THIS year has seen a 16 per cent rise in the number of South East businesses submitting entries for the National Training Awards.

The awards, run by UK Skills on behalf of the DfES, are recognised as the number one training accolades for UK organisations. As employment levels continue to rise across the region, it seems more companies are determined to invest in training in order to recruit and retain the best staff.

The awards recognise and reward those who have developed new skills and achieved lasting excellence and success through training and work-place development. They are supported by Henley Management College, the Learning and Skills Council, Skills for Business and Learndirect.

Dr Graeme Hall, Acting Chief Executive at UK Skills, said: "The continued year on year increase in National Training Awards entries from the South East shows that more and more organisations and individuals are taking skills development very seriously.

“Workplace learning gives organisations a competitive advantage, helping to boost both staff retention and company productivity."

Stephen Watson, Principal at Henley Management College, said: "We know that training and development is key to the business success of both individuals and organisations, that is why we are delighted to support the National Training Awards."