Paragon Skills’ Chief Operating Officer, Ian Bamford wins at the AAC Awards 2022

The winners of the 2022 Annual Apprenticeship Conference Awards have been revealed at a glitzy ceremony in Birmingham yesterday, 22 March.
From a record-breaking 370 awards entries, judges selected 24 award winners and 12 highly commended recipients. Categories included awards for diversity in apprenticeships, SEND apprenticeships, individual contribution to apprenticeships development as a whole, as well as 15 sector-specific awards.

Paragon Skills is delighted to share the fantastic news that our Chief Operating Officer, Ian Bamford has been selected as the winner for the ‘Outstanding Contribution to the Development of Apprenticeships -Individual’ category.

Ian is a tireless advocate for work-based learning and apprenticeship programs and has dedicated his career to driving quality and improved standards within the sector.
Whether working with internal or external groups, Ian looks to find the best outcome for all involved and truly exemplifies the core values of the business, and always puts the apprentice at the heart of everything.

The apprenticeship community has become more enriched by the diversity and inclusivity of programs which were a result of meaningful consultation with a broader range of stakeholders spearheaded by Ian.

Speaking of his win, Ian said:

“I was totally surprised but really pleased to have been recognised in this capacity and to have won this award. It is really good to be recognised for all the hard work and the impact I have made on the apprenticeship sector. I am genuinely passionate about apprenticeships and will always put the apprentice at the heart of everything I do. In my role as Chief Operating Officer at Paragon Skills, I work with many employers and colleagues to embed this into everything we do.”

Shane Mann, Managing Director of FE Week’s publisher Lsect and AAC awards co-host, said

“We’ve proved that there is so much to celebrate in the apprenticeships sector.

“The providers, employers, and individuals we’ve recognised tonight represent the innovators, risk-takers, and pioneers that are not only doing amazing things for apprentices, but are also proving that apprenticeships are a first-rate pathway through education.

“Congratulations to all the winners and thank our team of amazing judges, sponsors, and partners. We couldn’t have done it without them.”

Paragon Skills would like to congratulate all the finalists and winners at the awards. The full list of winners can be found on the FE Week website