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Nine apprentices celebrated at Suffolk New College as National Apprenticeships Week kicks off

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Suffolk New College has honoured its top-performing apprentices at an awards ceremony held at Ipswich's Chefs' Whites restaurant.

Why it matters: The event showcased successful apprentices across multiple sectors, demonstrating the growing value of apprenticeships as a career pathway.

The big picture: Today marks the first day of National Apprenticeship Week, the biggest week in the apprenticeships and skills calendar! It runs until 16 February and brings together everyone passionate about apprenticeships and skills to celebrate the value, benefits, and opportunities that they bring.

The college currently supports around 850 apprentices and works with hundreds of businesses across the East of England and other parts of the UK.

Frederick Klingsick from Reydon
Frederick Klingsick, 20, from Reydon, was crowned overall championSuffolk New College

By the numbers:

  • Nine apprentices received awards across different subject areas

  • Two new apprentices hired by one participating firm

  • 850 apprentices currently supported by the college

The details: Frederick Klingsick, 20, from Reydon, was crowned overall champion. Working for Ipswich-based company ST Accountancy Services, Klingsick's success has inspired his employer to hire two additional apprentices.

Jane Thorp from Leiston
Jane Thorp from Leiston, an award-winning electrician who won the first event female SPARKS national skills competition in 2023, secured the overall runners-up prizeSuffolk New College

What they're saying: "The apprenticeship scheme is really good here and I want to thank all the tutors, the support staff and my employer for giving me the opportunity. This is amazing and I'm really happy," Klingsick said.

Sean Thorogood, managing director of ST Accountancy Services Ltd, said: "I'm absolutely elated - and it's fully deserved for Fred. He did two levels in one year, supported two other apprentices and he has been fantastic."

Leanne Honey, apprenticeships manager at the college, noted the changing perception of apprenticeships: "The days of seeing apprenticeships as being a poor substitute to A levels and university are long gone. More and more people are choosing this pathway."

Alan Pease , the Principal and CEO of Suffolk New College , commended the winners:

All of the winners have shown an array of qualities demonstrating commitment, determination, hard work and resilience. It was powerful to hear their stories and celebrate their successes during a sensational night at one of the county's top eateries (Chefs' Whites).

Huge congratulations to all the winners and a big thanks to all of the companies who attended and for their work in supporting the next generation of business superstars.

What's next: The college is investing in new facilities to increase capacity, with additional electrical installation facilities launching in spring 2025.

The bottom line: The other winners included Kurtis Orris (plumbing), Kacey Beech (childcare) and Charlie Hudson (carpentry) from Ipswich; Jake Harvey (farming) from Hitcham near Stowmarket; Olivia Smith (horticulture) from Wymondham; Ned Coles (construction) from Stowmarket; and Joe George (motor vehicle) from Great Ashfield near Bury St Edmunds.

You can learn more about apprenticeships here.

Suffolk New College

Suffolk New College is a multi-award-winning institution that offers a diverse range of career-focused courses in amazing facilities.

Suffolk New College Ipswich campus
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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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