Falmouth-based Pendennis Shipyard was winner of the large employer category at the South West regional final of the National Apprenticeship Awards, and will now progress to the National finals.

The awards, now in their 14th year, are run by the National Apprenticeship Service and recognise excellence in two areas: businesses that grow their own talent with apprentices, and apprentices who have made a significant contribution to their workplaces.

Pendennis' managing director, Mike Carr, said: “We are delighted that the company has been presented with this award, in a year that has welcomed a further 20 local young people into our scheme.”

Pendennis Shipyard won the award in recognition of the contribution the company has made to apprenticeships. In the past 20 years it has recruited over 220 apprentices onto the four-year course, and can boast a 90 per cent retention rate following graduation, with many ex-apprentices progressing to senior management positions.

The Pendennis apprenticeship has proved invaluable in growing an exceptional skill-base in an industry which demands perfection at all levels in all trades, including engineering and electrical, fabrication, paintwork and joinery.

Sue Husband, director of the National Apprenticeship Service, said: “The National Apprenticeship Awards allow talented apprentices and committed employers from across our regions to receive well-deserved recognition for their apprenticeship achievements. Winners recognised at these awards show the range of sectors and variety of job roles apprenticeships are available in, and how they can deliver the skills employers need. I congratulate all winners on their success so far and the very best of luck in the next stage of the competition.”