Yesterday evening (9 November 2023) the CII and PFS celebrated the winners of their Apprenticeship Awards and CII Qualification prizes at the Aldermanbury Insurance Hall.
The Awards honoured the achievements of exceptional apprentices from across the UK, and outstanding performances in CII qualifications during 2022, with cash prizes of up to £1000.
Speaking at the event, Russell Higginbotham, President of the CII, said: “I would like to congratulate this year’s winners, who should all be very proud of what they have achieved.
Many other sectors have not linked the apprentice journey with a professional body, and a smooth journey to lifelong learning, so it’s fantastic to celebrate those who have newly entered the insurance and financial advice professions and those who may have benefited from an apprenticeship to enhance their existing role potential.”
He added: “Thousands of learners invest time and energy to take CII qualifications each year in the knowledge that their success will be internationally recognised, helping them to advance their professional skills, their careers and to better serve their clients.”
Anthony Ward, President of the PFS, said: “The entries we received for these inaugural CII and PFS apprenticeship awards have been phenomenal. It is hugely encouraging to see the depth of talent coming into our professions, I’m delighted that we are able to recognise all their hard work and achievements through these awards.”
On winning the Colin Gilchrist Memorial Prize, Tom Potter said: “The CII qualification has been extremely beneficial to me, developing and broadening upon my practical experience within the industry. Each module was relevant and challenged my thinking and approach to my work. I am a strong advocate for the Chartered Institute of Insurance and strongly recommend this qualification to my peers. I would also like to extend my congratulations to all the other prize winners this evening, thank you.”
The CII and PFS are strong advocates for the role of apprenticeships in the insurance and personal finance sectors, and offer the Aspire Apprenticeship programme as a way to encourage their uptake amongst employers.
The CII and PFS Apprenticeship Awards are open to all apprentices in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. CII qualifications must have been completed as part of the apprenticeship standards and frameworks. Nominations are welcome from employers, training providers, and apprentices themselves.
More information on the Qualification prizes can be found here.
More information on the Apprenticeship Awards can be found here.
