e-mail to debbie.hellaby@dorsetecho.co.uk with Industry Awards in the subject line. Up to three supporting documents may be provided as attachments.