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Finalists announced for National Training Awards

UK Skills has announced the finalists for the 20th annual National Training Awards.

The finalists include Deloitte, BBC, B&Q, Ramda Jarvis Hotels, P&O Ferries, First Choice Holidays, Mothercare, Welsh Assembly Government, DEFRA, Transport for London, AXA Life and Housing Rights Service. More than 30 individuals are among the finalists for the awards, which UK Skills runs on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

UK Skills Chief Executive, Jacqui Henderson, said while the awards' 207 finalists clearly understand the link between training and improved business performance, more organisations still need to make training a priority if they and the UK are to remain competitive.

"More than ever UK organisations need to get ahead of the rapid global and technological changes we're seeing in international markets. How can we do this if our people do not have the knowledge and skills to make it happen? Put simply, effective training does help create a more effective, productive and flexible workforce."

Jacqui Henderson said the finalists' investment in training was a positive example to the rest of the country: "The UK needs people who are committed to training as much now as it did when the National Training Awards began twenty years ago. Training methods may have changed in that time but the need for training has not.

"It's tempting for businesses to cut training budgets when times are hard but training is one tool that can bring tangible benefits. Many finalists have seen business productivity boosted, market share increased and staff turnover reduced. Others have discovered that training increases personal satisfaction and commitment."

The National Training Awards were introduced in 1986 to celebrate individuals, businesses and organisations that have achieved outstanding success through training and development.

UK Skills says this year's finalists achieved their success through a diverse range of training which has enabled them, among other things, to improve customer service, diversify their business, help young people find employment, increase the skills of managers and supervisors, introduce new products and progress in their careers or become self-employed.

Regional winners will be announced at a series of regional awards ceremonies held throughout the UK in October and November. National Training Award winners will be celebrated at a gala ceremony in London in December.

External links

National Training Awards website

UK Skills

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