Former Spalding High School student Gabrielle Smith has been named Apprentice of the Year in the Manufacturing and Engineering Technologies category at the Lincolnshire and Rutland Skills Awards.
Gabrielle completed her Advanced Apprenticeship in Food Manufacturing at the University of Lincoln’s National Centre for Food Manufacturing in Holbeach, her home town.
The judges were impressed that Gabrielle had done so well during her apprenticeship she had secured a job and was undertaking a degree in Food Manufacturing, sponsored by her employer.
Gabrielle said: “I am delighted to have received the award. It is a great reward for all the hard work and effort I put in.”
Martin Chapman, who also completed his Apprenticeship in Food Manufacturing at the National Centre for Food Manufacturing, was runner-up. Martin works for J O Sims, a leading supplier of fresh produce, and is now employed by the company as a compliance officer.
Professor Val Braybrooks, dean at the Holbeach centre, said: “It is marvellous that Gabrielle and Martin made it to the finals.”
Photo: SG140314-113NG