Having scooped the prestigious ‘FE College of the year’ award at the 2016 Times Educational Supplement (TES) FE Awards, Bridgwater & Taunton College has now been shortlisted in the 2018 ‘Apprenticeship Programme of the Year’ category for its ground-breaking partnership with British Gymnastics.

In the wake of phenomenal success on the world stage, British Gymnastics is lining up the next generation of club coaches, managers and owners via a unique and innovative apprenticeship programme with Bridgwater & Taunton College that enables aspiring gymnasts, as well as those nearing the end of their career, to be redeployed as coaches and instructors. Designed by and for employers in the industry, the programme is further raising the profile of gymnastics right across the UK and creating increased opportunities for young people to participate in the sport. This is the very first time that a college has partnered with a national sporting governing body to provide apprenticeship training.

The TES award recognises innovative approaches to delivering apprenticeships, and their positive impact on industry workforce needs.

College Principal, Andy Berry, said,

“We are proud of the achievements of all our apprentices, and delighted to have been shortlisted for this award. The partnership with British Gymnastics is hugely exciting, and it would be fantastic recognition for our students and for the College as a whole if we were to win.”

Winners will be announced at a dinner and awards ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on 23 February.