River City Stars join GTG award ceremony...
Last week saw one of Scotland's largest training group, GTG Training, awarding its top achievers. The glittering GTG Awards Ceremony was hosted by ITN news correspondent Debi Edward with awards being presented by BBC 1 River City stars, Steven Purdon (Shell Suit Bob) and Jayd Johnson (Nicki Cullen). 
After being handed a special award for ‘Best Onscreen Mechanic', Shell suit Bob
aka BBC 1 River City star Steven Purdon said, "I am absolutely delighted to be celebrating with the students and admire their commitment to their chosen skill. The facilities at GTG are very impressive - Jayd and would like to of come back for some real life training to enhance the business at onscreen Montego Motors!"
The evening saw over 180 students being awarded with a whole array of qualifications from Modern Apprenticeships in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair and certificates in Automotive Retail Management to Contact Centre Professional, reflecting the scope and quality of training provided by GTG.
Every year GTG Training presents an award to the Student of the Year, in recognition of their achievements and outstanding commitment to training and overcoming significant personal challenges. GTG Chairman Glen Gall and Sir Arnold Clark awarded Lee McGivern, (above) who was collecting his Modern Apprenticeship certificate in Vehicle Maintenance & Repair that night, as GTG Student of the Year 2009. With help, determination and a lot of hard work Lee overcame his fear of examination and managed to pass all of his City & Guilds exams.
Delighted Lee McGivern, who works for Lorimer and Findlay said, "To be named Student of the Year 09 feels amazing. The teachers are great at GTG and so encouraging." GTG Chairman, Glen Gall said "Lee was a young man that had a lack of confidence because of personal difficulties and yet stuck at it to conquer his fear of exams.
We are very proud to announce Lee as the Student of the Year 2009."
Collecting the IMI Award for Student of the Year in Automotive Retail Management was Martin McConville from Wilsons of Rathkenny, near Ballymena. After being presented with his award from Ian Cheetam and Jane Allan, shocked Martin said, "I can't believe I have won this award, I am delighted and extremely surprised!" Last year alone, GTG saw over 17,000 trainees and 850 apprentices pass through its doors. The Modern Apprenticeship Programmes offer people aged 16 and over the opportunity to earn while they learn. Obtaining not just a qualification but great career prospects in the field of skilled employment.
The scheme wouldn't be possible without the support of two very important bodies - Skills Development Scotland funds a majority of the apprenticeships and the employer. It offers the trainee skills in a range of areas from car mechanics to administration and customer service. The awards ceremony allowed awardees to celebrate and receive recognition for their achievement together with staff, family and friends who have supported them throughout their training. Guests enjoyed entertainment from a Jazz band and complimentary wine and canapés.
PREVIOUS STORY