Some 125 apprentices will take part in a special 'graduation' ceremony on Friday - marking their achievements in the world of work.

Last year saw the first Kent and Medway Apprenticeship Graduation Ceremony take place at Rochester Cathedral.

This year, the event will be online-only with the ceremony live streamed.

Designed to mark their efforts in a similar way to university graduates, the event was open to those completing their qualification during the last academic year with a Kent or Medway-based provider.

Apprentices will be personally congratulated by keynote speakers including the Minister for Apprenticeships and Skills Gillian Keegan and entrepreneur Anthony Impey.

Those behind the event include the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), Apprenticeships Ambassador Network South East, Kent County Council, Kent Association of Training Providers, Medway Council, Careers and Education Company, Wire Belt Ltd, Leigh Academies Trust and Kent Further Education.

Nicola Everett, newsreader on Kent commercial radio station kmfm and this year’s event host, said: “This virtual ceremony means that friends, family, employers, training providers – and anyone with access to the internet can join in, celebrate and support the Apprenticeship Class of 2020. It is ray of positive light in this stormy year.”

Despite it being an online event, apprentices can order souvenirs including a personal certificate, apprenticeship badge and celebratory brochure which includes the apprentice’s individual name, employer and training provider.

To watch the ceremony live on Friday, starting at noon, click here .

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