The teams from two Oxfordshire opticians are celebrating after winning the Apprentice Employer of the Year category at a business awards ceremony.

Sister stores Specsavers Bicester and Kidlington were recognised at the Cherwell Business Awards - a gala dinner and awards night - for the work they have done on employing and supporting apprentices.

Bosses at both stores have said they are aiming to have apprenticeships make up 20 per cent of each workforce by next year.

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“We were thrilled just to be nominated so to take home the award on the night was the icing on the cake,” says Specsavers Bicester and Kidlington store director, Satnam Johal.

He continued: “We invest a lot into our apprentices, both on the optical and audiology sides of our business, and they add a huge amount of value to our teams.

“Not only this but we offer them ongoing structured support and development opportunities so that they can continue to progress in their careers.”

Alongside the professional development that comes with doing an apprenticeship, the nine apprentices across both stores also work with local schools and colleges to promote careers with Specsavers and encourage youngsters to apply.

Mr Johal said: “It was a fantastic night and lovely to have so many of the team there to help us celebrate.

“We’re committed to continuing to invest in the apprenticeship programme as we know the benefits it brings for our businesses and the opportunities it can give to those who complete the qualification.”

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1