24 January 2005
NATIONAL TRAINING AWARDS 2005 - NOW OPEN FOR ENTRIES
"The impact that training has on the performance of local businesses should not be under-estimated, and the National Training Awards (NTA) are a way of recognising the fundamental part training plays in boosting our economy", said Will Haire, Permanent Secretary at the Department for Employment and Learning.
He was speaking as the Department announced that it was now accepting entries for the 2005 competition. He went on to highlight the importance of the Awards, and said:
"The National Training Awards competition recognises and celebrates success created through personal development and training. Many local organisations and individuals already recognise the impact training has on business improvement and profitability, and the Awards provide these competitors with the public recognition they deserve.
"I would encourage all those who have used training, which has made a difference to themselves and their organisations, to put themselves forward this year."
Keith Bollen of Fujitsu, principal sponsor of the National Training Awards, said:
"Fujitsu is an organisation that actively encourages learning and training at all stages of our careers, so we are delighted to support the National Training Awards once more. These Awards are the premier way to promote training excellence, and for you to be recognised for your contributions. I'm sure 2005 will see the number of entrants increase and the standard raised even higher."
Tom Lyttle, Resource and Planning Manager with Prudential in Belfast, one of last year's National Award winners, explained the relevance of the Awards to his organisation:
"Scooping a National Training Award gave us official recognition for a training programme, which had already provided tangible benefits for our staff and customers.
"We were charged by the company to expand the Belfast team by 100, following the closure of our office in Reading. Our in-house training, which used a blend of 'off the job' tuition and practical involvement in the workplace, produced remarkable results, considering the speed of the change.
"The increased morale and motivation of the team has reflected itself in improved customer service, and receiving a National Training Award has provided the official recognition our training programme deserved."
The deadline for entries is 29 April 2005, with workshops being held locally in February and March to advise prospective entrants on the application process. More information can be found on www.ntani.gov.uk or by calling freephone 0800 9177337.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. Awarded annually, on a regional and national basis, the National Training Awards are the UK's highest accolade for organisations and individuals, that have achieved lasting excellence through training.
2. Caption for photograph: Will Haire (left), Permanent Secretary at the Department for Employment and Learning and Keith Bollen of NTA's principal sponsors, Fujitsu, uncover the solution to ensuring increased productivity, staff motivation and bottom-line profits within organisations.
3. Media enquiries to the Department for Employment and Learning Press Office on Tel: 028 9025 7790.
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