Winner: Luke Power
Luke Power, a former student at Eltham Green Specialist Sports College, has been voted Young Apprentice of the Year in a national awards scheme.
The apprentice awards, organised by the Learning and Skills Council, celebrate the contribution of apprentices to their workplaces and recognise employers who are using apprentices to improve business performance.
Luke was among 1,400 nominees and went through to win his award at the Royal Horticultural Hall in Central London on 10 July.
Determined to succeed
The 16-year-old beat off two other finalists in his category, his success came despite being diagnosed with dyslexia and struggling with reading and writing throughout his youth.
"I have always been determined to succeed," he said. "As I’ve grown older, my interest has become more focused on sport, and the Young Apprenticeship Programme has boosted my efforts tremendously.
"It helped me tackle my exams in an independent and confident way and I feel can handle any challenge that comes my way."
Training and work placement
Luke completed a course in sports management, leadership and coaching at Eltham Green alongside his GCSEs. The two year course is part of the Young Apprentice Programme funded by the LSC and run by Eltham Green in partnership with the London Leisure College.
He also completed three work placements, including one as an assistant coach at the David Beckham Academy and another as a personal fitness trainer at the Venture Health Club in Welling, where he landed a part time job. He now wants to work in sports physiotherapy, psychology or nutrition.
He said: "The programme has helped me develop my understanding and knowledge in each area. I really understand that hard work brings rewards – this was made clear when I was offered a permanent job as a result of my efforts on the Young Apprenticeship work placement."
Great role model
Luke’s former teacher, Andy Bowers said: "Luke is a great role model for all young people. He has never stopped believing in what he wanted to achieve.
"Since leaving school he has become an ambassador for the Youth Apprenticeship course where he has spoken to younger students and been a mentor for new pupils."
Excellent achievements
Councillor Jackie Smith, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: "I am absolutely delighted for Luke, an inspiring young man, who richly deserves this highly prestigious award.
"Luke's commitment to do well and create a successful future for himself is borne out in his own words ‘hard work brings rewards’. No doubt through his great efforts he has made many people proud, including his family and his friends and teachers at Eltham Green Sports College.
"I hope that he also allows himself the opportunity to enjoy this award as clearly Luke has every right to be extremely proud of himself and his excellent achievements."
23 July 2008