Apprentices invited to celebrate success

APPRENTICES from across East Sussex are invited to celebrate their achievements at a special graduation ceremony.

The East Sussex apprenticeship graduation ceremony, which acknowledges the commitment and hard work of all local apprentices, is organised by the Sussex Council of Training Providers and supported by East Sussex County Council.

Apprentices who have, or will have achieved the nationally-recognised qualification between November 1, 2024 and February 20, 2026 and live or work in the county are eligible to graduate and invited to the event at the Winter Garden’s Floral Hall in Eastbourne, on Thursday, March 12, between 6pm and 8pm.

Former apprentices, businesses which employ them and training providers who deliver the schemes are also invited to the celebratory event.

Cllr Penny di Cara, lead member for economy at East Sussex County Council said: “The annual graduation ceremony is a wonderful celebration of all that the county’s apprentices have achieved.

“The evening also gives us the opportunity to highlight the key role that local businesses and education partners play in the success of apprenticeships in East Sussex and I would like to thank them for their continued support.”

Cllr Bob Standley, lead member for education at East Sussex County Council said: “I offer my congratulations to those graduating this year and I look forward to celebrating with them at the event.”

Four special awards will also be presented at the ceremony in recognition of those involved in making the county’s apprenticeships a success. Nominations have been received for the following awards:

• Overall Contribution to the Business Award: celebrating the outstanding contribution an East Sussex apprentice has made to their workplace during their apprenticeship.
• Amazing Colleague/Apprenticeship Employer Award: celebrating the contribution of employees who have either championed apprenticeships within their organisation or have offered exceptional support to apprentices.
• Best Progression Award: recognising the exceptional determination and efforts of an apprentice in the achievement of their apprenticeship through challenging times.
• Tutor/Trainer of the Year Award: celebrating the contribution of a tutor or trainer who has gone above and beyond to support an apprentice(s) during their apprenticeship.

Sponsors of the event include East Sussex College, CXK, National Federation of Roofing Contractors, Hastings Direct, Redwing Roofing, South East Apprenticeship Ambassador Network and the t2 group.

Ends

Rebecca Durrant

Tuesday, 3 March 2026