AN AWARD-WINNING fit-out company based in Chester have been recognised by the Government as having one of the best apprenticeship programmes in the country.

Complete Fixing Solutions Ltd, which has its headquarters in Saltney, has been ranked at number 23 in the National Apprenticeship Awards’ Top 50 SME Employers 2024.

The company were previously recognised as ‘Highly Commended’ in 2023.

Employers on the final list are ranked not just on the number of apprentices they take on, but their commitment to diversity and apprenticeship achievements.

Their dedication to delivering high-quality apprenticeships plays a crucial role in boosting the skills and career opportunities of people from all backgrounds and helping the economy to grow.

Complete Fixing Solution’s apprenticeship programme launched in 2019, and despite the challenges brought by the Covid pandemic, the company has maintained a 75 percent retention rate.

Some apprentices have progressed to level four to level six qualifications after completing their initially level 2 course, while others have taken on full-time positions within the company.

The company also won the Multicultural Apprenticeship Award in 2022 and are finalists for the same award this year.

Complete Fixing Solution’s MD, Dave O’Brien, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised in The National Apprenticeship Awards.

“Our apprenticeship scheme is key to building a solid future for our business and for all the young people in our team.

“It’s very rewarding when I see our apprentices achieving Higher Level Qualification and moving on to junior managerial positions within our Company.”

In a statement, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “Congratulations to all the employers across the country which have been recognised for their brilliant apprenticeship programmes.

“Apprenticeships provide opportunities for people from all walks and the employers ranked in this list are crucial to our plans in supporting people to get better jobs and grow the economy.

“With the launch of Skills England, we will bring together businesses with trade unions, mayors and training providers to ensure we have the highly trained workforce needed to deliver the national, regional and local skills needs.”