Firebrand wins big at Microsoft Apprentice of the Year

Firebrand Apprentice Kimberley Bolton was honoured last night alongside Firebrand Apprentice employers Hitachi and Pythagoras at the Microsoft Apprentice of the Year awards.

Kimberley, 19 from Maidenhead, was crowned Microsoft Apprentice of the Year (Medium Business Category) after beating hundreds of nominees to claim the title. Working as a Junior Support Consultant for Pythagoras, she spoke to Firebrand after winning her award and said: 

“ Becoming an IT apprentice is the best thing I’ve ever done. I’ve gone from having no confidence and no IT knowledge to winning Microsoft Apprentice of the Year. I’ve really had to push myself, and now it’s all paid off. ”

Reflecting on Kimberley winning the award, her Supervisor Richard Francis said:

“ We’re very happy for Kimberley, but it was all down to her. She joined Pythagoras with the right attitude and that is what has led to her winning this brilliant award ”

The event was hosted at the House of Commons with Home Secretary, Theresa May and Microsoft UK Managing Director, Michel Van der Bel, presenting the awards. While passing on her congratulations to both Kimberley and Firebrand, the Home Secretary said:

“ Apprenticeships are incredibly important in helping young adults to develop skills in the workplace. Apprenticeships are hands-on and so much more about understanding what the working environment is all about. ”

Two Firebrand Apprentice employers, Hitachi and Pythagoras were also honoured at the awards. Pythagoras, after picking up Apprentice of the Year, were highly commended in the Medium Apprentice Employer of the Year category, while Hitachi were highly commended in the Large Apprentice Employer of the Year category.

The awards recognise the growing success of the Firebrand Apprenticeship program. Since launching in 2012, Firebrand has now helped more than 100 young people pursue a career in IT through its Apprenticeship program.

To enquire about hiring an IT Apprentice, access this page.