AN APPRENTICE at Colchester Council has been nominated for an Apprentice of the Year award.

Sammy-Jo Matier, who joined Colchester Council’s Customer Services team as an apprentice benefits assistant in April 2016 has been nominated for the accolade.

The award, by Career Track, recognises the hard work and commitment of learners whose work impresses their assessors.

Sammy-Jo’s training assessment officer, Larissa Scotney, cited her ability to adapt quickly to new roles and responsibilities.

She was also impressed by Sammmy-Jo’s hard work and determination to meet all of her NVQ targets and deadlines while managing to overcome a number of personal and work-related barriers to complete her qualification ahead of schedule.

Larissa Scotney said: “All of Sammy-Jo’s NVQ work was to a high standard and showed her in-depth knowledge of the job role and department she works for.

“I’m delighted that all of her hard work has paid off, especially as she has recently been appointed as a corporate debt officer at Colchester Council.”

Samantha-Jo’s work as a 'Digital Buddy' was also recognised recently, when she scooped a staff recognition award in February.

Ann Hedges, Colchester Borough Council’s chief operating officer, said: “I would like to congratulate Sammy-Jo for her nomination as Apprentice of the Year.

“As my digital buddy, she has helped me through many of the IT changes going on, explaining things in plain English and making sure I understand. She has displayed a special skill-set, coaching and encouraging me in a very practical and pragmatic way.

“As the first digital buddy in the council, she helped to set off what I believe is a really important, valuable and innovative initiative.”

Cllr Mark Cory, Portfolio Holder for Resources, said: “I would also like to offer my congratulations to Sammy-Jo for her hard work and commitment, which has marked her out for this award.

“I also want to thank her for being such an inspirational ambassador for our Apprenticeship Scheme, which will be relaunched in May to provide even more young people from all backgrounds with an opportunity to learn and develop valuable workplace skills.”

Sammy-Jo said: “I’m very pleased to have been nominated for a staff recognition award and Apprentice of the Year.

“It is nice to know hard work is recognised within the council and even better knowing there are always people here for support.

“I think apprenticeships help to encourage young people to do things outside of their comfort zone, whilst progressing into a future career.

“I am grateful that my colleagues see my potential and inspire me to work to my highest ability.”